Setting the Scene at Wormhole
On a pleasantly warm evening of April 13, 2024, with the skies only partially obscured by clouds, the Space City Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals unfolded at Wormhole, located at 2017 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX. As the doors opened at 5:00 PM, enthusiasts and competitors alike stepped into an electrifying atmosphere charged with anticipation and the distinct, animated sounds of pinball machines in active contest.
Strategic Play and Standout Moments
The tournament was tightly formatted with four players competing in three games over a single round lasting nearly four hours. A notable highlight was the intense showdown on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) machine. Alice Young, wielding an impressive IFPA rank of 1822, showcased a blend of sharp reflexes and strategic nudging that outplayed her competitors, including the formidable Tracy Abrahams from Texas and the ever-consistent Elizabeth Dronet from Space City.
Featured Pinball Machines: Blending Art and Mechanics
Among the 19 pinball machines, a few stood out not just for their gameplay but also for their unique designs:
- Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball, which combines modern technology with classic pinball layout, captivated players with its sophisticated software and engaging missions.
- Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, the latest from Barrels of Fun, intrigued with its enchanting artwork and complex playfield, bringing the beloved movie to life.
- James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern offered espionage-themed excitement with gadgets and missions fit for a secret agent.
- Warlok and Barracora by Williams threw back to the early ’80s with their mystical themes and challenging gameplay, drawing in both nostalgia enthusiasts and new players.
Crowning the Champions
The fierce competition culminated in a dramatic final tally:
- Alice Young, triumphing as the tournament champion, showed why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball community, adding this victory to her portfolio of 128 IFPA events.
- Tracy Abrahams, who employs a calm, methodical approach to gameplay, secured second place, reflecting their growing prowess over 162 events.
- Elizabeth Dronet, a seasoned player with 383 events, demonstrated consistency and skill to claim third place.
- Veronica Seymour, despite being relatively new to the scene with only 7 IFPA events, made an admirable showing in fourth place.
A Heartfelt Thanks
As the night wound down, the energy of the competition gently settled into shared stories of narrow misses and spectacular wins. A special thanks goes to Space City Pinball, the organizers who not only put together a seamless event but also fostered a community where camaraderie and competitive spirit thrive together. And to Wormhole, for hosting an unforgettable evening of pinball wizardry.
Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the dynamic world of pinball!