On a clear December evening in Denton, Texas, with temperatures dipping to a crisp 52°F, the Free Play Denton Pinball Monday tournament came alive. Held on December 18, 2023, at Free Play Arcade – Denton, this event, meticulously organized by Chris Delp, drew a crowd of enthusiastic pinball players and fans alike.
The Venue: A Hub of Excitement and Entertainment
Free Play Arcade – Denton, located at 101 West Hickory Street, is more than just an arcade. It’s a vibrant community spot where kindness and camaraderie reign supreme. Despite a small hiccup with unsupervised children, the venue’s atmosphere was buzzing with excitement, offering discounts for students and military personnel and ensuring a rotation around the games for all.
High Stakes on James Bond 007 (Pro)
The highlight of the tournament was the final showdown on Stern’s James Bond 007 (Pro), released in September 2022. Austin Kemp triumphed in this high-tension game, closely followed by Garrett Shahan, with Ken Kemp and Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, rounding out the top four.
Champions of the Night
The event saw some stellar gameplay from its participants, with the top contenders exhibiting exceptional pinball skills:
- 1st Place: Austin Kemp, showcasing remarkable precision and strategy.
- 2nd Place: Garrett Shahan, a close contender with impressive plays.
- 3rd Place: Ken Kemp, demonstrating consistent performance.
- 4th Place: Clark McCoy, known for their tactical approach.
A Diverse Lineup of Pinball Machines
The tournament featured a total of 14 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition. Notable among them were:
- Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern and The Mandalorian (Premium), offering modern pinball experiences.
- Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern, merging classic rock with pinball action.
- Black Knight by Williams, a throwback to the classic era of pinball.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming, a beloved game reimagined.
Wrapping Up a Memorable Evening
As the Free Play Denton Pinball Monday tournament concluded, players and spectators left with memories of an evening filled with joy, competition, and the unifying spirit of pinball. The event was a perfect blend of nostalgia, modern gameplay, and community spirit.
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