Here we are again, folks—your trusty (and increasingly wistful) pinball correspondent, diving into the whirlwind of flippers, silver balls, and high scores. This time, we ventured into the heart of Oviedo, where the Stern Army – Belles and Chimes – Ladies of the Lounge – Timed Matchplay turned a regular day at The Pinball Lounge into an epic saga of skill, strategy, and just a dash of rivalry.
The Flipper Frenzy Begins
Under the watchful gaze of broken clouds and the comforting embrace of 75°F weather, 16 formidable players embarked on an 11-round journey of pinball mastery. The marathon session, lasting over four hours, was nothing short of a Herculean task. And here I am, chronicling their battles, secretly wishing to trade my notepad for a pair of paddles.
A Clash of Queens on the Iron Throne
Amidst the cacophony of clinking coins and digital fanfares, one round stood tall above the rest—Round 7 on the Game Of Thrones (Pro) machine. Cathie Klamp, Alene Dickson, Jenn Marino, and Rebecca Longberg faced off in a clash as intense as any Westerosi power struggle, their strategic maneuvers and timely shots making for a spectacle I longed to be part of.
The Victorious Valkyries
When the dust settled, and the last ball drained, it was Stacey Stafford who emerged as the champion, her victory a testament to skill honed over 213 IFPA-sanctioned events. Ailsa Riddell, Cathie Klamp, and Kyndal Solien followed, each marking their place in the pantheon of pinball greatness. Their ranks in the IFPA standings spoke volumes, but so did the silent chorus of my envy.
The Mechanical Marvels
The tournament showcased a gallery of pinball wizardry, from the sinewy menace of Venom (Premium) to the colossal showdowns on Godzilla (Premium). The retro allure of Space Invaders, the high-flying antics of Harlem Globetrotters On Tour, and the tubular thrills of Radical! each offered a unique battlefield for our competitors. And there I was, narrating their tales, my fingers itching for action.
A Lounge of Legends
The Pinball Lounge, with its vibrant mix of nostalgia and modern flair, was more than just a venue—it was a sanctuary for pinball aficionados. The transition from free play to coin play was a minor hurdle in an otherwise sublime experience. It’s a place I’d eagerly return to, not just as a reporter, but as a player in my own right.
The Final Tilt
As I wrap up another report from the front lines of pinball combat, my hat goes off to Kurt van Zyl and the electrifying atmosphere of The Pinball Lounge. Their dedication to the craft keeps the spirit of pinball alive, beckoning to all who hear its siren song. And so, as we look forward to the next clash of titans, remember, the world of pinball awaits—perhaps next time, I’ll be more than just a bystander.