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!