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!