On August 12, 2023, pinball aficionados from near and far descended upon Benton Parkade, St. Louis, Missouri, eager to be a part of the much-anticipated St. Louis Area Pinball Championship. Organized by the seasoned player, Tyler Becker, this wasn’t just another competition; it was a tribute to the legacy of pinball itself.
Metallica Madness
A pinball tournament is incomplete without a game that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats. This time it was the Metallica (Pro) match in Round 2 that stole the spotlight. Eric Freimanis, hailing from Mannford, OK, surprised everyone with his exceptional gameplay, securing the first place. And while Travis Murie’s IFPA rank of 23 might have intimidated many, that day belonged to Eric.
The Clash of Titans
Adam McKinnie, who traveled from Columbia, MO, might not have won the Metallica round, but he surely made a mark by becoming the overall champion. And let’s not forget John Miller from MO, who not only grabbed the second spot in the championship but also ranks first in the IFPA Missouri Pinball standings.
Modern Machines with a Vintage Heart
The Benton Parkade was a pinball paradise with 26 machines, each one with its own unique charm. Whether it was the recently released “Foo Fighters (Pro)” or the timeless “Monster Bash” from 1998, there was a machine for every pinball lover.
A Place of Legends
Benton Parkade, with its atmospheric setting, was the heart and soul of this championship. What’s more, the adjoining Piazza Cafe served pizzas through a window, adding another layer of charm to the venue. And while most of the pinball machines were modern (costing about $1 a game), the place had an old-world feel that was hard to ignore.
Here’s a snapshot of the IFPA Missouri Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | John Miller MO | St. Louis | 305.12 |
| 2 | Kendell Holder | St. Louis | 184.73 |
| 3 | Adam McKinnie | Columbia | 183.36 |
| 4 | Brennan Sullivan | St. Louis | 179.94 |
| 5 | Chris Ward | St. Louis | 164.94 |
| 6 | Steve Rolsing | St. Louis | 159.86 |
| 7 | Jacob Fischer | St. Louis | 155.44 |
| 8 | Mike Howard | St. Louis | 119.56 |
| 9 | Travis Murie | Oklahoma City | 116.71 |
| 10 | Steve Hill MO | Kansas City | 113.17 |
In the world of pinball, every flip counts, every point matters, and every game is a new story. And as we wrap up the St. Louis Area Pinball Championship 2023, all we can say is – till the flippers meet again, game on! Stay tuned for more pinball magic!