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