Ice Box Mixed Matchplay 2024: Chilly Competition Heats Up the Emerald City

The Ice Box Mixed Matchplay, held February 4th at Seattle’s iconic Ice Box Arcade, proved to be a thrilling battle of wits and flippers for pinball enthusiasts from across the Pacific Northwest. With 61 players vying for victory, the tournament spanned an epic 4 hours, testing both skill and endurance.

Tournament Overview: A Blended Challenge

This unique event featured a mixed format, showcasing players’ abilities on both modern and classic machines. Each of the five rounds presented two games, forcing competitors to adapt their strategies on the fly. From the vintage thrills of Quicksilver to the flashy lights and sounds of Guardians of the Galaxy, the diverse lineup kept everyone on their toes.

Game Spotlight: Alien Star’s Epic Battle

The Quarterfinals witnessed a truly remarkable feat: an Alien Star match lasting a jaw-dropping 103 minutes! Ryan Odonnell (IFPA rank 1789) ultimately emerged victorious, defeating Germain Mariolle (IFPA rank 16) in a marathon battle showcasing the game’s depth and strategic options.

Top Performers: Champions Rise Through the Ranks

After a grueling day of competition, only the strongest flippers remained. Richie Terry (IFPA rank 67) ultimately reigned supreme, claiming the champion’s title and solidifying his pinball prowess. He was closely followed by Conrad Rustad (IFPA rank 189), Chris Chinn (IFPA rank 222), and Peter Schatzer (IFPA rank 920), each showcasing their impressive skills.

Pinball Paradise: A Look at the Machines

The tournament’s diverse selection of 34 pinball machines offered something for everyone. From the iconic Cirqus Voltaire to the sleek James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE), the lineup provided a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern excitement. Standouts like The Beatles and Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) ensured every game was a unique and engaging experience.

The Ice Box: A Seattle Favorite

The Ice Box Arcade lived up to its reputation as a haven for pinball enthusiasts. With its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and diverse selection of games, it provided the perfect setting for this exciting tournament. From the main room’s bustling energy to the “Classics” room’s nostalgic charm, the venue offered something for every kind of player.

Closing Words: Thanks and What’s Next

A big thank you to organizer Germain Mariolle and the Ice Box Arcade for hosting this fantastic event. The tournament provided a thrilling spectacle for both players and spectators, showcasing the ever-growing passion for the silver ball. Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball, where competition continues to heat up, just like the action on the tables!

Flippers, Ales, and High Scores: A Day at Louie’s Silverball Sunday

On a bright afternoon in Roscoe, Illinois, with the sun high and a crisp 46°F setting the stage, Louie’s Tap House transformed into a battleground for pinball aficionados. The Stern Army- Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly for February brought together 25 contenders, each with their eyes on the prize and flippers ready for action.

A Venue That’s More Than Just a Bar

Louie’s Tap House, with its welcoming vibe, vast selection of local brews, and mouth-watering cheese curds, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. The addition of mini-golf and volleyball areas only added to the charm, making it a haven not just for pinball warriors but for anyone looking to unwind and have a good time.

The Godzilla Challenge

The tournament’s spotlight shone brightly on Stern’s Godzilla (Premium) in Round 6, where strategy and skill collided in an epic showdown. Organizer Tom Menge himself stepped into the arena, showcasing his prowess alongside Josh Hanford, Mark Seiden, and Vinnie Bologna. The battle was fierce, but it was Menge who emerged victorious, proving that even organizers can dominate the playfield.

Champions of the Day

As the final ball drained and the scores were tallied, the top players of the day were revealed:

  1. Penni Epstein stood at the pinnacle, their 218 IFPA events experience shining through as they navigated each round with strategic finesse and a calm demeanor.
  2. Josh Hanford, a relative newcomer with 20 events to his name, showed that raw talent and passion could go a long way, securing a well-deserved second place.
  3. Todd Eccles, with 52 events under his belt, demonstrated consistent skill and adaptability, landing him in the third spot.
  4. Rob Hintz, although new to the IFPA tournament scene, made an impressive debut, proving that everyone starts somewhere and that the pinball community is always ripe for surprises.

A Lineup to Remember

The tournament featured a diverse array of 13 pinball machines, each offering its unique challenges:

  • Venom (Premium) and Spider-Man by Stern provided superhero thrills with fast-paced action and intricate playfields.
  • Elton John by Jersey Jack Pinball and James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern brought the glitz, glamour, and suspense of their respective universes to the pinball world.
  • Classics like Big Game and Space Invaders offered a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding players of pinball’s rich history.

A Heartfelt Thanks

A big round of applause to Tom Menge for organizing such a fantastic event and to Louie’s Tap House for hosting. It’s gatherings like these that keep the spirit of pinball alive, bringing together people from all walks of life to share in the joy of the game.

So, until our next pinball adventure, keep those flippers flipping, and remember, the world of pinball is vast and full of surprises. Stay tuned for more tales from the silver ball’s realm!

The Queen City Seawitches February Women’s Pinball Tournament

Hello, pinball enthusiasts and arcade adventurers! It’s Bride of Pinbot, your guide to the pulsating heart of the pinball universe, bringing you the tale of a tournament that not only celebrated the spirit of competition but also the empowerment and camaraderie among women pinball players.

A Day of Empowerment and Pinball

On a brisk afternoon in Cincinnati, with the sun peeking through scattered clouds, Arcade Legacy Sharonville transformed into a battleground for the Queen City Seawitches – February Women’s Tournament. Organized by Erik Wurtenberger, this event was not just about pinball; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and community.

The Semifinal Showdown on Taxi

In the thick of competition, Taxi by Williams, a classic from the golden era of pinball, became the stage for a riveting semifinal round. Stephanie Zona, with her impressive IFPA rank, led the charge, followed closely by Jay Denham from Cincinnati, Therese Edwards from Columbus, and the spirited Evie Helfin, each bringing their A-game to the flippers.

Celebrating the Champions

As the final ball plunged, Deidra Watkins emerged as the beacon of triumph, her gameplay reflecting her journey through 10 IFPA events. Gillian Holle, Therese Edwards, and Jay Denham also claimed their spots among the pinball elite, showcasing that determination and passion are the true hallmarks of a pinball wizard.

The Machines of Legacy

The tournament featured a collection of 14 pinball machines, each with its own story and challenge. Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern and Medieval Madness by Williams tested the mettle of players, while James Bond 007 (Pro) and the newly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern added a cinematic thrill to the mix.

Arcade Legacy Sharonville: A Pinball Haven

Arcade Legacy stands as a testament to the joy of arcade gaming, with well-maintained machines and a welcoming atmosphere. The $10 all-day admission offers an unbeatable deal for endless entertainment, from classic cabinets to the latest Japanese rhythm games.

In Conclusion

The Queen City Seawitches February Women’s Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a statement – a statement that the pinball arena is a place for everyone, where skill knows no gender and the love for the game unites us all. A heartfelt thank you to Erik Wurtenberger, the staff at Arcade Legacy Sharonville, and all the incredible players who made this event a memorable one.

Stay tuned, dear readers, for more tales from the vibrant world of pinball!

Pinball Battles at The 1up Lodo Arcade Bar

The 1up Lodo Arcade Bar in Denver, Colorado, was abuzz with excitement and the clinking of quarters on the evening of February 4, 2024, as it hosted its February pinball tournament. Deanna Scalf orchestrated a Group Knockout Tournament that spanned an epic 11 hours, testing the endurance and skill of 16 dedicated players under the glow of pinball machine lights amidst the backdrop of moderate rain and chilly temperatures.

Godzilla Roars in Round 3

A highlight of the night was the electrifying Round 3 on Stern’s Godzilla (Premium), a machine that towers in the pinball world with its engaging gameplay and dynamic features. John Quinn, hailing from Denver with an IFPA rank of 905, dominated this round, showcasing his pinball prowess. Ryan Altermatt, Thomas Dessens from Cypress, TX, and Rob Longshore rounded out the competition, each bringing their unique strategies to the fore in a battle of flippers and silver balls.

The Evening’s Pinball Champions

As the tournament concluded, the top performers emerged, their gameplay setting them apart:

  1. John Quinn (Denver): Demonstrated exceptional skill across 69 IFPA events to clinch the top spot with his strategic mastery.
  2. Justin Hinman: With 202 IFPA events to his name, Justin’s consistent performance and tactical gameplay earned him second place.
  3. Ryan Altermatt: A seasoned player with 267 events, Ryan’s third-place finish was a testament to his enduring competitiveness and skill.
  4. Rob Longshore: Despite being ranked 6652nd, Rob’s dedication and improvement were evident as he secured fourth place, adding to his 58-event experience.

The Machines That Defined the Night

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of 12 pinball machines, offering challenges and adventures across various themes:

  • Star Wars (Pro) by Stern: Took players on an intergalactic journey with iconic characters and missions.
  • Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: Immersed players in the supernatural mysteries of Hawkins, Indiana.
  • Scooby-Doo (SE) by Spooky Pinball: Brought the classic cartoon to life, complete with spooky mysteries to solve.
  • Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball: Offered a wild ride through the multiverse with the beloved, eccentric duo.
  • The Addams Family by Bally: Continued to charm players with its timeless gameplay and quirky theme.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: The star of Round 3, Godzilla offered a monstrous challenge that thrilled players.
  • James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Provided a dose of espionage and action, fitting for the world’s most famous spy.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern: Brought prehistoric creatures to life, challenging players to navigate through Isla Nublar.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: Threw players into the action-packed world of one of Marvel’s most complex characters.

A Night at The 1up Arcade Bar – LoDo

The 1up Arcade Bar – LoDo proved to be the perfect venue for an evening of pinball and arcade fun. With a balanced mix of pinball machines and arcade games, it offered something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for enthusiasts and casual players alike. The welcoming atmosphere and the joy of pumping quarters into machines for a few hours of entertainment made it a highly recommended destination.

A big thank you to Deanna Scalf for organizing a memorable tournament and to The 1up Arcade Bar – LoDo for hosting. The pinball community continues to grow, bringing together players of all ages and backgrounds in the spirit of competition and fun. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the lively world of pinball!

First Sunday Strikeout February 2024: Pinballs Fly and Champions Rise in St. Louis!

The halls of Benton Parkade echoed with the electrifying buzz of flippers and the triumphant chimes of victory on February 4th, 2024, as the First Sunday Strikeout February pin-tastic tournament unfolded. Organized by the ever-enthusiastic Dan Sexauer, this epic event saw 30 skilled players face off in a 15-round Group Knockout battle, their every move scrutinized by yours truly, Bride of Pinbot!

Knockout Contenders and Stellar Showdowns:

The tournament employed a unique strike system, adding a thrilling layer of tension to each game. Witnessing veteran players Steve Smith (IFPA rank 1140) and Carter Crews (IFPA rank 1170) duke it out on James Bond 007 (Premium) in Round 5 was a true highlight. The expert maneuvering and strategic nudges kept everyone on the edge of their seats, ultimately resulting in a nail-biting victory for Mr. Smith.

Champions Crowned:

But the real stars of the show were, of course, the top four who navigated the strike-filled gauntlet and emerged victorious:

  1. Carleton Plourde (St. Louis, MO, IFPA rank 427): This local hero punching above his rank, proving that skill and determination truly reign supreme.
  2. John Miller (MO, IFPA rank 231): John’s experience shone through, earning him an impressive second place finish.
  3. Brennan Sullivan (St. Louis, MO, IFPA rank 673): Representing his hometown with pride, Brennan secured a well-deserved third place.
  4. Dave Rush (BALLWIN, MO, IFPA rank 2656): Rounding out the top four, Dave’s strategic gameplay landed him a commendable fourth place.

A Tribute to the Games:

No pinball tournament is complete without its arsenal of machines, and this event boasted a diverse selection of 19, each with its own unique story to tell:

  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: Travel to a galaxy far, far away and relive iconic moments from the saga on this thrilling machine.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: Rock out to the legendary tunes of Led Zeppelin as you rack up points and unlock epic modes.
  • Venom (Premium) by Stern: Face off against the symbiote menace in this action-packed game based on the Marvel comics.
  • Bronco by Gottlieb: A true classic, this Western-themed machine transports you to the dusty plains of the Wild West.
  • Deadpool (Premium) by Stern: Embrace the Merc with a Mouth’s dark humor and over-the-top action in this irreverent game.

And that’s just a taste! Each machine offered a distinct challenge and contributed to the overall exhilarating atmosphere.

Venue Vibes and Delicious Fuel:

The tournament took place at the vibrant Café Piazza, a haven for good food, good drinks, and of course, good pinball! The reviewer in me can wholeheartedly vouch for the deliciousness of the BBQ chicken pizza and the breakfast sandwich – perfect fuel for those intense matches.

A Big Thank You:

A huge shoutout to Dan Sexauer for organizing this fantastic event and to Café Piazza for providing the perfect setting. Your dedication to the pinball community is truly appreciated!

This is just a glimpse into the thrilling world of competitive pinball. Stay tuned, fellow enthusiasts, for more exciting tournament updates and pinball adventures! ️

P.S. Don’t forget to check out Café Piazza’s website for more information and mouthwatering pictures: https://www.cafepiazza.com/

High Stakes and High Scores of the Starfighters SPF24 Sunday Strikes

A Nostalgic Battlefield: The Starfighters Arcade Experience

On a bright Sunday morning, February 4th, 2024, pinball enthusiasts from across the country converged on Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, AZ, for the much-anticipated SPF24 Sunday Strikes Tournament. The clear skies and a mild 58°F set the stage for a day of intense competition. Organized by Kevin Curtis, the event drew in 67 players for a Group Knockout battle that tested skill, strategy, and resilience.

The Clash of Titans: Funhouse Face-off

Among the standout moments was a riveting showdown in Round 5 on the iconic Funhouse machine by Williams, dating back to 1990. This game became the battleground for Hadi Seyed-Ali from Frisco, TX, and local contenders, including the skilled Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ. The match was a strategic ballet, with Seyed-Ali clinching victory through precision and calm under pressure, showcasing why the Funhouse, with its whimsical yet challenging gameplay, remains a beloved classic.

The Victor’s Circle: A Showcase of Mastery

The tournament’s climax saw Marshall Hilgemann rising as the champion, with Andreas Bernard and Anna Neal following closely. Each brought their A-game, but it was Hilgemann’s experience, evident from his participation in 308 IFPA events, that saw him through. Special mention goes to Eric Anderson from Sierra Vista, who, despite being relatively new to the tournament scene, secured a remarkable fourth place.

The Machines That Made the Legends

The venue was packed with 23 pinball machines, each with its own story and challenge. Highlights included Gorgar, the first talking pinball machine by Williams, and the rare Attila the Hun by Game Plan. The diversity of the machines, from Space Shuttle to Alien Star and the ever-popular Elvira and the Party Monsters, ensured that players faced a wide array of challenges, keeping the competition fierce and unpredictable.

More Than Just a Game

Starfighters Arcade, with its nostalgic ambiance and crowded aisles, was more than just a venue; it was a time capsule that transported players back to the golden era of arcades. The tight spaces only added to the camaraderie and excitement, making every flip and tilt a shared experience.

A Salute to the Guardians of Pinball

As the flippers quieted and the scores were tallied, a heartfelt thanks was extended to Kevin Curtis for orchestrating an event that was not just a tournament, but a celebration of pinball culture. Starfighters Arcade, with its dedication to preserving the joy and artistry of arcade gaming, provided the perfect arena for this epic showdown.

Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball, where the lights are bright, the scores high, and the community ever vibrant.