The Outer Orbit Elton John Launch Party Tournament

On a cool San Francisco evening, with scattered clouds gently adorning the sky, the Outer Orbit venue on Mission Street became the epicenter of a pinball showdown that will be remembered for years to come. The Elton John Launch Party pinball tournament, meticulously organized by Myriad Pinball, unfolded over an intense 4 hours and showcased the talents of dedicated pinball enthusiasts.

Elton John Pinball Machine and Round 2 Showdown

The Elton John pinball machine by Jersey Jack Pinball stood as the highlight of the Launch Party tournament, providing a fast-paced and musically charged gameplay experience. Crafted by the renowned Steve Ritchie, this machine combines the thrill of pinball with the iconic music of Elton John, featuring hand-drawn artwork that brings each song to life on the playfield.

During the intense Round 2 of the tournament, the Elton John pinball machine was the arena for a memorable battle among the finalists. Scott Burgess, with a strategic mastery of the playfield, clinched the first place, showcasing his skill and adaptability. Peach Ruiz, Matt Hickman, and Lucy Cachux followed closely, each displaying commendable skill and determination that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

This machine isn’t just about pinball; it’s a concert and a challenge rolled into one, with Elton John’s studio master tracks setting the rhythm for the gameplay. The interactive features, including a variety of Elton-themed toys and mechanisms, made each round an unpredictable and exhilarating experience, proving why this machine was a fitting centerpiece for the tournament’s climactic moments.

Tournament Triumphs

The competition was fierce, with players giving their all across two nail-biting rounds. However, amidst the flips and flickers, four champions rose to the top:

  1. Scott Burgess from Alameda, marking a significant victory with an IFPA rank of 631. Burgess’s strategy and skill were unmatched, earning them the top spot after 40 IFPA events.
  2. Lucy Cachux showcased her prowess, bringing her experience from 111 IFPA events to secure the second place with her strategic gameplay.
  3. Matt Hickman, a newcomer from San Bruno, CA, surprised everyone with his third-place finish in his very first IFPA event, proving that determination can make a significant impact.
  4. Peach Ruiz from Alameda also made a notable appearance, finishing fourth and demonstrating considerable skill and potential for future competitions.

Pinball Machine Highlights

The tournament featured a selection of 6 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition. The stars of the show included:

  • Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (December 01, 2019): A thrilling adventure into the supernatural, challenging players to unravel the mysteries of Hawkins, Indiana.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (September 14, 2021): With its monstrous battles and cityscape chaos, players were tested on their ability to save the world from destruction.
  • Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern (November 01, 2019): This spooky spectacle required players to navigate through a series of creepy challenges, adding a fun and eerie twist to the tournament.
  • Elton John by Jersey Jack Pinball (October 01, 2023): The centerpiece of the tournament, this machine offered a dazzling tribute to the legendary musician, combining music and pinball magic for an unforgettable gameplay experience.
  • Revenge From Mars by Bally (January 01, 1999): Players were tasked with defending Earth from an alien invasion, showcasing their skills in this classic battle between worlds.
  • The Shadow by Bally (November 01, 1994): This machine challenged players to embrace the mystery and adventure of the Shadow’s world, testing their reflexes and strategic thinking.

A Venue with Vibe

Outer Orbit isn’t just a venue; it’s a haven for pinball lovers and foodies alike. Their Chicken Sando burger is a local legend, and the beer selection is second to none, offering patrons a chance to explore different flavors through their beer flight options. The combination of delicious food, great beer, and the thrill of pinball created an atmosphere that was both welcoming and exhilarating.

As the tournament concluded, players and spectators alike left with stories of triumph, near misses, and the sheer joy of shared passion. The Outer Orbit Elton John Launch Party tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of community, skill, and the timeless appeal of pinball.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball, where every game is a new adventure, and every player has a story to tell.

Tik Tok Tilt Stop

The Fair Strikes Face-Off: Inside the Tournament

On January 22, 2024, at 6:55 PM, Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, became the battleground for the Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 1/22 pinball tournament. Organized by Richard Godwin, the event featured a challenging Group Knockout format across 10 rounds, lasting just under 4 hours. Nine skilled players competed, navigating the Fair Strikes system where finishing positions in each group dictated the number of strikes received. The overcast skies and a cool 45°F did nothing to dampen the spirits of the competitors and spectators alike.

Round 6 Rumble: The Mandalorian’s Epic Showdown

Round 6 saw an intense showdown on Stern’s The Mandalorian (Premium), released in July 2021. Jessica Barron from Bremerton, with an IFPA rank of 1615, emerged victorious. She was closely followed by Andrew McCann (IFPA rank 862), organizer Richard Godwin himself (IFPA rank 2792), and Gocelyn Morgado (IFPA rank 4370), showcasing the high level of competition.

Champions of the Arena: Celebrating the Winners

The tournament concluded with outstanding performances from the top players:

  1. Conrad Rustad (Bremerton, WA): IFPA rank 222, with 228 events to his name.
  2. Andrew McCann: A seasoned player with an IFPA rank of 862 and 534 events.
  3. Jessica Barron (Bremerton): IFPA rank 1615, boasting participation in 275 events.
  4. Bruce Cherry: IFPA rank 7631, with 39 events under his belt.

A Galaxy of Pinball Machines: The Tournament’s Stars

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 16 pinball machines, offering diverse challenges and themes:

  • Eight Ball by Bally (1977): A classic favorite that takes players back to the golden age of pinball.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming (2018): Bringing a modern twist to the beloved original.
  • Demolition Man by Williams (1994): A game that combines action-packed gameplay with a popular movie theme.
  • Sharpshooter by Game Plan (1979): Offering a unique challenge with its precision-based gameplay.
  • Grand Prix by Williams (1976): A fast-paced race-themed game that tests players’ reflexes.
  • Icarus by Recel (1977): A lesser-known gem that adds variety to the tournament.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern (2021): The star of the Round 6 showdown, beloved for its immersive theme.
  • Firepower by Williams (1980): A groundbreaking game known for its introduction of multi-ball play.
  • Cyclone by Williams (1988): A carnival-themed game that brings whimsy and fun.

Steampunk and Pinballs: The Unique Charm of Tik Tok’s Workshop

Tik Tok’s Workshop, more than just a venue, is a steampunk-themed wonderland for pinball and game enthusiasts. While it may be cozy, the variety of drinks, food options, and an array of pinball machines and games make it a must-visit location. The steampunk decor adds to the charm, making it a recommended spot for both casual and serious players.

Stay tuned for more updates from the thrilling realm of pinball, where skill meets strategy and every flipper hit tells a story. Whether you’re in it for the competition or just for fun, the world of pinball never ceases to amaze and entertain. Keep those flippers ready, and who knows, your next pinball adventure might just be around the corner!

Pinball and Puddles: The Player 1 Arcade Side Finals

A Wet and Wild Journey to Pinball Glory

On the way to the Player One Arcade in Surprise, AZ, for the much-anticipated Player 1 Arcade Series1 2024 Side Finals, we couldn’t help but chuckle at the desert dwellers navigating the roads in light rain. It’s a well-known fact that a drop of rain can turn the usually calm streets into a scene from a slip-n-slide!

An Evening of Pinball Mastery in Surprise, Arizona

Despite the weather’s best efforts on January 22, 2024, pinball enthusiasts, undeterred by the 56°F and light rain, converged at the Player One Arcade. The event, brilliantly organized by Jim Smith, spanned approximately 2 and a half hours of intense, skillful play.

Star Wars Showdown: A Galactic Battle on the Pinball Front

The tournament’s highlight was undoubtedly the fifth round on the Star Wars (Premium) pinball machine by Stern, a fan favorite since its release in August 2017. Tommy Bizzi, boasting an IFPA rank of 5474, emerged as the master of the galaxy, clinching the first position. Christy Kohtz, from Phoenix, AZ, with a rank of 3070, claimed the second spot, showcasing her force in the pinball universe. Brittany Daniel and Moto secured the third and fourth positions, proving their mettle in the pinball world.

Celebrating the Pinball Prodigies

The tournament concluded with exceptional performances from the top players:

  1. Tommy Bizzi – IFPA rank 5474, demonstrated exceptional skill across all rounds.
  2. Juan Silvagnoli – An underdog with an IFPA rank of 12387, amazed everyone with his second-place finish.
  3. Catcher Knapp – IFPA rank 4911, showed strategic prowess to earn a well-deserved third spot.
  4. Dave Halley – A seasoned player with an IFPA rank of 602, rounded off the top four.

A Parade of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured a diverse array of 14 pinball machines, each offering a unique experience:

Player One Arcade: A Pinball Enthusiast’s Dream

Player One Arcade, with its fantastic array of games and pinball machines, was more than just a venue; it was a haven for gaming enthusiasts. The electric atmosphere, accentuated by live gameplay on TVs, made it a delightful experience for everyone involved.

Next Up: More Pinball Adventures

As the tournament wrapped up, players and fans departed with stories of triumph and near misses, reminiscent of our own adventurous drive to the venue. The Player 1 Arcade Series1 2024 Side Finals not only celebrated the skill of the players but also the enduring charm of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates from the vibrant world of pinball tournaments across major cities in the U.S.!