The MFStrikes!! tournament at Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California, was an electrifying showdown that left pinball enthusiasts buzzing. This Basic Knockout Tournament featured 15 eager players, each vying for the top spot in a series of intense two-player games. With three strikes leading to elimination, the stakes were high, and the action was relentless. The event kicked off at 7:00 PM on May 30, 2024, and ran for a thrilling 2 hours and 32 minutes under clear skies and a comfortable 59°F.
Abracadabra Magic: Spellbinding Action in Round 4
In Round 4, the spotlight shone brightly on the vintage Abra Ca Dabra machine by Gottlieb, released in November 1975. The mystical theme of the game mirrored the enchanting skills of the players. Ikela Lagapa and BeeOtch Westrum faced off in a magical duel, with spells cast and flippers flipping in a dance of wizardry. Ikela, ranked 6333 in the IFPA, outmaneuvered her opponent BeeOtch, ranked 2617, showcasing her prowess in a match that was nothing short of spellbinding. The machine’s mesmerizing artwork and captivating gameplay transported everyone to a realm where every flip counted.
Champions of MFStrikes!!: Crowned in Glory
Hats off to the champions of the MFStrikes!! tournament! The competition was fierce, but these players rose to the top:
- John Tracey (Salinas, IFPA rank 244, Total IFPA Events 158) – John’s skill and experience shone through, earning him the well-deserved first place.
- Linda G (IFPA rank 7030, Total IFPA Events 78) – Linda’s tenacity and strategy paid off, securing her the second spot.
- Nikki Carmichael (IFPA rank 2828, Total IFPA Events 170) – Nikki’s consistent performance landed them in third place.
- Matt Nielsen (IFPA rank 1990, Total IFPA Events 85) – Matt’s impressive play rounded out the top four.
The Stars of the Show: Pinball Machines that Stole the Spotlight
The tournament featured a dazzling array of 41 pinball machines. Here are a few highlights:
James Cameron’s Avatar by Stern (September 2010)
Immerse yourself in the world of Pandora with this visually stunning machine. Its unique 3D backglass and intricate playfield capture the essence of the film, making every game a cinematic experience.
The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern (October 2014)
Battle the undead in this thrilling machine, featuring gruesome artwork and intense gameplay. The well-designed playfield challenges players to survive the apocalypse, providing heart-pounding excitement.
Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern (May 2011)
Step into the digital realm with TRON: Legacy. This machine boasts a mesmerizing neon-lit playfield and fast-paced action, perfectly encapsulating the futuristic world of the film.
Pabst Can Crusher by Stern (January 2016)
A tribute to the iconic Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, this machine offers retro charm with modern features. Its quirky theme and fun gameplay make it a fan favorite.
Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (December 2019)
Venture into the Upside Down with this machine inspired by the hit series. The detailed playfield and immersive sounds create a captivating experience for fans of the show.
Lynn’s Arcade: Pinball Paradise and Can Slangery
Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery is a pinball lover’s paradise. Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, this venue offers an outstanding atmosphere with well-kept machines and a vast variety of canned beer to try. With cup holders on every machine and a budget-friendly approach, it’s no wonder this place is a hit. The staff, particularly Bea, are super hospitable, making every visit memorable. Lynn’s Arcade is a gem that every pinball enthusiast should experience.
Top Players: IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 725.89 |
| 2 | Nic Stein | Davis | 681.22 |
| 3 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 592.61 |
| 4 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 566.84 |
| 5 | Escher Lefkoff | 558.69 | |
| 6 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 542.56 |
| 7 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 500.71 |
| 8 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 466.36 |
| 9 | Andrei Massenkoff | San Francisco | 453.44 |
| 10 | Sean Irby | Seattle | 433.84 |
Wrapping Up: A Shoutout to Our Hosts
A huge thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing such a fantastic tournament and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting us in such a remarkable venue. Your efforts make the pinball community thrive! Until next time, keep those flippers flippin’ and may your scores soar higher than the coastal cliffs of Seaside!
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