On a crisp San Francisco evening, with temperatures hovering around 55°F, the Free Gold Watch became the epicenter of a pinball extravaganza. The SFPD Fall 2023 #8 tournament, held on November 8, 2023, brought together 58 players for a riveting display of pinball wizardry.
Free Gold Watch: A Pinball Haven
Tucked away at 1767 Waller St, Free Gold Watch is more than just an arcade. It’s a treasure trove for pinball enthusiasts, offering an array of machines ranging from classic to modern, all for 25 cents to a dollar a game. The venue’s unassuming exterior belies the vibrant, flipper-filled world inside.
The Tournament: A Single Round of High-Stakes Play
Organized by the San Francisco Pinball Dept., the tournament was uniquely structured. Players faced off in just one round, but with five intense games, the pressure was on from the start. Competitors needed to be on their A-game to accumulate points and rise to the top.
The Addams Family Game: A Marquee Matchup
The longest game of the night, clocking in at a staggering 148 minutes, was on The Addams Family pinball machine. Andrei Massenkoff emerged as the victor, with Jackie Olson close behind. Russ Sweetser and Joshua Goldsmith rounded out the top four, all demonstrating exceptional endurance and skill.
Celebrating the Victors
At the end of the night, Dan Dempsey claimed the top spot, followed by Luke Baxter. James Squires and Nick Yahnke also put up a commendable fight to secure third and fourth places, respectively.
Standout Machines of the Tournament
Amidst the plethora of pinball options, several machines stood out:
- Cactus Canyon by Bally: A wild west adventure that kept players on their toes.
- Medieval Madness by Williams: A beloved classic that never fails to entertain.
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Bringing the world of Star Wars to pinball fans.
- Pirates of the Caribbean by Jersey Jack Pinball: A high-seas adventure with intricate gameplay.
- The Godfather (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: The newest addition, offering a fresh challenge to players.
Wrapping Up
The SFPD Fall 2023 #8 tournament at Free Gold Watch was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball. Players left with stories of triumphant victories, near misses, and the anticipation of the next great pinball challenge. Stay tuned for more updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!