Setting Sail with Pins & Pirates: A Pinball Odyssey

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow over Captain’s Arcade Showroom, the Pins & Pirates League – Season 3 – #4 tournament embarked on its latest adventure. With a gentle breeze whisking through broken clouds and the thermometer reading a comfortable 59°F, pinball enthusiasts from near and far gathered for an evening that promised more than just the clinking of metal balls and flashing lights.

A Night of Strategic Flips

Under the guidance of organizer CC Castaneda, 24 players entered the fray, each with their eyes set on victory. The format was relentless yet straightforward: one round, five games, and no second chances. As the clock ticked 7:30 PM on March 15, 2024, the competition commenced, unfolding over the next 2 hours with an intensity that rivaled the high seas.

Rush to Victory: A Game of Skill and Strategy

Amidst the array of 47 pinball machines, Stern’s Rush (Pro) from January 2022, emerged as the battlefield for one of the night’s most memorable showdowns. It was here that Robert Potter, wielding a combination of precision and foresight, claimed the top spot, closely followed by Dennis Eichhorn, Gage Arnold, and Jordan Bolohan. This game not only tested the players’ reflexes but also their strategic acumen, as they navigated the rock-themed playfield to amass points.

Triumph of the Buccaneers

As the final ball plunged into oblivion, the victors emerged, their names etched in the annals of the Pins & Pirates League:

  1. Kane Mejia: With an IFPA rank of 658 and a history of 51 tournaments, Kane’s blend of experience and skill crowned him the champion of the night.
  2. Gage Arnold: A newcomer to the IFPA circuit, Gage’s remarkable performance proved that even those without a ranking could sway the tides of competition.
  3. David Green CA: A seasoned player with 145 tournaments to his name, David’s strategic gameplay secured him the third spot, showcasing the depth of his pinball prowess.
  4. Fred Leininger: Another fresh face in the league, Fred’s impressive debut hinted at a promising future in the pinball world.

A Symphony of Flippers and Lights

Among the sea of machines, five stood out for their unique charm and design:

  • Ghostbusters (Premium): This machine brought players into the ghostly world of New York City, with immersive gameplay and spectral surprises at every turn.
  • Congo: Set in the heart of the jungle, this machine offered a wild adventure, complete with volcano multiballs and diamond hunts.
  • Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro): With its challenging ramps and the menacing Black Knight taunting players, this game tested even the most seasoned pinballers.
  • James Bond 007 (LE): This machine invited players on a covert mission, with gadgets and missions straight from the iconic film series.
  • Stranger Things (Premium/LE): Offering a trip to the Upside Down, this machine captivated players with its intricate playfield and supernatural mysteries.

A Harbor for Pinball Enthusiasts

The Captain’s Arcade Showroom proved to be more than just a venue; it was a sanctuary for those who shared a love for pinball. From first-time buyers like those who took home a Foo Premium to seasoned tournament players, the showroom, under CC’s caring guidance, offered a welcoming port for all.

Charting the Next Course

As we drop anchor on this edition of the Pins & Pirates League, a heartfelt thank you goes out to CC Castaneda and the Captain’s Arcade Showroom for steering this ship. The world of pinball is vast and filled with tales of strategy, rivalry, and camaraderie. Stay tuned for more updates from this ever-spinning globe, as I, your chronicler of the silver ball saga, bring you tales from its many corners. Until then, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on the silver ball!

A Whirlwind of Flips: D82 Flippin’ Friday Recap

Welcome back to the arcade arena, where the lights are bright, and the flippers never rest! It’s Bride of Pinbot here, your guide to the electrifying world of pinball tournaments across the United States. This time, we’re diving into the heart-pounding action of the D82 Flippin’ Friday that took place on a crisp evening, March 15, 2024, under a clear sky with temperatures teasing at 53°F.

Tournament Dynamics

The District 82 Pinball Arcade was buzzing with excitement as 16 skilled players battled it out in 4 intense rounds, each featuring 2 games that tested their reflexes and strategies. Organized by the pinball enthusiast Erik Thoren, the event spanned approximately 2 and a half hours of pure adrenaline and joy.

Game Highlight: Whirlwind

The spotlight shines on a spectacular match during Round 3 on the classic Whirlwind machine by Williams, a nostalgic trip back to January 1990. The game saw Logan Henderson taking the lead with his exceptional skills, followed by Peter Goeben, Matt McCarty, and Danny Bronny, making it a round to remember.

Champions of the Night

As the dust settled and the scores were tallied, the victors emerged, their names echoing in the halls of District 82:

  1. Logan Henderson – Surprising many with his tactical mastery, Logan from Downers Grove, IL, took home the gold with an IFPA rank of 1870.
  2. Matt McCarty – A seasoned player with 488 IFPA events under his belt, Matt clinched the second spot with his consistent performance.
  3. Gerald Morrison – With an impressive IFPA rank of 416, Gerald showcased his pinball prowess to secure the third place.
  4. Peter Goeben – Known for their strategic gameplay, Peter from Depere, WI, wrapped up the top four, leaving a mark on the tournament.

Pinball Paradise

The tournament was a showcase of 114 pinball machines, each with its own story and charm. Among the crowd, a few stood out:

  • Attack From Mars (Remake Special): This machine brought players on an intergalactic battle with its engaging gameplay and modern enhancements.
  • Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure: An adventure through iconic movie scenes, this machine is a treasure hunt in its own right.
  • Melody by Gottlieb: A vintage gem from 1967, offering a melodious journey back in time with its classic design and gameplay.
  • Breakshot by Capcom: A unique take on pinball, combining traditional elements with a pool hall theme for a refreshing experience.
  • Monster Bash (Remake Special): Reviving the classic, this machine had players uniting iconic monsters for a concert, blending humor with skillful play.

District 82: A Pinball Haven

The tournament’s venue, District 82 Pinball Arcade, was more than just a location; it was a haven for pinball enthusiasts. With Erik and his team at the helm, the event was a seamless blend of competitive spirit and communal joy, complemented by food trucks and a BYOB policy that added to the festive atmosphere.

A Fond Farewell

As we close this chapter on the D82 Flippin’ Friday, a heartfelt thank you to Erik Thoren and the entire team at District 82 Pinball for orchestrating an unforgettable night. The world of pinball is richer for events like these, and I, Bride of Pinbot, can’t wait to bring you more tales from the silver ball’s journey across the arcades of America. Keep those flippers ready!