On a sunny day with the thermometer reading a pleasant 79°F, Shorty’s, a charming dive bar known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious hotdogs, transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts. The Shortys Annual Pinball Tournament, orchestrated by Germain Mariolle, was not just a competition; it was a celebration of pinball in its most authentic and spirited form.
The Setting: Shorty’s, More Than Just a Bar
Shorty’s, with its unique blend of a dive bar ambiance and a sprinkling of arcade games, provided a perfect backdrop for the day’s events. The atmosphere was casual yet charged with excitement. The highlight for many was the tables made from old pinball machines, adding a creative touch to the venue. The friendly bartenders and the array of affordable drinks and snacks only added to the day’s charm.
The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Patience
Seventy-four players entered the fray, battling through 8 intense rounds. The structure was straightforward, with players earning points based on their finishing positions. The top 16 players moved onto the finals, where the competition intensified over four grueling rounds.
Game Spotlight: Genie by Gottlieb
A standout moment of the tournament was the final round’s epic game on Genie by Gottlieb, a classic from 1979. The game was a marathon, lasting an incredible 69 minutes, showcasing the endurance and skill of the finalists. David Chernicoff emerged victorious, with Richie Terry closely contending for the top spot.
Celebrating the Champions
David Chernicoff clinched the title with his exceptional gameplay, followed by Richie Terry, who demonstrated remarkable skill and strategy. The tournament also saw impressive performances from Eden Stamm, Sean Irby, and Seattle’s own Nate Carter and Robert Islas. Jaran Jones and organizer Germain Mariolle, from Redmond, rounded out the top eight.
Featured Pinball Machines
Among the 15 machines at the tournament, several stood out for their unique themes and gameplay:
- The Addams Family by Bally (1992): A crowd favorite for its engaging theme and challenging gameplay.
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (2021): A newer addition, bringing the excitement of the Star Wars universe to the pinball world.
- Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern (2023): The latest entry, rocking the tournament with its energetic music and gameplay.
- Funhouse by Williams (1990): A nostalgic machine beloved for its unique and quirky design.
- James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern (2022): Offering players a taste of espionage and adventure.
Conclusion
The Shortys Annual Pinball Tournament 2023 was more than a mere competition; it was a day filled with joy, camaraderie, and the timeless magic of pinball. As players and spectators left Shorty’s, they took with them memories of clattering pinballs, strategic plays, and the friendly, unpretentious vibe of a beloved local dive bar.
Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!