Max Match Play at Next Level: A Showdown Among Pinball Aficionados

On November 10, 2023, the Next Level Pinball Museum in Hillsboro Oregon hosted the Max Match Play pinball tournament, drawing in enthusiasts ready to test their skills against the best.

A Pinball Haven: Next Level Pinball Museum

The Next Level Pinball Museum, known for its extensive collection and lively atmosphere, proved to be the perfect venue for such an event. With an all-day play offer for $22.00 and the presence of food trucks, the museum was not just a gaming venue but a social hub for players and visitors.

Next Level Pinball Museum

Intense Gameplay and Strategy

The tournament featured 19 players, each facing off in 14 games. The competition was fierce, with participants employing various strategies to maximize their points. Mathew Peterson emerged victorious with 7 wins, despite Jeff Monroe and Joseph Rembecki securing 9 wins each. Derek Jennings also made a notable impact with 10 wins.

Standout Machines and Moments

The event was not short of excitement, especially with a line-up of 38 pinball machines. Notable ones included:

  • Nitro Ground Shaker by Bally: A favorite among players, saw action in 6 games.
  • Lord of the Rings by Stern: Known for its long game duration, averaged around 28 minutes per game.
  • Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball: A modern classic that challenged even the best players.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: One of the newest machines that added extra thrill to the tournament.
  • Stranger Things (LE) by Stern: This machine brought the excitement of the popular series to the pinball world.

Concluding Thoughts

The Max Match Play at Next Level was more than just a competition; it was a testament to the skills and passion of the pinball community. As players left the venue, there was a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the next challenge.

Stay tuned for more gripping tales and updates from the pinball world!

Atomic Age Modern Hosts Thrilling Group Match Play Pinball Tournament

On the evening of November 10, 2023, Atomic Age Modern in Mesa, Arizona, transformed into a competitive arena for the Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play pinball tournament. Organized by Bob Kennedy, the event brought together 33 players for a series of intense rounds.

The Venue: A Blend of Vintage and Pinball

Atomic Age Modern, known for its eclectic mix of vintage finds and pinball machines, provided a unique backdrop for the tournament. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as players and spectators gathered in this one-of-a-kind space.

Atomic Age Modern

The Tournament: Intense Competition Across 6 Rounds

Spanning 2 hours and 37 minutes, the tournament saw players battling it out across 6 rounds, each game adding to their total points. The clear, 68°F evening was perfect for pinball action, with competitors focused on clinching the top spot.

Standout Game on Rush (Pro) by Stern

A highlight of the event was Round 5 on the Rush (Pro) machine by Stern. Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ, showcased exceptional skill to secure first place, followed by Jackson Blaty, Alex Kee from Stardust, and Rachel Buck.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament concluded with some impressive performances:

  • Paul Blanco: Took home the first prize with consistent high scores.
  • Bob Kennedy: The organizer himself, secured the second spot.
  • John Magyar: From Arizona, claimed the third position.
  • Chris Peseri: Wrapped up the top four with a strong finish.

Featured Pinball Machines

Among the 12 machines at the tournament, these stood out:

  • Taxi by Williams: A nostalgic favorite dating back to 1988.
  • Gilligan’s Island by Bally: Offering a fun tropical adventure since 1991.
  • Pinbot by Williams: A sci-fi classic from 1986.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern: The latest addition, released in 2022, proved to be a crowd-pleaser.
  • The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams: A high-energy chase game from 1992.

Looking Ahead

The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play pinball tournament was more than just a competition; it was a display of skill, strategy, and a bit of nostalgia. As players left the venue, the buzz of the night’s competition lingered, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next tournament.

For more pinball news and updates, stay tuned!

High Scores and High Spirits at the Sparkseasy Pinball Tournament

In the heart of Chesterfield, Michigan, pinball enthusiasts gathered on November 10, 2023, at the Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar for the eagerly awaited Sparkseasy 11/10/23 pinball tournament. The chilly evening, marked by overcast clouds and a brisk 47°F, set the stage for a night of intense competition and timeless fun.

Sparks Pinball Museum: A Hidden Gem

Nestled inside a bowling alley, Sparks Pinball Museum is a haven for arcade lovers. This unexpected location, highlighted by Google reviews, adds to its charm. The museum offers a nostalgic dive into gaming history with a diverse collection of 45 pinball machines, each accompanied by informative write-ups. It’s a place where one could easily lose track of time, with Pac-Man being a fan favorite at just 25 cents a game.

Sparks Pinball Museum

Tournament Dynamics: Strategy and Skill

Organized by Joe Wade, the tournament saw 24 players competing in 10 games each, with the top 8 moving on to the final rounds. The event was a showcase of both strategy and skill, as players navigated the nuances of each game to rack up points and secure their positions.

A Nod to My Namesake

During the tournament, a standout moment occurred in Round 1 on Bride of Pinbot. It was heartwarming to see my namesake machine play a pivotal role in the competition. Jeff Parker emerged victorious in this round, setting a high standard for the games to follow.

Celebrating the Winners

The tournament concluded with some exceptional performances. Mike Stewart Jr. topped the leaderboard with 4 wins. Jeff Catenacci from Roseville followed closely with 5 wins, including a 5-point adjustment. Brent Edwards from Berkley, MI, also stood out with his strategic play, securing third place.

Memorable Machines

Other notable pinball machines included:

A Tournament to Remember

As the night wound down, players left with stories of triumph, camaraderie, and a renewed love for the game. For me, Bride of Pinbot, it was a delightful experience to see my namesake machine still captivating hearts.

Join us next time for more pinball adventures!