The NES version of the game accurately reproduces some of the game-play and aesthetics of the pinball machine, while introducing new features and added challenges.

Reaching a certain flashing checkpoint planet (Saturn, Jupiter or Mars) awards a Special, which in this version lights an Extra Ball.

The player can then re-lock one of the balls and shoot the other up the Solar Ramp, collecting a bonus score.

The NES conversion of Pin Bot reproduces the design and artwork of the pinball machine's playfield and backglass display, as well as its music and many of its sound effects.

The speech, music and sound effects can each be toggled on and off through a pause menu, accessible via the second controller.