A Glimpse into the Heart of Pinball Mania
On the chilly evening of February 21, 2024, the pinball wizards of San Francisco gathered at the iconic Free Gold Watch for the much-anticipated SFPD Spring 2024 #3 tournament. The San Francisco Pinball Department (SFPD) orchestrated this thrilling event, drawing in a crowd of 83 competitors ready to tilt, nudge, and flip their way to victory. Despite the overcast skies and a brisk 53°F, the atmosphere inside was nothing short of electrifying.
The Battle of the Flippers
The tournament’s structure was intense yet straightforward: one round, five games, and groups of players clashing in a fierce battle of points. It was a test of endurance, skill, and strategy, as each participant aimed to outmaneuver their opponents across the pinball playfields.
Epic Showdown on Godzilla (Pro)
A spotlight moment of the tournament was the marathon game on Stern’s Godzilla (Pro), a recent addition to the pinball world since its release on September 14, 2021. This game became an epic saga lasting a staggering 139 minutes. The showdown saw Jeremy Herrman clinch the first place, followed closely by Jeremy Williams, Josh Lehan, and the guest player Maureen Choi, showcasing the high level of competition and skill present at the event.
The Victors of the Night
As the final scores were tallied, the champions emerged, their names now etched in the SFPD tournament history:
- Rob Coli – Leading the pack with exceptional skill and an IFPA rank of 2059, Rob proved his mettle across the tournament’s rigorous games.
- Gabe Da Silveira – Hailing from San Francisco and boasting an impressive IFPA rank of 94, Gabe showcased his seasoned prowess and strategic gameplay.
- Jose Godinez – With a solid IFPA rank of 2792, Jose’s consistent performance earned him a well-deserved spot in the top three.
- Fish – The enigmatic player known as Fish, with an IFPA rank of 11933, surprised many by clinching the fourth place, proving that rankings aren’t everything in the heat of competition.
Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 58 pinball machines, each bringing its own unique challenges and excitement. Highlights included the alien invasion-themed “Attack from Mars” by Bally, the spooky and comedic “Ghostbusters (Pro)” by Stern, and the action-packed “Guardians of the Galaxy” also by Stern. Classics like “Spider-Man” and the enchanting “The Wizard of Oz” by Jersey Jack Pinball added to the diverse array of games that tested the participants’ skills in every imaginable way.
Free Gold Watch: The Pinball Haven
Nestled off the beaten path, Free Gold Watch is a sanctuary for pinball enthusiasts. The venue, with its eclectic mix of machines ranging from $0.25 to $1.00 per game, provided the perfect backdrop for this community-driven event. It’s a place where the nostalgia of arcade games meets the vibrant energy of the San Francisco pinball scene.
A Fond Farewell
As the night drew to a close, heartfelt thanks were extended to the San Francisco Pinball Department for organizing such a memorable event and to Free Gold Watch for hosting. The SFPD Spring 2024 #3 tournament was a testament to the thriving spirit of the pinball community, filled with moments of triumph, camaraderie, and, of course, the timeless joy of pinball.
Stay tuned for more updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball, where the flippers never rest, and the high scores await.