Pinball Gallery’s John Wick Premium Launch Party

In the dark, neon-lit world of pinball, legends are born, and battles are fought. On June 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM, thirty brave warriors gathered for the John Wick Premium Launch Party OPEN Tournament. Each player faced ten intense head-to-head games, all vying for a coveted spot in the top 8. Only the best moved on to the finals, where every game was a duel to the finish. This 2.5-hour showdown took place at the legendary Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA. The clear skies and a scorching 92°F set the scene for an epic evening of pinball warfare.

Pinball Gallery: The Continental of Pinball

The Pinball Gallery, at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, Malvern, PA, is no ordinary clandestine location; it’s the Continental of the pinball world. A place where pinball masters and novices alike come to test their mettle. My friend, a regular at this sanctuary, was caught off guard when a surprise birthday party was planned here. The staff, with their unmatched dedication, ensured the celebration was nothing short of legendary. The Pinball Gallery is where memories are forged in the heat of pinball battle.

Machines of Destiny: The Pinball Warriors

The battlefield was lined with a variety of classic and modern pinball machines. Among the most revered was Aztec by Williams, released in July 1976. This machine features a vibrant, Aztec-themed artwork that transports players to an ancient world. Its unique layout includes a spinning target and dual flippers, challenging players to perfect their aim and timing. With five games played, it was clear that Aztec’s nostalgic charm and engaging gameplay made it a favorite among competitors.

Another standout was Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern, released in November 2019. This machine captivated players with its spooky theme and immersive playfield. One of its standout features is the interactive Elvira toy, which comments on the player’s performance, adding a layer of humor to the eerie atmosphere. The game’s complexity lies in its multiple ramps, hidden passages, and the Crypt multi-ball feature, which tests players’ skills and keeps them on their toes. Elvira’s House of Horrors had the longest average game duration, around 18 minutes, a testament to its depth and the players’ determination to master its challenges.

Icons of the Arcade: Machine Reviews

In the heart of the tournament, the machines themselves were as much the stars as the players. These pinball titans brought their own unique challenges and thrills, each with special features that kept competitors on their toes. Here’s a closer look at some of the remarkable pinball machines that defined this epic showdown:

• Mata Hari by Bally (1977): A classic beauty, Mata Hari’s intricate artwork and challenging gameplay make it a perennial favorite. Its straightforward layout hides a game of skill and precision, with perfectly timed shots to hit the saucer and drop targets for maximum points.
• Centaur II by Bally (1983): This machine stands out with its striking black-and-white design and multi-ball feature, inspired by Bally’s 1956 ‘Balls-A-Poppin’. The “Say it Again” reverb card adds a unique auditory experience, echoing the game’s commands and adding to the intensity of play.
• Paragon by Bally (1979): Paragon’s expansive playfield and fantasy-themed artwork transport players to another world. The machine’s intricate layout includes a challenging upper playfield and a deadly Beast’s Lair, where precision is key to avoiding the drain.
• Mustang (Premium) by Stern (2014): Celebrating the iconic car, this machine combines high-speed gameplay with features like the “Gear Shift” multi-ball. Players race to complete modes and rack up points, with a dynamic soundtrack keeping the adrenaline pumping.
• Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern (2020): This machine is a rock concert encapsulated in pinball form. With an immersive audio experience featuring Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits, players navigate ramps and targets to build up multipliers and unleash the frenzy of multi-ball play.
• Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern (2023): A tribute to the legendary rock band, this machine features fast-paced gameplay with numerous ramps, spinners, and drop targets. The band’s music and custom callouts make each game feel like a live concert experience.
• Mars God of War by Gottlieb (1981): Known for its captivating artwork and thrilling gameplay, this machine challenges players with its wide-body design. Special features include the rotating target bank and the unique multi-level playfield, which test both skill and strategy.
• Earthshaker by Williams (1989): This machine shakes up the pinball experience with its innovative earthquake feature. Players must navigate the shaking playfield to hit targets and ramps, simulating the tremors of a real earthquake and adding a dynamic twist to the game.

The Masters of the Table: Tournament Champions

As the dust settled and the sounds of clinking pinballs faded, eight champions emerged from the fierce competition, each showcasing their incredible skills and unwavering determination. Here’s a closer look at the victors of the John Wick Premium Launch Party OPEN Tournament:

1. Don Werth – A strategic mastermind with an IFPA rank of 2784, Don claimed victory with four impressive wins. With 24 events under his belt, he navigated the tournament with precision and grace, earning the top spot in this epic showdown.
2. Kevin Lubanski – With the highest number of wins in the tournament, Kevin’s five victories were a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. Ranked 5435 in the IFPA, Kevin’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing his prowess across 41 total events.
3. Jason Wissmann – Hailing from Greater Philadelphia, Jason fought his way to third place with six hard-earned wins. Despite a modest IFPA rank of 6666, Jason’s tenacity and skill in just 11 events made him a formidable competitor and a standout player of the night.
4. Connor Smith – Connor’s five victories earned him a solid fourth place. With an IFPA rank of 9959 and 13 events to his name, Connor proved that determination and skill could overcome any challenge in this high-stakes tournament.
5. Cliff Albert – As the most experienced player among the top contenders, Cliff brought his wealth of knowledge from 202 events to the table. Ranked 339 in the IFPA, his five wins showcased his deep understanding of the game and his ability to stay cool under pressure.
6. Joe Serianni – In his debut event, Joe made a striking impression with five victories, despite being unranked in the IFPA. His fresh perspective and raw talent added a thrilling dynamic to the competition, proving that new blood can shake up the leaderboard.
7. Gabe Patterson – With an IFPA rank of 11588 and 85 events to his name, Gabe’s five wins highlighted his consistent performance and dedication to the game. His strategic play and experience were evident in every match, earning him a well-deserved spot in the top ranks.
8. Keith Saroka – Rounding out the top eight, Keith’s five wins, with a crucial 5-point adjustment, demonstrated his sharp focus and adaptability. Ranked 3657 in the IFPA and with 48 events behind him, Keith’s journey to the finals was marked by skillful play and tactical expertise.

The Elite Circle: IFPA Pennsylvania Pinball Top 10

Wrapping Up the Showdown: Kudos to the Heroes

A standing ovation to Bill Disney, the mastermind behind the tournament, and the incredible team at Pinball Gallery for orchestrating such a flawless event. Their dedication turned the John Wick Premium Launch Party OPEN Tournament into an unforgettable saga. Special thanks to the staff for creating a battleground worthy of legends.

Stay tuned for more pinball tales and epic showdowns from the heart of Malvern. Until next time, keep those flippers sharp and your scores ever higher—just like John Wick would!