On a cool San Francisco evening, with scattered clouds gently adorning the sky, the Outer Orbit venue on Mission Street became the epicenter of a pinball showdown that will be remembered for years to come. The Elton John Launch Party pinball tournament, meticulously organized by Myriad Pinball, unfolded over an intense 4 hours and showcased the talents of dedicated pinball enthusiasts.
Elton John Pinball Machine and Round 2 Showdown
The Elton John pinball machine by Jersey Jack Pinball stood as the highlight of the Launch Party tournament, providing a fast-paced and musically charged gameplay experience. Crafted by the renowned Steve Ritchie, this machine combines the thrill of pinball with the iconic music of Elton John, featuring hand-drawn artwork that brings each song to life on the playfield.
During the intense Round 2 of the tournament, the Elton John pinball machine was the arena for a memorable battle among the finalists. Scott Burgess, with a strategic mastery of the playfield, clinched the first place, showcasing his skill and adaptability. Peach Ruiz, Matt Hickman, and Lucy Cachux followed closely, each displaying commendable skill and determination that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
This machine isn’t just about pinball; it’s a concert and a challenge rolled into one, with Elton John’s studio master tracks setting the rhythm for the gameplay. The interactive features, including a variety of Elton-themed toys and mechanisms, made each round an unpredictable and exhilarating experience, proving why this machine was a fitting centerpiece for the tournament’s climactic moments.
Tournament Triumphs
The competition was fierce, with players giving their all across two nail-biting rounds. However, amidst the flips and flickers, four champions rose to the top:
- Scott Burgess from Alameda, marking a significant victory with an IFPA rank of 631. Burgess’s strategy and skill were unmatched, earning them the top spot after 40 IFPA events.
- Lucy Cachux showcased her prowess, bringing her experience from 111 IFPA events to secure the second place with her strategic gameplay.
- Matt Hickman, a newcomer from San Bruno, CA, surprised everyone with his third-place finish in his very first IFPA event, proving that determination can make a significant impact.
- Peach Ruiz from Alameda also made a notable appearance, finishing fourth and demonstrating considerable skill and potential for future competitions.
Pinball Machine Highlights
The tournament featured a selection of 6 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition. The stars of the show included:
- Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (December 01, 2019): A thrilling adventure into the supernatural, challenging players to unravel the mysteries of Hawkins, Indiana.
- Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (September 14, 2021): With its monstrous battles and cityscape chaos, players were tested on their ability to save the world from destruction.
- Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern (November 01, 2019): This spooky spectacle required players to navigate through a series of creepy challenges, adding a fun and eerie twist to the tournament.
- Elton John by Jersey Jack Pinball (October 01, 2023): The centerpiece of the tournament, this machine offered a dazzling tribute to the legendary musician, combining music and pinball magic for an unforgettable gameplay experience.
- Revenge From Mars by Bally (January 01, 1999): Players were tasked with defending Earth from an alien invasion, showcasing their skills in this classic battle between worlds.
- The Shadow by Bally (November 01, 1994): This machine challenged players to embrace the mystery and adventure of the Shadow’s world, testing their reflexes and strategic thinking.
A Venue with Vibe
Outer Orbit isn’t just a venue; it’s a haven for pinball lovers and foodies alike. Their Chicken Sando burger is a local legend, and the beer selection is second to none, offering patrons a chance to explore different flavors through their beer flight options. The combination of delicious food, great beer, and the thrill of pinball created an atmosphere that was both welcoming and exhilarating.
As the tournament concluded, players and spectators alike left with stories of triumph, near misses, and the sheer joy of shared passion. The Outer Orbit Elton John Launch Party tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of community, skill, and the timeless appeal of pinball.
Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball, where every game is a new adventure, and every player has a story to tell.