File Name: The Hungry Dead (Original) (FizX)
File Submitter: GeorgeH
File Submitted: 10 Oct 2023
File Category: Future Pinball
Manufacturer: OriginalYear: 2005
Permission to MOD?: No
Version 1.5:
After working on the Avatar and Road Runner tables, I played this one and noticed it seemed broken because the lights didn't dim during the attract mode and brighten when the game starts. I decided to look at the code and noticed I hadn't added it to this table. It is there now though.
BAM – Must Read
This table requires BAM 1.5-373 or later for it to perform as intended and to not crash or generate error messages.
FizX and Tweaker
I upgraded from FizX Lite 3.0 to the full version of FizX 3.3.1. Press the Special 1 key to open the FizX tweaker and read the directions on the overlay on how to navigate the system. I moved the options on the tweaker so the parameters I use the most are display first on the list with the lesser used parameters at the bottom of the list. By default, the full version adds upgrades to rubber posts, slingshots and drop targets. I manually added the FizX bumpers. I also added 2 invisible rubbers posts to each slingshot which helps to perform post passes. Post passes are possible on this table although the posts are a little bit further away from the flippers than on many tables. It makes post passes a little more challenging but with some good aiming. it can be done after a few tries.
Plunger Modification
Popotte developed a plunger mod that added a new feature to the code I had been using. The code that I used in the past makes the plunger pull back more slowly, making it easier to hone in on just the right power to hit certain skill shots on most tables. This table does not have a skill shot but it does help to be able to control the ball on the upper playfield.
The plunger has two modes of operation:
1) The slow plunger pullback is the same as previous versions I used and works like a normal plunger would by pressing the plunger key. The only difference from the default plunger is that it pulls back more slowly so you can more easily identify the place where you want to let go of the plunger.
2) The second method is where you can use the up and down arrow keys to position the plunger exactly where you want it before it is released. Then you press the plunger key to release the ball. It can be adjusted very precisely.
Version 1.4:
Just in time for Halloween come the ghouls on The Hungry Dead! I have always loved this table even though I have never cared too much for the macabre. This table never carries the macabre too far and it is all in fun. It is kid-friendly and fun for all ages to play.
This table was originally designed to delete the progress you make in the game if the ball drains before you reach your goal. For that reason, it might produce some disappointment, especially for kids. However, on this version, I have added Easy Mode! It not only keeps your progress in the game when the ball drains, but you can also adjust how long two timed sequences last. The default is to have it turned off so you need to change it before you give it to your kids. To be honest, I rather like the easy mode myself. I have added a full description at the beginning of the script on how to make changes.
I added FizX Lite 3.0 and the latest version of the FizX tweaker. Gimli and I have spent much time improving the tweaker. I have noticed that the tweaker is much more stable than it was when it was first released. The tweaker has overlays that describe each of the FizX parameters and how to navigate the tweaker. All you need to remember is to press the Special 1 key to open the tweaker. Even if you don't understand the options, I encourage you to at least make adjustments to "Bounce Choices" that have options anyone will understand. I set it up for my personal preference but I think most people prefer more bounce than I do.
This table has never had an attract mode. That is the light show and music that play before you start the game. All the tables I have modified have always had a light sequence during the attract mode. This is the first time I have ever added one. It was a learning experience. I think you will like it.
This table has five lighting options that you can adjust by pressing the Special 2 key. The "FP Orig" lighting mode is for those of you who have low-end PCs. There are lots of other options at the beginning of the script where you can change settings for those of you who like to tweak things. The HUD Toggle key also works.
Zip File – Must Read
There is a zip file included in the download. It contains the model of a ball with 1K polygons. Do not unzip the zip file. Just save it with the same name as the table and place it in the same folder as the table. If you don't use it, the physics won't be correct.
Table Loading Screen
There are five table-loading textures as listed below. The three landscape textures are intended to be used on desktop PCs. The two portrait textures are intended to be used on pinball cabinets. In this version, I added a less gruesome landscape texture that is more kid-friendly.
LoadingLandscape1.jpg
LoadingLandscape2.jpg
LoadingLandscape3.jpg
LoadingPortrait1.jpg
LoadingPortrait2.jpg
Rotated Display Version
If you have ever downloaded one of my table mods, you have probably noticed there are usually two variations. There is a basic version for general PC usage and pinball cabinets. The other version of the table is for use on a desktop PC on a single monitor with a portrait orientation. This version would be of interest to you if your monitor can be turned 90 degrees.
The tweaker on this table presented a special problem for my rotated display version. It requires more space on the backbox for the tweaker overlays than I usually allocate. I couldn't use a HUD for the same reasons that it doesn't usually work on a cabinet. I managed to create views using BAM's desktop camera. I was surprised it worked for a table with 270-degree rotation. Then I thought about having to revise my setup guide. I normally use the same Static Cam menu used by the cabinet guys. My old guide was 1 1/2 pages long. After thinking about it, I realized that the only instructions you need are:
1) Open the "Video / Rendering Options" menu in FP and change the "Rotation" option to 270 degrees.
2) Rotate your monitor clockwise 90 degrees and play the table.
The camera settings are coded in the script and are run automatically. The view will change when you open the tweaker so you can see more of the backbox. When you close the tweaker, the view changes back to the normal view. If you ever replace the monitor on your PC, be sure to get one that has a stand that rotates. I added screenshots of the normal and tweaker views.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy the table. I have revised it three times so it should be obvious I like it.
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