Greetings, Pinball Wizards and Enthusiasts! In the heart of Texas, at the vibrant Free Play Dallas, a thrilling pinball tournament unfolded, setting the stage for a night of flippers, bumpers, and high scores. Organized by the passionate Chris Delp, this event wasn’t just a competition; it was a celebration of pinball culture.
A Night Under the Overcast Skies
On the evening of January 29, 2024, amidst the backdrop of overcast clouds and a comfortable 63°F, the Free Play Dallas Pinball Monday tournament kicked off at 7:00 PM. Fourteen players, each with a unique blend of strategy and skill, competed across 7 intense rounds. The goal was simple yet daunting: accumulate the most points and emerge victorious.
The Epic Star Trek Encounter
The tournament blasted off with a bang on Stern’s ‘Star Trek (Pro)‘, a game known for its fast-paced action and immersive gameplay. Savannah Archuleta, with an IFPA rank of 2688, secured the first victory of the night, setting a high bar for the competition. Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, followed closely, his gameplay reflecting his higher rank of 707. Matt Rivera and Chris Delp also showcased their pinball prowess, making this round a memorable start to the evening.
Champions of the Night
As the final ball plunged, the champions stood tall, their names forever etched in the annals of Free Play Dallas’ pinball history:
- Clark McCoy: Demonstrating exceptional skill and determination, Clark, hailing from Denton, TX, claimed the top spot with his strategic gameplay honed over 111 IFPA events.
- Randy Nelson: From Roanoke, TX, Randy’s steady hands and calm demeanor earned him the second place, a remarkable feat in his 36th tournament.
- Boss Hernandez: Representing Dallas with pride, Boss’s unique style and flair were on full display, securing the third position in his 52nd event.
- Greg Gibson: Plano’s own, Greg brought a tactical approach to the table, rounding out the top four with his experience from 40 tournaments.
The Machines That Tested Fate
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 21 pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the night. Classics like ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day‘ and ‘The Addams Family‘ offered a nostalgic trip, while modern marvels like ‘AC/DC (LUCI Vault Edition)‘ and ‘Led Zeppelin (Pro)‘ challenged players with their intricate playfields and rule sets. ‘Guardians of the Galaxy‘ and ‘Star Wars (Pro)‘ brought cinematic adventures to life, with ‘Pirates of the Caribbean‘ adding a touch of swashbuckling fun to the mix.
More Than Just a Venue
Free Play Dallas, with its inviting atmosphere and pristine machines, proved to be the perfect host for this pinball extravaganza. Attendees praised the venue for its cleanliness and the impeccable condition of its games, promising to return for more pinball action.
A heartfelt thank you to Chris Delp and the team at Free Play Dallas for organizing such a fantastic event. The world of pinball is richer for your contributions. Check out Chris’ website for more information.
Stay tuned, dear readers, for more tales from the flipper-filled world of pinball. Until next time, keep those bumpers bouncing and those scores rising!