Salamander Slam Jam: A Battle of Pinball Titans

June 13, 2024, was a night to remember in Austin, Texas, as 14 fierce competitors gathered for the Salamander Slam Jam, a pinball tournament like no other. Organized by the illustrious Ray Ford, the event spanned over an intense 8 hours, with players battling through three rounds of two games each. Let’s dive into the highlights, surprises, and unforgettable moments of this epic showdown.

Where Are We Again?

MatchPlay’s software may have missed the memo on the exact location, but who needs specifics when you’re in Austin? If you don’t know where you want to go why not check out the iconic Barton Springs Pool. This natural spring-fed swimming pool is a local favorite, offering a refreshing break from the Texas heat. Visitors can enjoy the cool, clear waters, lush surroundings, and a bit of respite before diving back into the high-stakes world of pinball.

Metallica Showdown: When Rock Legends Meet Pinball Pros

Round 3 witnessed an electrifying face-off on Stern’s Metallica (Premium) pinball machine. The game’s heavy metal theme set the perfect stage for the intense duel between Nikolas Poklitar, Keb Gallows, Grant Birdwell, and Tom Montana. As the players battled it out, the sound of Metallica’s iconic riffs filled the air, each flipper hit synchronized with the pounding rhythm of the music. The energy was palpable, with Nikolas emerging victorious, proving that he could master both the machine and the metal.

Spotlight on the Machines: Icons of Pinball Glory

The Addams Family (Bally, 1992) This classic machine features the quirky and macabre charm of the Addams Family. Players navigate through eerie mansion modes, guided by the ominous voice of Raul Julia as Gomez Addams. With its iconic “Thing” hand that grabs the ball and the ever-challenging “Mamushka” mode, this machine is a beloved staple in the pinball community.

Iron Man (Stern, 2010) Inspired by the Marvel superhero, Iron Man offers fast-paced gameplay with challenging modes based on key characters like Iron Monger and Whiplash. The game’s sleek design and immersive sound effects transport players into Tony Stark’s high-tech world, making it a favorite for both fans and competitors.

Creature from the Black Lagoon (Bally, 1992) Step into the 1950s drive-in theater with this beautifully themed machine. The game combines monster movie nostalgia with engaging features like the holographic “Creature” and a variety of multi-ball modes. It’s a visually stunning experience that keeps players coming back for more.

Guardians of the Galaxy (Stern, 2017) Join Star-Lord and his ragtag crew in this vibrant machine filled with scenes and music from the hit movie. The game features dynamic modes, including battles against Ronan the Accuser and the notorious Orb multi-ball. Its captivating playfield and soundtrack make it a standout in any tournament lineup.

Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure (Williams, 1993) Relive the adventures of Indiana Jones with this action-packed machine. Players embark on quests to retrieve artifacts, battle through traps, and face the ultimate challenge of the Holy Grail. The game’s intricate design and thrilling modes capture the spirit of the beloved film series.

Celebrating the Champions: The Top Contenders

• Taking the top spot at the Salamander Slam Jam was Victor Evans from Austin, TX, with an impressive IFPA rank of 2421. Despite his ranking, Victor demonstrated exceptional skill and composure throughout the tournament. His victory is a testament to his dedication and passion for pinball, proving that rankings can only tell part of the story. Victor’s ability to navigate the intense competition and challenging machines secured his well-deserved first-place finish.
• In second place, we have Nikolas Poklitar, also from Austin, TX, with an IFPA rank of 1518. Nikolas has participated in 129 IFPA events, and his experience was on full display during the tournament. His standout moment came during the fierce battle on Metallica (Premium), where his strategic gameplay and precise shots earned him a crucial victory. Nikolas’s performance solidified his status as a rising star in the pinball community.
• Ray Ford, the mastermind behind the Salamander Slam Jam, took third place with an impressive IFPA rank of 565. Hailing from Austin, TX, Ray’s extensive experience, with 326 IFPA events under his belt, made him a formidable competitor. Balancing the dual roles of organizer and player, Ray showcased his deep understanding of the game and the community. His achievement in securing a top-three finish while managing the event highlights his exceptional talent and dedication.
• Rounding out the top four is Keb Gallows, with an IFPA rank of 2168. Despite having fewer events (83) compared to his fellow competitors, Keb’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. His determination and strategic gameplay during the tournament earned him a well-deserved place among the top contenders. Keb’s journey through the tournament exemplifies the spirit of pinball competition, where passion and perseverance can lead to great achievements.

Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Closing Thoughts: A Salute to Skill and Community

A huge thank you to Ray Ford for orchestrating such a memorable event and to all the participants for their incredible performances. The Salamander Slam Jam was a thrilling testament to the passion and camaraderie within the pinball community. Congratulations to all the winners, and a special nod to Ray Ford for making it into the Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings. Keep following for more thrilling updates from the pinball world!