Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League: A Night of Flippers and Fun

Hey there, pinball pals and arcade aficionados! Bride of Pinbot here, rolling into your digital space with the latest buzz from the Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League. Let’s launch into the electrifying evening that was Season 6 #3, held at the one and only Logan Arcade!

The Windy City Showdown

As the clock struck 8:00 PM on March 31, 2024, Logan Arcade, nestled at 2410 W Fullerton Ave, became the epicenter of pinball wizardry in Chicago. Despite the light rain and the chilly 40°F temperature outside, the warmth of competition heated up inside as 46 players plunged into 2 rounds of intense pinball action, orchestrated by the pinball maestro, Mike Pantoliano.

The Epic Marathon on Foo Fighters

The spotlight of the evening shone on Stern’s Foo Fighters (Premium), where an epic 76-minute battle unfolded during the first round. Jeffro Coffey, Kyle Ingrelli, Tanner Petch, and Scott Green faced off in what became the tournament’s longest game, showcasing their skills and endurance in an unforgettable showdown.

Saluting the Champions

As the final ball drained, the champions emerged, their names forever etched in the annals of the Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League:

  1. Ted Brockly, the Chicago stalwart, with a keen eye and steady hands, claimed victory with an IFPA rank of 1954.
  2. Mikayla Makowski, the rising star, proved her mettle and secured the second spot with her strategic plays, holding an IFPA rank of 7401.
  3. Alex Lecky, a seasoned player from Chicago, displayed his prowess to take home the third place, backed by an impressive IFPA rank of 626.
  4. Andrew Wilkening, another Chicago native, rounded out the top four with his exceptional performance, boasting an IFPA rank of 722.

The Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured a stellar lineup of 21 pinball machines, each bringing its own flavor to the fray. Highlights included:

  • Attack From Mars (Remake): An alien invasion never felt so thrilling, with players defending Earth against the relentless Martian onslaught.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special): The Wild West came alive with this modern twist on a classic, offering sharpshooters a chance to ride into the sunset with high scores.
  • Johnny Mnemonic: Players became data couriers, navigating the cybernetic chaos in a quest for digital dominance.
  • Deadpool (Premium): The Merc with a Mouth brought his irreverent humor and action-packed adventures to the pinball world, challenging players to beat the bad guys and break the fourth wall.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium): Spies took to the field, with missions that spanned the globe and tested their secret agent skills to the max.

Logan Arcade: The Heartbeat of Chicago Pinball

A huge shoutout to Logan Arcade, the quintessential haven for pinball lovers in Chicago. With a passionate team that genuinely cares and regular tournaments that keep the community buzzing, it’s no wonder this venue is heralded as the best pinball spot in town. And yes, those singing stuffed animals might have been a bit much, but hey, all part of the charm, right?

Flipper Farewell

As we power down this post, a big thanks goes out to Mike Pantoliano for organizing a spectacular tournament and to Logan Arcade for hosting. The pinball saga continues, and you can bet your bumpers that Bride of Pinbot will be here to share every twist, turn, and tilt. Keep those flippers ready, and stay tuned for more pinball tales from across the nation!

A Spirited Showdown at The Hills Pub Monthly – March 2024

The pinball scene was buzzing with excitement as The Hills Pub played host to its much-anticipated monthly tournament in March 2024. Under the watchful eye of organizer Mark Schulz, 8 skilled players embarked on a Group Knockout Tournament, navigating through 6 intense rounds under the looming threat of accumulating strikes in a “Fair Strikes” system.

The Competitive Edge

With the rounds lasting almost 2 hours, competitors battled not just against each other but also against the pressure of the knockout format. The tension was palpable, with players vying to avoid the dreaded strikes that would edge them closer to elimination.

Spotlight on Guardians of the Galaxy

Round 2 turned up the heat with an epic face-off on Stern’s Guardians of the Galaxy pinball machine. The game, released on November 1, 2017, was the arena for Casey Shaw, Zach Zumaya, Jennifer Schulz, and Holly Rutkowski to showcase their pinball prowess, with Casey ultimately triumphing in this round.

Honoring the Victorious

The tournament concluded with remarkable achievements by the top players:

  1. Mark Maleko Schulz, a seasoned player from San Diego, clinched the top position with an impressive IFPA rank of 438, backed by experience from 331 IFPA events.
  2. Jennifer Schulz showcased her growing skills in the pinball world, securing the second spot with an IFPA rank of 11341 from 36 events.
  3. Angie Carrillo, though unranked, made a significant impact by finishing in third place, proving that rankings don’t always define skill.
  4. Casey Shaw, also hailing from San Diego, rounded out the top four, demonstrating considerable potential with an IFPA rank of 12172 from just 2 events.

The Pinball Lineup

The tournament was graced by an array of 9 pinball machines, each contributing to the vibrant atmosphere with their unique designs and gameplay features:

  • Iron Man (Vault) by Stern: A modern classic that challenges players with its fast-paced gameplay and iconic Iron Man theme.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE) by Chicago Gaming: A western-themed adventure offering a fresh take on the original with enhanced features and graphics.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: Brings the irreverent humor and action of the Deadpool comics to life with innovative gameplay mechanics.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: The center of a standout game, this machine immerses players in the cosmic adventure of the beloved superhero team.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: Unleashes the might of the iconic monster with a cityscape playfield that offers a thrilling pinball experience.

A Welcoming Venue

The Hills Pub, located at 8758 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. With its cozy atmosphere, excellent food and drink, and accommodating staff, the venue was more than just a location; it was part of the day’s success.

Appreciation and Anticipation

A big thank you goes out to Mark Schulz for organizing such a fantastic event and to The Hills Pub for hosting. The pinball community eagerly awaits the next gathering, ready to flip, nudge, and tilt their way to victory.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the ever-dynamic world of pinball tournaments!

Dive into the Excitement: JAWS Premium Launch Party Tournament Recap

The pinball community gathered with anticipation at the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, for the electrifying JAWS Premium Launch Party OPEN Tournament. Organized by the renowned Bill Disney, the event on March 30, 2024, saw 36 fervent players competing in a series of 10 games each, with the top 16 advancing to a nail-biting final consisting of 3 rounds.

A Tournament of Skill and Strategy

Over the span of 2 and a half hours, players were engrossed in intense matchups, demonstrating their pinball prowess and strategic acumen. The tournament’s format ensured that only the most consistent and skilled players could advance to the climactic finals.

Game Highlights: A Roller Disco and Jurassic Park Showcase

“Roller Disco” by Gottlieb, a beloved classic from 1980, emerged as a crowd favorite, hosting 7 thrilling games. Meanwhile, “Jurassic Park (Premium)” by Stern, with its intricate gameplay, boasted the longest average game duration at around 22 minutes, adding a layer of endurance to the players’ challenges.

Quarterfinals Showdown on KISS (Premium)

The quarterfinals brought an unforgettable showdown on Stern’s KISS (Premium), where Joel Zingone, Daniel Piombino, Don Werth, and Scott Davis faced off in a battle that highlighted their competitive spirit and deep knowledge of pinball mechanics.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament’s conclusion saw the emergence of standout players who excelled through the rounds:

  1. Keith Saroka took the crown with 6 wins, showcasing his seasoned skills with an IFPA rank of 3658.
  2. Daniel Piombino, from Phoenixville, secured a commendable second place with 5 wins, demonstrating his growing prowess in the pinball world.
  3. Wendy Dunn, with her strategic gameplay, tied for third with 5 wins, a testament to her dedication and skill.
  4. Terri Morton, from Pennsylvania, impressed with 6 wins, underscoring her significant experience in pinball tournaments.

The Pinball Roster

The Pinball Gallery was alive with the sounds of flippers and silver balls across 48 pinball machines, including:

  • Deadly Weapon by Gottlieb, offering players a unique blend of action and strategy.
  • The Addams Family by Bally, a timeless classic that continues to captivate with its immersive theme and gameplay.
  • Hollywood Heat by Gottlieb, transporting players back to the glitz and glamour of the ’80s.
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not! by Stern, challenging players with its intriguing and varied objectives.
  • Ghostbusters (Premium) by Stern, providing a spookily fun and engaging experience with its detailed playfield and innovative features.

A Venue Beyond Compare

The Pinball Gallery, not just a venue but a cornerstone of the pinball community, offered an ideal setting for this tournament. With its well-maintained mix of classic and modern games, coupled with a welcoming and knowledgeable staff, it provided an unmatched atmosphere for both competition and camaraderie.

In Anticipation of the Next Flip

As we close this chapter on the JAWS Premium Launch Party OPEN Tournament, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Bill Disney and the Pinball Gallery for hosting an unforgettable event. The pinball community waits with bated breath for the next gathering of flippers, silver balls, and spirited competition.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!

Striking Success at MFStrikes!!! – A Knockout Pinball Tournament

The pinball community came alive at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, for the much-anticipated MFStrikes!!! tournament. Organized by the adept Cary Carmichael on a clear, cool evening on March 28, 2024, the event brought together 21 pinball enthusiasts in a Basic Knockout Tournament that spanned 11 exhilarating rounds.

Tournament Dynamics

MFStrikes!!! embraced a format where players were paired off in two-player games, with the tension mounting as participants were knocked out after receiving three strikes. The tournament extended over 3 hours, encapsulating the competitive spirit and camaraderie inherent to the pinball community.

Highlight Reel: Surf Champ Showdown

Round 7 emerged as a spectacle with players dueling on Surf Champ by Gottlieb, a classic from August 1976. Philip Priddy, showcasing finesse and strategy, secured the top spot against Cary Carmichael from Seaside, CA, in a nail-biting match that highlighted the timeless appeal of pinball.

Triumphs and Titles

The tournament concluded with an impressive roster of champions, each bringing their unique skills to the fore:

  1. Greg Gorelick, marking a significant victory with an IFPA rank of 1951 across 64 events, proved that rankings only tell part of the story.
  2. Philip Priddy, with a commendable IFPA rank of 1130 from 125 events, demonstrated consistency and skill, earning the second spot.
  3. Will Chernetsky, hailing from Salinas, CA, showcased his prowess with an IFPA rank of 1584 over 93 events to secure the third place.
  4. Anthony Garcia, with an IFPA rank of 2532 from 80 events, rounded out the top four with a strong performance.

Pinball Paradise

The tournament was a showcase for 37 pinball machines, each with its own story and allure. Highlights included:

  • Dragonfist by Stern Electronics: A martial arts-themed gem from 1982, captivating players with its challenging layout.
  • Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern: A 2023 release that rocked the pinball world with its immersive sound and band-themed playfield.
  • Congo by Williams: A 1995 classic that transports players into the heart of the jungle with its adventurous gameplay.
  • Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern: A futuristic journey from 2011, renowned for its dazzling light shows and fast-paced action.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: A 2019 release that brings the prehistoric to life with its innovative mechanics and immersive experience.

A Venue Like No Other

Lynn’s Arcade, located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, was more than just the venue for this tournament; it was the heart of the event. Known for its friendly staff, vibrant pinball community, and excellent beer selection, Lynn’s offered an all-day play deal that was too good to pass up.

A Round of Applause

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Cary Carmichael and Lynn’s Arcade for orchestrating an unforgettable evening of pinball. Their dedication to creating a welcoming and competitive space for pinball enthusiasts is what makes events like MFStrikes!!! a cornerstone of the community.

Stay tuned for more pinball action and tales from across the United States, as we continue to celebrate the vibrant world of pinball tournaments!

Welcome to the 2024 Tucson Pinball Novice League Showdown at Hotrods

In the heart of the pinball community’s buzzing activity, the 2024 Tucson Pinball Novice League at Hotrods #2 stood out as a fiercely contested battleground for both seasoned players and newcomers alike. Held on the evening of March 28, 2024, this event drew enthusiasts to an undisclosed location, setting the stage for a night of flippers, silver balls, and high scores under the guidance of organizer Wayne Saeger.

An Electrifying Tournament Format

The competition was structured around 8 gripping rounds, with each round featuring a single game among 7 players. The battles were intense, all totaled lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, pushing the players’ skills and strategies to the limit.

A Round to Remember: Attack from Mars

The spotlight shone bright on Round 2, which featured the iconic “Attack from Mars” by Bally, a pinball classic dating back to January 12, 1995. This game became the center of an unforgettable showdown with Ryan S. clinching the top spot, followed by the unranked yet impressively skilled Wally S., and Bob B., a notable player with a solid IFPA rank of 9556.

Honoring the Champions

The tournament culminated in a thrilling finale, crowning the following victors:

  1. Jacob S., stepping into the limelight as the champion despite being unranked in the IFPA.
  2. Ryan S., ranked 19193 in the IFPA, showcased remarkable talent across his 11th IFPA event.
  3. Bob C., another unranked contender, proved his mettle with a surprising third-place finish.
  4. Bob B., with a wealth of experience from 105 IFPA events, secured a respectable fourth place with his IFPA rank of 9556.

The Stars of the Show: Pinball Machines

The tournament was graced by an array of pinball machines, each with its unique flair. Highlights included:

  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: A rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece that had players channeling their inner rockstars with its electrifying soundtrack and dynamic gameplay.
  • Attack from Mars by Bally: The center of one of the tournament’s most memorable rounds, this machine is renowned for its engaging theme and challenging gameplay mechanics.
  • Sharp Shooter II by Game Plan: A throwback to the golden era of pinball, offering a nostalgic yet challenging experience for players.

A Venue Pulsing with Energy

While the exact location remains a mystery, the atmosphere was undoubtedly charged with excitement and camaraderie. Wayne Saeger’s organizational prowess made for an event that will be remembered and talked about in the pinball community for a long time to come.

A Heartfelt Thank You

As we wrap up this post, a special thanks goes out to Wayne Saeger and the mysterious venue that hosted this spectacular event. Their efforts have not only contributed to the success of this tournament but have also enriched the vibrant tapestry of the pinball community.

Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!

Anarchy at the Arcade: Punk Rock Pinball Night

The Lowdown on Punk Rock Pinball

The B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade became a haven for pinball aficionados on March 27, 2024, as it played host to the “Punk Rock Pinball” tournament. Under the clear night sky and an ideal 72°F, Matt Trethewey orchestrated an evening where 11 players went head-to-head across 10 fiercely contested games, creating a symphony of pinball action that lasted just over two and a half hours.

In the Spotlight: Atlantis and Metallica

Among the standout machines of the night, Bally’s Atlantis emerged as a crowd favorite, being chosen for 7 thrilling games. Meanwhile, Stern’s Metallica (Pro LED) captivated players with its long average game duration of 17 minutes, proving to be a true test of skill and endurance.

Pinball Royalty Crowned

As the final flippers stilled, the leaders of the pack were crowned:

  1. Jeff Wegener: Rising to the top with 5 wins after a 10-point adjustment, Jeff’s strategic play carved his path to victory, enhancing his standing in the pinball community.
  2. Scott Pobieglo: Despite being unranked, Scott’s impressive 6 wins showcased his natural talent and passion for pinball, making him a player to watch.
  3. Walter Dony: With a tactical 5 wins and a 5-point adjustment, Walter’s consistent performance and experience were evident, securing him the third spot.
  4. Mahina Hayashi: Mahina’s 6 wins are a testament to her growing prowess in the pinball arena, marking her as an emerging force in the community.

The Machines That Rocked the Night

The tournament was fueled by an eclectic mix of 10 pinball machines, each adding its own unique vibe to the punk rock theme:

  • Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern: This machine set the stage with its high-energy soundtrack and electrifying playfield, making every game a rock concert.
  • The Walking Dead (Premium) by Stern: Immersing players in a post-apocalyptic world, this game challenged survivors to navigate hordes of walkers with skillful flips.
  • Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams: With its haunting theme and captivating gameplay, this machine offered a gothic adventure into the heart of Transylvania.
  • Rollergames by Williams: This high-speed game brought the adrenaline-pumping action of roller derby to the pinball world, offering fast flips and dynamic gameplay.
  • Atlantis by Bally: As the favorite of the night, Atlantis enchanted players with its deep-sea exploration theme and classic gameplay mechanics.

A Night at B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, with its nostalgic arcade games, a wide array of pinball machines, and inviting atmosphere, proved to be the perfect venue for a night of punk rock pinball. The blend of old-school gaming, affordable fun, and a welcoming environment made for an unforgettable experience for both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

Shoutouts and Sign-Offs

A big thank you to Matt Trethewey for orchestrating a night of punk rock anarchy and to B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for hosting an event that brought the local pinball and gaming communities together.

Keep those flippers ready, and stay tuned for more pulse-pounding updates from the vibrant world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

The Electrifying Showdown at Electric Bat Season 11- Series 1 #4

Tournament Highlights

The Electric Bat Arcade buzzed with excitement on March 26, 2024, as 119 pinball enthusiasts gathered for an electrifying evening of pinball battles. Orchestrated by Rachel Bess, this event marked the fourth installment of the 11th season series, where participants faced off in 5 intense rounds. Amidst broken clouds and a pleasant 61°F, the arcade became a lively arena of flippers, silver balls, and vibrant displays.

Toy Story 4 Takes Center Stage

In the heart of the competition, Round 2 witnessed an unforgettable match on Jersey Jack Pinball’s Toy Story 4 (LE), a machine celebrated for its captivating design and innovative gameplay. Competitors Mark Pearson, Amanda Kennedy, Walter Dony, and Stephanie Turner showcased their prowess, making it a highlight of the night.

Saluting the Victors

As the final pinball settled, the tournament’s champions emerged, each proving their mettle through skill and strategy:

  1. Kevan Carter: Dominating the competition, Kevan’s exceptional performance affirmed his expertise, complemented by his notable IFPA ranking.
  2. Andrew Roesch: A close second, Andrew’s impressive gameplay underscored his standing in the pinball community.
  3. Mark Pearson: With a wealth of experience under his belt, Mark’s third-place finish added another accolade to his illustrious pinball career.
  4. Roland Nadeau: The fourth-place triumph by Roland, a formidable player from Phoenix, showcased his enduring talent in the pinball arena.

Pinball Masterpieces of the Tournament

The event was graced by an impressive lineup of 65 pinball machines, including standout games such as:

  • James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern: This machine captivated players with its sleek design and espionage-themed gameplay, celebrating the iconic film series.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: A monstrous hit, Godzilla thrilled players with its dynamic playfield and engaging storylines drawn from the legendary kaiju universe.
  • Congo by Williams: Taking players on a jungle adventure, Congo offered a blend of challenging gameplay and immersive visuals.
  • Iron Man (Vault) by Stern: This superhero-themed machine delivered fast-paced action and adrenaline-pumping challenges, drawing players into the Marvel universe.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern: Celebrating the iconic band, Rush provided a rock-infused pinball experience with its incredible soundtrack and electrifying gameplay.

A Night at Electric Bat Arcade

Electric Bat Arcade, with its welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and an impressive array of pinball machines, proved to be the perfect venue for this pinball showdown. The arcade’s dedication to fostering a vibrant pinball community was evident, making it a cherished spot for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

A Hearty Thanks

A special thanks to Rachel Bess for orchestrating such a memorable event and to Electric Bat Arcade for hosting an evening filled with fun, competition, and pinball magic.

Keep your flippers ready, and stay tuned for more thrilling tales from the fast-paced world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

Flipping Out at The Pinball Lounge Bonanza

Inside The Pinball Bonanza

The Pinball Lounge at Oviedo Bowling Center was buzzing with excitement on the evening of March 26, 2024, as 36 pinball enthusiasts gathered for a thrilling tournament. Organized by Kurt van Zyl, the event unfolded over 6 riveting rounds of pinball magic. Amidst a backdrop of few clouds and a warm 78°F, players showcased their skills, flipping and scoring under the vibrant lights of the arcade.

Spotlight on Deadpool

The tournament kicked off with an intense match on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro), captivating attendees with its dynamic gameplay and colorful art. Garrett Smoke, Patrick Durland, Mike Zink, and Nick Smith FL battled it out, with Smoke taking the lead, setting an electrifying tone for the evening.

Celebrating the Champions

The night culminated with the crowning of the tournament’s top players, each earning their stripes through strategic play and steady hands:

  1. Joe Geneau: Dominating the leaderboard, Joe’s victory was a testament to his skill and experience in the pinball arena.
  2. John Moschella: Hailing from Winter Springs, Florida, John’s second-place finish highlighted his prowess and strategic gameplay.
  3. Garrett Smoke: After a strong start in Round 1, Garrett continued to impress, securing a well-deserved third place.
  4. Patrick Durland: Patrick’s consistent performance throughout the tournament earned him a spot in the top four, showcasing his dedication to the game.

Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show

The Pinball Lounge showcased an impressive collection of 37 pinball machines, with standouts including:

  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: This machine thrilled players with its monstrous battles and cityscape playfield, offering a truly immersive experience.
  • Game Of Thrones (Pro) by Stern: Transporting players to Westeros, this game challenged them to claim the Iron Throne through strategic play and cunning.
  • Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern: With its retro theme and engaging missions, this machine brought the classic TV series to life in pinball form.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: Players embarked on a prehistoric adventure, navigating the park to capture the escaped dinosaurs.
  • The Addams Family by Bally: A timeless classic, this machine delighted players with its quirky characters and engaging gameplay.

A Night at The Pinball Lounge

The Pinball Lounge, known for its impeccable selection of games and outstanding customer service, provided the perfect venue for this pinball bonanza. The combination of great food, friendly staff, and well-maintained machines made for an unforgettable evening of family fun and competitive spirit.

A Round of Thanks

A huge shoutout to Kurt van Zyl for organizing an unforgettable evening of pinball and to The Pinball Lounge for being the go-to spot for pinball enthusiasts in Oviedo. The dedication to maintaining a vibrant pinball community was evident throughout the event.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the fast-paced world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

Striking Out at Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes Tournament

The Thrill of the Tournament

On the evening of March 25, 2024, Tik Tok’s Workshop became the battleground for the exhilarating Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes pinball tournament. Under the strategic leadership of Richard Godwin, seven skilled players delved into a 10-round Group Knockout challenge, navigating the Fair Strikes system with finesse. Amidst broken clouds and a brisk 50°F, the clinks and clatters of pinball machines filled the air for over three intense hours.

A Galactic Battle in Round 1

The tournament kicked off with an epic face-off on Stern’s The Mandalorian (Premium), where Chris Wilkes, Conrad Rustad, Rachel Kahalekulu, and Wendy Kramer showcased their pinball wizardry. This round not only set the tone for the night but also highlighted the competitive spirit and camaraderie among the participants.

Honoring the Pinball Elite

As the final ball drained, the victors emerged, each demonstrating exceptional skill and strategy throughout the tournament:

  1. Conrad Rustad: Dominating the competition, Conrad’s extensive experience and skill, evidenced by his IFPA rank of 165, secured him the top position.
  2. Donovan Haga: With steadfast determination, Donovan clinched the second spot, proving his mettle in the pinball arena.
  3. Andrew McCann: A seasoned player, Andrew’s tactical gameplay earned him a well-deserved third place in this rigorous competition.
  4. Scott Kirvan: Embracing their unique approach to the game, Scott’s persistence and passion for pinball were rewarded with a fourth-place finish.

Pinball Machines: The Heart of the Game

The tournament featured an eclectic collection of 15 pinball machines, each contributing its own flavor to the event:

  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: This enchanting machine captivated players with its intricate design and immersive gameplay, transporting them to the magical land of Oz.
  • AC/DC (Premium) by Stern: Rocking the pinball world with its electrifying soundtrack and dynamic playfield, this machine was a fan favorite.
  • Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball: Known for its retro yet innovative design, this machine offered a thrilling and fast-paced gaming experience.
  • Cyclone by Williams: A nostalgic trip to the carnival, complete with all the excitement and fun of classic pinball action.
  • Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons by Stern: With its unique and cheeky theme, this machine provided a fresh and fruity twist to traditional pinball gameplay.

A Night to Remember at Tik Tok’s Workshop

Tik Tok’s Workshop, with its vintage vibe, welcoming staff, and fantastic selection of games, proved to be the perfect host for the tournament. The venue’s commitment to creating an inclusive and fun environment made the event a memorable one for all attendees.

A Special Thanks

A heartfelt thank you to Richard Godwin for organizing such a thrilling event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing a fantastic venue that brought the pinball community together for an unforgettable night.

Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the vibrant world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

The High Scores of Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 3 (#2)

Inside the Arcade Arena

The evening of March 25, 2024, at Player One Arcade was charged with excitement as 31 pinball enthusiasts gathered for the third installment of the 2024 series. Jim Smith led the charge, organizing an event that spanned 5 rounds, each filled with the clatter of pinball machines and the cheers of the crowd, all under the cozy glow of scattered clouds and a pleasant 68°F.

The Dinosaur Roars in Round 4

A highlight of the tournament was a fierce competition on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Pro), a game that takes players on a thrilling adventure through the iconic park. Juan Gonzalez, Rob De La O, Catcher Knapp, and Sandy Magallanes battled it out, with Gonzalez leading the pack, showcasing the strategic depth and excitement that pinball can offer.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

As the final ball plunged and the scores were tallied, the standout players emerged:

  1. Nicholas Van Doren: Clinching the top spot, Nicholas’s victory speaks volumes about his skill, especially considering his relatively moderate IFPA rank of 2458.
  2. Mark Pearson: With an impressive IFPA rank of 49, Mark’s experience in 574 IFPA events shone through as he secured second place.
  3. Jeremy Reiman: Representing Peoria, AZ, Jeremy’s third-place finish is a remarkable feat, highlighting his potential in the pinball community.
  4. Del Kyger: Rounding out the top four, Del’s performance adds another highlight to his growing pinball career.

The Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 16 pinball machines, each bringing its own unique flair:

  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern: This machine, known for its immersive gameplay and intricate design, was the star of Round 4.
  • Cyclone by Williams: A classic that transports players to the excitement of a bustling carnival, complete with a roller coaster and Ferris wheel.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Captivating players with its monstrous battles and cityscape playfield.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: Offering a sleek, spy-themed adventure filled with missions and gadgets.
  • Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern: A rocking pinball experience that blends the energy of live music with fast-paced gameplay.

A Night at Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade, with its vibrant atmosphere, vast selection of games, and the communal joy of arcade and pinball gaming, provided the perfect setting for this tournament. It’s a place where the digital scores on the screens are only part of the fun—the real joy is in the shared experiences and friendly competition.

A Round of Thanks

A big shoutout to Jim Smith for organizing an unforgettable night of pinball and to Player 1 Arcade for being the go-to spot for arcade enthusiasts in Surprise, AZ.

Keep your flippers ready, and stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the pinball circuits across the United States!