Starfighters Division A Tournament

Overview of the Tournament

On a sunny day in Mesa, Arizona, the Starfighters Arcade set the stage for the electrifying Starfighters SPF24 Division A pinball tournament. With 64 competitors ready to showcase their skills, the event, masterfully organized by Kevin Curtis, spanned nearly 9 hours of intense gameplay, captivating the audience with each flip and score.

Highlight Match: The Baywatch Epic

The tournament’s unforgettable highlight was the marathon match on the Baywatch pinball machine. In an extraordinary display of endurance, the game stretched to 110 minutes, with Nick Schademann leading the pack. This intense round not only tested the players’ skills but also their strategic acumen and stamina.

Champions of the Arena

The event culminated with remarkable achievements by the top competitors, each standing out for their strategic gameplay and pinball expertise:

  1. Carlos Delaserda – Dominating the field with a 440-point adjustment and an impressive IFPA rank of 13, Carlos’s performance was unmatched, reflecting his vast experience in 460 IFPA events.
  2. Dave Stewart – Representing Seattle, Dave secured the second position with a 440-point adjustment, leveraging his extensive background from 772 IFPA events to navigate the competition.
  3. David Marcis – With a 560-point adjustment, David’s strategic gameplay shone through, backed by their participation in 147 IFPA events and an IFPA rank of 820.
  4. Johnny Modica – Johnny’s tactical approach, coupled with a 540-point adjustment and an IFPA rank of 85, showcased his pinball prowess, honed over 445 IFPA events.

The Machines of Battle

The tournament boasted an eclectic mix of 73 pinball machines, ranging from timeless classics to contemporary hits. Machines like Attack from Mars, Firepower, and Monster Bash provided a rich tapestry of challenges, while Xenon and Ghostbusters (Pro) added modern twists to the lineup, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for all players.

The Stage and Its Ambiance

Starfighters Arcade, a bastion for arcade enthusiasts, offered the perfect backdrop for the tournament. Its commitment to preserving the golden era of arcade gaming created a nostalgic yet exhilarating environment, making it an ideal venue for both competitors and spectators to revel in the joy of pinball.

Acknowledgments and Anticipation

Heartfelt thanks go to Kevin Curtis and the Starfighters Arcade team for orchestrating such an enthralling event. The Starfighters SPF24 Division A tournament not only celebrated the skillful art of pinball but also strengthened the bonds within the community. As we eagerly await the next gathering, the spirit and memories of this tournament will undoubtedly inspire and entertain the pinball world.

Stay tuned for the latest from the vibrant world of pinball tournaments!

Recap of the Southwestern Belle Pinball Rodeo

In the heart of San Antonio, Texas, amidst the historic charm of the city and under the overcast skies, the Henry B. González Convention Center transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts on February 3rd, 2024. The Southwestern Belle Pinball Rodeo, meticulously organized by Christina Cheeseman, wasn’t just another pinball tournament; it was a seven-hour spectacle that showcased skill, strategy, and a dash of luck.

The Venue: A Blend of History and Competition

The convention center, known for its vast spaces and architectural beauty, was filled with an electrifying atmosphere as 58 players locked horns across seven intense rounds. Despite the venue’s sprawling nature, the surrounding historic beauty of San Antonio provided a perfect backdrop for breaks and casual strolls, adding a unique charm to the day’s competitive spirit.

A Game to Remember: World Cup Soccer Showdown

Among the standout moments was the third-round clash on the iconic World Cup Soccer machine by Bally. A machine dating back to February 1, 1994, became the stage for an unforgettable showdown. Alice Young, with an IFPA rank of 2027, clinched victory in a nail-biting match against Lori Love, Tina Rottman, and Hope Love. The game was a testament to the unpredictability and sheer excitement that pinball offers, where rankings barely scratch the surface of what’s possible when the game is afoot.

Champions of the Rodeo

The tournament’s climax brought forward names that would be etched in the annals of the Southwestern Belle Pinball Rodeo history. Rachel Morris emerged as the tournament’s victor, her gameplay speaking volumes of her skill, despite her IFPA rank of 4133. Hot on her heels were Elizabeth Dronet from Space City, Amanda Fincher from Austin, Texas, and Elyza Brillantes from Denver, Colorado, all of whom displayed exemplary pinball prowess.

A Salute to the Machines

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 30 pinball machines, each with its own story and legacy. From the retro charm of Spin Out by Gottlieb to the modern marvels like Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern and Stranger Things (Pro), the variety ensured that players and spectators alike were treated to a wide spectrum of pinball experiences. Not to forget the thrilling adventures offered by James Bond 007 (Pro) and the wild rides of Cactus Canyon (Remake LE)—the machines were as much a part of the tournament’s success as the players themselves.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As the flippers rested and the lights dimmed, the tournament left behind memories of fierce competitions, shared laughs, and the ringing sounds of pinball machines. A special thanks goes to Christina Cheeseman for orchestrating such a memorable event and to the Henry B. González Convention Center for hosting the pinball rodeo. The Southwestern Belle Pinball Rodeo was more than a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community, and we can’t wait to see what the next roundup has in store.

Stay tuned to the world of pinball for more updates, and may the flippers be ever in your favor!