A Riveting Evening at Lynn’s Arcade: The MFStrikes!!! Pinball Tournament

Hello, pinball enthusiasts! It’s Bride of Pinbot, your guide through the electrifying universe of pinball tournaments, bringing you the scoop from the latest showdown that took the West Coast by storm. The MFStrikes!!! pinball tournament, a gripping Basic Knockout competition, unfolded on a cool, overcast evening on January 25, 2024, in the cozy confines of Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, a haven for pinball wizards in Seaside, California.

The Stage Is Set at Lynn’s Arcade

Lynn’s Arcade, known for its amiable atmosphere and impressive beer lineup, became the battleground for 11 determined players. The parlor’s commitment to the pinball community and its well-maintained machines made it the ideal venue for a tournament that promised intensity and fun in equal measure.

The Clash of Titans

Under the watchful eye of Cary Carmichael, the tournament was a test of skill and resilience, featuring 10 rounds of head-to-head battles. The rules were straightforward yet brutal: accumulate three strikes and you’re out. This format ensured that only the most consistent players could hope to reach the final rounds.

The Decisive Duel on Abra Ca Dabra

The tournament’s pinnacle was a nail-biting showdown on the classic Abra Ca Dabra by Gottlieb, a machine that demands precision and strategy. In the 10th round, Philip Priddy and Greg Gorelick faced off in a match that highlighted their pinball prowess, with Priddy ultimately clinching the victory.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament’s climax saw Philip Priddy emerging as the undisputed champion, his victory underscored by a commendable track record in the IFPA rankings. Greg Gorelick’s formidable performance earned him a well-deserved second place, with Philip Ryder and Sam Stanko completing the top four, each showcasing their unique skills and strategic acumen.

The Machines That Made the Night

The event featured an eclectic mix of 34 pinball machines, offering a diverse challenge to the participants. Notable among these were the strategic depth of No Good Gofers, the nostalgic allure of Sky Jump, the innovative gameplay of Disney TRON: Legacy, and the quirky charm of Family Guy and Pabst Can Crusher, each adding its own flavor to the tournament.

A Heartfelt Thanks to Lynn’s Arcade

As the evening wound down and the final flippers stilled, it was clear that Lynn’s Arcade had once again proven itself as a cornerstone of the California pinball scene. The friendly staff, the vibrant community, and the top-notch machine lineup all contributed to an event that will be remembered fondly by all who attended.

Pinball Adventures Await

As we say goodbye to another thrilling tournament, the spirit of competition and camaraderie remains alive in the pinball community. Thanks to venues like Lynn’s Arcade and the passion of players from all walks of life, the game of pinball continues to thrive and enchant. Stay tuned for more tales from the silver ball’s journey across arcades and hearts alike.

Pinball Wizards Conquer at Heart State Brewing

On a cool, drizzly evening in Columbus, Ohio, Heart State Brewing transformed into a pinball haven, hosting the eagerly anticipated League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 3 tournament. The event, masterfully orchestrated by John Geiger, saw 53 pinball aficionados battling it out in a marathon session that spanned over 21 exhilarating hours.

The Setting: More Than Just a Brewery

Heart State Brewing, known for its exceptional home-brewed beers and family-friendly vibe, proved to be the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. The venue’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with top-notch service, set the stage for a night where camaraderie and competition went hand in hand.

A Spotlight on Skill: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Showdown

Among the 15 pinball machines that lined the brewery, Stern’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) edition stole the spotlight. This standout game saw Mike Malloy, Mike Hedrick, Mark Cottrell, and Maddie Johnson in a fierce competition, with Malloy ultimately clinching the first place, showcasing strategic finesse and quick reflexes that captivated onlookers.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament culminated in a triumphant moment for the top contenders, whose exceptional gameplay set them apart from the rest:

  1. Beau Pendleton emerged as the tournament champion, bringing his vast experience to the fore and securing the top spot with his impeccable skills.
  2. Matt Waters, a local talent from Columbus, claimed the second place, demonstrating strategic mastery and a deep understanding of the game.
  3. Ross Bergantino, another Columbus native, stood tall at third place, his consistent performance a testament to his dedication and love for the game.
  4. Trent Augenstein, a seasoned player with an impressive track record, rounded out the top four, showing that experience and skill always shine through.

The Pinball Lineup: A Diverse Array

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition:

  • Attack from Mars by Bally: A classic that never fails to excite with its alien invasion theme.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: Brought players into the cosmic adventure with its engaging gameplay.
  • Venom (Premium) by Stern: Offered a fresh challenge with its superhero antics and intricate playfield.
  • Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: Rocked the venue with its energetic soundtrack and dynamic playfield features.
  • James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Delivered espionage and action, captivating players with its sleek design and missions.

A Night to Remember

As the tournament drew to a close, the air at Heart State Brewing was filled with a sense of accomplishment and shared joy. The League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 3 was a showcase of incredible talent, and a reminder of the joy these timeless machines bring to our lives. Stay tuned for more tales from the vibrant world of pinball, where every flipper hit tells a story, and every game is a new adventure waiting to be explored.

Arcade Legacy’s Thursday Throwdown: A Night of Nostalgia and Neon

On a misty evening in Cincinnati, the vibrant neon lights of Arcade Legacy Sharonville cut through the drizzle, beckoning pinball enthusiasts to the much-anticipated Thursday Throwdown tournament. With 28 players ready to tilt and flip their way to victory, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and the spirit of friendly competition.

A Venue Packed with Charm

Arcade Legacy isn’t just an arcade; it’s a treasure trove of nostalgia and fun, as evidenced by the recent birthday bash that saw teenagers engaged in gaming bliss till late in the night. From big-screen Mario Kart to the rhythmic beats of Rock Band, and of course, the allure of pinball machines, the venue proved to be the perfect backdrop for the tournament.

The Battle on Xenon

Among the 19 pinball machines, Bally’s Xenon from 1980 emerged as the star of the semifinals. The game, known for its futuristic design and captivating sound effects, was the battleground for Jeff Westerkamp, Major Batton, Doris Bachman, and Stuart Nyswonger. Westerkamp’s victory in this round was a testament to his skill and strategic play, but it was Nyswonger who ultimately claimed the tournament’s crown.

Champions of the Night

The tournament unfolded over 7 intense rounds, culminating in a thrilling final that saw the top 8 players vying for pinball supremacy. The victors, each with their unique approach and dedication to the game, were:

  1. Stuart Nyswonger: Demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency to take the top spot.
  2. Erik Wurtenberger: The organizer himself, showed that he was not just a great host but also a formidable player.
  3. Jeff Westerkamp: His victory on Xenon was a highlight, contributing to his overall third-place finish.
  4. George Cavalaris: Showed great prowess and strategic insight throughout the tournament.
  5. Stephen Brunemann: Despite being relatively new to the tournament scene, made an impressive fifth-place finish.
  6. Major Batton: Battled fiercely, securing a commendable sixth place.
  7. Chad Dubiel: Demonstrated skill and potential in his gameplay.
  8. Doris Bachman: The only woman in the finals, showcased determination and skill, making her mark in the tournament.

A Diverse Array of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of machines, each adding its flavor to the competition:

  • Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: Rocked the players with its energetic soundtrack and engaging gameplay.
  • Sorcerer by Williams: Cast a spell with its mystical theme and challenging playfield.
  • Paragon by Bally: Offered a classic pinball experience with its intricate artwork and deep gameplay.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: Brought the legendary band’s music to life, challenging players to keep up with its fast-paced action.
  • Lectronamo by Stern Electronics: Took players back in time with its retro charm and straightforward gameplay.

A Night to Remember

The Thursday Throwdown at Arcade Legacy was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community, a testament to the enduring charm of arcade games, and a night filled with laughter, competition, and camaraderie. As players departed, the echoes of flippers and bells lingered, a reminder of the joy and excitement that pinball brings to all ages.

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