On a crisp and clear evening of February 21, 2024, Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California, transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts. The MFLadies Pinball Winter #4 Tournament, meticulously organized by Cary Carmichael, brought together 20 players, each with their eyes set on the prize and fingers ready for the flippers. As the clock struck 6:45 PM, the air inside Lynn’s Arcade, already buzzing with the anticipation of fierce competition, became electrified with the spirit of the game.
An Unforgettable Venue
Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, with its eclectic mix of old and new pinball machines, paired with a selection of sour beers to die for, provided the perfect backdrop for the evening’s escapades. The venue, known for its charming atmosphere that intertwines the love for pinball and beer, had outdone itself, setting the stage for what was to be a memorable tournament.
The Heat of the Competition
Over the span of nearly two hours, players engaged in a rigorous battle across five rounds, each contributing to the escalating excitement. The tournament’s structure was such that every flip, every save, and every tilt could make or break one’s journey to the top. The strategy was as much a part of the game as skill, with players meticulously choosing their moments to strike, defend, and, when luck permitted, dominate.
Spotlight on Deadpool
Among the standout moments of the night was the intense showdown on the Deadpool (Premium) machine by Stern. A relatively recent addition to the pinball world, having made its debut in August 2018, Deadpool became the arena for the climactic battle of Round 5. Jaclyn Tingco-Graham, Paige Peck, Aria Garcia, and Ivy Simpson gave it their all, with Jaclyn clinching the top spot in a display of skill that left the audience in awe.
The Victors
While the night saw many a triumphant play, it was Paige Peck who emerged victorious, demonstrating a consistency and finesse that earned her the first-place title. Close on her heels was Jaclyn Tingco-Graham, whose performance on Deadpool was a highlight of the evening. Carlene Malack and the unranked Aria Garcia also made their mark, securing the third and fourth places, respectively, proving that rankings were but numbers in the face of raw talent and determination.
A Nod to the Classics
The tournament was not just a showcase of skill but also a celebration of pinball history. Machines like World Cup Soccer and Demolition Man, both hailing from the golden era of the ’90s, stood alongside the likes of Dialed In! and the brand-new JAWS (Pro) by Stern, creating a time bridge that connected generations of pinball lovers. Each machine, with its unique theme and gameplay, added a layer of depth to the tournament, reminding participants and spectators alike of the rich legacy of pinball.
Gratitude and Anticipation
As the night drew to a close, gratitude was extended to Cary Carmichael for her impeccable organization and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting an event that went beyond mere competition; it was a celebration of community, history, and the sheer joy of pinball. The MFLadies Pinball Winter #4 Tournament might have ended, but the echoes of laughter, cheers, and the rhythmic thumping of pinball machines linger on, leaving us all in eager anticipation for the next gathering of pinball aficionados.
Stay tuned for more tales from the flipper-filled world of pinball!