In a day that felt like a wild ride through a pinball machine, the MF Quarterly pinball tournament lit up Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery on June 22, 2024. With 29 players battling through 13 intense rounds, the top 12 advanced to a nerve-wracking finals. The competition, orchestrated by the maestro Cary Carmichael, spanned over 7 hours, wrapping up just in time for a celebratory drink. With a cool 61°F and just a few clouds, the conditions were perfect for some heated pinball action.
A Pinball Haven: Lynn’s Arcade
Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, this place has it all: all-you-can-play pinball, a stellar selection of beers, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you wish you lived closer. The eclectic mix of new and vintage pinball machines, coupled with cupholders for your brew, sets the stage for an unforgettable pinball experience. For more details, check out their website.
TRON: Legacy Steals the Spotlight
The semifinals brought us an epic showdown on Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern, a game that mirrored the futuristic world of the movie. Tim Hansen, ranked 3rd in the state and 28th in the IFPA, showcased his prowess, taking first place after an astonishing 65 minutes. Harry Franklin, ranked 236th in the state, put up a valiant fight to claim second, while Nate King and Tyler Heath battled it out for third and fourth. This game was a true test of skill and endurance, highlighting the competitive spirit of pinball.
Pinball Machines in the Limelight
Among the 39 pinball machines, a few stood out for their unique designs and features:
- Rick and Morty (SE) by Spooky Pinball (2019): This machine brings the chaotic energy of the show to life with custom voiceovers and hilarious animations. It’s a fan favorite for its wild gameplay and immersive experience.
- John Wick (Pro) by Stern (2024): Fresh out of the gates, this machine captures the intense action of the John Wick series with fast-paced gameplay and stunning graphics. It’s a must-play for any action movie buff.
- Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun (2023): A magical journey awaits players with intricate mazes and whimsical challenges inspired by the beloved film. The artwork and sound effects are truly enchanting.
- Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (2023): Step into Tarantino’s world with this machine’s slick design and memorable quotes. The game is as stylish and unpredictable as the movie itself.
- Paragon by Bally (1979): A classic in every sense, Paragon’s wide-body format and challenging gameplay have kept it popular for decades. The fantasy-themed artwork is a nostalgic trip back in time.
Saluting the Champions
Congratulations to Dustin Goldbarg, who clinched the top spot with a State Rank of 31 and an impressive IFPA rank of 230. Tim Hansen took a well-earned second place, continuing to prove his mettle. Nate King’s third-place finish showed why he’s a force to be reckoned with, while Matthew Talley, from Seaside, secured fourth. Shoutouts to Nikki Carmichael, Harry Franklin, Kwang Chong, and Tyler Heath for rounding out the top eight. Your dedication and skills made this tournament unforgettable.
IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.65 |
| 2 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.98 | |
| 3 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 790.39 |
| 4 | Jason Zahler | 778.3 | |
| 5 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.78 |
| 6 | Nic Stein | Davis | 681.22 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.9 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.59 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.32 |
| 10 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 554.41 |
Wrapping Up the Fun
A big thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing a stellar event and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting us in such a fantastic venue. Everyone’s efforts made this tournament a smashing success. And to all the players, keep those flippers ready for the next round of pinball excitement. Don’t forget that epic TRON: Legacy game—it’s the stuff pinball legends are made of. Stay tuned for more thrilling recaps and updates!