Pinball Passion in the Heart of Anaheim: The OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #1

As the sun dipped and the Californian sky draped itself in an inviting blanket of stars, the pinball enthusiasts of Anaheim convened. Held at Captain’s Arcade Showroom, the “OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #1” tournament commenced on the evening of October 2nd, 2023. And with a clear sky overhead and the temperature at a comfortable 66°F, it promised to be a night to remember.

Venue Vibes

The Captain’s Arcade Showroom didn’t just play host; it showcased an unparalleled dedication to pinball. As per a patron’s glowing review, “We got a Foo Premium from them! CC is great. She helped us unbox and ensure everything was ok in our first pinball machine!” A testament to the venue’s credibility was evident as it emerged as the trusted alternative to others in SoCal.

Into the Venomverse

Venture into the world of Venom, the symbiotic sensation from Spider-Man comics, in this brand-new pinball experience. Stern Pinball’s Venom (Pro) truly channels the chaos and the thrill the character embodies. With an aesthetic inspired by the ’80s comic roots of Venom, the machine brings to life the dark charisma of the alien symbiote and its various hosts, spotlighting over 20 characters from the Marvel universe. From Eddie Brock to Gwen Stacy and Venomized versions of iconic heroes, each character adds a layer of depth to the gameplay.

One of the game’s most compelling features allows players to bond with a host at the beginning, which affects not just the digital display but the tangible gameplay as well. There’s the visually captivating Agro-Lab, the mysterious Life Foundation pathways, and the central antagonist – Carnage – who players must bash into the Ravencroft Institute. The gameplay keeps one on their toes, especially when the unpredictable Doppelganger swings into action, unraveling mayhem.

This depth of gameplay was particularly evident during Round 1, where four avid players took on the Venom (Pro) challenge: Lisa Buhrmester, bearing an IFPA rank of 2908, emerged triumphant. Following close were Ally Vides, Nicole Thornhill, and Hillary Jacobson. Lisa’s victory served as a gentle reminder that in the world of pinball, strategy and agility often trump rank.

The round was a vivid display of strategy, reflexes, and the pure fun of engaging with Stern’s latest creation.

The Belle of the Ball

While the Venom saga was a highlight, the night was brimming with outstanding performances. Kudos to the champions:

  1. Laura Stoddard – Leading the charge with an enviable winning streak.
  2. Anita Dominqu – Irvine’s pride, clinching the second spot.
  3. Erica Oursland – Holding her ground with remarkable consistency.
  4. Jordyn Koedyker – Proving that every event adds to the experience, irrespective of the IFPA rank.

Machines that Stood Out

With a vast selection of 62 pinball machines, some inevitably caught more attention. Among them were the vintage Scuba by Gottlieb from 1970, the dramatic Stranger Things (Pro) from 2019, the catchy Foo Fighters (Premium) released earlier this year, and the nostalgic Road Kings from 1986.

The Golden State’s Best

At present, the IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings are as follows:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale570.02
2Gabe Da SilveiraOakland553.3
3Escher Lefkoff532.34
4Raymond AshbyLos Angeles520.25
5Scott MaciasGlendora460.53
6Nic SteinDavis436.01
7Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights420.6
8Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
9Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
10Leslie Ruckman408.05

In a state known for its vibrant entertainment scene, pinball remains an enduring passion. It’s not just about flashing lights and high scores; it’s about community, strategy, and the sheer joy of the game. With tournaments like these, California continues to stamp its authority as a hub for pinball lovers.

Until next time, keep the balls rolling and the flippers flipping! The realm of pinball awaits your return.

Pinball Passion: An Evening at Tik Tok’s Workshop

In the heart of Bremerton, under the gray canopy of overcast clouds, the pinball machines at Tik Tok’s Workshop came alive. The chill of 55°F didn’t dampen the spirits as players gathered for the “Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 10/02” tournament on October 2nd, 2023.

Battling Under Pressure

Starting at 7:00 PM, the tournament saw 8 passionate players battling each other through 9 grueling rounds. The Fair Strikes system meant players were treading on thin ice; every game mattered, every shot counted. Organized by the keen-eyed Richard Godwin, enthusiasts could also catch updates on the tournament’s Facebook page.

The Demolition Man Showdown

One round that had everyone’s heart racing was Round 3 on Demolition Man, a classic from 1994. Sarah Bay showcased her skills, clinching the first spot, closely followed by Jessica Barron. Newbie Colleen Godwin didn’t hold back either, proving her mettle against Rachel Kahalekulu.

Champions of the Night

As the dust settled, it was Donovan Haga from Bremerton who stood tall, followed by Todd Rosser, who despite having no IFPA ranking, surprised many with his raw talent. Sarah Bay and Jessica Barron, both seasoned players, took the third and fourth spots respectively.

Machines of Yesteryears and Today

The venue boasted 13 pinball machines, drawing players into the world of pinball, spanning decades. Legends of Wrestlemania and Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons, both from 2015, offered a modern touch. At the same time, classics like Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Sharpshooter, and Demolition Man transported players back in time.

Steampunk and Pinball: A Perfect Match

A visit to Tik Tok’s Workshop is an experience in itself. With its unique steampunk vibe and an owner with immense knowledge of pinball, it’s more than just an arcade. The meticulously maintained machines and the owner’s dedication to the game make it a haven for pinball lovers.

Washington’s Pinball Elite

Here’s a look at the top pinball maestros in Washington:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond636.3
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle540.38
3Richie TerrySeattle498.12
4Sean IrbySeattle469.67
5Jarrett GaddySeattle464.78
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.46
7Dave StewartCarnation399.95
8Neal JoslynBremerton364.7
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.68
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.09

With the echo of pinballs and the sound of flippers fading away, the night at Tik Tok’s Workshop came to an end. For many, it was just another evening. For the pinball community in Washington, it was a night of competition, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of the game.

Stay connected for more from the exhilarating world of pinball!

Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3B #1: Flippers, Fun, and Fierce Competition!

The sun might have set at 79°F with a clear sky in Surprise, AZ, but inside Player 1 Arcade, the temperature was rising. As pinballs clinked and buzzers buzzed, enthusiasts gathered for the anticipated Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3B #1 pinball tournament.

Player 1 Arcade: More Than Just An Arcade

Positioned cozily at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, Player 1 Arcade isn’t just any arcade; it’s a time capsule that captures the golden era of arcade gaming. From the myriad of 80’s-90’s arcade games to the strategically placed pinball machines, it’s a paradise for gamers of all ages. And for those seeking a reprieve from the action? A well-stocked bar quenches thirsts with an assortment of beverages.

The Tournament: Where Strategy Meets Skill

Under the guidance of the seasoned organizer, Jim Smith, 30 participants grouped and battled it out over five adrenaline-pumping rounds. The standout match was on the Led Zeppelin (Pro) machine by Stern during Round 4. Mark Pearson, given his impressive IFPA ranking, didn’t surprise many by clinching the top spot, but Joey Rio’s impressive performance turned quite a few heads!

The Crème De La Crème: IFPA Arizona’s Top 10 Standings

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland NadeauNot Specified671.64
2Mark PearsonPhoenix598.14
3John ShoppleMesa592.14
4Adam HortonPhoenix352.69
5John MagyarGilbert351.78
6Kevan CarterTempe320.85
7Jason BarreMesa313.2
8Paul BlancoChandler309.72
9Joey RioSurprise309.24
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

These players, with their impeccable gameplay and strategies, have solidified their place among the best in Arizona.

Machines: The Soul of the Game

With a staggering 14 machines at the venue, here are some that truly elevated the night:

  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) by Stern, 2020: A recent addition with gameplay as captivating as the Marvel Universe it’s based on.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern, 2023: A slick machine that brought players into the tangled web of Venom’s world.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, 2021: An absolute classic, challenging even for the pros.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern, 2021: Taking players on a galactic journey, this one was a crowd favorite.
  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, 2017: A timeless masterpiece, echoing the legacy of the beloved franchise.
  • Cyclone by Williams, 1988: Its retro charm was irresistible.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern, 2022: Modern, captivating, and a testament to the evolution of pinball.

Until Next Time

With an elapsed time of just shy of 3 hours, the tournament came to a thrilling close. As the lights dimmed at Player 1 Arcade, the echoes of flippers and buzzers slowly faded, but the memories of this electrifying event are sure to linger.

Here’s to more flips, tricks, and pinball magic! Stay tuned for more from the pinball realm!

Monday Pinball Madness at Free Play Arlington: A Texas Showdown

As the sun set on October 2, 2023, with clear skies and a warm ambiance of 85°F, the buzzing town of Arlington, Texas, witnessed yet another thrilling evening of pinball at Free Play Arlington. At 7 PM sharp, the crowd gathered, the flippers were readied, and the silver balls were set in motion.

Stepping Inside Free Play Arlington

For anyone stepping into Free Play Arcade for the first time, the sheer energy and nostalgia are tangible. “Best place ever!” claimed one visitor, praising the summer reading program and the venue’s cleanliness. With games ranging from the classics to the new-age pinball machines, the place is a paradise for gaming enthusiasts. Add to that, the warmth and efficiency of the staff, and it becomes an experience you’d want to relive.

A Glimpse of the Intense Semifinal

At the heart of the evening was the tense game on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro). The game, which took the semifinalists a nail-biting 69 minutes, saw Greg Gibson from Plano, TX, clinching the top spot. Closely following him was Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, and the organizer Chris Delp from North Texas, with Garrett Shahan wrapping up the top four.

Saluting the Pinball Maestros

The tournament’s top contenders showcased a display of sheer skill, strategy, and passion. Emerging as the champion of the evening was Boss Hernandez from Corpus Christi, TX, followed by Clark McCoy. Duane Fair from Fort Worth secured the third spot, while Greg Gibson finished fourth. The evening also witnessed commendable performances from Steven McMullin, Chris Delp, Andrew Ortega, and Garrett Shahan.

The Machines that Made the Night

Among the 25 pinball machines, some garnered more attention than others:

Top Pinballers in Texas

The current standings in Texas showcase a tight competition:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.1
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.74
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.53
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.07
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.23
9Kevin RodriguezDenton223.02
10Jim MuellerHouston222.34

As the echoes of the flippers fade and the lights dim until the next showdown, the world of pinball remains as vibrant and dynamic as ever. Until next time, keep the ball rolling and the scores soaring!