On a chilly evening in Cleveland, with overcast skies and the mercury dipping to 39°F, the Superelectric Pinball Parlour on Detroit Avenue transformed into a vibrant arena for the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4 pinball tournament. Pinball enthusiasts, donned in layers to fend off the cold, gathered eagerly, ready to immerse themselves in the world of bumpers, ramps, and high scores.
Superelectric Pinball Parlour: A Haven for Pinball Lovers
The Superelectric Pinball Parlour, known for its eclectic mix of classic and modern pinball machines, proved to be the perfect host for this event. With an entry fee of just $6 and all machines set to Freeplay, it offered unbeatable value. The atmosphere was friendly and inviting, with personable staff and clientele, making it a comfortable spot for families and serious pinball players alike. The affordability of the games and drinks added to the charm, ensuring that the focus remained on the joy of pinball.
The Tournament Unfolds
Organized by the diligent John Delzoppo, the tournament was a whirlwind of excitement, featuring 43 players competing across 5 rounds. The format was intense – each round with only one game, where players earned points based on their positions. The aim was clear: accumulate the most points to clinch the victory.
Spotlight on Venom
One of the tournament’s highlights was Round 4’s fierce competition on Stern’s Venom (Pro), a machine that has been capturing players’ imaginations since its release in July 2023. The game saw Andrew Lee from Cleveland, Ohio, showcasing exceptional skill to secure the top spot, followed by Joshua Vardous from Lorain, Hector Caraballo, and Jamie Gantos.
Celebrating the Victors
The tournament concluded with a few players emerging as the ultimate pinball champions:
- Andrew Lee (from Cleveland, OH) – Demonstrated unparalleled mastery to claim the top spot.
- Valencia Kelly (from Cleveland, Ohio) – A close second, her gameplay was both strategic and impressive.
- Matt E Owen – Secured the third position with consistent performance.
- Bill Taylor – Rounded out the top four with his skilled play.
Machines that Stole the Show
The tournament featured a total of 11 pinball machines, each with its own unique charm. Highlights included the nostalgic Bad Cats by Williams (1989), the adventurous Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (2019), the classic Seawitch by Stern (1980), the western-themed Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming (2021), and the rock-and-roll themed Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern (2018). These machines not only tested the players’ skills but also added to the nostalgia and excitement of the tournament.
A Night to Remember
As the last ball drained and the scores were tallied, the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4 tournament at the Superelectric Pinball Parlour left an indelible mark on everyone present. For more stories from the pinball world and updates on upcoming tournaments, keep your eyes on this space!