On June 4, 2024, the pinball community gathered at The Pinball Lounge at Oviedo Bowling Center for the much-anticipated Bonanza tournament. With clear skies and a balmy 85°F, the event was set for a night of thrilling pinball action. Twelve players competed in six rounds, each showcasing their skills on a variety of classic and modern pinball machines.
Godzilla Unleashed: Round 1 Showdown
The first round of the tournament erupted with an explosive showdown on Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, released in September 2021. This machine, inspired by the king of monsters, set the stage for an electrifying battle. Mike Zink, ranked 2343, channeled their inner Godzilla, dominating the playfield with monstrous skill and precision to secure first place. Anton Samilian, ranked 4357, played with remarkable finesse, earning a solid second place. John Osborne, with an IFPA rank of 5366, held his ground to capture third, showcasing his strategic understanding of the game. Sheri Lewis, ranked 12286, showed incredible resilience and enthusiasm, finishing fourth. The Godzilla machine, with its stunning visuals and immersive sound effects, created an unforgettable experience, making this round a thrilling kickoff to the tournament.
Celebrating Our Pinball Heroes
We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who came out and participated in this incredible event. The competition was fierce, and the camaraderie was even stronger. Here are the top finishers of the night:
- Garrett Smoke – IFPA rank 2045, with a total of 61 IFPA events under his belt, showcased his extensive experience and skill. Garrett’s outstanding performance in this tournament solidifies his position as one of Florida’s top players, currently ranked 10th in the state.
- Al Neumann – IFPA rank 1444, having competed in 318 events, brought a wealth of knowledge and strategic play to the table. Al’s dedication to the sport is evident in his vast tournament experience, making him a formidable competitor.
- Anton Samilian – IFPA rank 4357, with 55 events, proved his rising talent and determination. Anton’s impressive third-place finish highlights his rapid ascent in the pinball rankings, showcasing his potential to climb even higher.
- Nick Smith FL – IFPA rank 2595, participating in 96 events, demonstrated his consistent performance and expertise. Nick’s nearly 100 events underscore his steady presence in the pinball community, always a strong contender.
Marvelous Machines: The Stars of the Show
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 32 different machines. Here are a few standouts:
- Rush (LE) by Stern (January 2022): This machine’s intricate design and fast-paced gameplay kept players on their toes. With its custom sculpted clockwork angels, concert footage, and iconic Rush songs, it was a hit among music and pinball fans alike.
- Medieval Madness by Williams (June 1997): A fan favorite, known for its whimsical theme and engaging mechanics. Players loved the interactive castle that can be destroyed, the trolls that pop up, and the hilarious voice call-outs that added a fun twist to the medieval battles.
- Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (August 2018): With its humorous take on the Marvel character, this game offered both fun and challenge. The dynamic playfield features a katana sword ramp, a custom molded Deadpool figurine, and colorful comic book-style artwork that brought the Merc with a Mouth to life.
- Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern (January 2016): The classic TV series theme, combined with modern gameplay, made it a hit. The rotating Batcave turntable, the Batphone, and the vibrant artwork featuring Adam West and Burt Ward created an immersive experience that delighted fans of the iconic show.
- Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (April 2019): This machine’s vibrant visuals and immersive experience delighted players. With its Everlasting Gobstopper, Wonkavator Super Jackpot, and beautifully detailed playfield, it captured the whimsical essence of the beloved movie.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE) by Chicago Gaming (November 2021): Known for its Wild West theme, it provided a unique and entertaining challenge. Players enjoyed the animated bad guys, the detailed train robbery scenes, and the humorous dialogue that added a fun narrative to the game.
- Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (December 2019): The eerie, nostalgic theme captured the attention of many players. The game featured a magnetic Demogorgon bash toy, hidden Eleven’s telekinesis ramp, and UV light-up effects that transported players to the mysterious world of Hawkins.
The Ultimate Pinball Venue
The Pinball Lounge is undoubtedly the best pinball spot in the Orlando area. With well-maintained machines and great play deals for singles, timed, or unlimited coin drops, it’s a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 376 E Broadway Street, Oviedo, FL, this venue offers an unbeatable atmosphere for both casual and competitive play. During my visit, I was compelled to return twice, unable to resist the lure of the perfectly curated pinball experience.
Florida’s Finest: IFPA Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shannon Stafford | Orange Park | 246.34 |
| 2 | Eric Stone | Fort Myers | 171.29 |
| 3 | Adam Gray | Temple Terrace | 168.11 |
| 4 | Vince Gelormine | Fort Lauderdale | 133.42 |
| 5 | Sebastian Bobbio | 126.33 | |
| 6 | Dan Coyle | St. Petersburg | 115.21 |
| 7 | Tristan Stafford | Orange Park | 113.05 |
| 8 | David Miller FL | Tampa | 101.52 |
| 9 | Joel Cohen | Miami | 85.8 |
| 10 | Garrett Smoke | Orlando | 75.84 |
Wrapping Up the Night of Pinball Glory
A huge shout-out to Kurt van Zyl for organizing such a fantastic event and to The Pinball Lounge for hosting us in their top-notch venue. The first round on Godzilla was a highlight, setting the tone for an evening of exceptional pinball play. Thanks to everyone who came out, and we look forward to more pinball excitement in the future!
Stay tuned for more recaps and updates from the pinball world!