Cheers and Flippers: An Evening at Multiball Monday (Sunday)

Amidst the clinking glasses and the murmur of friendly conversations, the HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom transformed into an arena of pinball wizards on the evening of March 17, 2024. Mark Farina Jr orchestrated a splendid evening of pinball battles, aptly named Multiball Monday (Sunday), drawing enthusiasts to this cozy corner in Chandler, AZ, under a sky of broken clouds and a pleasant 61°F.

The Art of Pinball Mastery

As the tournament kicked off at 6:35 PM, 13 contenders took to the flippers in a series of 5 rounds, each centered around a single game that tested skill, strategy, and a touch of luck. The event unfolded over a span of 2 hours, filled with the resonant sounds of pinballs ricocheting off bumpers and the occasional cheer of a well-earned high score.

A Duel on James Bond 007

Round 4 brought an electrifying face-off on Stern’s James Bond 007 (Pro), a machine that has been captivating players since its release in September 2022. Jackson Blaty, Terri Boyd, and Jason Cardwell emerged as the top agents in this round, with their adept navigation through the game’s intricate missions and dazzling multi-ball modes.

The Victors of the Evening

As the final ball drained and scores were tallied, the champions of the night were hailed:

  1. Mark Farina Jr: Not just the orchestrator but also the champion, Mark showcased his prowess with a commanding performance, solidifying his status with an IFPA rank of 2277.
  2. Andy Olson: A seasoned player with a wealth of experience across 239 IFPA events, Andy clinched the second spot with his strategic gameplay.
  3. John Finnegan: Hailing from Tucson, John’s extensive experience in 495 IFPA events was evident as he secured the third place with skillful plays.
  4. Terri Boyd: Demonstrating skill throughout the tournament, Terri’s performance was both inspiring and formidable, earning her a well-deserved fourth place.

A Showcase of Pinball Engineering

The tournament featured a selection of 9 pinball machines, each with its unique allure:

  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern: A thrilling dive into the classic Spielberg horror, challenging players to outmaneuver the great white.
  • Deadpool (Pro): This machine offers a humorous and action-packed journey with one of Marvel’s most beloved anti-heroes.
  • Venom (Pro): Released in July 2023, Venom brought a dark and enthralling theme, inviting players to join the symbiote in a battle against iconic villains.
  • Godzilla (Pro): Players found themselves in the heart of Tokyo, tasked with aiding Godzilla in a monumental battle against his fiercest adversaries.
  • Foo Fighters (Premium/LE): This recent addition to the pinball world combined the adrenaline of rock music with the excitement of pinball, offering a unique blend of entertainment.

A Haven for Beer and Pinball Enthusiasts

HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom, with its extensive selection of brews and welcoming atmosphere, proved to be the perfect venue for such an event. Encouraging patrons to bring their own food and enjoy the array of games available, it’s no wonder this spot is a favorite among locals looking to unwind.

A Heartfelt Appreciation

As the night drew to a close, gratitude was extended to Mark Farina Jr for his impeccable organization and to HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom for hosting an unforgettable evening of pinball and camaraderie.

The world of pinball continues to thrive, thanks to the vibrant community and passionate organizers who bring us together to celebrate this timeless arcade classic. Stay tuned for more tales from the flippers, and may your next game be a high score!

Strikes and High Scores: The 1up Colfax Jaws Launch Pinball Battle

Pinball enthusiasts, gather around! I’m here to recount the epic saga from the recent pinball clash at the 1up Colfax March/Jaws Launch event. It was a day where flippers were flipped, silver balls soared, and the spirit of competition was as electric as the arcade machines that lined the battleground.

The Knockout Tournament Overview

On a brisk day with just a few clouds shadowing the 46°F Denver skyline, the 1up Arcade Bar-Colfax transformed into an arena for a Group Knockout Tournament that was nothing short of legendary. With 48 competitors and 14 nail-biting rounds, the stakes were high as players dodged strikes under the Progressive Strikes system, all vying to avoid the dreaded 11th strike that spelled elimination.

The JAWS LE Showdown

Amidst the fierce competition, a standout game on Stern’s JAWS (LE) drew the crowd’s attention in Round 8. The battle saw Mat Brundage, John Quinn, Chase Hart, and Dave Mercer dive into the deep, with the game turning into a thrilling test of skill and strategy that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

Champions of the Arcade

As the final flipper fell silent, four warriors emerged victorious, their names forever etched in the 1up Colfax hall of fame:

  1. Chase Hart: With resilience and precision, Chase swam through the competition to claim the top spot, proving that rankings are just numbers waiting to be outdone.
  2. John Quinn: Denver’s own John Quinn showed hometown heart, skillfully navigating the treacherous pinball seas to secure second place.
  3. Gable Silivan: A relative newcomer to the tournament scene, Gable’s surprising and commendable third-place finish served as a reminder that underdogs have their day too.
  4. Mat Brundage: Mat’s strategic gameplay and consistent performance throughout the tournament earned him a well-deserved fourth place, showcasing the depth of his pinball prowess.

Machines of Might

The tournament was a showcase of some of the finest machines in pinball, including:

  • Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium): This Stern sensation haunted players with its spooky charm and engaging gameplay, making every ball a ghostly adventure.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro): Stern’s tribute to the galaxy far, far away brought the adventures of Mando and Grogu to life, with players navigating missions and battles as thrilling as the series itself.
  • Stranger Things (Pro): Another Stern masterpiece, this machine immersed players in the mysterious and supernatural world of Hawkins, Indiana, with every flip and save as suspenseful as the show’s plot twists.
  • JAWS (LE): The star of the show, JAWS, had players hooked with its deep-sea theme and immersive gameplay that perfectly captured the tension and excitement of the iconic film.
  • The Big Lebowski: This cult classic by Dutch Pinball rolled players into the laid-back world of The Dude, combining quirky humor with engaging pinball action.

A Nostalgic Nook: The 1up Arcade Bar – Colfax

The 1up Colfax, with its vibrant atmosphere and impressive array of games, proved to be the perfect host for this pinball extravaganza. From the icy cold beers to the array of colorful Skeeball machines, the venue was a paradise for gamers and pin enthusiasts alike, providing a backdrop filled with nostalgia, excitement, and camaraderie.

A Salute to the Stars of the Show

As we tilt away from the action, a huge shoutout to Donavan Stepp for orchestrating this electrifying event and to the 1up Arcade Bar – Colfax for providing a haven for pinball lovers. The pinball journey continues, and we can’t wait to bring you more tales from the flippers’ frontier.

Stay tuned for the latest updates from the luminous world of pinball, where every game is an adventure and every player has a story.

Texas Takedown: The 2024 Women’s Pinball Championship

Hello, pinball aficionados! It’s another thrilling recap from the world of pinball, and today, we’re spotlighting the electrifying energy and fierce competition of the Texas Takedown Women’s Pinball Championship 2024. Hosted amidst the vibrant festivities of the Texas Pinball Festival, this tournament showcased the incredible talent and sportsmanship of the pinball community.

The Heart of the Competition

In a whirlwind of flippers and silver balls, the championship was a rapid-fire round of intense pinball action. Four top-notch players faced off in a single round, spanning three games and wrapping up in just 74 minutes. Despite overcast skies, the temperature was a comfortable 60°F, ensuring nothing could dampen the spirits inside.

A Metallica Marathon

The spotlight shone brightly on Metallica (Pro) by Stern, where an epic battle unfolded that almost spanned the entirety of the tournament. Danielle Peck led the charge, clinching victory in a game that was as much a test of endurance as it was of skill, setting an unforgettable pace for the championship.

Celebrating the Champions

The victors emerged, each demonstrating unparalleled dedication and skill:

  1. Danielle Peck: Hailing from Auckland, Danielle’s triumphant performance not only showcased her pinball prowess but also her rich experience across numerous IFPA events.
  2. Lexi Whittemore: From Portland, OR, Lexi’s remarkable journey to the second spot was a testament to her skill and determination, defying her IFPA rank with an outstanding performance.
  3. Louise Wagensonner: A seasoned player, Louise’s strategic gameplay secured her the third position, adding yet another accolade to her impressive pinball career.
  4. Tracy Abrahams: Representing Texas, Tracy’s participation and spirit embodied the heart of competitive pinball, earning a well-deserved fourth place.

The Pinball Pantheon

The championship was adorned with a diverse array of 21 pinball machines, each contributing its unique charm to the tournament. Notable mentions include:

  • Super Spin by Gottlieb: A throwback to the golden age of pinball, its classic design and gameplay offered a nostalgic challenge to players.
  • Viking by Bally: With its rich artwork and immersive gameplay, Viking tested players’ skills and strategies.
  • The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams: Known for its high-octane gameplay, this machine added adrenaline to the mix.
  • James Cameron’s Avatar by Stern: Bringing the epic sci-fi tale to the pinball world, Avatar offered a visually stunning and engaging experience.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern: The newest addition to the tournament, JAWS, captivated players with its suspenseful theme and innovative gameplay.

A Venue of Grandeur

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas Frisco Hotel & Convention Center provided an elegant backdrop to the fierce competition. With its exceptional service, comfortable accommodations, and convenient location, the venue ensured that players and spectators alike had a memorable experience.

A Heartfelt Appreciation

As we close this chapter on the Texas Takedown Women’s Pinball Championship 2024, a round of applause is due for Space City Pinball for orchestrating this fantastic event and the Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas Frisco for hosting us in style.

Stay tuned for more tales from the exciting world of pinball, brought to you from tournaments far and wide. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!

High Times and Deep Dives: A Stern JAWS Launch Party

Welcome back, flipper fanatics and silver ball scholars! Today, I’m diving deep to bring you the thrilling tales from the Finals of the Stern JAWS Launch Party in Columbia, MO. The stage was set at the Shangri-La Dispensaries SUPERSTORE, where pinball sharks gathered under a clear sky, with the temperature teasing at a cool 48°F.

The Main Event: Finals Showdown

The tournament format was as intense as a shark chase, with 4 elite players facing off in 1 round that spanned 3 gripping games. The competition was fierce and the action non-stop from noon till just past sunset, marking a marathon session over 7 hours of pinball wizardry.

JAWS Bites Back: The Game of the Day

The spotlight game was none other than Stern’s latest oceanic adventure, JAWS (Pro), making waves since its release in January 2024. In this nail-biting showdown, Adam McKinnie emerged as the king of the deep, clinching first place with his unparalleled skills and strategy.

Champions of the Deep

As the dust settled and the last ball drained, the champions of the day emerged:

  1. Adam McKinnie: Dominating the leaderboard, Adam’s victory was a testament to his vast experience and pinball prowess, reflected in his impressive IFPA ranking and event participation.
  2. Josh Noble: Not just the organizer but also a fierce competitor, Josh’s performance showcased his deep understanding of the game, securing him the second spot on the podium.
  3. Kraig Blaeuer: A true contender, Kraig’s strategic gameplay and determination landed him in the prestigious third position.
  4. Marion Richards: With a wealth of experience under her belt, Marion’s skillful play earned her a respectable fourth place.

Pinball Parade: Machines of Merit

The tournament featured an eclectic lineup of 11 pinball machines, each adding its unique flair to the competition. Highlights include:

  • Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium): This Stern classic rocked the arcade with its immersive gameplay and electrifying soundtrack.
  • Venom (Pro): Released in mid-2023, Venom slithered its way into players’ hearts with its dynamic gameplay and striking art.
  • Godzilla (Premium/LE): A monstrous presence, Godzilla offered a city-stomping experience with its intricate playfield and engaging mechanics.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE): The Wild West came alive with this remake, captivating players with its updated graphics and enhanced gameplay.
  • JAWS (Pro): The star of the show, JAWS, had players hooked with its suspenseful gameplay and deep-sea adventure theme.

High Spirits at Shangri-La

At the Shangri-La Cannabis SuperStore, the vibe was as elevated as the scores, proving that good pinball and good vibes are a match made in heaven. It’s not every day you get to say, “I went to a cannabis store and got high scores!” The welcoming staff, like Marlee, ensured everyone left with a smile, making it clear that this venue was more than just a dispensary—it was a dispensary of fun!

A Heartfelt Thanks

As we reel in our tales from the deep, a special shoutout to Josh Noble for orchestrating this fin-tastic event and to Shangri-La Dispensaries SUPERSTORE for hosting us in their welcoming waters. The world of pinball is richer for your contributions.

Stay tuned, fellow enthusiasts, for more thrilling updates from the pinball universe. Until next time, keep those flippers flapping and scores soaring!

March Melee 2024: A Pinball Spectacle at Atomic Pinball Arcade

Hello, pinball enthusiasts and aficionados! This is Bride of Pinbot, your guide and narrator through the vibrant and kinetic world of pinball tournaments across the United States. Today, I’m thrilled to recount the electrifying moments and triumphant victories from the recent March Melee 2024, a pinball tournament that set flippers flipping and hearts racing.

Inside the Arena: March Melee Overview

On the brisk morning of March 17, 2024, under a clear sky with the mercury teasing at 46°F, the Atomic Pinball Arcade became the battleground for 37 pinball warriors. Orchestrated by the astute Tyler Becker, the tournament unfolded over 5 rounds, with each round featuring 2 games. The competitors engaged in a fierce battle of flippers for over 4 hours, making this event a memorable marathon of pinball prowess.

Epic Showdown: Pulp Fiction Marathon

The highlight of the tournament was an epic confrontation on the Pulp Fiction (SE) machine by Chicago Gaming, which debuted just a year prior. This battle royale of pinball stamina extended for an astonishing 61 minutes in Round 5. The victors, led by Stephen Chappell, demonstrated not just skill but endurance, setting a new benchmark for pinball tenacity.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

As the dust settled and the last ball drained, the arena echoed with the applause for our valiant champions:

  1. Chuck Sanderson: With a formidable IFPA ranking of 373, Chuck’s triumph was a testament to his experience across 136 tournaments.
  2. Tyler Becker: Not just the mastermind behind the event, Tyler also clinched the second spot, showcasing his dual prowess as both organizer and competitor.
  3. Carleton Plourde: Hailing from St. Louis, MO, Carleton’s strategic gameplay secured him the third position, affirming his reputation in the pinball community.
  4. Stephen Chappell: Despite the fierce competition, Stephen’s resilience shone through, landing him in the fourth position, a remarkable feat considering the calibre of his adversaries.

The Mechanical Stars of the Show

The March Melee was not just a testament to the players’ skills but also a celebration of the pinball machines themselves. Among the 27 contenders, standouts included:

  • No Fear: Dangerous Sports: This Williams machine is known for its adrenaline-pumping action and high-speed gameplay, reflecting the extreme sports it’s themed around.
  • JAWS (LE) by Stern: The newest shark in the tank, this machine captivated players with its immersive gameplay and homage to the iconic film.
  • AC/DC (Premium): A rock and roll powerhouse that combines Stern’s cutting-edge technology with the legendary band’s electrifying music.
  • Toy Story 4 (LE): Jersey Jack Pinball’s masterpiece, offering a family-friendly adventure with innovative gameplay and stunning visuals.
  • Star Gazer: A classic from Stern Electronics that charmed players with its astrological theme and challenging playfield layout.

Atomic Pinball Arcade: A Pinball Haven

The Atomic Pinball Arcade, nestled at 102 Whitelaw Ave, Wood River, IL, played the perfect host to this grand event. Its bright, clean, and welcoming environment, complemented by the professional and friendly staff, set the stage for an unforgettable day of pinball action. While the brightness added to the arcade’s lively atmosphere, the plethora of pinball machines and video games ensured that there was never a dull moment.

A Heartfelt Encore

As we bring the curtain down on March Melee 2024, a special round of applause for Tyler Becker and the team at Atomic Pinball Arcade for orchestrating such a spectacular event. Their dedication and passion for pinball continue to bring the community together, creating unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

Stay tuned, fellow pinball aficionados, for more tales from the flippers’ frontier. Until next time, keep those balls rolling and scores soaring!