Greetings, pinball enthusiasts! It’s time to dive into the frosty yet fiery world of the PBJ Monthly January ’24 tournament. On January 7th, 2024, under a clear sky with temperatures plunging to a chilly 29°F, Pinball Jones in Fort Collins, CO became the epicenter of a thrilling pinball showdown.
Pinball Jones: A Haven for Pinball Wizards
Pinball Jones is more than just a venue; it’s a sanctuary for those who love the clink of the pinball and the thrill of the game. Imagine a place brimming with classic machines, accompanied by the comforting presence of beers and snacks. Add to that the joy of other vintage games like skeeball, and you’ve got an evening that’s both nostalgic and exciting.
The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy
Organized by the adept Paul Kardell, the Group Knockout Tournament was a gripping affair with 10 rounds of intense competition. Nineteen players were pitted against each other, vying to avoid the dreaded three strikes. The rules were simple yet challenging: avoid being in the bottom two in four-player groups or the last in three-player groups to stay in the game.
The Jurassic Park Showdown
Round 5 witnessed a remarkable battle on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Pro). Clint Reeves, with an IFPA rank of 5043, emerged as the alpha predator, clinching the top spot. David Klausa, Jackson Fry, and Elliott Layne also put up a fierce fight, showcasing their skills on this modern classic machine.
Saluting the Victorious
The tournament culminated with some exceptional performances:
- 1st: Clint Reeves – Showed unmatched prowess, rightfully earning his top spot.
- 2nd: Tai Tran – Demonstrated strategic brilliance in each round.
- 3rd: Jackson Fry – A consistent player who navigated the rounds with skill.
- 4th: Aidan Lancaster – Displayed resilience and adaptability throughout the tournament.
Machines That Made the Magic
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 35 pinball machines. Highlights included:
- Star Wars (Premium) by Stern – A journey to a galaxy far, far away.
- The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams – A fast-paced adventure from the ’90s.
- White Water by Williams – Rapid, wild, and thrilling.
- Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory by Jersey Jack Pinball – A delightful trip down memory lane.
- The Big Lebowski by Dutch Pinball – A tribute to the cult classic film. The Dude abides.
Wrapping Up
The PBJ Monthly January ’24 tournament at Pinball Jones was a testament to the enduring charm and excitement of pinball. As players battled it out in the cozy warmth of the venue, it was clear that the spirit of pinball is alive and well, even on the coldest of nights.
Stay tuned for more tales from the realm of pinball, where the flippers never stop, and the fun never ends!