Spectators Tournament: A Pinball Extravaganza
On January 20, 2024, The Ice Box Arcade in Seattle, WA, not only played host to the prestigious Washington State IFPA Championship but also to the exciting Washington State Spectators Tournament. This special event, organized by Germain Mariolle, offered a thrilling 3-hour pinball experience for the spectators of the main championship. With 60 players competing in 6 rounds and a gripping final stage, the tournament was a highlight for the passionate pinball community gathered there.
Semifinal Showdown on Disney TRON: Legacy
The semifinals were highlighted by an intense game on Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern, a futuristic pinball experience from 2011. Conrad Rustad, Danielle Wilcox, Neal Joslyn, and Zofia Gil battled fiercely, showcasing their skills and earning their spots in the final rankings.
Champions of the Tournament
The competition was fierce, and the champions who emerged were truly remarkable:
- Neal Joslyn, showcasing skill and strategy, secured the top spot with his impressive IFPA rank of 230 and vast experience in 582 IFPA Events.
- Maka Honig followed, demonstrating their pinball expertise with an IFPA rank of 406 and participation in 651 events.
- Conrad Rustad from Bremerton, WA, impressed everyone with his gameplay, holding an IFPA rank of 222 and having competed in 228 events.
- Andrew McCann also made a significant impact, boasting an IFPA rank of 862 over 534 events.
- Jarrett Gaddy from Seattle added to the local flavor, his skill underscored by his IFPA rank of 182 and experience in 243 events.
- Danielle Wilcox from Seattle, with an IFPA rank of 1754, showed commendable talent in her 284 events.
- Zofia Gil stood out, climbing to a respectable position despite a lower IFPA rank of 5775.
- Cory Diamonds, with a relatively new presence in the scene, marked his achievement with participation in 30 IFPA events.
Featured Pinball Machines and Their Charm
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 27 pinball machines:
- Frontier by Bally (1980): This machine, with its wilderness theme, offers a classic pinball experience, combining skill and nostalgia.
- Nine Ball by Stern Electronics (1980): A test of precision and timing, this machine challenges players with its pool-themed playfield and intricate design.
- Viking by Bally (1979): Viking’s medieval theme and engaging gameplay make it a favorite for players who enjoy a mix of strategy and action.
- Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern (2017): This machine brings the Marvel universe to life with vibrant artwork and interactive gameplay.
- Congo by Williams (1995): A journey into the jungle, Congo offers a rich visual and auditory experience, with fast-paced action and unique features.
Other machines like Meteor by Stern Electronics, The Smoky Mountain Songbird herself Dolly Parton by Bally, and James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern added to the diverse and engaging experience of the tournament.
The Venue: The Ice Box Arcade
As the hub for both the Washington State IFPA Championship and the Spectators Tournament, The Ice Box Arcade stood out with its impressive collection of pinball machines and a cozy atmosphere. While pinball remained the star attraction, the venue’s snacks, beer selection, and overall charm made it a hit among the attendees.
Conclusion
Stay tuned for more updates from the exciting world of pinball, as we continue to cover the latest tournaments and happenings in the community!