On a misty afternoon in Jacksonville, Florida, the Pinsomniacs Pinball @ VGR Venom Launch Party tournament brought excitement and intense competition to the Video Game Rescue Arcade. With the temperature sitting at a comfortable 60°F, pinball enthusiasts gathered on November 12, 2023, for a showdown that promised both skill and strategy.
Venue Vibes: Video Game Rescue Arcade
Nestled at 2415 Blanding Blvd, the Video Game Rescue Arcade, known for its excellent selection of games and fair prices, turned into a battleground for pinball wizards. This cozy arcade was bustling with energy and enthusiasm, making it a perfect spot for a pinball face-off.
The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Endurance
Organized by Nick Byrd, the tournament spanned nearly 5 hours, featuring 13 nail-biting rounds of pinball. Eleven players competed fiercely, with each round offering a chance to climb the leaderboard. The top four players then advanced to the finals, consisting of three intense rounds.
Round 1 Spotlight: Venom Takes Center Stage
The tournament kicked off with a bang on the Venom (Premium) machine by Stern. The game saw Tristan Stafford clinching the top spot, followed closely by Shannon Stafford. Drake Abbott from Jacksonville, FL, and Breanne Abbott, also from Jacksonville, rounded out the top four, setting a high standard for the rounds to come.
Celebrating the Champions
In a turn of events, Shannon Stafford emerged as the overall winner, showcasing remarkable skill and consistency. Drake Abbott claimed the second spot, with Tristan Stafford and Breanne Abbott securing third and fourth places, respectively.
Featured Pinball Machines
The tournament highlighted some of the best pinball machines, including:
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Premium) by Stern: A favorite for fans of the iconic series.
- Attack from Mars by Bally: A classic game that never loses its charm.
- Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: Providing a monstrous challenge to the players.
- Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: Mixing humor with skillful gameplay.
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: A newer addition that brought the excitement of the Star Wars universe to the arcade.
Wrapping Up
The Pinsomniacs Pinball @ VGR Venom Launch Party tournament was a testament to the enduring popularity of pinball. As players and spectators left Video Game Rescue Arcade, they took with them memories of an afternoon filled with friendly rivalry, strategic plays, and the unmistakable sound of pinball machines.
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