Three Strike Tuesday Brings the Heat

On July 2, 2024, 18 pinball wizards descended upon The Game Preserve for the Three Strike – XXX Tuesday tournament. This thrilling Group Knockout event had players battling through 11 intense rounds, striving to avoid the dreaded three strikes. With a clear sky and a scorching temperature of 96°F (feeling more like 109°F), the competition was as heated as the weather outside.

Stepping Back in Time at The Game Preserve

Located at 473 Sawdust Road, Spring, Texas, The Game Preserve is a nostalgic paradise for pinball enthusiasts. Stepping into this arcade feels like a trip back in time, surrounded by classic games that bring out the inner child in everyone. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff’s enthusiasm makes the experience even better. It’s a place where you can play your favorite games for hours without breaking the bank.

Monster Mayhem on Godzilla (Pro)

Round 4 brought an epic clash on Stern’s Godzilla (Pro). Amidst the chaos and destruction that only Godzilla can bring, Marcus Toth emerged victorious, mastering the game’s complex ramps and multi-ball modes. Grayson Turner from Spring, TX, fought valiantly, securing second place. Maritza Chirichigno from Houston, TX, showed impressive skill, while Ben Whittington rounded out the group. The battle was a true highlight of the night, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of competitive pinball.

Iconic Machines Lighting Up the Night

The tournament featured 20 incredible pinball machines, each with its unique charm and challenges. Highlights included:

  • Lost World by Bally (1978): A prehistoric adventure that challenges players with its captivating artwork and dynamic gameplay.
  • Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016): Packed with spooktacular features, this machine is a fan favorite for its ghost-catching excitement.
  • The Party Zone by Bally (1991): A vibrant, party-themed machine that never fails to entertain with its quirky design.
  • Jack•Bot by Williams (1995): A sci-fi themed machine that combines elements of its predecessors, making for a thrilling pinball experience.
  • World Cup Soccer by Bally (1994): Bringing the excitement of the World Cup to pinball, this machine is a goal-scoring delight.
  • Cyclone by Williams (1988): A rollercoaster of fun, this machine’s amusement park theme is both nostalgic and engaging.
  • Twilight Zone by Bally (1993): Enter the dimension of imagination with one of the most iconic and complex pinball machines ever created.
  • Paragon by Bally (1979): Known for its beautiful backglass art and challenging gameplay, this machine is a classic favorite.

Saluting the Champions

Congratulations to our top finishers! Grayson Turner from Spring, TX, claimed the top spot, showing why he’s ranked 28th in the state. Hunter Reed from Conroe, TX, demonstrated his prowess, earning second place with a state rank of 19th. Cree Luzskia’s third-place finish reflected his strong performance in the 61st state ranking, while Ben Whittington, ranked 20th, showcased his extensive experience with 458 total IFPA events. A big round of applause to all our champions!

IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Garrett Shahan Denton 663.22
2 Jack Revnew The Woodlands 428.56
3 Wesley Johnson College Station 328.64
4 Clark McCoy Denton 315.16
5 Gilbert Herrera San Antonio 272.99
6 Ray Ford Austin 262.31
7 Lee Balusek Conroe 254.95
8 Colin MacAlpine Austin 251.96
9 Keith Shahan Abilene 248.21
10 Ken Kemp Collinsville 237.39

Wrapping Up a Fantastic Tournament

A huge thanks to Space City Pinball for organizing this fantastic event and to The Game Preserve for providing an awesome location. The tournament was a smashing success, with thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. Special shoutout to the epic showdown on Godzilla (Pro), which will be talked about for weeks to come. Thanks to everyone who came out to play, and stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps!

Bonanza at The Pinball Lounge: A Night of Thrills and Skills

July 2, 2024, saw The Pinball Lounge at Oviedo Bowling Center hosting the highly anticipated Bonanza tournament. With 23 enthusiastic participants, the event featured six intense rounds, each with a single game, stretching over 3 hours and 30 minutes of pure pinball excitement. Organized by the adept Kurt van Zyl, the tournament took place under the overcast skies of a balmy Florida evening, where the temperature soared to a sizzling 89°F, but felt like a scorching 102°F.

A Night at The Pinball Lounge

The Pinball Lounge, nestled within the Oviedo Bowling Center, is a true gem for pinball aficionados. Located at 376 E Broadway Street, Oviedo, FL, this spot combines delicious food, a great selection of beers, and an impressive array of pinball machines. The establishment is renowned for its cleanliness and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy unlimited play on Friday nights for a flat fee, making it a popular choice for both casual visits and competitive events. With a constantly rotating selection of machines, The Pinball Lounge keeps the pinball experience fresh and exciting.

Epic Battle on JAWS (LE)

Round 1 of the tournament brought a thrilling match on JAWS (LE) by Stern, released in January 2024. The game’s intense shark-hunting set the stage for an epic battle among the players. Al Neumann emerged victorious, skillfully navigating the game’s treacherous waters and mastering the shark attack sequences to secure the win. John Osborne fought valiantly, but Al’s precision and strategy gave him the edge. Mike Zink from Ocala, FL, made an impressive run by successfully triggering multiple multiball modes, while Sheri Lewis showcased her sharp reflexes during the frenzied shark attack sequences.

Pinball Machines Galore

The tournament featured a lineup of 31 pinball machines, each offering unique gameplay and challenges. Here’s a closer look at five standout games:

  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (2018): This machine combines humor, action, and complex shot mechanics. The fast-paced gameplay and vibrant artwork make it a favorite among players.
  • Game of Thrones (Pro) by Stern (2015): Immerse yourself in the political intrigue and battles of Westeros. The machine’s intricate playfield and engaging modes bring the epic saga to life.
  • Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (2019): Enter the Upside Down with this machine that captures the essence of the hit series. The UV lighting and Demogorgon bash toy add to the immersive experience.
  • City Slicker by Bally (1987): A classic from the 80s, this machine offers nostalgic gameplay with its simple yet challenging design. The vibrant city theme adds to its retro charm.
  • JAWS (LE) by Stern (2024): The latest addition to the pinball world, JAWS (LE), stands out with its innovative features and thrilling theme. The game’s multiball modes and shark attack sequences keep players on the edge of their seats.

Champions of the Night

The night concluded with the spotlight on the top players who demonstrated remarkable skill and determination throughout the tournament. Their exceptional performances captivated the audience and highlighted their mastery of the game.

  1. Patrick Durland from Florida took the top spot with his impressive performance, showcasing why he’s ranked 54th in the state and 3138th in the IFPA. His strategic play and consistent scoring made him the clear winner.
  2. Nick Smith from FL secured second place, adding another stellar performance to his record. His deft handling of the machines and quick reflexes were on full display.
  3. Mike Zink from Ocala, FL, showed consistent excellence, finishing in third place. Their ability to stay calm under pressure and make precise shots earned them a well-deserved spot on the podium.
  4. Al Neumann rounded out the top four, adding to his extensive tournament experience. His victory on JAWS (LE) in Round 1 set the tone for a strong overall performance.

These champions not only demonstrated their pinball prowess but also brought excitement and energy to the tournament, making it a memorable event for all participants and spectators.

IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Shannon Stafford Orange Park 285.38
2 Sebastian Bobbio 261.67
3 Adam Gray Temple Terrace 201.54
4 Eric Stone Fort Myers 188.99
5 Vince Gelormine Fort Lauderdale 166.4
6 Dan Coyle St. Petersburg 151.81
7 Tristan Stafford Orange Park 130.78
8 David Miller FL Tampa 114
9 Joel Cohen Miami 93.17
10 Joe Geneau St Augustine 84.95

Wrapping Up the Bonanza

The Pinball Lounge Bonanza was a night filled with high-energy matches, showcasing the incredible skills of all participants. The six-round tournament kept everyone on their toes, with standout moments like the thrilling battle on JAWS (LE). Congratulations to Patrick Durland for his stellar victory, and to all the top players for their impressive performances. The Pinball Lounge, with its welcoming atmosphere and fantastic pinball selection, proved to be the perfect spot for an unforgettable evening of pinball. Stay tuned for more pinball news and past event highlights!