Spectacular Showdown at the JAWS Launch Party

In a scene that could have been lifted straight from a Steven Spielberg epic, the JAWS launch party at Last Level unfolded with the drama and intensity of a blockbuster film. Directed by the meticulous organizer Joe Wade, this pinball tournament brought together 13 skilled players in a riveting display of arcade prowess.

Dive into the Deep: The Tournament’s Structure

Set against the mysterious backdrop of an undisclosed location on April 28, 2024, the event kicked off at 12:30 PM and ran for a thrilling 3 hours. Players battled through 5 intense rounds, with each round consisting of a single game. The top 8 contenders then advanced to the finals, facing off in 3 gripping rounds where the stakes were higher than ever.

JAWS: The Main Attraction

At the heart of this cinematic spectacle was the JAWS (Premium) machine by Stern, a newcomer to the pinball world having made its debut on January 2024. This machine proved to be the ultimate battleground in Round 3, hosting a marathon game that lasted an astonishing 63 minutes. The scene was nothing short of a Spielberg thriller, with Sterling Mitoska emerging victorious, followed by Brian Keillor, Dylan Cook, and Isaiah Bingham.

The Champions of the Arena

1. Sterling Mitoska: Hailing from Brooklyn, MI, and holding an impressive IFPA rank of 115, Sterling’s victory after participating in 177 IFPA events was a testament to skill and experience.
2. Brian Keillor: With a diverse background and a rank of 706, Brian’s performance after 133 events showcased a formidable blend of strategy and finesse.
3. Dylan Cook: A newcomer to the IFPA circuit, Dylan’s debut was marked by a commendable third-place finish.
4. Isaiah Bingham: From Ann Arbor, MI, and ranked 6854, Isaiah’s journey from 18 events to a top finish was a narrative of rising talent.
5. Henry Palmer: Though unranked, Henry’s adjustment of 5 points highlighted his potential in the competitive pinball landscape.

A Tour of the Machines

The tournament featured an ensemble of pinball machines each with its own story:

• JAWS (Premium): The star of the tournament, this machine captivated players with its immersive gameplay and intricate design, reflecting the suspense and thrill of Spielberg’s iconic film.
• Venom (Premium): Released on July 15, 2023, Venom brought a superhero twist to the tournament with its dynamic playfield and engaging mechanics.
• Godzilla (Premium): Since its release on September 14, 2021, Godzilla has been a favorite for its colossal battles and city-smashing features.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Premium): A nod to nostalgia, this machine, since June 1, 2020, offered players a slice of action with the beloved heroes in a half-shell.
• Jurassic Park (Premium): Another Spielberg-inspired adventure, this machine, from October 1, 2019, let players rescue dinosaurs and escape the island in thrilling fashion.

Closing Credits

As the curtain falls on this cinematic spectacle, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Joe Wade and the mysterious venue that hosted this unforgettable tournament. Stay tuned for more updates from the thrilling world of pinball, where every flipper’s action can lead to the next great adventure!