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:
- Chuck Sanderson: With a formidable IFPA ranking of 373, Chuck’s triumph was a testament to his experience across 136 tournaments.
- Tyler Becker: Not just the mastermind behind the event, Tyler also clinched the second spot, showcasing his dual prowess as both organizer and competitor.
- Carleton Plourde: Hailing from St. Louis, MO, Carleton’s strategic gameplay secured him the third position, affirming his reputation in the pinball community.
- 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!