So unless I play in windowed mode (no option for borderless windowed), if I alt tab I cannot return to the game without force closing it and starting over.

Over and over and over...

If you are stuck at 48 FPS like I was, you can fix it by going Nvidia Control panel -> Manage 3D settings -> Vertical Sync = Fast.

What is wrong with the game? Is it my machine or settings? Do I have to run compatibility for Windows 95?

I have the button cap and I can block with it, but whenever I block with it against the worm, it just blocks the ball, and doesn't reflect it. Any ideas?