The Electric Ambience of Texas Pinball: A Recap of the Space City Pinball Tournament

The quiet evening of October 4th was soon to be lit up with a blaze of neon lights, resonant “dings”, and fierce competition. The Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level #4 pinball tournament kicked off at 7:00 PM sharp. Within the industrial-chic confines of Low’s Sound Lab, an undisclosed location somewhere deep in the heart of Texas, 16 pinball wizards formed groups, eager to face off in a whirlwind tournament that lasted just a bit over 2 hours.

Game Highlights:

Among the 18 gleaming pinball machines present, five particularly stood out, not just for their rich legacy but for the gameplay they hosted during the evening:

  • Taxi by Williams: An old-school beauty that took players on a whirlwind ride.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming: A relatively newer model that had everyone hooked with its sharp graphics.
  • Diner by Williams: The star of the evening, more on this in a moment!
  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: A rock-fest that had many head-banging in between shots.
  • Funhouse by Williams: As quirky and fun as the name suggests.

One could argue the highlight of the night was the intense game on “Diner.” Liz Nebeker, a humble player from Houston with an IFPA rank of 3023, took the lead, closely followed by Dawn Freedkin and Dawn Hayes, with Emily Hoffman rounding out the quartet. The table was surrounded by an eager crowd, with every flipper move eliciting gasps or cheers.

The Night’s Champions:

Kudos to the champions who dominated the evening:

  • Gina Low, with 149 IFPA events under her belt, clinched the top spot.
  • The dynamic duo, Miette Dronet and Elizabeth Dronet, grabbed the 2nd and 3rd spots respectively.
  • Annabeth Dronet made it a family affair by taking the 4th position.

How Did the Texas Top 10 Fare?

A peek into the IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.1
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.78
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.53
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.08
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.23
9Jim MuellerHouston222.34
10Kevin RodriguezDenton219.12

Although none from the top 10 took the crown this time, their stellar past performances are a constant reminder of the evolving landscape of Texas pinball.

This night was an homage to both the old and the new – a celebration of the undying love for pinball. As we wind down, remember, it’s not just about the flippers and the score. It’s about the memories we make, the strategies we employ, and the friends we meet along the way. So, stay tuned and keep those pinballs rolling!

A Night to Remember at the Pinball Gallery: Ball Busters’ Battle Royale!

Amidst the rhythmic hums and dazzling lights, on October 4th at 6:30 PM, the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA transformed into a veritable coliseum of pinball warfare. The Ball Busters Pinball League was in full swing for its 2023 Season #5 Week 5 tournament.

Stage Set for Thrills and Spills

With Bill Disney taking the reins of the event, 12 fervent players went flipper to flipper, vying for glory across 5 nail-biting rounds. The crisp, clear evening was no match for the electric atmosphere inside the gallery.

Air Guitars & Pinballs

But the talk of the tournament was the epic face-off in Round 2 on Aerosmith (Premium) by Stern. Amy McManus, unranked and under the radar, dazzled the competition, clinching the top spot, leaving behind veterans like Stephanie Savy and Jamme Thomas. Charissa Wiley, though valiant in her attempts, stood fourth.

Honoring the Masters of the Machines

As the echoes of the pinballs faded, the champions emerged:

  1. Kim Smith reigned supreme, her experience across 72 IFPA events clearly shining through.
  2. Anita Thallmayer clinched the second spot, proving her prowess.
  3. Terri Morton followed closely in third, showcasing her impeccable gameplay.
  4. The night’s underdog, Stephanie Savy, also found herself among the pinball elite.

Machines of Legacy and Lore

From the 12 magnificent pinball machines present, a few commanded special attention. Earthshaker by Williams transported players back to 1989 with its seismic themes. Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern provided medieval thrills, while the Oktoberfest machine made sure there were ‘cheers’ all around. Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally took players on a cinematic journey and, of course, Aerosmith kept the rock spirit alive and kicking.

An Experience Beyond Points

Visiting the Pinball Gallery isn’t just about the tournament. With a plethora of games and an amazing atmosphere, it’s no surprise attendees leave with an urge to come back for more, as one visitor raved about their fantastic experience and the sheer variety the gallery offers.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens—191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh156.6
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.79
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk—136.8
5Bob ChoatePhiladelphia115.15
6Stephen LeChesterbrook110.04
7Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
8Matt GuslerPhiladelphia95.64
9Tony MakowskiLansdale88.05
10Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72

In the ever-evolving world of pinball, the titans of Pennsylvania continue their quest for glory. From Cryss Stephens at the pinnacle to Raymond Davidson completing the top ten, their competitive spirit remains unyielding.

So, as we tilt away from this week’s competition, the buzz is far from over. The Pinball Gallery and the Ball Busters League promise more thrills, more spills, and of course, more pinballs in action.

Keep flipping, folks!

Emporium Hi-Scorium Oct 3

In the heart of San Francisco, where the fog meets the neon lights and the echo of flippers, the Emporium Hi-Scorium Oct 3 pinball tournament took place. Players and fans gathered on October 3, 2023, starting at 7:00 PM for an action-packed event that would last almost two hours.

The Setting

The Emporium Arcade Bar on Divisadero St provided the perfect backdrop, with the hint of a few clouds in the sky and a crisp 63°F temperature. Organized by the esteemed Myriad Pinball, this showdown saw 20 participants locked in a fierce competition, spread across four qualifying rounds. After which, the top four contenders advanced to the nail-biting finals.

Turtles Take The Spotlight

One of the most thrilling moments of the night was during Round 1 on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern. Clocking in at a staggering 75 minutes, this game kept everyone on the edge of their seats. The ever-resilient Jackie Olson from San Francisco claimed the top spot, with Rob Coli, Gabriel Jensen, and Josh Campoverde following in her tracks.

Tournament Titans

It’s always a pleasure to witness sheer pinball prowess. And this evening was no different. The final rankings had Rob Coli leading the pack. Josh Campoverde, with his unique style, clinched the second spot. Gabriel Jensen’s strategic play earned him the third, while Jackie Olson’s remarkable skills landed her the fourth position.

Arcade Arsenal

A plethora of machines adorned the venue, with a selection of both vintage and latest releases. Some noteworthy machines included:

The Vibe

Emporium Arcade Bar is more than just a gaming hub; it’s an experience. With a delightful frozen raspberry margarita in hand, players could indulge in a bit of nostalgia with some of the slightly older games or challenge themselves on the newer ones. And here’s a little secret – the pool tables are free! So, shhh…

California’s Pinball Pros

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale599.78
2Gabe Da SilveiraOakland553.28
3Escher Lefkoff—532.31
4Raymond AshbyLos Angeles520.25
5Scott MaciasGlendora461.58
6Nic SteinDavis435.99
7Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights420.6
8Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
9Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
10Leslie Ruckman—408.04

San Francisco’s pinball scene continues to grow and shine. It’s evenings like these that showcase the passion, strategy, and community spirit that keeps the game alive. So whether you’re an enthusiast or a novice, the world of pinball awaits. Stay flippin’, and see you at the next tournament!

Under the Clear Washington Sky: An Evening of Flips and Fame!

As the day’s twilight descended and the temperature settled at a cool 57°F, pinball enthusiasts gathered at the unique venue known as Tik Tok’s Workshop on October 3, 2023. Little did they know that they were about to witness one of the most thrilling tournaments of the season.

Tik Tok’s Workshop: More than Just a Venue

Nestled at 1216 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA, Tik Tok’s Workshop is no ordinary arcade spot. Beyond the flashing pinball machines lies a heartwarming story of dedication. An unnamed rockstar bartender was the hero of the evening, juggling mixed drinks, servicing machines, and whipping up delicious bites—all while wearing an infectious smile and sporting a memorable beard. His efforts not only ensured the games ran smoothly but also that every guest felt valued and cared for.

A Classic Battle in the Ring: Round 3 Spotlight

It’s not every day you get to see pinball and wrestling collide! The Legends of Wrestlemania by Stern took center stage during Round 3, and boy, was it a nail-biter. Daniel Trobare clinched the first place, while the event’s organizer, Richard Godwin, secured the second spot. Anna Francolini, though not far behind, settled for the third place.

Titans of Tik Tok’s Tournament

Emerging from the fierce competition were the top pinball wizards of the evening:

  1. Rachel Kahalekulu: Her mastery and experience from 425 IFPA events shone bright.
  2. Daniel Trobare: Having dominated in Round 3, he showed consistent prowess throughout the event.
  3. Jared Doss: A rising star with potential, marking his territory in the pinball realm.
  4. Richard Godwin: Beyond organizing, he showcased why he’s a force to be reckoned with on the pinball floor.

Pinball Pantheon: Machines of Legacy and Lore

From classics to the latest releases, the tournament’s arsenal boasted a versatile lineup:

Washington’s Pinball Elite

Washington’s IFPA Top 10 Pinball Players stood as follows:

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

As the Flippers Rested…

With the clattering of the machines fading and the night setting in, Tik Tok’s pinball tournament etched its mark in the annals of pinball history. And as the stars twinkled above Bremerton, WA, the pinball community eagerly awaited their next challenge.

Keep those flippers ready, and stay in the loop for more pinball escapades!

Electric Bat Arcade Lights Up Arizona’s Pinball Scene

The Big Play

On a clear evening with temperatures comfortably hovering around 83°F, the vibrant heart of pinball in Tempe, Arizona came alive at the Electric Bat Arcade. The Electric Bat Season 9 Series 1 #3 pinball tournament kicked off at 6:30 PM on October 3, 2023. Over the course of nearly 3 electrifying hours, 94 players clashed, forming dynamic groups that would compete over 5 adrenaline-pumping rounds. The goal was clear: earn the most points and claim the coveted title.

Music, Rockstars, and… Pinball?

Amidst the myriad of pinball games that the tournament hosted, an iconic match stood out. Round 4 showcased the riveting Aerosmith by Stern, a tribute to the legendary rock band. Matt JohnsonAZ from Mesa led the pack, with Walter Dony from Phoenix trailing close behind. Amber Valdivia and Katie Carey put up a valiant fight, securing the 3rd and 4th spots respectively.

The Pinball Titans of the Night

As the tournament concluded, four players emerged victorious:

  1. John Shopple from Mesa, with his sharpshooting strategies, seized the first position.
  2. Nicholas Zachry demonstrated deft skills, landing the second spot.
  3. Mark Pearson, hailing from Phoenix, showed why he’s among Arizona’s finest, securing third place.
  4. Paul Blanco, with a notable track record, clinched the fourth position.

Machine Majesty

A wide array of 56 pinball machines adorned Electric Bat Arcade. Notable mentions included the spine-chilling Scared Stiff by Bally, the nuclear-themed Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball, the iconic Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern, the country-inspired Dolly Parton by Bally, and the newly-released James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern.

Venue Vibes

Electric Bat Arcade offered more than just pinball. Visitors were treated to scrumptious food, delightful drinks, and classic arcade games. The atmosphere? A perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flair, making it a must-visit spot for anyone in the vicinity.

IFPA Arizona Pinball’s Crème de la Crème

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau—671.63
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.43
3John ShoppleMesa591.99
4Adam HortonPhoenix377.73
5John MagyarGilbert351.77
6Paul BlancoChandler341.29
7Kevan CarterTempe320.85
8Jason BarreMesa313.19
9Joey RioSurprise309.16
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

Arizona’s pinball community continues to thrive, with every tournament showcasing immense talent, nail-biting matches, and an undying love for the game. Until next time, keep flipping and may your scores soar high!

The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 10-3-23: The Night Oviedo Stood Still

Under a clear Florida sky, punctuated by a few drifting clouds and with the temperature tipping at a delightful 75°F, the night was set for the most gripping pinball action Oviedo has ever witnessed.

Setting the Stage

At the heart of this electric atmosphere was The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo Bowling Center, bustling with enthusiasm and the echoing chimes of pinball machines. For those who weren’t clock-watching, it was a whirlwind of approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes of relentless competition, organized by the indomitable Kurt van Zyl.

A Trip to the Jurassic Era

While every game had its moment, the talk of the night was an intense showdown on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Premium) during the first round. Anton Samilian led the charge, but with Dawn Ziatyk not far behind. Florida’s own Patrick Durland and Sheri Lewis also put up a commendable fight. It was as if the players had been transported to a time of dinosaurs, maneuvering through treacherous terrains and outsmarting the T-rex.

Conquering the Night: The Winners

Bravery, strategy, and a little bit of luck crowned our victors:

  • John Osborne: Steadiness personified.
  • John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida: The strategic genius of the night.
  • Dawn Ziatyk: A force to reckon with.
  • David Troum: Consistency in every move.

Machines Through Time

The Lounge showcased a diverse range of machines, each echoing a different era of pinball’s storied history:

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Every inch of The Pinball Lounge screamed passion for the game. It wasn’t just about the collection of machines but the vibe. Praise should be reserved for Kurt and Ed who have turned this spot into the pinball Mecca for Florida. Their recent unveiling of the Cirqus Voltaire was the icing on the cake!

IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.53
2Eric StoneFort Myers304.72
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale271.68
4Sebastian Bobbio—265.88
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.73
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace146.87
8David Miller FLTampa140.89
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.69
10John MoschellaWinter Springs126.81

In a nutshell, Oviedo witnessed a night that will be talked about in the pinball circles for a long time. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and never let that ball drain!

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!