On a brisk, overcast evening in Cleveland, Ohio, with the temperature flirting with the freezing mark, the Superelectric Pinball Parlour transformed into a battleground for pinball wizards. The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4, meticulously organized by John Delzoppo, saw 49 participants locked in a fierce competition that would make the flippers and silver balls of pinball lore proud.
A Night at the Superelectric
Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Superelectric Pinball Parlour is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant homage to the golden age of arcades. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by an electric atmosphere, where each pinball machine not only stands as a playable piece of art but also as a beacon, inviting enthusiasts to test their mettle. On this particular night, the air was charged with excitement, the sounds of flippers and bumpers mingling with the laughter and cheers of the crowd.
The venue’s dedication to providing an exceptional experience was evident in every detail, from the beautifully decorated interior that makes you want to move in, to the pristine condition of the games, all set to free play for a very reasonable rate. The bartenders, ever so gracious, ensured that no glass ran dry, adding to the convivial spirit of the evening.
The Jurassic Park Showdown
The spotlight of the evening was the first round’s game on Stern’s “Jurassic Park (Pro)“. This modern classic, known for its immersive gameplay and intricate design, became the arena for a clash among four formidable opponents. Timmy Breidenstein from Cleveland, holding an IFPA rank of 948, emerged victorious, showcasing strategic finesse and an intimate understanding of the game’s mechanics. Not far behind, Ryan Brumfield, Mark TerVeen, and Daniel Dudley put up a valiant fight, each displaying moments of brilliance that captivated the onlookers.
Standout Performances
As the night progressed, the cream rose to the top. Timmy Breidenstein continued his dominance, culminating in a well-deserved first place with a track record of 167 IFPA events under his belt. The second spot was claimed by Mark Dunlevy, a relative newcomer with only 16 IFPA events, yet his strategic plays belied his experience. JP McCarthy and Andrew Lee rounded out the top four, each bringing their unique styles to the fore, with Andrew making an impressive 200-point adjustment to secure their position.
The Pinball Pantheon
Amidst the fervor of the competition, five pinball machines stood out, not just for their role in the tournament but also for their historical and gameplay significance. “Jurassic Park (Pro)” and “JAWS (Pro)“, the latter being a fresh addition from Stern, released just weeks before the tournament, offered thematic depth and engaging gameplay. Classics like “Bride of Pinbot” and “Bad Cats” by Williams, and “The Simpsons Pinball Party” by Stern, reminded everyone of the enduring legacy of pinball’s golden era.
A Night to Remember
As the last ball drained and the scores were tallied, the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4 drew to a close, but the echoes of its excitement lingered in the air. The event was not just a testament to the skill and passion of its participants but also a celebration of the enduring charm of pinball.
Our hats off to John Delzoppo for organizing such a memorable event, and to Superelectric Pinball Parlour for hosting everyone in their incredible space. As we look forward to the next gathering of flippers and silver balls, let’s keep the spirit of pinball alive and kicking. Until next time, keep those bumpers bouncing and the high scores rolling!