Pins & Pirates League: Season #3 – #7 Takes Anaheim by Storm!

Setting Sail at Captain’s Arcade Showroom

On the clear evening of May 6, 2024, 26 enthusiastic pinball players gathered at the renowned Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim, CA, for the latest installment of the Pins & Pirates League: Season #3 – #7. With a comfortable temperature of 66°F, the atmosphere was perfect for an evening of intense pinball action. Organized by the ever-energetic CC Castaneda, this event featured a single round with 5 games, making every flip and tilt count.

Shark-infested Waters: The JAWS Match Showdown

The highlight of the evening came in the first round on the thrilling JAWS (Premium/LE) pinball machine by Stern, released on January 4, 2024. The game’s theme perfectly captured the tension and excitement as players navigated the perilous waters. Dennis Eichhorn emerged victorious, showing his prowess and strategic skill. Jonathan Soon, from SoCal, was a close second, while CC Castaneda herself battled fiercely to secure third place.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

As the final scores were tallied, it was time to honor the top players of the night. Here are the champions who made their mark:

  1. Paul Xavier, IFPA rank 1840, Total IFPA Events 105
    • Paul’s experience and skill earned him the top spot, proving his mettle against a competitive field.
  2. Johnny Modica, IFPA rank 73, Total IFPA Events 456
    • With a high ranking and extensive event participation, Johnny’s second-place finish was a testament to his consistent excellence.
  3. Robert Potter, IFPA rank 781, Total IFPA Events 91
    • Robert’s third-place finish showcased his ability to perform under pressure and his deep understanding of the game.
  4. Fred Leininger, IFPA Unranked
    • Fred’s impressive performance, despite being unranked, highlighted his potential and skill in the world of pinball.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Spotlight

Captain’s Arcade Showroom boasted an impressive collection of 49 pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and features. Here are five standout machines that captured the players’ and spectators’ imaginations:

  • Jungle Queen by Gottlieb (Released July 01, 1977): This classic machine, with its vibrant jungle theme and challenging gameplay, brought a nostalgic touch to the tournament.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern (Released December 15, 2020): Rocking out to Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits, this machine’s dynamic playfield and thrilling modes were a crowd favorite.
  • Future Spa by Bally (Released March 20, 1979): With its futuristic design and innovative features, Future Spa offered a unique and engaging pinball experience.
  • Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern (Released April 01, 2018): Featuring the legendary band Iron Maiden, this machine combined fast-paced action with intricate playfield elements, making it a hit among players.
  • Torpedo Alley by Data East (Released January 08, 1988): Known for its exciting naval theme and challenging gameplay, Torpedo Alley kept players on their toes with its strategic multiball modes.

Captain’s Arcade Showroom: A Pinball Paradise

Located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92807, Captain’s Arcade Showroom is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The venue’s great selection of pinball machines, coupled with its welcoming atmosphere, made it the perfect setting for this thrilling tournament. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, Captain’s Arcade Showroom offers a fantastic environment to enjoy the classic game of pinball.

Thanks and What’s Next

A huge thank you to CC Castaneda for organizing this fantastic event and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing such an amazing venue. Stay tuned for more updates and coverage from the exciting world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and the scores climbing!

Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 5/6: A Pinball Battle Royale!

The Ultimate Pinball Showdown at Tik Tok’s Workshop

On the brisk, overcast evening of May 6, 2024, Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, hosted an electrifying pinball tournament: Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 5/6. With the temperature hovering at a cool 50°F, nine avid players gathered for a Group Knockout Tournament featuring the Fair Strikes system. The competition was fierce as players faced elimination after accumulating 7 strikes over the course of 9 intense rounds.

Racing Through Round 8: Grand Prix’s Thrilling Match

The excitement peaked in Round 8 on the vintage Grand Prix pinball machine by Williams, released on December 1, 1976. This round transported players back to the fast-paced world of Formula One racing, where precision and strategy are key. Michael Serna took the checkered flag, expertly navigating the twists and turns to secure first place. Andrew McCann raced to a close second, followed by Donovan Haga and Gocelyn Morgado, who demonstrated remarkable skill and tenacity on the classic machine.

Champions in the Spotlight

As the final round concluded, it was time to celebrate the top performers of the night. Here are the tournament’s shining stars:

  1. Andrew McCann, IFPA rank 764, Total IFPA Events 570
    • Andrew’s high ranking and extensive experience made him a formidable contender, earning him the top spot in this thrilling competition.
  2. Donovan Haga, from Bremerton, IFPA rank 1863, Total IFPA Events 143
    • Donovan’s strategic play and local knowledge helped him secure a well-deserved second place.
  3. Michael Serna, IFPA rank 7450, Total IFPA Events 57
    • Michael’s standout performance in Round 8 on Grand Prix showcased his potential, earning him third place overall.
  4. Gocelyn Morgado, from Bremerton, WA, IFPA rank 5968, Total IFPA Events 131
    • Gocelyn’s consistent performance and dedication to the game landed her in the top four, an impressive achievement in this competitive field.

Pinball Machines That Lit Up the Tournament

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 15 pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and thrills. Here are five that particularly stood out:

  • Icarus by Recel (Released September 01, 1977): This machine’s vibrant artwork and mythological theme made it a nostalgic favorite, reminiscent of classic arcade days.
  • Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams (Released January 01, 1993): Featuring intricate missions and voice clips from the TV series, this machine provided an immersive experience that was out of this world.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming (Released October 01, 2018): A modern twist on a classic, this game’s interactive features and spectacular light show were a hit among players.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern (Released July 01, 2021): With its cutting-edge design and captivating gameplay, this machine drew crowds and challenged even the most seasoned players.
  • Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball (Released January 01, 2017): Known for its fast-paced action and unique soundtrack, this machine kept players on their toes with its high-energy gameplay.

Nostalgia and Fun at Tik Tok’s Workshop

Located at 1216 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA 98310, Tik Tok’s Workshop is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The venue’s cool selection of pinball machines evokes nostalgia, bringing back cherished memories from childhood. Alongside the pinball action, visitors enjoyed classic arcade games like Galaga and even a fun bowling game. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and the eclectic mix of games made it the perfect setting for an unforgettable tournament.

A Big Thanks and What’s Next

A big thank you to Richard Godwin for organizing this fantastic event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for hosting it in their unique venue. Stay tuned for more updates and coverage from the thrilling world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and the scores climbing!

Player 1 Arcade 2024: A Night to Remember!

The Pinball Showdown at Player 1 Arcade

On the warm evening of May 6, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at the renowned Player 1 Arcade in Surprise, AZ, for the highly anticipated Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 4 (#1) tournament. With a clear sky and a comfortable temperature of 83°F, the stage was set for a thrilling night of competition. Organized by the dedicated Jim Smith, the event promised excitement with its format of 5 rounds, 1 game per round, featuring 27 skilled players.

Guardians of the Galaxy: The Epic Battle of Round 5

Round 5 saw an unforgettable clash on the iconic Guardians of the Galaxy pinball machine by Stern, released on November 1, 2017. Players battled through the cosmic adventures of Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, with every flipper hit and multiball frenzy echoing the movie’s thrilling escapades. Emerging victorious was Jeremy Reiman from Peoria, AZ, whose strategic mastery of the game’s unique modes and features earned him the top spot in this round. Following closely were Crystal De La O, Mark Pearson, and Juan Gonzalez, each demonstrating impressive skill in their own right.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament concluded with a celebratory cheer for the top performers. Here’s a closer look at the champions:

  1. Mark Pearson, IFPA rank 49, Total IFPA Events 587
    • Mark’s experience and high ranking shone through as he clinched the first place, showcasing his deep understanding of pinball dynamics.
  2. Alyssa De La O, from Phoenix, AZ, IFPA rank 4516, Total IFPA Events 73
    • Alyssa’s climb to second place is a testament to her growing prowess in the pinball community.
  3. Mike McClure, from Glendale, AZ, IFPA rank 1481, Total IFPA Events 133
    • Mike’s consistent performance and strategic gameplay earned them a well-deserved third place.
  4. Jeremy Reiman, from Peoria, AZ, IFPA rank 5052, Total IFPA Events 25
    • Jeremy’s impressive win in the Guardians of the Galaxy game helped secure his spot among the top contenders.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured a stellar lineup of 17 pinball machines, each with its own unique charm. Here are five standout machines that captivated players and spectators alike:

  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (Released May 11, 2021): This game’s dynamic playfield and immersive themes from the hit TV series provided an engaging experience for all.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern (Released December 15, 2020): Rocking to the tunes of Led Zeppelin, this machine’s vibrant design and electrifying gameplay were a hit.
  • Black Pyramid by Bally (Released July 01, 1984): A classic that brought a nostalgic touch to the tournament with its retro design and challenging layout.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern (Released January 01, 2022): Celebrating the legendary rock band Rush, this machine offered high-speed action and intricate features that kept players on their toes.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams (Released May 01, 1996): Known for its beautiful artwork and enchanting theme, this machine was a favorite among many participants.

The Perfect Venue: Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade proved to be the ideal venue for this exciting tournament. Located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, Surprise, AZ 85374, this spot is known for its welcoming atmosphere. It’s a fantastic local hangout where friends can enjoy a beer, engage in friendly conversations, and relish in the nostalgic ambiance. The collection of pinball games is diverse and meticulously maintained, making it a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The owner’s warmth and hospitality added a personal touch that made the event even more special.

A Big Thank You and What’s Next

A heartfelt thank you to Jim Smith for organizing such a fantastic tournament and to Player 1 Arcade for providing the perfect venue. Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball as we continue to bring you the latest and greatest from pinball tournaments across the United States.

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!

Pinball Excitement at Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday

A Night to Remember: Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday (5/6/24)

On May 6, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Free Play Arlington for an electrifying evening of competition. The event, starting at 7:00 PM, featured 26 players battling it out over 5 rounds, with one game per round. The top 8 advanced to the Finals, which consisted of 2 intense rounds. The entire tournament lasted 2 hours and 30 minutes under overcast skies with a warm 81°F temperature. Kudos to organizer Chris Delp for putting together such an exciting event. For more details, visit Free Play Arlington Pinball.

Shark Attack: The JAWS Semifinal Showdown

The semifinals brought an unforgettable match on JAWS (Pro) by Stern, released on January 4, 2024. Just like the terrifying thrill of the movie, the game kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX, took the top spot, displaying impeccable skill. Garrett Shahan followed closely, with Boss Hernandez from Dallas and Savannah Archuleta from Corinth, TX, adding to the suspense and excitement.

Crown the Champions: Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday Winners

Let’s congratulate the top players who showcased their pinball prowess:

  1. David Whitlock from Flower Mound, TX (IFPA rank 1122) – With 168 IFPA events, David’s experience earned him the championship title.
  2. Garrett Shahan (IFPA rank 102) – Garrett’s consistent performance secured him a well-deserved second place in his 168th event.
  3. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX (IFPA rank 982) – Randy’s impressive gameplay landed him in third place in his 64th event.
  4. Tom George from The Colony, TX (IFPA rank 1067) – Tom’s strategic play earned him fourth place in his 125th event.
  5. Greg Gibson from Plano, TX (IFPA rank 1222) – Greg’s skills secured him fifth place in his 64th event.
  6. Boss Hernandez from Dallas (IFPA rank 1470) – Boss’s competitive spirit earned them sixth place in their 67th event.
  7. Michael Hew from Texas (IFPA rank 3321) – Michael’s rising talent was evident as he secured seventh place in his 17th event.
  8. Savannah Archuleta from Corinth, TX (IFPA rank 2311) – Savannah’s consistent gameplay earned them eighth place in their 149th event.

Pinball Machines That Shined

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 25 pinball machines. Here are five that stood out:

  • Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (released December 01, 1992): A classic game with a captivating theme and stunning holographic effects.
  • The Munsters (Premium) by Stern (released January 01, 2019): Step into the spooky world of The Munsters with vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay.
  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern (released January 01, 2012): Rock out with AC/DC’s greatest hits while navigating fast-paced pinball action.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (released May 11, 2021): Embark on an intergalactic adventure with Baby Yoda and the Mandalorian in this exciting pinball machine.
  • Iron Man (Vault) by Stern (released January 01, 2014): Experience the thrill of Iron Man’s battles with immersive gameplay and dynamic features.

Free Play Arlington: A Pinball Haven

Free Play Arcade – Arlington, located at 400 East South Street, Arlington, TX, provided the perfect venue for this pinball extravaganza. Visiting for the Metallica show, I decided to check out this highly recommended spot. The venue did not disappoint, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane with classic games from my teenage years and a fantastic beer selection. For more information, visit Free Play Arlington.

Thank You and Stay Tuned

A big thank you to Chris Delp for organizing this fantastic tournament and to Free Play Arlington for hosting us in their wonderful venue. Stay tuned for more updates and exciting events from the world of pinball!