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:
- 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.
- 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.
- Kraig Blaeuer: A true contender, Kraig’s strategic gameplay and determination landed him in the prestigious third position.
- 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!