On a cool, clear evening in San Francisco, the Free Gold Watch arcade came alive with the sounds of flippers, bells, and cheers as 68 players gathered for the SFPD Spring 2024 #8 tournament. Hosted by the San Francisco Pinball Dept., this event brought together some of the best pinball wizards in the region for a night of intense competition and camaraderie.

The Enchanted Venue: Free Gold Watch

Free Gold Watch, located in a charmingly remodeled house on Waller Street, is a pinball enthusiast’s dream. The arcade’s photogenic charm, combined with its collection of classic and modern machines, creates an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and electric. As players navigated through the thin corridors and cozy nooks, the air buzzed with excitement and friendly rivalry.

Flipping Through the Games: Tournament Highlights

The tournament format was straightforward yet grueling: one round with five games. The sheer variety of machines ensured that players had to be versatile and adapt quickly to different play styles and strategies.

A Marathon Match: Congo Steals the Spotlight

The standout game of the night took place on Congo by Williams, released in November 1995. This game, notorious for its complexity and long play times, lived up to its reputation. The match lasted an incredible 148 minutes, testing the endurance and skill of its participants.

1. Derek Lipkin from Mountain View emerged victorious, demonstrating remarkable patience and precision.
2. John Tracey from Salinas came in second, his high ranking evident in his consistent performance.
3. Zac Wollons from San Francisco secured third place, showing why he’s considered one of the best.
4. Brandy Thompson rounded out the group, her perseverance in this marathon match earning her respect and admiration.

Crowning the Champions: Tournament Winners

As the evening progressed and the final scores were tallied, the champions of the SFPD Spring 2024 #8 were announced:

1. Derek Lipkin IFPA rank 3023, with 136 total IFPA events. Derek’s experience and skill culminated in his well-deserved first-place finish.
2. Lawrence Aguiar IFPA rank 1344, with 73 total IFPA events. Lawrence’s strategic plays and solid performance earned him second place.
3. Yorick Henning, IFPA rank 7039, with 27 total IFPA events. Despite his lower ranking, Yorick’s impressive gameplay landed him in third place.
4. Gabe Da Silveira IFPA rank 87, with 113 total IFPA events. Gabe’s high ranking and extensive experience were evident as he secured fourth place.

Legends of the Arcade: Machine Highlights

The tournament featured 52 pinball machines, each with its own quirks and challenges. Here are five standout machines that added spice to the competition:

1. NBA Fastbreak by Bally (1997) – Known for its basketball-themed gameplay and fast-paced action, this machine kept players on their toes.
2. Royal Flush by Gottlieb (1976) – A vintage classic with a poker theme, it challenged players with its simple yet strategic design.
3. Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern (2023) – This modern machine, with its rocking soundtrack and innovative features, was a crowd favorite.
4. Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern (2019) – With its medieval theme and challenging multi-level playfield, it tested even the most skilled players.
5. Monster Bash (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming (2018) – A beloved classic, this machine’s combination of iconic monsters and fun gameplay made it a hit.

Gratitude and Farewell: Honoring the Organizers

A huge thank you to the San Francisco Pinball Dept. for organizing this incredible event and to Free Gold Watch for providing such a vibrant and welcoming venue. The dedication and hard work behind the scenes made this tournament a memorable experience for all involved.

Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the world of pinball. The next tournament is just around the corner, promising more excitement, strategy, and unforgettable moments.

On the clear, crisp evening of May 1, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California, for the MFLadies Pinball Spring Season #3. With 21 competitors and a thrilling format of five rounds, the tournament promised excitement, tension, and plenty of pinball wizardry.

Arcade Magic: The Venue Vibes

Lynn’s Arcade, aptly named “A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery,” offered the perfect setting for this electric evening. The atmosphere was charged with energy and camaraderie as players mingled, exchanged strategies, and shared their love for the game. The venue boasted an impressive collection of 35 pinball machines, new and old, each with its unique charm and challenges. Pinball enthusiasts could indulge in all-you-can-play pinball, complemented by beer served in cupholders conveniently attached to each machine—a detail that perfectly encapsulated the casual yet passionate spirit of the arcade.

Flipping Through the Rounds: Tournament Highlights

The tournament’s format—five rounds with one game per round—kept everyone on their toes. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Round 4, which featured a showdown on the iconic Radical! by Bally, released on January 9, 1990. The game saw fierce competition:

1. Linda G (IFPA rank 6871) clinched first place with a masterful performance, demonstrating her deep understanding of Radical!’s ramps and loops.
2. Nikki Carmichael (IFPA rank 2697), the organizer’s relative, secured second place, showcasing strategic play and a keen eye for bonuses.
3. Melina Meltzer (IFPA rank 6210) from California, with their calm demeanor and precise shots, finished third.
4. Lauren Hughes, although unranked, impressed everyone with her tenacity and skill.

Crowning the Pinball Wizards: Celebrating the Champions

As the final round concluded and the scores were tallied, the top players were announced and celebrated:

1. Sam Stanko (IFPA rank 2451) from Seaside, CA, took the crown. With 63 total IFPA events under her belt, her experience and prowess shone through as she navigated the machines with finesse.
2. Linda G (IFPA rank 6871), despite her lower ranking, proved that determination and skill could trump the odds, earning a well-deserved second place.
3. Nikki Carmichael (IFPA rank 2697), with an impressive 170 events, displayed consistency and expertise, securing third place.
4. Laura Masana (IFPA rank 4577) from CA, with 46 events, rounded out the top four, her strategic plays and calm under pressure earning her a spot among the champions.

Pinball Legends: Machine Highlights

The tournament featured a stellar lineup of pinball machines, each adding its flavor to the competition. Here are five standout machines:

1. JAWS (Pro) by Stern (2024) – The newest addition, with its dynamic design and thrilling shark-themed gameplay, kept players on edge.
2. Cherry Bell by Sonic (1978) – A classic, loved for its vintage feel and straightforward, addictive play style.
3. Abra Ca Dabra by Gottlieb (1975) – This machine’s magical theme and intricate playfield design enchanted players.
4. Dragonfist by Stern Electronics (1982) – Known for its martial arts theme and challenging gameplay, it tested even the most skilled players.
5. Demolition Man by Williams (1994) – With its fast-paced action and unique handles, it was a favorite among adrenaline junkies.

Gratitude and Farewell: Honoring the Organizers

A huge thank you to Cary Carmichael, the dedicated organizer who made the event possible, and to Lynn’s Arcade for providing such a vibrant and welcoming venue. For those who couldn’t attend, stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball—we promise there’s plenty more action to come!