The Tournament at a Glance
On March 24, 2024, Tepey’s Taps & Tacos transformed into a battleground for the Pinsomniacs Pinball March Match Play 2024. Orchestrated by Nick Byrd, the event attracted 13 contenders who engaged in 13 gripping rounds, each proving their mettle in the world of pinball. The top four players advanced to a nail-biting finale, comprising three additional rounds to declare the ultimate champions.
Spotlight on Venom’s Victory
The tournament kicked off with an electrifying game on Stern’s Venom (Premium), a pinball machine that has captivated players since its release in July 2023. Jokton Strealy, Shannon Stafford, Glenn Scharf, and Tristan Stafford delivered a performance that set a high bar for the rounds to follow, showcasing their exceptional skills and strategy.
Honoring the Champions
As the flippers stilled and the scores were tallied, the victors emerged, each earning their place in the pinball hall of fame:
- Shannon Stafford: With an illustrious IFPA rank of 131, Shannon’s triumph is a testament to their skill and dedication to the game.
- Jokton Strealy: Representing Valdosta, GA, Jokton’s strategic play, even with a points adjustment, secured him the second spot, underscoring his prowess and competitive spirit.
- Tristan Stafford: Clinching the third position, Tristan’s performance is commendable, marking a significant achievement in their pinball journey.
- Glenn Scharf: Glenn’s determination and skillful play, especially with a points adjustment, earned him a well-deserved fourth place, highlighting his potential in future tournaments.
Pinball Machines: The Heart of the Competition
The event was graced with 10 exceptional pinball machines, each bringing its own flair to the tournament:
- Venom (Premium) by Stern: This machine stood out for its immersive gameplay and stunning design, drawing players into its action-packed world.
- The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern: Known for its intense gameplay and thematic depth, this machine offered a gripping zombie apocalypse experience.
- Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern: This pinball machine charmed players with its spooky theme and engaging gameplay, full of surprises at every turn.
- Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun: Captivating with its intricate artwork and innovative gameplay, this machine offered a magical journey through the iconic labyrinth.
- Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: Bringing the beloved series to life, this machine enchanted players with its immersive storytelling and interactive features.
A Toast to Tepey’s Taps & Tacos
Tepeyolot Cerveceria, with its vibrant atmosphere, delicious Mexican cuisine, and unique Aztec-inspired art, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. The blend of great food, fun games, and lively events like bingo or Loteria added a special touch to this location’s experiences.
Gratitude and Anticipation
A heartfelt thank you to Nick Byrd for orchestrating an unforgettable pinball tournament, and to Tepey’s Taps & Tacos for hosting us with unparalleled warmth and hospitality.
Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball tournaments across the United States!