A Night of Pinball at Emporium Hi-Scorium

Epic Battles at the Emporium: The Hi-Scorium Jan 31 Pinball Tournament

On a cool, light-rain evening of January 31, 2024, the Emporium Arcade Bar in San Francisco buzzed with excitement and the clattering sounds of pinball machines. The Emporium Hi-Scorium tournament, organized by Myriad Pinball, drew in 29 enthusiasts for a night of flippers, silver balls, and high scores. Over 3.5 hours, players engaged in a strategic battle across 4 rounds, with the top 4 advancing to a nail-biting final.

The Marathon on Spider-Man

The highlight of the tournament was a marathon game on Stern’s Spider-Man, a pinball classic since June 2007. This 85-minute epic in Round 1 was not just a test of skill but endurance, setting the tone for the intense competition to follow. Jackie Olson from San Francisco emerged victorious, with Shannon Sweetser, Russ Sweetser, and Reed Silverstein close behind, each showcasing remarkable resilience and strategy.

The Champions of the Night

The final rounds were a showcase of talent, precision, and perhaps a touch of pinball wizardry:

  1. Jackie Olson, with her strategic gameplay and quick reflexes, claimed the top spot, proving her prowess with an impressive IFPA rank of 408.
  2. Shannon Sweetser, also from San Francisco, demonstrated skill and determination, securing second place and solidifying her standing in the pinball community.
  3. Reed Silverstein, despite being a less familiar name in the rankings, made a memorable mark by landing in third place.
  4. Russ Sweetser, with a wealth of experience evident in his gameplay, rounded out the top four, showing that in pinball, every game is a new opportunity.

The Mechanical Stars of the Tournament

The Emporium’s lineup of 9 pinball machines was nothing short of spectacular, offering a diverse challenge to the competitors:

  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern: A fast-paced adventure with the beloved heroes in a half shell.
  • Metallica (Pro) by Stern: A rock and roll journey with one of the greatest bands in history.
  • Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern: A tribute to the iconic band, combining great music with engaging gameplay.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: A monstrous battle to save the city, challenging players to harness the power of the king of monsters.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern: An adventure on Isla Nublar, where strategy and skill meet prehistoric peril.

The Venue: Emporium Arcade Bar

The Emporium Arcade Bar, with its eclectic mix of arcade games, pinball machines, billiards, and air hockey, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament. The token-operated games, tasty drinks, and vibrant atmosphere, complemented by DJ sets, made the Emporium not just a venue but a pinball haven.

In Closing

A special thanks to Myriad Pinball for organizing this thrilling event and to the Emporium Arcade Bar for hosting. The Emporium Hi-Scorium Jan 31 tournament was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball, bringing together a community that thrives on the joy of the game.

Stay tuned for more captivating stories from the pinball world!

Night of Flippers and Fun: MFLadies Pinball Winter Tournament Recap

Setting the Scene: Lynn’s Arcade Comes Alive

On a cool, misty evening on January 31, 2024, the vibrant buzz of pinball machines and the clinking of beer cans filled Lynn’s Arcade, a renowned Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery nestled at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, in Seaside, California. Despite the light rain and a chilly 56°F outside, the warmth and excitement inside couldn’t be dampened as 19 participants gathered for the MFLadies Pinball Winter #2 Tournament, masterfully organized by Cary Carmichael.

The Congo Challenge: Round 1 Highlights

The tournament unfolded over five intense rounds, with each round featuring a single game on one of the carefully selected pinball machines. The standout game of the night was undoubtedly the Round 1 battle on the Congo machine by Williams. This jungle-themed adventure saw BeeOtch Westrum from Seaside, CA, clinching the first spot with her strategic gameplay and quick reflexes, followed by Melina Meltzer, Brenda Rhodes, and Ivy Simpson, each bringing their unique strategies to the fore.

Champions Rise: Celebrating the Victors

BeeOtch Westrum, with an IFPA rank of 2184, not only dominated the Congo game but also emerged as the overall tournament champion. Her experience from participating in 127 IFPA events was evident in her calculated risks and sharpshooting. Nikki Carmichael, Paige Peck, and Melina Meltzer rounded out the top four, each displaying remarkable skill and determination that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

A Pinball Pantheon: The Machines That Tested Mettle

The tournament featured a lineup of iconic pinball machines, including Paragon, Abra Ca Dabra, Junk Yard, Demolition Man, and Dirty Harry, among others. Each machine offered its own unique challenges and joys, contributing to an electrifying atmosphere where the nostalgic charm of pinball met the competitive spirit of the players.

The Venue Vibe: More Than Just a Game

Lynn’s Arcade, with its eclectic mix of classic and modern pinball machines and an impressive selection of sour beers, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. The venue’s laid-back yet lively ambiance, complete with beer can holders on the machines for that essential gaming fuel, made it an unforgettable night for both players and spectators.

Curtain Call: Thanks and Anticipation

As the flippers stilled and the lights dimmed, gratitude was extended to Cary Carmichael for orchestrating such a thrilling event and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting. The MFLadies Pinball Winter #2 Tournament not only celebrated the skill and passion of its participants but also the enduring legacy of pinball as a beloved pastime.

Stay tuned for more tales from the pinball world, where the silver ball continues to enchant and challenge players of all ages. Until then, keep those flippers flipping and the beers flowing!

Punk Rock Pinball Tournament: A Mesa Showdown

Amidst the light rain and the cool 70°F evening of January 31, 2024, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, transformed into a battleground for the Punk Rock Pinball Tournament. Orchestrated by the passionate Matt Trethewey, this 2.5-hour event saw 12 players locked in a fierce competition, each vying for the title over 10 intense games.

The Clash on Classic Machines

The tournament was a nostalgic trip back to the golden era of pinball with machines that have stood the test of time. Fish Tales by Williams, a 1992 classic, emerged as a player favorite, hosting 8 riveting games. Meanwhile, Grand Prix by Stern, with its adrenaline-pumping races and strategic gameplay, boasted the longest average game duration at around 11 minutes, turning each match into a test of endurance and skill.

The Victors of the Night

The tournament’s conclusion was as electrifying as the games themselves:

  1. John Magyar from Arizona, with his strategic plays and 4 impressive wins, clinched the first place, his experience echoed in his IFPA rank of 290.
  2. Jeff Wegener, matching the winner in victories but differing in rank, secured a well-deserved second place, proving that every game was a new battle.
  3. Geoff Bennett, despite claiming 6 wins, found himself in third place, a testament to the unpredictable nature of pinball tournaments.
  4. Mahina Hayashi, with 6 wins under her belt, showcased exceptional talent and determination, marking her presence as a formidable contender.

Pinball Legends of the Tournament

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 10 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition:

  • Grand Prix by Stern: A race-themed adventure that pushed players to their limits with each lap.
  • Monster Bash by Williams: A monstrous gathering where strategy met classic horror in a symphony of flippers and silver balls.
  • Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally: A dive into a cinematic universe, challenging players to save the damsel in distress amidst a 3D holographic lagoon.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern: A journey into the sewers of New York, battling villains with the beloved heroes in a half shell.
  • Junk Yard by Williams: A creative escapade where players built contraptions to escape from the junkyard using an eclectic mix of parts.

The Heartbeat of Main Street: B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, with its rich selection of beers and classic tunes from The Cure, set the perfect backdrop for the tournament. The venue’s blend of nostalgic arcade games, a welcoming atmosphere for both kids and adults (until 7 pm), and a refreshing break from the IPA-dominated beer scene made it the ideal spot for a pinball showdown.

In Closing

A round of applause for Matt Trethewey for organizing and B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for hosting this memorable pinball rendezvous. The Punk Rock Pinball Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of pinball culture, camaraderie, and the timeless joy of the game.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the pinball universe!

The Electric High of the Wednesday Wizard Series at Superelectric Pinball Parlour

On a brisk, overcast evening in Cleveland, Ohio, with the temperature flirting with the freezing mark, the Superelectric Pinball Parlour transformed into a battleground for pinball wizards. The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4, meticulously organized by John Delzoppo, saw 49 participants locked in a fierce competition that would make the flippers and silver balls of pinball lore proud.

A Night at the Superelectric

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Superelectric Pinball Parlour is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant homage to the golden age of arcades. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by an electric atmosphere, where each pinball machine not only stands as a playable piece of art but also as a beacon, inviting enthusiasts to test their mettle. On this particular night, the air was charged with excitement, the sounds of flippers and bumpers mingling with the laughter and cheers of the crowd.

The venue’s dedication to providing an exceptional experience was evident in every detail, from the beautifully decorated interior that makes you want to move in, to the pristine condition of the games, all set to free play for a very reasonable rate. The bartenders, ever so gracious, ensured that no glass ran dry, adding to the convivial spirit of the evening.

The Jurassic Park Showdown

The spotlight of the evening was the first round’s game on Stern’s “Jurassic Park (Pro)“. This modern classic, known for its immersive gameplay and intricate design, became the arena for a clash among four formidable opponents. Timmy Breidenstein from Cleveland, holding an IFPA rank of 948, emerged victorious, showcasing strategic finesse and an intimate understanding of the game’s mechanics. Not far behind, Ryan Brumfield, Mark TerVeen, and Daniel Dudley put up a valiant fight, each displaying moments of brilliance that captivated the onlookers.

Standout Performances

As the night progressed, the cream rose to the top. Timmy Breidenstein continued his dominance, culminating in a well-deserved first place with a track record of 167 IFPA events under his belt. The second spot was claimed by Mark Dunlevy, a relative newcomer with only 16 IFPA events, yet his strategic plays belied his experience. JP McCarthy and Andrew Lee rounded out the top four, each bringing their unique styles to the fore, with Andrew making an impressive 200-point adjustment to secure their position.

The Pinball Pantheon

Amidst the fervor of the competition, five pinball machines stood out, not just for their role in the tournament but also for their historical and gameplay significance. “Jurassic Park (Pro)” and “JAWS (Pro)“, the latter being a fresh addition from Stern, released just weeks before the tournament, offered thematic depth and engaging gameplay. Classics like “Bride of Pinbot” and “Bad Cats” by Williams, and “The Simpsons Pinball Party” by Stern, reminded everyone of the enduring legacy of pinball’s golden era.

A Night to Remember

As the last ball drained and the scores were tallied, the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4 drew to a close, but the echoes of its excitement lingered in the air. The event was not just a testament to the skill and passion of its participants but also a celebration of the enduring charm of pinball.

Our hats off to John Delzoppo for organizing such a memorable event, and to Superelectric Pinball Parlour for hosting everyone in their incredible space. As we look forward to the next gathering of flippers and silver balls, let’s keep the spirit of pinball alive and kicking. Until next time, keep those bumpers bouncing and the high scores rolling!

Rocking Flippers: The Ball Busters Pinball League Showdown

On a brisk evening with overcast skies, the vibrant and eclectic Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, became the stage for the Ball Busters Pinball League’s 2024 Season 1 Division B Week 5 tournament. Organized by the legendary Bill Disney, this event not only brought together a close-knit community of pinball aficionados but also showcased an intense battle of flippers, bumpers, and high scores.

The Venue: A Nostalgic Haven

Walking into the Pinball Gallery, one is immediately transported to a realm where the golden age of arcades meets the modern resurgence of pinball. Bill Disney’s passion project has blossomed into a haven for gamers, with an impressive lineup of 73 pinball machines that bridge generations. From the adrenaline-pumping Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern to the classic allure of Mata Hari by Bally, the Gallery offers a symphony of lights, sounds, and nostalgia, making it the perfect backdrop for a competitive evening.

A Symphony of Pinball Wizardry

The tournament, succinctly wrapped up in just under two hours, was a whirlwind of excitement and friendly rivalry. With 11 players vying for the top spot over 5 rounds, the competition was as fierce as it was fun. The spotlight shone brightly on the Guns N’ Roses (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball during Round 4, where Julia Furlong led a quartet of skilled players in a memorable face-off that had spectators on the edge of their seats.

Champions of the Night

As the final ball plunged, Amy McManus emerged victorious, her strategic gameplay and consistent performance across the rounds earning her the coveted first place. Kathy Hecht and Stephanie Savy, hailing from Media, Pa, followed closely, showcasing their pinball prowess and securing their spots in the top three. Julia Furlong, fresh from her standout game on Guns N’ Roses, rounded out the top four, proving that skill and a bit of pinball magic can make all the difference.

A Salute to the Classics and the New

The tournament was as much about the players as it was about the pinball machines themselves. Classics like Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Bad Cats provided a throwback to the golden era of pinball, while newer additions like Foo Fighters kept the lineup fresh and exciting. Each machine, with its unique theme and gameplay, contributed to an evening that celebrated the diverse and rich history of pinball.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As the lights dimmed and the scores were tallied, the sense of community and shared passion for pinball was palpable. A heartfelt thanks goes out to Bill Disney for organizing an event that felt more like a gathering of friends than a competition. The Pinball Gallery, with its exceptional collection and warm atmosphere, continues to be a beacon for gamers and pinball enthusiasts alike.

Stay tuned for more tales from the flippers, and may your next game be a high score!