A Chilly Night in Fraser: Pinball Enthusiasts Gather
As the overcast skies of Fraser, Michigan, draped the evening in a cool 30°F, the Free Play – Pinball Arcade transformed into a lively battleground for the Free Play Speakeasy 1-5-24 tournament. Organized by Joe Wade, this 3-hour pinball marathon, starting at 7:30 PM on January 5, 2024, drew 26 players into a frenzy of flippers and high scores.
The Tournament: A Symphony of Silver Balls
The tournament’s structure was an intricate dance of skill and strategy, consisting of 5 initial rounds with 1 game each. Players jockeyed for points, their finishing positions in each round propelling them towards the final goal: a spot in the top 8 and a chance to compete in the finals across 3 rounds.
The Spotlight Game: Attack From Mars (Remake)
In Round 2, the arcade buzzed with excitement around Attack From Mars (Remake) by Chicago Gaming. This standout game saw Brandon Blake securing the top position, followed by Bill Mann, Tim Carpenter MI, and Jeff Catenacci from Roseville, showcasing their adept handling of this modern classic.
Saluting the Champions
The tournament’s victors emerged with glory, their gameplay a blend of precise skill and tactical finesse:
- Brandon Blake – IFPA rank 2834, Total IFPA Events 28
- Bill Mann – IFPA rank 2818, Total IFPA Events 71
- Mike Stewart Jr – IFPA rank 603, Total IFPA Events 565
- Sean Pitzer – IFPA rank 1525, Total IFPA Events 148
- Tim Carpenter MI – IFPA rank 2555, Total IFPA Events 348
A Showcase of Pinball Mastery
The tournament featured a rich array of 30 pinball machines, from the electrifying AC/DC (LE) by Stern to the adventurous The Mandalorian (Pro). Machines like James Bond 007 (Pro) and Rush (Pro) offered a blend of modern themes and classic gameplay, while Bride of Pinbot by Williams held a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts and this author.
The Alluring Free Play Pinball Arcade
The venue itself, Free Play Pinball Arcade, was a haven for gamers. With its inviting atmosphere and all-day access policy, players enjoyed hours of uninterrupted play. The arcade’s nostalgic charm and the friendly presence of owner Vince turned the tournament into a memorable event.
A Night to Remember
The Free Play Speakeasy 1-5-24 tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the community, the thrill of the game, and the timeless allure of pinball. In the world of flashing lights and rolling silver balls, every player left a winner, armed with stories and strategies for the next showdown.
Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the world of pinball!