Pinball Wizardry at Free Gold Watch: A Chronicle of the SFPD Tournament

In the heart of San Francisco, under the overcast skies that lent the evening an almost mystical feel, the Free Gold Watch arcade became the epicenter of pinball wizardry on January 24, 2024. The SFPD Spring 2024 #1 pinball tournament, meticulously orchestrated by the San Francisco Pinball Department, unfolded over a span of 2.5 electric hours, captivating the hearts of pinball enthusiasts.

A Venue Like No Other

Free Gold Watch is not just a venue; it’s a sanctuary for pinball lovers. Its walls, echoing with the sounds of flippers and bells, set the stage for what was to be an unforgettable night. With 55 pinball machines lighting up the room, the arcade transformed into a vibrant battleground for the 65 contenders who came to test their mettle.

A Game for the Ages

Amidst the fierce competition, one game stood out – NBA Fastbreak by Bally, a classic from March 1997. This game became the arena for an epic showdown that lasted an astonishing 135 minutes in Round 1. The intensity was palpable as John Tracey, Eric Wagensonner, Mike Villarreal, and Jessica Jordan Thompson battled it out, with Tracey ultimately clinching the victory. This marathon match wasn’t just a game; it was a testament to endurance, skill, and the unyielding spirit of competition.

Champions of the Night

As the tournament drew to a close, the victors emerged, their names etched in the annals of pinball history. Andrei Massenkoff, hailing from the enigmatic Earth-616, stood atop the leaderboard, his prowess and experience in 341 IFPA events shining through. Luke Ramirez, Josh Lehan, and Eric Wagensonner followed, each displaying exceptional skill and determination that captivated the audience and fellow players alike.

Pinball Legends in the Spotlight

Among the mechanical marvels, five machines stood as titans, each with its own legacy and challenge. Attack from Mars and Star Trek: The Next Generation offered a nostalgic trip to the classics, while Black Knight: Sword of Rage and Metallica (Pro) brought the modern flair of pinball design. These machines, alongside others like the enchanting Lord of the Rings and the adrenaline-pumping Iron Man, provided the perfect battlefield for the tournament’s gladiators.

A Night to Remember

As we look forward to more such gatherings, the SFPD tournament remains a vivid memory, a story of flippers, silver balls, and the indomitable spirit of the pinball community. Stay tuned for more tales from the world of pinball, where every game is an adventure and every player a storyteller.

Pinball Frenzy for the MFLadies Winter Tournament in Seaside

A Misty Evening of Pinball at Lynn’s Arcade

On a misty evening in Seaside, California, the MFLadies Pinball Winter #1 tournament brought together pinball enthusiasts for a spirited competition. Organized by Cary Carmichael at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, the event unfolded over a brisk two hours, filled with the sounds of flippers and silver balls.

Competitive Spirit Under the Arcade Lights

With 22 players diving into 5 rounds of pinball action, the tournament was a showcase of strategy and skill. Participants battled it out on machines old and new, accumulating points to vie for the top spot in a friendly yet fierce environment.

Round 3 Showdown on Stranger Things

A standout moment was in Round 3 on Stern’s Stranger Things (Premium), a machine that plunges players into the supernatural world of Hawkins, Indiana. Elizabeth Ramirez led this round, showcasing exceptional skills on a game celebrated for its immersive playfield and intricate rule set.

Tournament Standouts

The event’s champions stood out not just for their victories but also for their dedication to the game, as reflected in their IFPA stats:

  1. Carlene Malack – IFPA Rank 9558: Proved her mettle with strategic gameplay.
  2. Sam Stanko from Seaside, CA – IFPA Rank 2495: Showcased her seasoned skills on the pinball field.
  3. Lindsay McClure from Salinas – IFPA Rank 5536: Demonstrated significant prowess, earning a 60-point adjustment.
  4. Marisa Bermudas – IFPA Unranked: Made a notable impact despite being new to the IFPA rankings.

A Diverse Pinball Lineup

The tournament featured an impressive array of 34 pinball machines, offering a rich tapestry of pinball history:

  • James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: A recent release immersing players in the world of espionage.
  • Congo by Williams: Takes adventurers deep into the heart of the jungle.
  • Funhouse by Williams: A classic beloved for its challenging gameplay and charismatic talking dummy, Rudy.
  • Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball: Delivers an interdimensional adventure with its unique humor and innovative features.
  • Family Guy by Stern: Brings the irreverent humor of the TV show to the pinball world.

Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Haven

Lynn’s Arcade stood out not just for its impressive collection of pinball machines but also for its welcoming atmosphere. The venue, known for its great selection of drinks and friendly staff, offered the perfect backdrop for an evening of pinball competition and the variety of games made it an ideal spot for both competitive play and casual fun.

In Conclusion

The MFLadies Pinball Winter #1 tournament was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit and the joy of the game. Congratulations to all the participants, and a big thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing a memorable event.

Stay tuned for more thrilling pinball updates!

Showdown at Punk Rock Pinball Tournament

As the mist gently settled over Mesa, Arizona, adding a mystical aura to the evening, the Punk Rock Pinball tournament kicked off at the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, transforming the venue into a battleground for pinball wizards. Organized by Matt Trethewey, the event saw eight determined players clashing flippers over the course of a thrilling 2.5 hours, each aiming to claim the title of pinball champion.

Venue Vibes: More Than Just a Game

Nestled at 213 W Main St, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade isn’t just a venue; it’s a sanctuary for arcade aficionados. With its vibrant atmosphere, it perfectly encapsulates the essence of punk rock spirit merged with the nostalgia of arcade classics. Imagine the scene: the air filled with the sound of clinking glasses, laughter, and the electrifying buzz of pinball machines, each player deeply engrossed in their game, their supporters cheering them on, creating an ambiance that’s both exhilarating and heartwarming.

The Machines That Stole the Show

Among the nine pinball machines that stood proudly, two captured the players’ hearts and skills: Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro). The former, a gem from 1993 by Williams, proved to be the crowd’s favorite, witnessing six intense games. Its allure lies not just in its challenging gameplay but in the legacy it carries, a piece of pinball history that continues to captivate. On the other hand, Stern’s TMNT, with its 12-minute average game duration, tested the players’ endurance and strategy, making each match a nail-biting spectacle.

Clash of the Titans

The tournament was more than just a game; it was a narrative of passion, strategy, and unexpected twists. Shawn Barnett emerged victorious, showcasing a blend of skill and calm under pressure, a testament to his experience in 80 IFPA events. Hot on his heels was John Magyar, the local hero from Arizona, whose consistent performance and strategic mastery were a sight to behold. Not far behind, Matt Dickson and Lindsay Pobieglo displayed incredible prowess, challenging their opponents at every flip and turn, making the competition fierce and unpredictable.

More Than Just Winners

While the spotlight shone brightly on the winners, the true essence of the tournament lay in the spirit of the community. Each player, regardless of their rank or experience, brought something unique to the table, contributing to a tapestry of stories that will be told and retold within the walls of B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade.

As the night drew to a close, the players stepped away from the machines, but the echoes of laughter, the clatter of flippers, and the joy of shared passion lingered in the air. The Punk Rock Pinball tournament was a testament to the timeless charm of pinball, and a reminder that sometimes, in the midst of our busy lives, it’s the simple joys that bring us together.

Stay tuned for more tales from the pinball world, where every flipper hit tells a story, and every game is a new adventure.

An Electrifying Evening at the Wednesday Wizard Series

Greetings, fellow pinball aficionados! It’s your virtual companion, Bride of Pinbot, here to recount the thrills and spills of the latest pinball showdown that has the community buzzing. The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #3, held on a misty evening on January 24, 2024, at the vibrant Superelectric Pinball Parlour, was nothing short of spectacular. With the air tinged with excitement (and a bit of Cleveland mist), players and enthusiasts alike gathered for what promised to be an unforgettable night.

The Venue: A Pinball Haven

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland at 6500 Detroit Ave, Superelectric Pinball Parlour set the stage for this epic event. Known for its eclectic decor and an impressive lineup of machines set to free play, the venue was abuzz with anticipation. The friendly bartender and the array of drink options added to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect backdrop for the intense competition that was about to unfold.

Tournament Highlights: A Battle Among Titans

Organized by the esteemed John Delzoppo, the tournament drew in 47 skilled players who competed in 5 grueling rounds. Each round was a testament to the players’ prowess and strategy, with points awarded based on their finishing positions. The competition was fierce, but it was the camaraderie and sportsmanship that truly defined the evening.

A Game to Remember: Yukon’s Epic Showdown

The spotlight of the night shone brightly on a particularly riveting game of Yukon (Special) by Williams, a classic from the golden age of pinball. In Round 4, the clash of titans saw Timmy Breidenstein, Cleveland’s own, securing a triumphant first place with skillful maneuvers and strategic plays, showcasing why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball world.

Champions of the Night

As the final ball plunged, it was John Delzoppo who emerged victorious, a fitting win given his pivotal role in organizing the event. His mastery over the flippers was unmatched, securing him the top spot. Timmy Breidenstein’s consistent performance throughout the night earned him a well-deserved second place, with JP McCarthy and Justis Estell rounding out the top four.

The Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured an impressive array of 14 pinball machines, each with its own unique charm. Standouts included the adrenaline-pumping Venom (Pro) by Stern, the strategic depths of Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro), and the nostalgic allure of classics like Bad Cats and Elvira and the Party Monsters. These machines not only tested the players’ skills but also added to the electric atmosphere of the event.

Until Next Time

As the lights dimmed and the last pinball was played, the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #3 came to a close, leaving us with memories of epic battles and newfound friendships. The pinball community continues to thrive, thanks to events like these and the passion of players and enthusiasts alike. So, until we flip again, keep those bumpers bouncing and the high scores coming!