On a chilly November morning with scattered clouds and a brisk 45°F, the Southland Lanes in the heart of town buzzed with excitement for the Southland Mega Matchplay pinball tournament. Organized by John Delzoppo, this event was not just a test of skill but a marathon of endurance, lasting an impressive 13 hours and 38 minutes.
Southland Lanes: The Perfect Host
Southland Lanes proved to be an ideal venue for this pinball extravaganza. With its easy accessibility, comfortable interiors, and reasonable prices, it was a hit among players and families alike. The great food and beverages added to the charm, making it more than just a bowling alley – but a community hub.
The Tournament: A Test of Pinball Prowess
With a staggering 63 players competing in 20 rounds, the tournament was a thrilling display of pinball wizardry. The top 24 players advanced to the finals, which consisted of 4 rounds with 3 games each. This format not only tested the players’ skills but also their strategies and stamina.
Game Spotlight: A Marathon on Taxi
One of the tournament highlights was a quarterfinals match on the classic Taxi by Williams. This game turned into a 75-minute epic battle, showcasing the endurance and skill of the players. Lewis Bevans emerged victorious, followed by Andrew Lee from Cleveland, OH, Mark Brown OH, and Evan Bingham.
Celebrating the Winners
The tournament saw some exceptional performances:
- Lewis Bevans: Dominated the competition and clinched the first position.
- Gary Hartz from Pittsburgh: A close second, demonstrating great skill and determination.
- Stephen Prusa: Secured third place with his consistent gameplay.
- Aaron Rich and Gregory Kennedy from Plain City, OH: Also made it to the top spots, showcasing their prowess in pinball.
The Pinball Lineup
The 33 pinball machines at the tournament provided a diverse range of challenges, including:
- Jurassic Park by Data East: A trip back to the dinosaur-infested island.
- RollerCoaster Tycoon by Stern: Where players managed their own amusement parks.
- Toy Story 4 (CE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Brought the beloved movie characters to life.
- Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern: A battle with Marvel’s mightiest heroes.
- Rush (Pro) by Stern: Combined the thrill of rock music with pinball action.
Wrapping Up
The Southland Mega Matchplay pinball tournament was a day filled with excitement, competition, and fun. As the last ball drained and winners celebrated, players and spectators left with fond memories and stories to share.
Stay bookmarked for more enthralling updates from the realm of pinball!