In the heart of Anaheim, California, amidst the gentle pitter-patter of light rain and the cool embrace of a 56°F evening, the Captain’s Arcade Showroom transformed into a battleground of flippers, silver balls, and neon lights. On February 19, 2024, at 7:30 PM, the OC Belles & Chimes Season 14 – #2 pinball tournament unfolded, orchestrated by the ever-dedicated CC Castaneda.
For a fleeting hour and forty-five minutes, ten players, grouped and fueled by passion and strategy, dueled over an intense round across 6 enthralling games. In this electrifying ambiance, the pinball machines weren’t just games; they were storied arenas where legacies were both honored and made.
The Spotlight Game: A JAWS-Dropping Performance
Among the standout moments was a riveting showdown on the JAWS (Premium/LE) machine by Stern, a recent marvel released on January 4, 2024. Laura Stoddard from California, with an IFPA rank of 2151, clinched victory in a nail-biting finish, showcasing strategy and finesse that left spectators in awe. This game wasn’t just about scoring points; it was a testament to the blend of skill and strategy that pinball demands, especially on a machine as new and challenging as JAWS.
The Champions of the Night
The tournament’s crowning glory was Mayumi Mae, whose exceptional skill and poise earned her the top spot. Ranked 563rd in the IFPA and a veteran of 179 events, Mayumi’s victory was a blend of experience and adeptness. Laura Stoddard’s performance in the JAWS game propelled her to second place overall, highlighting her growth and potential in the pinball world. Hillary Jacobson and Nicole Thornhill rounded out the top four, showcasing the depth of talent and competitive spirit within the community.
A Tribute to Pinball Royalty
The tournament featured a roster of 46 pinball machines, each with its own history and charm. Classics like the ‘Elton John‘ by Jersey Jack Pinball and ‘Road Kings‘ by Williams brought a sense of nostalgia, juxtaposed against the modern thrills of ‘Venom‘ by Stern and ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles‘ by Stern. Each machine, from the retro allure of ‘Counterforce‘ by Gottlieb to the whimsical ‘Mousin’ Around!’ by Bally, offered a unique battlefield for the competitors.
A Hidden Gem Unveiled
The Captain’s Arcade Showroom, with its vast array of both classic and contemporary pinball machines, proved to be the perfect host for such an electrifying event. This hidden gem in Anaheim is a sanctuary for pinball aficionados, a place where the clang of pinball machines forms the soundtrack to countless stories of triumph and defeat.
A Curtain Call
As the lights dimmed and the last ball drained, the tournament drew to a close, leaving behind memories of spectacular plays and camaraderie. A heartfelt thanks goes out to CC Castaneda for organizing an unforgettable night and to the Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing a stage where the pinball legends of tomorrow are born.
Stay tuned for more updates from the vibrant world of pinball, where the silver ball continues to enchant and challenge players of all ages.