A Thrilling Evening at The Game Preserve: SCPL’s Monthly Matchplay

Greetings to all pinball enthusiasts! Let’s dive into the captivating world of flippers, bumpers, and high scores as we recount the exhilarating SCPL: Monthly Matchplay Tournament held on December 16, 2023, at The Game Preserve.

Tournament Overview

Organized by Space City Pinball, this gripping tournament began at 4:00 PM under a clear sky with a pleasant temperature of 61°F. Held at the ever-entertaining Game Preserve, the tournament saw 18 pinball wizards in an over 3-hour showdown. They competed in 7 rounds, with each round featuring one game where players racked up points based on their finishing positions. The top 8 scorers advanced to the final face-off, which included 2 rounds with 3 games each.

Game Spotlight: Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast

The semifinals were highlighted by a marathon game on Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern, a modern classic released in April 2018. The game, lasting an astonishing 135 minutes, saw Cree Luzskia taking the lead, followed by Cameron Reed TX, Nicholas Gustafson from Spring, Texas, and Grayson Turner, also from Spring, TX. This intense match showcased strategic depth, endurance, and the sheer thrill of competitive pinball.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament culminated with Cameron Reed TX emerging victorious, demonstrating remarkable skill and consistency. Gary Turner claimed the second spot, while Ben Whittington and Grayson Turner secured third and fourth places, respectively. Their performances were a testament to their mastery over the machines and the competitive spirit of the tournament.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was graced by a variety of 19 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor. Highlights include:

  • Back to the Future by Data East (1990): A nostalgic trip that combined beloved movie themes with engaging gameplay.
  • Elvira and the Party Monsters by Bally (1989): A quirky and fun machine that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams (1993): Known for its dark theme and immersive experience.
  • The Simpsons by Data East (1990): A family favorite that brings the iconic TV show to life.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021): A modern addition that thrilled players with its monstrous theme and action-packed gameplay.

Venue and Atmosphere

The Game Preserve, known for its solid entertainment options and family-friendly atmosphere, was the perfect venue for this pinball showdown. With its clean facilities, party rental space, and ample outside parking, it provided a welcoming environment for players and spectators alike.

Conclusion

The SCPL: Monthly Matchplay at The Game Preserve was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the community, the skill, and the joy of pinball. As the night concluded, players and fans left with memories of thrilling matches, the clinks and clacks of pinballs, and the anticipation of the next great tournament.

Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball!

A Pinball Paradise in Winter: The Winter Bash 2023 Qualifying Tournament at CP Pinball

As December’s festive spirit mingled with the sounds of clinking pinballs, CP Pinball in Wood River, Illinois, hosted the enthralling Winter Bash 2023 Qualifying Tournament. Organized by Tyler Becker, this event was a celebration of skill, strategy, and a shared love for pinball, set against a backdrop of moderate rain and chilly weather.

A Haven for Pinball Enthusiasts

CP Pinball is more than just an arcade; it’s a journey through the history of pinball. With an all-you-can-play hourly system, it frees players from the constraints of quarters, allowing them to dive into an extensive collection that ranges from vintage classics to modern masterpieces. It’s a place where nostalgia meets novelty, and every flipper hit resonates with joy.

The Tournament’s Thrilling Format

The tournament saw 82 players competing in 7 rounds with 3 games per round. The energy was palpable as players earned points based on their performance in each game, leading up to an intense finale where the player with the most points claimed victory.

Godzilla Stands Tall

In Round 4, a remarkable match on ‘Godzilla (Premium)‘ by Stern lasted an incredible 110 minutes, showcasing endurance and strategic play. Andy Bagwell emerged victorious, followed closely by Preston Currie, Bob Caldwell from St. Louis, MO, and Corey Thompson from Missouri.

Saluting the Champions

Congratulations to Gregory Kennedy from Plain City, OH, for his top-notch performance and well-earned first place! Andy Bagwell, Tyler Hund, and Carlos Delaserda also showed exceptional skills, navigating through the rounds with finesse and determination.

Standout Machines

The tournament featured a stunning array of machines, each adding its unique flavor. ‘KISS (Premium)‘ by Stern and ‘Medieval Madness‘ by Williams offered a blend of rock and medieval fantasy. ‘Taxi‘ and ‘World Cup Soccer‘ by Williams took players on trips through different eras and styles. ‘Demolition Man‘ and ‘Game Of Thrones (Pro)‘ added action-packed elements, while ‘Metallica (Pro)‘ and ‘Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium)‘ brought modern thrills to the tournament.

A Winter Wonderland of Flippers

The Winter Bash 2023 Qualifying Tournament at CP Pinball was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the timeless joy of pinball. Players left with not just scores and victories, but also with memories of an event that captured the essence of pinball’s enduring appeal.

Stay tuned for more stories from the captivating world of pinball, where every game is a new adventure and every flipper hit is a moment of excitement.