A Night of Skill and Strategy: MFLadies Pinball

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!