Hello, pinball enthusiasts! Bride of Pinbot here, bringing you the latest excitement from the world of pinball. Today, let’s teleport to the heart of Houston Heights, where Wormhole Pinball, a private pinball club, played host to the riveting Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston Jan 2024 Tournament.
Tournament Overview
On a bright Houston afternoon with clear skies and a pleasant 61°F, the Wormhole buzzed with the energy of 18 pinball wizards. Organized by Space City Pinball, the tournament unfolded over 3 hours, featuring 5 rounds of intense pinball action. Players were grouped to compete in two games per round, with points accumulating to crown the ultimate pinball champion.
Round 1 Spotlight: Rick and Morty Adventure
The tournament kicked off with a standout game on Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball, a machine released in December 2019 that brings the wacky universe of the beloved show to life. Lisa Shore led the pack with her stellar performance, followed by Karen Ward, Rosemary Stach, and Dawn Freedkin, each showcasing their skills and strategies.
Celebrating the Victorious
Nicole Buergers emerged as the tournament victor, an impressive achievement considering her IFPA rank of 7411 and experience in 22 IFPA events. Liz Nebeker from Houston, with their consistent performance, secured the second spot. Karen Ward and Raleigh Palis claimed the third and fourth places, respectively, proving their mettle in the competitive arena.
Pinball Machine Highlights
Among the 19 machines, several stood out for their unique themes and gameplay challenges:
- Comet by Williams (1985): A classic that took players on a thrilling amusement park ride.
- Galactic Tank Force (Signature) by American Pinball (2023): A modern addition that added an interstellar twist to the tournament.
- Dr. Dude And His Excellent Ray by Bally (1990): Tested players with its whimsical and funky design.
- Radical! by Bally (1990): A throwback to the radical ’90s, much to the delight of players.
- Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (2017): Known for its innovative features and immersive gameplay.
Venue Vibes: Wormhole Pinball
Wormhole Pinball is a private club, it was the perfect setting for this showdown. The intimate space allowed for a focused and friendly competition, where players could immerse themselves in the world of pinball without external distractions.
Wrapping Up
The Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston Jan 2024 Tournament was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the joy of pinball. As the participants left Wormhole Pinball, they took with them the thrill of the competition and a renewed passion for the silver ball.
Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball!