A Spirited Evening of Pinball in San Antonio
The Belles & Chimes SATX – Winter 2024 #1 tournament, held on January 12, 2024, at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, was not just a display of pinball skills; it was a vibrant celebration of the game. Under a sky with just a few clouds and a cool temperature of 49°F, Christina Cheeseman expertly organized a tournament that lasted 3 hours, filled with enthusiasm and competitive spirit.
The Tournament: A Display of Skill and Strategy
Sixteen players engaged in 5 rounds of intense competition, with 2 games each round. Their goal was to earn points based on their finishing positions, culminating in a high-stakes final round for the top 4 players, consisting of 3 games.
Round 1 Highlight: A Classic Battle on Atlantis
The first round set the tone with a fierce competition on Gottlieb’s Atlantis, a classic from 1975. Lori Love took the lead, followed by Alice Young, Melody Zisman, and Amanda Fincher from Austin, TX, each showing remarkable proficiency on this vintage machine.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament’s victors stood out for their impressive gameplay:
- Lori Love – IFPA Rank 3149, Total IFPA Events 122: Showcasing her growing mastery in the pinball arena.
- Alice Young – IFPA Rank 2016, Total IFPA Events 102: A skilled player with a solid history of competitive play.
- Melody Zisman – IFPA Rank 6661, Total IFPA Events 72: Demonstrating her prowess in a relatively short pinball career.
- Amanda Fincher from Austin, TX – IFPA Rank 5175, Total IFPA Events 35: Proving her skills in the tournament circuit.
A Diverse Selection of Pinball Machines
The tournament featured an array of 42 pinball machines, offering a journey through pinball history:
- Hot Wheels by American Pinball: A recent hit combining nostalgic themes with modern gameplay.
- Baywatch by Sega: A 90s classic that captures the essence of the iconic TV show.
- Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern: Brings the beloved movie to life with its engaging playfield.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming: A modern take on the Wild West theme with enhanced features.
- Congo by Williams: Takes players on an adventure into the heart of the jungle.
The Welcoming Atmosphere of What’s Brewing Coffee Roasters
What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters provided not just a venue but a warm, inviting atmosphere for the tournament. The combination of great coffee, a selection of pinball games, and a lively crowd made it the perfect spot for pinball enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
In Conclusion
The Belles & Chimes SATX – Winter 2024 #1 tournament was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball, bringing together players of all ranks in a celebration of skill, strategy, and community.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of pinball!