Pinball Frenzy at Free Gold Watch: SFPD Fall 2023 #8 Tournament

On a crisp San Francisco evening, with temperatures hovering around 55°F, the Free Gold Watch became the epicenter of a pinball extravaganza. The SFPD Fall 2023 #8 tournament, held on November 8, 2023, brought together 58 players for a riveting display of pinball wizardry.

Free Gold Watch: A Pinball Haven

Tucked away at 1767 Waller St, Free Gold Watch is more than just an arcade. It’s a treasure trove for pinball enthusiasts, offering an array of machines ranging from classic to modern, all for 25 cents to a dollar a game. The venue’s unassuming exterior belies the vibrant, flipper-filled world inside.

The Tournament: A Single Round of High-Stakes Play

Organized by the San Francisco Pinball Dept., the tournament was uniquely structured. Players faced off in just one round, but with five intense games, the pressure was on from the start. Competitors needed to be on their A-game to accumulate points and rise to the top.

The Addams Family Game: A Marquee Matchup

The longest game of the night, clocking in at a staggering 148 minutes, was on The Addams Family pinball machine. Andrei Massenkoff emerged as the victor, with Jackie Olson close behind. Russ Sweetser and Joshua Goldsmith rounded out the top four, all demonstrating exceptional endurance and skill.

Celebrating the Victors

At the end of the night, Dan Dempsey claimed the top spot, followed by Luke Baxter. James Squires and Nick Yahnke also put up a commendable fight to secure third and fourth places, respectively.

Standout Machines of the Tournament

Amidst the plethora of pinball options, several machines stood out:

Wrapping Up

The SFPD Fall 2023 #8 tournament at Free Gold Watch was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball. Players left with stories of triumphant victories, near misses, and the anticipation of the next great pinball challenge. Stay tuned for more updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!

Flippers and Wings: A Night of Pinball Mastery at Brewski’s Venom Launch Party!

As the clear sky of San Diego darkened on the evening of November 8, 2023, pinball enthusiasts congregated at Brewski’s Bar & Arcade, all set for a night of friendly yet fierce competition at the Brewski’s Venom Launch Party pinball tournament. With the temperature a comfortable 62°F, it was the perfect setting for some heated pinball action.

Brewski’s: Where Good Food Meets Great Games

Brewski’s Bar & Arcade, known for having the best wings in San Diego, once again proved to be the ultimate hangout spot. Amidst the aroma of savory wings, the sound of clinking glasses, and the vibrant lighting of pinball machines, players and spectators alike were in for a treat.

The Knockout Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy

Organized by the renowned Mark Schulz, the tournament was a test of endurance and skill. With 32 players competing in 8 intense rounds and the Fair Strikes system in play, every flipper hit and bumper bash mattered. It was a true knockout setup, where strategy was just as important as skill.

Spotlight on Godzilla: The Battle of Titans in Round 1

The first round witnessed an epic showdown on the “Godzilla (Pro)” machine by Stern. Sunny Maxey, with his impressive focus and reflexes, claimed the top spot, followed by Luca Varriale, Derek Price, and Eric Villalpando in a nail-biting finish.

Champions of the Night

The tournament saw some remarkable performances, but the champions who stood out were:

  1. Luca Varriale: Demonstrating unparalleled skill and strategy, he emerged victorious.
  2. Mark Bandong: With consistent play throughout, he secured the second spot.
  3. Mike Welsh: Showed off his pinball prowess, finishing a commendable third.
  4. Tom Isaak: Displayed great skill and determination, claiming the fourth position.

Machines That Stole the Show

The venue was decked out with some of the finest pinball machines, including:

Until Next Time

As the last pinball bounced and the final scores were tallied, Brewski’s Bar & Arcade once again proved to be the heart of San Diego’s pinball scene. With promises to return and new rivalries formed, the community waits eagerly for the next gathering of flippers, strikes, and, of course, the best wings in town.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!

Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #2: A Night of Pinball Wizardry at Superelectric Pinball Parlour

On a crisp November evening in Cleveland, Ohio, under a clear sky with the mercury dipping to 55°F, the Superelectric Pinball Parlour transformed into a vibrant arena of flashing lights and resonating sounds. The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #2, held on November 8, 2023, wasn’t just a tournament; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the timeless joy of pinball.

A Hidden Gem in Cleveland: Superelectric Pinball Parlour

Located at 6500 Detroit Ave, Superelectric Pinball Parlour is more than just an arcade. It’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts and newbies alike, offering a unique blend of modern and vintage machines. The venue, known for its quirky drinks like the apricot-infused bourbon and nostalgic atmosphere, is the perfect backdrop for competitors and spectators to lose themselves in the thrill of the game. With its league nights and all-you-can-play deals, it’s a focal point for the community and a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a blast from the past.

Elvira and the Party Monsters: The Spotlight Game

The highlight of the tournament was the third round on Elvira and the Party Monsters by Bally, a classic from 1989. This game saw Bill Taylor taking the lead with a mix of skillful play and strategic nudges. Andrew Lee from Cleveland, OH, and Tom Goldthwait followed close behind, with Daniel Dudley rounding out the top four in a tense battle that kept onlookers on the edge of their seats.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

The tournament was a showcase of exceptional talent and keen competition. The top players who emerged victorious were:

  • 1st: DJ Toth – Demonstrating a masterful understanding of the game’s nuances.
  • 2nd: John Delzoppo from Cleveland, OH – A testament to local talent and dedication.
  • 3rd: Andrew Lee from Cleveland, OH – Proving their mettle in a field of skilled competitors.
  • 4th: Galvin Morgan from Berea, OH – Displaying impressive skills and strategic acumen.

A Parade of Pinball Greats

With 12 machines on the floor, the tournament featured a variety of themes and challenges:

Verdict

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the realm of pinball, where every flip and tilt tells a story!