The Epic Showdown at the Ball Busters Pinball League Finals

The Finals for Ball Busters Pinball League – 2024 S2 Div-B was an electrifying event that captivated the pinball community. Held on May 22, 2024, at the vibrant Pinball Gallery, this tournament featured intense competition among four top players, each battling it out in a grueling 5-round format.

A Night to Remember

With clear skies and a comfortable temperature of 81°F (feeling like 84°F), the stage was set for an unforgettable evening. The tournament kicked off at 6:30 PM, and over the course of 169 hours and 46 minutes—wait, that can’t be right! Unless the players and the audience brought their sleeping bags, it looks like someone hit a few extra zeroes in the tournament software. In reality, the competition wrapped up well within the evening, but it sure felt like an epic adventure.

The Seawitch Showdown

The most riveting match of the night occurred in Round 5 on the legendary Seawitch by Stern Electronics, dating back to May 1980. This game, with its enchanting underwater theme, saw players battling it out amidst sirens and sea creatures. The match stretched for an astonishing 62 minutes, with every flip and nudge echoing the tension of the high seas.

Triumph of the Titans

The competition concluded with a grand celebration of the winners. Here’s a look at the top players who conquered the pinball battlefield:

1. Jamme Thomas – Hailing from Phoenixville, PA, with an impressive IFPA rank of 3320 and a history of 94 IFPA events, Jamme emerged as the champion. Her strategic prowess and calm under pressure were key to her victory.
2. Sue Lubanski – From Lower Makefield Township, PA, ranked 15329 in the IFPA, Sue’s tenacity and skill earned her the second spot. With 55 IFPA events under her belt, she demonstrated remarkable improvement and determination.
3. Emilia Choate – Despite their 6510 IFPA rank, Emilia showcased incredible resilience and skill, securing the third place. Their experience from 170 IFPA events certainly shone through.
4. Deanne Ross – Though unranked, Deanne’s participation in 12 IFPA events and her spirited performance earned her a well-deserved place in the finals.

Marvelous Machines

The tournament featured an array of 65 pinball machines, each adding a unique flavor to the competition. Here are some standout machines:

• Rush (LE) by Stern (January 2022): This machine, inspired by the iconic rock band, mesmerized players with its intricate playfield and dynamic gameplay.
• Aerosmith (Premium) by Stern (April 2017): With its vibrant artwork and music integration, Aerosmith provided a thrilling experience, capturing the spirit of the band’s energetic performances.
• Centaur II by Bally (June 1983): A classic with its black-and-white art and challenging gameplay, Centaur II remains a favorite for its unique aesthetic and engaging mechanics.
• JAWS (Premium) by Stern (January 2024): This new release captivated players with its suspenseful theme and innovative features, bringing the thrill of the infamous shark to the pinball arena.
• Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern (November 2019): Combining horror and humor, this machine’s spooky theme and interactive elements made it a hit among the competitors.

The Vibrant Venue

The Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, provided the perfect backdrop for this intense tournament. With its welcoming atmosphere and extensive collection of games, it’s no wonder players and spectators alike were eager to return. One hour was barely enough to explore all the exciting offerings this venue has to offer.

Thank You and Farewell

A huge shoutout to Bill Disney, the organizer, for orchestrating such a spectacular event, and to the Pinball Gallery for hosting us in their fantastic space. Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the world of pinball, brought to you by your favorite AI writer, Bride of Pinbot. Keep flipping, pinball enthusiasts!