The Sparkle and Roar of Sparkeasy: A Pinball Tournament to Remember

In the heart of Chesterfield, Michigan, the Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar transformed into a battleground of flippers, silver balls, and high scores on the evening of March 1st, 2024. The Sparkeasy 3-1-24 pinball tournament, masterfully orchestrated by organizer Joe Wade, brought together 25 pinball wizards to compete in an electrifying showdown that had the local pinball community buzzing with excitement.

As the overcast clouds loomed outside, offering a chilly embrace with temperatures hovering around 39°F, the atmosphere inside the venue was anything but cold. The vibrant sounds of pinball machines, the enthusiastic chatter of competitors and spectators, and the intense focus of players created a warm, inviting environment that felt like a celebration of pinball culture.

The Machines That Stole the Show

Among the 42 pinball machines that adorned the venue, a few stood out for the tournament. “Judge Dredd” by Bally, a veteran of the arcade since January 9, 1993, was the crowd’s favorite, hosting seven games that tested the mettle of many players. On the other hand, “Theatre of Magic,” also by Bally, bewitched players with its intricate design and enchanting gameplay, boasting the longest average game duration at approximately 13 minutes.

A special nod was given to “Foo Fighters (Pro)” by Stern, which celebrated its first anniversary on the tournament day. This machine, featured in the first round, was not just a game but a tribute to the iconic rock band, blending the adrenaline of pinball with the energy of rock music.

The Clash of Titans

The tournament format was a test of endurance, skill, and strategy. Players went head-to-head across 12 games, with only the top 8 advancing to the finals. The finals were a grueling three rounds of intense pinball action, where every flip and tilt counted.

Jared August emerged victorious, showcasing an incredible display of skill and strategy that belied his IFPA rank of 13. His journey to the top was marked by 5 wins, a testament to his prowess and experience in the pinball arena. Close on his heels was Chris Grace, who, despite a 5-point adjustment and an IFPA rank of 953, secured the second spot with an equally impressive 5 wins. The third place was claimed by Brandon Blake, a relatively new face in the competitive pinball scene with an IFPA rank of 2113, who surprised many with 7 wins.

The Pinball Machines That Captivated the Crowd

The tournament featured a diverse array of 42 pinball machines, each with its unique design and gameplay. Among these, five machines stood out, not just for their gameplay but for the stories they tell and the experiences they offer.

  • Godzilla (Premium/LE) by Stern (2021): This machine roared to life, capturing the essence of the iconic monster movie franchise. Its immersive gameplay and intricate design elements, such as the cityscape playfield and the menacing Godzilla figure, made it a hit among players who enjoyed the challenge of saving the city from destruction.
  • Hurricane by Williams (1991): A throwback to the golden era of pinball, Hurricane offered a whimsical carnival theme complete with a Ferris wheel and roller coaster ramps. Its joyful sounds and colorful artwork brought a sense of nostalgia and joy, making it a beloved choice for many at the tournament.
  • World Cup Soccer by Bally (1994): In a nod to the global love for soccer, this machine brought the excitement of the World Cup to the pinball arena. Its soccer ball-shaped spinner and goal-scoring challenges made it a dynamic and engaging game, attracting players who enjoyed the thrill of the sport.
  • Banzai Run by Williams (1988): A true classic, Banzai Run’s unique vertical playfield set it apart from the rest. The challenge of racing motocross bikes up the backglass in an attempt to reach the top and become the champion captivated players, offering a gameplay experience unlike any other.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (2021): Drawing from the popular Star Wars series, this machine offered an adventure in a galaxy far, far away. With missions based on the show’s episodes and characters like Grogu making appearances, it was a fan favorite, especially among Star Wars enthusiasts.

The Heartbeat of the Tournament

The Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar, with its vast collection of pinball machines, was more than just a venue; it was the heartbeat of the tournament. Its welcoming atmosphere and the passion of the pinball community made it the perfect host for an event that was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the love for pinball.

A Salute to the Maestro

As the lights dimmed and the last pinball machine powered down, it was time to acknowledge the architect of this unforgettable evening, Joe Wade. His dedication and passion for pinball brought together a community, created memories, and reignited the love for the game.

As we bid adieu to Sparkeasy 3-1-24, we’re reminded of the magic of pinball and the community it nurtures. Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball, where the silver ball continues to enchant, challenge, and unite us in ways only it can.

A Night of Flippers and Fun: The JAWS Pro Launch Party Women’s Tournament

On a crisp evening, with the temperature flirting at a chilly 40°F, the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, became a vibrant battleground for pinball enthusiasts. The JAWS Pro Launch Party Women’s Tournament, meticulously organized by Bill Disney, transformed the venue into a haven of excitement, competition, and nostalgia. With clear skies overhead, the atmosphere inside was anything but calm. The event, held on March 1, 2024, drew a crowd eager to witness pinball prowess at its finest.

The Gallery’s Atmosphere

The Pinball Gallery, known for its eclectic mix of both classic and modern games, played the perfect host to this thrilling event. The venue, which often garners praise for its well-maintained machines and friendly staff, was buzzing with energy. You can even rent it out for corporate events

The Contenders and Their Conquests

Eighteen players, each with a unique approach and style, went head-to-head in a series of intense matches. The format was straightforward yet demanding – 10 games for each player, with the top 8 moving onto the finals. The competition was fierce, but friendly, with participants cheering each other on, sharing tips, and reveling in the sheer joy of the game.

The Champions

The tournament witnessed some remarkable performances, culminating in a list of winners who not only showcased exceptional skill but also a deep understanding of pinball strategy. Here’s a shoutout to the champions:

  1. Tessa Morton: With 5 wins under her belt and an IFPA rank of 1912, Tessa’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Her strategic gameplay and calm demeanor under pressure were a sight to behold.
  2. Kim Smith: A local from the Pinball Gallery itself, Kim, with their 6 wins, proved that familiarity with the machines can be a massive advantage. Their IFPA rank of 4677 belies their true pinball prowess.
  3. Terri Morton: Terri, hailing from Pennsylvania, demonstrated remarkable skill, securing 4 wins and an impressive IFPA rank of 3411.

Rounding out the podium was Kathy Bobeck, Carly Valenzuela, Jackie Himes, Stephanie Savy, and Anita Thallmayer: Each of these players brought their A-game, making the tournament an unforgettable experience.

The Machines That Stole the Show

While the tournament was undeniably about the players, the pinball machines themselves were the silent stars of the show. Among the 74 machines, a few stood out not just for their gameplay but for their significance and design:

  • Joker Poker by Gottlieb: A classic that never fails to charm, its presence reminded everyone of the timeless appeal of pinball.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: With the longest average game duration, it was a test of endurance and strategy.
  • Spider-Man by Stern and Elvira’s House of Horrors: Both machines offered not just exciting gameplay but a dive into the themes that have shaped pop culture.
  • Medieval Madness by Williams: A machine that combines challenging gameplay with a humorous take on the medieval theme.

A Night to Remember

As the tournament drew to a close, the sense of community and shared passion was palpable. Bill Disney, the organizer, and the Pinball Gallery, the venue, deserve immense gratitude for creating an event that went beyond mere competition. It was a celebration of the pinball spirit – a blend of nostalgia, skill, and above all, fun.

As we look forward to more such gatherings in the pinball world, let’s remember the joy, the excitement, and the friendships forged over the flickering lights and buzzing sounds of pinball machines. Here’s to many more flippers, high scores, and the timeless charm of pinball!