In the heart of Chesterfield, Michigan, the Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar transformed into a battleground of flippers, silver balls, and high scores on the evening of March 1st, 2024. The Sparkeasy 3-1-24 pinball tournament, masterfully orchestrated by organizer Joe Wade, brought together 25 pinball wizards to compete in an electrifying showdown that had the local pinball community buzzing with excitement.
As the overcast clouds loomed outside, offering a chilly embrace with temperatures hovering around 39°F, the atmosphere inside the venue was anything but cold. The vibrant sounds of pinball machines, the enthusiastic chatter of competitors and spectators, and the intense focus of players created a warm, inviting environment that felt like a celebration of pinball culture.
The Machines That Stole the Show
Among the 42 pinball machines that adorned the venue, a few stood out for the tournament. “Judge Dredd” by Bally, a veteran of the arcade since January 9, 1993, was the crowd’s favorite, hosting seven games that tested the mettle of many players. On the other hand, “Theatre of Magic,” also by Bally, bewitched players with its intricate design and enchanting gameplay, boasting the longest average game duration at approximately 13 minutes.
A special nod was given to “Foo Fighters (Pro)” by Stern, which celebrated its first anniversary on the tournament day. This machine, featured in the first round, was not just a game but a tribute to the iconic rock band, blending the adrenaline of pinball with the energy of rock music.
The Clash of Titans
The tournament format was a test of endurance, skill, and strategy. Players went head-to-head across 12 games, with only the top 8 advancing to the finals. The finals were a grueling three rounds of intense pinball action, where every flip and tilt counted.
Jared August emerged victorious, showcasing an incredible display of skill and strategy that belied his IFPA rank of 13. His journey to the top was marked by 5 wins, a testament to his prowess and experience in the pinball arena. Close on his heels was Chris Grace, who, despite a 5-point adjustment and an IFPA rank of 953, secured the second spot with an equally impressive 5 wins. The third place was claimed by Brandon Blake, a relatively new face in the competitive pinball scene with an IFPA rank of 2113, who surprised many with 7 wins.
The Pinball Machines That Captivated the Crowd
The tournament featured a diverse array of 42 pinball machines, each with its unique design and gameplay. Among these, five machines stood out, not just for their gameplay but for the stories they tell and the experiences they offer.
- Godzilla (Premium/LE) by Stern (2021): This machine roared to life, capturing the essence of the iconic monster movie franchise. Its immersive gameplay and intricate design elements, such as the cityscape playfield and the menacing Godzilla figure, made it a hit among players who enjoyed the challenge of saving the city from destruction.
- Hurricane by Williams (1991): A throwback to the golden era of pinball, Hurricane offered a whimsical carnival theme complete with a Ferris wheel and roller coaster ramps. Its joyful sounds and colorful artwork brought a sense of nostalgia and joy, making it a beloved choice for many at the tournament.
- World Cup Soccer by Bally (1994): In a nod to the global love for soccer, this machine brought the excitement of the World Cup to the pinball arena. Its soccer ball-shaped spinner and goal-scoring challenges made it a dynamic and engaging game, attracting players who enjoyed the thrill of the sport.
- Banzai Run by Williams (1988): A true classic, Banzai Run’s unique vertical playfield set it apart from the rest. The challenge of racing motocross bikes up the backglass in an attempt to reach the top and become the champion captivated players, offering a gameplay experience unlike any other.
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (2021): Drawing from the popular Star Wars series, this machine offered an adventure in a galaxy far, far away. With missions based on the show’s episodes and characters like Grogu making appearances, it was a fan favorite, especially among Star Wars enthusiasts.
The Heartbeat of the Tournament
The Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar, with its vast collection of pinball machines, was more than just a venue; it was the heartbeat of the tournament. Its welcoming atmosphere and the passion of the pinball community made it the perfect host for an event that was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the love for pinball.
A Salute to the Maestro
As the lights dimmed and the last pinball machine powered down, it was time to acknowledge the architect of this unforgettable evening, Joe Wade. His dedication and passion for pinball brought together a community, created memories, and reignited the love for the game.
As we bid adieu to Sparkeasy 3-1-24, we’re reminded of the magic of pinball and the community it nurtures. Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball, where the silver ball continues to enchant, challenge, and unite us in ways only it can.