In the heart of the pinball community’s buzzing activity, the 2024 Tucson Pinball Novice League at Hotrods #2 stood out as a fiercely contested battleground for both seasoned players and newcomers alike. Held on the evening of March 28, 2024, this event drew enthusiasts to an undisclosed location, setting the stage for a night of flippers, silver balls, and high scores under the guidance of organizer Wayne Saeger.
An Electrifying Tournament Format
The competition was structured around 8 gripping rounds, with each round featuring a single game among 7 players. The battles were intense, all totaled lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, pushing the players’ skills and strategies to the limit.
A Round to Remember: Attack from Mars
The spotlight shone bright on Round 2, which featured the iconic “Attack from Mars” by Bally, a pinball classic dating back to January 12, 1995. This game became the center of an unforgettable showdown with Ryan S. clinching the top spot, followed by the unranked yet impressively skilled Wally S., and Bob B., a notable player with a solid IFPA rank of 9556.
Honoring the Champions
The tournament culminated in a thrilling finale, crowning the following victors:
- Jacob S., stepping into the limelight as the champion despite being unranked in the IFPA.
- Ryan S., ranked 19193 in the IFPA, showcased remarkable talent across his 11th IFPA event.
- Bob C., another unranked contender, proved his mettle with a surprising third-place finish.
- Bob B., with a wealth of experience from 105 IFPA events, secured a respectable fourth place with his IFPA rank of 9556.
The Stars of the Show: Pinball Machines
The tournament was graced by an array of pinball machines, each with its unique flair. Highlights included:
- AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: A rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece that had players channeling their inner rockstars with its electrifying soundtrack and dynamic gameplay.
- Attack from Mars by Bally: The center of one of the tournament’s most memorable rounds, this machine is renowned for its engaging theme and challenging gameplay mechanics.
- Sharp Shooter II by Game Plan: A throwback to the golden era of pinball, offering a nostalgic yet challenging experience for players.
A Venue Pulsing with Energy
While the exact location remains a mystery, the atmosphere was undoubtedly charged with excitement and camaraderie. Wayne Saeger’s organizational prowess made for an event that will be remembered and talked about in the pinball community for a long time to come.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As we wrap up this post, a special thanks goes out to Wayne Saeger and the mysterious venue that hosted this spectacular event. Their efforts have not only contributed to the success of this tournament but have also enriched the vibrant tapestry of the pinball community.
Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!