In the vibrant world of pinball, the Pinsomniacs Pinball Golden Ticket to Pinburgh GMP 24 was an electrifying event that kept enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. Held at Tepey’s Taps & Tacos on June 1, 2024, this tournament brought together 48 top-notch players for an intense 12 rounds of thrilling gameplay. The top 8 players advanced to the finals, battling it out in two rounds of three games each. Let’s dive into the highlights of this exhilarating competition!
A Twisting Tale of Triumph in Twilight Zone
The spotlight of the tournament shone brightly on the Twilight Zone pinball machine, a classic by Bally from May 1993. In the semifinals, this game saw an epic match that lasted a staggering 62 minutes. The game’s theme of crossing dimensions and the unknown mirrored the tension and unpredictability of the match. Players navigated through the intricate playfield, facing challenges akin to stepping into another dimension, with every flip and tilt deciding their fate.
The Crowned Champions
A hearty congratulations to the top players who made it to the finals and showcased their exceptional skills:
- Shannon Stafford clinched the top spot with an IFPA rank of 148 and an impressive 303 events under their belt. Shannon’s skill and persistence were truly commendable.
- Tristan Stafford secured second place, ranked 978th with 145 events, displaying remarkable prowess and determination.
- Sebastian Bobbio from North Miami Beach, ranked 363rd with 273 events, took third place, demonstrating great skill and resilience.
- David Miller from Tampa Bay, ranked 1396th with 233 events, secured fourth place, showcasing strategic gameplay and dedication.
- Vince Gelormine from Fort Lauderdale, ranked 433rd with 202 events, took fifth place with his solid performance.
- Tank Koscinski, ranked 5660th with 39 events, showed significant improvement and potential by finishing sixth.
- Glenn Scharf from St. Johns, Florida, ranked 1885th with 57 events, earned seventh place with his consistent gameplay.
- Andrew Robishaw from Valrico, Florida, ranked 3495th with 70 events, rounded out the top eight, displaying promising talent.
Marvelous Machines of the Tournament
The tournament featured 18 incredible pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and excitement. Here are some highlights:
- The Shadow by Bally (November 1994): Known for its intricate ramps and hidden sanctum, this game demands precision and strategy.
- Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019): With its captivating theme and immersive gameplay, it transported players into the world of Hawkins and the Upside Down.
- Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally (August 1978): This classic machine brought nostalgic charm with its fast-paced, action-packed gameplay.
- Twilight Zone by Bally (May 1993): A complex machine with multiple playfields and challenging modes, it truly tests a player’s skills and endurance.
- Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): Bringing Quentin Tarantino’s iconic movie to life, this machine offered a unique blend of cinematic storytelling and pinball action.
The Vibrant Venue: Tepey’s Taps & Tacos
Tepey’s Taps & Tacos, located at 2130 Kings Ave, Jacksonville, FL, provided a lively and welcoming atmosphere for the tournament. The food was fantastic, with their refreshing salsa and a special mention for the single chorizo taco gifted by Joe, who was exceptionally helpful and friendly. The venue’s brews were a hit, adding to the overall enjoyment of the event.
IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shannon Stafford | Orange Park | 188.13 |
| 2 | Eric Stone | Fort Myers | 171.3 |
| 3 | Adam Gray | Temple Terrace | 168.11 |
| 4 | Dan Coyle | St. Petersburg | 115.21 |
| 5 | Vince Gelormine | Fort Lauderdale | 104 |
| 6 | Sebastian Bobbio | 100.33 | |
| 7 | Joel Cohen | Miami | 85.8 |
| 8 | David Miller FL | Tampa | 82.2 |
| 9 | Tristan Stafford | Orange Park | 82 |
| 10 | Garrett Smoke | Orlando | 69.69 |
Closing Reflections
A huge thank you to Nick Byrd, the organizer of this phenomenal event, and to Tepey’s Taps & Tacos for hosting us. Congratulations once again to Shannon Stafford for their outstanding victory. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of pinball tournaments. Until next time, keep flipping those flippers!