On a clear and cool evening of January 2nd, 2024, with the temperature dipping to a crisp 52°F, pinball enthusiasts converged at The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center in Oviedo, FL, for an electrifying tournament. Organized by Kurt van Zyl, the event was nothing short of a pinball extravaganza.
The Stage Is Set at The Pinball Lounge
The venue, The Pinball Lounge, is a haven for pinball aficionados. Visitors, including those from Orlando on vacation like myself, find themselves drawn into the world of pinball, thanks to the Lounge’s extensive selection of machines. With no food or drinks sampled this time, the pinball itself was enough to keep everyone engaged for hours.
The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy
With 6 intense rounds and 28 players grouped for a face-off, the tournament’s structure demanded not only skill but strategic acumen. Each player’s goal was simple: accumulate the most points over the rounds to emerge victorious. The competition was fierce, and the energy was palpable.
Spotlight Game: Venom Strikes
The first round’s standout game was on Stern’s Venom (Premium), released in July 2023. Al Neumann skillfully navigated through the game’s challenges, securing first place. Nick Smith FL, Dawn Ziatyk, and Doug Bernard from Orlando also displayed impressive skills, setting a high bar for the rest of the tournament.
Celebrating the Victors
In the end, the tournament champions were:
- 1st: Nick Smith FL – A remarkable performance, earning him top honors.
- 2nd: Al Neumann – Demonstrated prowess and consistency throughout the event.
- 3rd: John Osborne – Showed off his competitive spirit and skill.
- 4th: Mike Zink – His strategies and plays were noteworthy.
Pinball Machines Galore
The tournament featured an array of 31 machines, each adding its unique flavor to the event. Machines like World Cup Soccer by Bally and Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern showcased the diverse history and modern innovation in pinball. Other highlights included Deadpool (Pro), Star Trek, Jurassic Park (Premium), and the classic Eight Ball Champ.
Final Thoughts
The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 1/2/24 was more than a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s passion and skill. The event was a testament to the enduring love for this classic arcade game.
For all the latest in the world of pinball, stay tuned. Until next time, keep those silver balls bouncing and the high scores coming!