The competitive spirit of pinball was alive and well at the recent Pins & Pirates League – Season 3 – #2 tournament, an exhilarating event that showcased some of the finest talents in the pinball community. Held on a cool and overcast evening on February 16, 2024, at Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim, CA, this tournament was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball and its vibrant competitive scene.
A Look at the Tournament’s Format
Organized by the dedicated CC Castaneda, the tournament unfolded over a span of approximately 2.5 hours, during which 23 players battled it out in an intense single-round competition. Each round comprised 5 games, with players vying to accumulate the highest points based on their performance in each game. The energy was palpable as competitors aimed to outmaneuver one another and claim the top spot.
Game Highlight: A Fierce Battle on Foo Fighters (Pro)
One of the tournament’s highlights was a gripping match on the Foo Fighters (Pro) pinball machine, a recent release by Stern. This game became the center of an intense showdown, with Dennis Eichhorn securing first place, showcasing his skills against both ranked and unranked players in a tight competition that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
Celebrating the Victors
The tournament culminated in a celebration of the top players, whose skill and strategy set them apart:
- Jonathan Soon, making a name for himself with an impressive IFPA rank of 377 and a vast experience spanning 384 events, clinched the first place with his exceptional gameplay.
- Robert Potter followed closely, bringing his A-game to the tournament and securing the second position with his strategic prowess.
- Kane Mejia, known for his competitive spirit and ranked 651 in the IFPA, landed the third spot, showcasing his growing dominance in the pinball arena.
- Chris Campbell from California, with a commendable track record in pinball competitions, rounded out the top four, proving once again his consistency and skill in the game.
Pinball Machines that Stole the Show
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 10 pinball machines, each with its own history and thematic allure. Noteworthy among them were:
- Mustang (Premium) by Stern: A modern classic that pays homage to the iconic American car brand, offering players a high-octane pinball experience.
- Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally: A throwback to the 1950s horror cinema, this machine is beloved for its nostalgic appeal and engaging gameplay.
- Spider-Man (Vault Edition) by Stern: A reimagined version of the original, bringing the adventures of the web-slinger to the pinball world with updated graphics and mechanics.
- Godzilla (LE) by Stern: A recent addition that pits players against the King of Monsters in a city-wide rampage, highlighting Stern’s prowess in creating thematic and immersive pinball experiences.
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern: The newest machine that draws players into the suspenseful world of the classic Spielberg thriller, challenging them to outwit the great white shark.
The Venue: A Pinball Enthusiast’s Haven
Captain’s Arcade Showroom provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament, with its wide selection of pinball machines and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to dive into the world of pinball, whether to compete or simply enjoy the rich history and variety of machines on offer.
A Heartfelt Thanks
As we wrap up this recap, a special thanks goes out to CC Castaneda for organizing such a memorable event and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for hosting us. The Pins & Pirates League continues to be a highlight in the pinball community, bringing together players of all levels to share in the joy and competition of this timeless game.
Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball, as we continue to follow the silver ball on its journey through flippers, ramps, and high scores!