A Night of Pinball Mastery at OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #7

On a clear January evening in Anaheim, with temperatures dipping to a cool 51°F, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Captain’s Arcade Showroom for the OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #7 tournament. The air was electric with excitement and the sound of silver balls ricocheting off bumpers and flippers.

Captain’s Arcade Showroom: A Pinball Haven

Captain’s Arcade Showroom provided more than just a venue; it was a pinball paradise. Organized by the adept CC Castaneda, the ambiance was perfect for a competitive yet friendly tournament. The array of machines, the nostalgic clinks, and the shared enthusiasm for pinball created an unparalleled experience.

The Tournament: Intense and Intriguing

The tournament structure was unique – one round of intense competition across six games. Thirteen players, each a mix of determination and skill, formed groups to face off. The goal was clear: accumulate the most points to claim victory.

Spotlight on Counterforce

To commemorate the anniversary of Gottlieb’s Counterforce, released January 08, 1980, the game took center stage in Round 1. CC Castaneda, the organizer herself, displayed remarkable skill and strategy, securing the top spot. Mayumi Mae and Jordyn Koedyker also put up a strong fight, showcasing their prowess on this classic machine.

Celebrating the Victorious

The tournament concluded with some exceptional talent emerging as winners:

  • 1st: Ally Vides – Her gameplay was a blend of precision and strategic genius.
  • 2nd: Lisa Buhrmester from California – Demonstrated great skill and consistency.
  • 3rd: Jordyn Koedyker – A rising star, showing great potential.
  • 4th: Hillary Jacobson – Known for her steady play and tactical approach.

Machines that Captivated the Crowd

With 57 pinball machines at the tournament, several stood out:

Wrapping Up

The OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #7 was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the enduring charm of pinball. As players enjoyed their battles and the camaraderie of fellow pinball lovers, it was clear that the spirit of pinball is thriving in Anaheim.

Stay tuned for more tales from the realm of pinball – where competition, fun, and the joy of the game come alive!

A Night of Strikes and Flippers: The Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes Pinball Tournament

Greetings, pinball aficionados! Let’s journey to Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, Washington, where the air was filled with the mist of excitement and the clattering sounds of pinball machines. I’m here to bring you the inside scoop on the Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 1/8/24 pinball tournament, a night that combined the thrill of competition with the cozy atmosphere of a local favorite spot.

Tournament Overview

On a chilly evening, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 42°F, the Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes tournament, organized by Richard Godwin, brought together 6 enthusiastic players for a Group Knockout extravaganza. The tournament consisted of 8 nail-biting rounds, where players faced the threat of elimination upon receiving 7 strikes. The tension was high as each player navigated through the Fair Strikes system, with their performance in each round determining their fate.

Game Spotlight: Hot Wheels Heats Up

The highlight of the night was in Round 3 on the Hot Wheels machine by American Pinball, released in June 2020. Jessica Barron, hailing from Bremerton with an IFPA rank of 1803, clinched the first place in this round, showcasing her skill and strategy. Richard Godwin and Chris Wilkes from Bainbridge Island, WA, followed suit, adding to the round’s intensity.

Celebrating the Winners

Andrew McCann emerged as the victor, his IFPA rank of 872 and experience in 529 IFPA events paying off in spades. Jessica Barron, with her impressive performance, secured the second spot, while Sarah Bay claimed the third place. Richard Godwin, the organizer himself, showed he was no slouch at the flippers, clinching the fourth position.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was graced with an impressive lineup of 15 pinball machines, including:

  • White Water by Williams (1993): Challenged players with its wild river rapids theme.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (2013): Took players on a magical journey down the yellow brick road.
  • Sharpshooter by Game Plan (1979): A throwback machine that tested players’ precision and timing.
  • Cyclone by Williams (1988): A carnival-themed adventure that was a whirlwind of fun.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming (2018): Revived the classic in a new and exciting way.

Venue and Atmosphere

Tik Tok’s Workshop, more than just a venue, was the heart of this event. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, largely thanks to the rockstar bartender who single-handedly managed food, drinks, and machine servicing, all with a smile. His efficiency in keeping everyone happy and fed contributed greatly to the tournament’s lively and welcoming vibe.

Conclusion

The Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 1/8/24 pinball tournament was an evening where strategy, skill, and a bit of pinball magic came together. As the night drew to a close, players and spectators left with the echoes of pinballs, the warmth of good company, and the anticipation of the next great pinball showdown.

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

Electrifying Pinball Action at Player 1 Arcade’s IFPA Tournament

A Night of Flippers and Fun

On a crisp evening of January 8th, 2024, at precisely 7:00 PM, the vibrant atmosphere of Player One Arcade in Surprise, AZ, buzzed with excitement. The arcade, nestled at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, was the battleground for the Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 1 (#5) pinball tournament. The tournament, orchestrated by the ever-enthusiastic Jim Smith, was a whirlwind of pinball wizardry lasting just shy of two hours.

Star Players and Stellar Performances

In the heart of the action were 29 pinball enthusiasts, grouped and ready to tackle five intense rounds of play. The tournament’s structure was simple yet exhilarating: each round consisted of one game, and players earned points based on their finishing position. It was a race not just against the machines but against each other, with each flipper move a step closer to victory.

The Highlight Reel: A Clash on Star Wars

A memorable highlight was the fierce showdown in Round 5 on Stern’s Star Wars (Premium), a machine that has captivated players since its release in August 2017. The game saw an impressive lineup: Mark Pearson, a formidable opponent with an IFPA rank of 43, clinched first place. He was closely followed by Nicholas Van Doren (IFPA rank 2550), Alyssa De La O from Phoenix (IFPA rank 4527), and Joel Daniel of Surprise (IFPA rank 4554), each demonstrating remarkable skill and determination.

Champions of the Night

As the final flippers stilled, the winners emerged, basking in the glory of their achievements. Mark Pearson stood triumphant, his impressive IFPA track record of 556 events shining through. Hot on his heels was Jim Smith from Phoenix (IFPA rank 332), followed by Scott Ping (IFPA rank 1443), and the tenacious Rose Delvalle (IFPA rank 8783). Their gameplay was not just about winning; it was a display of passion, skill, and the enduring spirit of pinball.

A Pinball Paradise

The tournament featured an array of 15 pinball machines, each a masterpiece in its own right. Machines like Stern’s Godzilla (Premium), Venom (Pro), and Rush (Pro) provided the perfect blend of modern technology and classic pinball charm. Fans of nostalgia were treated to classics like Williams’ Tales of the Arabian Nights, a gem from 1996, offering a journey back in time.

More Than Just Pinball

Player 1 Arcade, as reviewed on their website, is more than just a pinball venue. It’s a treasure trove of entertainment, boasting a fine selection of 80’s-90’s style arcade games and a bar that caters to every taste. From IPAs to non-alcoholic options, the arcade ensures that everyone, from hardcore gamers to families, finds their perfect spot for fun.

Stay Tuned for More

I invite you to follow along for more updates from the pinball universe. Whether it’s a tournament recap or a spotlight on the latest machines, you’re sure to find excitement and insights in the flickering lights and lively sounds of the pinball world!

Nostalgia and High Scores at Free Play Arlington’s Pinball Monday

An Evening of Pinball Magic in Arlington

On a mild January night, Free Play Arlington was abuzz with the sounds of pinballs and the excitement of enthusiasts. The Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday tournament, organized by Chris Delp, brought together 28 competitors for a thrilling 3-hour showdown on January 8, 2024, under a sky of scattered clouds at 53°F.

The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy

Competitors faced off in 6 intense rounds, each round consisting of a single game where precision and strategy were key. The top 8 players then advanced to the finals, a nail-biting culmination of the evening’s pinball prowess.

Finals Showdown: Deadpool (Pro) Takes Center Stage

The tournament’s climax unfolded on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro). This game was not just a test of skill but also an electrifying entertainment experience, showcasing the best of modern pinball. Garrett Shahan emerged as the victor, with Rick Miller, Mike Archuleta, and Randy Nelson following closely.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament’s winners demonstrated exceptional skill and a deep understanding of the game:

  1. Garrett Shahan – IFPA rank 131
  2. Rick Miller – IFPA rank 555
  3. Mike Archuleta from Corinth, TX – IFPA rank 1832
  4. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX – IFPA rank 1882

A Lineup of Legendary Machines

With 18 pinball machines on hand, players enjoyed a diverse range of games, from Stern’s recent Rush (Pro) and Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) to classics like Bally’s Attack from Mars. Each machine offered its unique challenges and joys, contributing to an unforgettable tournament experience.

The Vibrant Venue: Free Play Arlington

Free Play Arlington, renowned for its fantastic collection of games, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament. Players reveled in the nostalgia of rediscovering old favorites and exploring new challenges, making the venue more than just an arcade, but a treasure trove of pinball history.

Stay tuned for more exciting tales from the world of pinball!