The Match Play at Next Level tournament took place on a pleasantly clear evening of April 19, 2024, at the Next Level Pinball Museum in Hillsboro, Oregon. With 25 competitors in attendance, the event unfolded over three rounds, each consisting of two games, culminating in a total duration of approximately 2 and a half hours.
High Stakes on Johnny Mnemonic
The tournament kicked off with a highlight match on the Johnny Mnemonic pinball machine by Williams, a classic from January 1995. Billy Brown III showcased his skills by securing first place in this round, followed by Mitch McAffee, who impressively competed despite being unranked, with Gregorio Sicard Jr and Bill Brown also performing admirably.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament saw remarkable performances from the top contenders:
- Bill Volckening from Portland, Oregon, ranked 2870th, demonstrated great skill and consistency over his 352 IFPA events, earning him the top spot.
- Vincent Sperrazza, from Bremerton with an impressive rank of 247, brought his extensive experience from 415 IFPA events to secure second place.
- Billy Brown III, ranked 753rd, used his competitive edge from 187 IFPA events to claim the third position.
- Joseph Rembecki, impressively made it to fourth place, a notable achievement for an unranked player.
Spotlight on Notable Pinball Machines
The tournament featured an exciting array of 87 pinball machines, including:
- Barb Wire by Gottlieb: Known for its action-packed theme based on the movie, this machine challenges players with its dynamic playfield and unique multi-ball features.
- The Addams Family by Bally: One of the most popular pinball machines ever, it offers players a blend of whimsy and challenge with its iconic mansion that activates various modes.
- Heavy Metal by Stern: This machine, released in June 2020, draws players in with its rock music themes and innovative soundtracks coupled with engaging gameplay mechanics.
- Johnny Mnemonic by Williams: The machine that shined in the tournament, famous for its fast-paced action and intricate cybernetic hand gadget that tests player reflexes and strategy.
- Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams: Captivates players with its rich visuals and storytelling elements, where adventurers seek to rescue the Sultan’s daughter, adding layers of depth and intrigue to gameplay.
Next Level Pinball Museum: A Haven for Pinball Lovers
The Next Level Pinball Museum, located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR, is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub for pinball enthusiasts. Decorated with an eye for detail and maintained to the highest standards, the museum offers a fantastic array of pinball machines, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Appreciation for a Memorable Evening
A heartfelt thanks to Next Level Pinball for organizing such a smooth and engaging tournament and to the staff at Next Level Pinball Museum for maintaining a welcoming and immaculate environment. As the pinball scene continues to thrive, we look forward to bringing more news and stories from the exciting world of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates!