A Night of Flickering Lights and Flipping Frenzy: The OC Belles & Chimes Pinball Tournament

In the heart of Anaheim, California, where dreams are often encased in theme parks and fantasy lands, another kind of dream was realized at Captain’s Arcade Showroom. On a crisp November evening, with a clear sky and a temperate 64°F, the OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #4 pinball tournament unfolded in a whirl of lights, sounds, and unbridled enthusiasm.

The Stage Is Set

Entering Captain’s Arcade Showroom at 4411 East La Palma Avenue felt like stepping into a different era. The venue, known for its dedication to the arcade arts, was buzzing with excitement. The air was electric, charged with anticipation and the familiar, comforting sounds of pinball machines. The event, masterfully organized by CC Castaneda, featured 59 pinball machines, each with its own story and legacy.

The Games of Glory

The tournament’s structure was simple yet intense. With 15 players forming groups to face off in 1 round consisting of 6 games each, the competition was fierce. Players earned points based on their finishing positions in each round, culminating in an edge-of-the-seat finale.

A standout game in Round 1 featured the Deadpool (Premium) by Stern, a machine dating back to August 1, 2018. The game saw Nicole Thornhill clinching the top spot, followed closely by Erica Oursland and Laura Stoddard from California, with CC Castaneda securing the fourth position.

The Champions Emerge

In a show of skill and determination, the tournament crowned its champions. Anita Dominqu from Irvine emerged victorious, demonstrating not just her mastery over the flippers but also her strategic acumen. Erica Oursland, consistent in her performance, claimed the second spot. Jordyn Koedyker and Mayumi Mae followed, marking their names in the annals of pinball history.

The Machines That Witnessed History

Of the 59 pinball machines present, a few stood out, not just for their gameplay but for the stories they carried. The Jack•Bot by Williams, a relic from January 1995, Road Kings by Williams (July 1986), Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (June 2017), Cactus Canyon by Bally (January 1998), and the Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019) – each machine added a unique flavor to the tournament.

A Venue with Heart

Captain’s Arcade Showroom isn’t just a venue; it’s a community hub for pinball enthusiasts. Their service, as a customer experienced firsthand with their Foo Premium machine, is unparalleled. CC’s personal touch in helping them set up their first pinball machine was a testament to the passion and dedication that resonates within the walls of this establishment.

The Final Flip

As the lights dimmed and the last ball was played, the OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #4 tournament left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended. It was more than a competition; it was a celebration of skill, history, and the enduring love for pinball.

For more tales from the silver ball’s realm, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on this space!

Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 11/20: A Pinball Extravaganza at Tik Tok’s Workshop

On the evening of November 20, 2023, the charming Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, became the stage for a pinball showdown that will be remembered for years to come. The Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 11/20 pinball tournament, organized by Richard Godwin, was not just a competition; it was a celebration of strategy, precision, and the lively spirit of the pinball community.

A Cozy Venue with a Vibrant Atmosphere

Tik Tok’s Workshop, known for its eclectic mix of entertainment, set the perfect backdrop for this exciting event. With overcast clouds keeping the temperature at a chilly 41°F outside, the warmth of the venue was a welcome embrace. Karaoke, a bustling crowd, and a creative drink menu featuring delights like pudding shots made the atmosphere electric and inviting. The “Dirty and Dry” cocktail came highly recommended, and the anticipation of trying the food menu added to the night’s allure.

The Wizard of Oz (LE) Takes Center Stage

The highlight of the tournament was Round 3 on the Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball. This machine, a masterpiece since its release in 2013, saw Todd Rosser take the lead in a game that was both visually stunning and challenging. Peter Schatzer from Tacoma, WA, Jessica Barron from Bremerton, and Colleen Godwin followed closely, each showcasing their unique approach and skill.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

The Fair Strikes format of the tournament added an extra layer of excitement, with players getting eliminated after receiving 7 strikes. The top players who emerged victorious were:

  • 1st: Donovan Haga from Bremerton – A display of exceptional skill and strategic gameplay.
  • 2nd: Chris Wilkes from Bainbridge Island, WA – Known for his consistent performances.
  • 3rd: Conrad Rustad from Bremerton, WA – A strong contender throughout the tournament.
  • 4th: Richard Godwin – Not just an organizer but also a formidable player.

A Parade of Pinball Classics

The event featured 17 pinball machines, including:

A Night to Remember

As the night wound down, participants and onlookers left Tik Tok’s Workshop with stories of thrilling victories, friendly rivalries, and the shared love for pinball. The Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 11/20 tournament was more than just a competition; it was an evening filled with fun, camaraderie, and the joy of pinball.

Bookmark us for more captivating updates from the realm of pinball, where every flip and tilt creates a new legend!