On the evening of July 16, 2024, The Pinball Lounge at Oviedo Bowling Center was buzzing with excitement as 34 players gathered for the highly anticipated Bonanza tournament. The event kicked off at 7:00 PM, running for a spirited 3 hours and 30 minutes under scattered clouds and a comfortable 73°F temperature. Organized by Kurt van Zyl, this tournament was one for the books.
Setting the Stage
The Pinball Lounge was electric with the energy of 34 players participating in a six-round, one-game-per-round event. Kurt van Zyl, the mastermind behind the tournament, ensured a smooth and electrifying experience for all. The weather cooperated beautifully, with scattered clouds and a pleasant 73°F setting the scene for an evening of competitive pinball action.
Deadpool Drama
The first round set the tone for the evening, featuring a nail-biting match on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) from August 2018. This game, known for its humorous and action-packed gameplay, became the battleground for some fierce competition. Sheri Lewis, ranked 12600 in the IFPA, showcased incredible skill, clinching the first place against some formidable opponents. John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida, ranked 827, gave a tough fight but settled for second place. Nick Smith, Florida’s 21st state-ranked player, and Al Neumann, ranked 35th in the state, rounded out the top four. Sheri Lewis’s performance was particularly notable on the katana shot, and the mini-games within Deadpool kept the crowd and players alike on the edge of their seats, proving once again why it’s a fan favorite.
Pinball Machines Galore
The Pinball Lounge boasted an impressive collection of 34 pinball machines, offering a variety of themes and challenges.
- Star Wars (Premium) by Stern (August 2017) – This game, designed by Steve Ritchie, captured the epic saga with its fast-paced action and immersive features. The hyperdrive shot and the Death Star multi-ball were standout highlights.
- Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (December 2019) – Brian Eddy brought the eerie charm of Hawkins, Indiana, to life with this machine. The interactive Demogorgon and the captivating UV light mode added a unique twist to the gameplay.
- Monster Bash (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming (October 2018) – A tribute to the Universal Monsters, this game by George Gomez combined classic horror elements with smooth gameplay. The detailed artwork and fantastic sound design made it a nostalgic favorite.
- Spider-Man (Vault Edition) by Stern (January 2016) – Another Steve Ritchie masterpiece, this machine brought the web-slinging superhero’s adventures to life with fast ramps and thrilling multi-ball modes.
- Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023) – A newer addition, this machine drew players in with its iconic dialogue and scenes from the cult classic film. The interactive features and attention to detail were a hit among players.
- Scared Stiff by Bally (January 1996) – Designed by Dennis Nordman and featuring artwork by Greg Freres, this machine starring Elvira brought humor and horror together in a seamless blend. The interactive bony beast ramp and the ‘Stiff-o-Meter’ kept players engaged.
- John Wick (Pro) by Stern (May 2024) – The latest in Stern’s lineup, this machine captured the relentless action of the John Wick series. The intricate playfield and challenging shots made it a test of skill for even the most seasoned players.
- Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (September 2021) – Keith Elwin’s design brought the King of Monsters to the pinball arena with explosive features and dynamic play. The rotating skyscraper and bridge were engineering marvels.
- Funhouse by Williams (November 1990) – A classic from Pat Lawlor, this machine featured the iconic Rudy, whose taunts and challenges made the game both fun and frustrating. The innovative design and engaging gameplay have kept it a favorite for decades.
Crowning the Champions
The final match of the night took place on Venom (Premium) by Stern, a game known for its fast-paced action and captivating gameplay. Garrett Smoke, ranked 14th in the state and 2128th in the IFPA, emerged victorious. John Moschella, consistently performing well throughout the night, claimed second place. Justin Derazza from Sorrento secured third, and Joe Todd from Eustis, FL, finished fourth. Garrett’s mastery of Venom’s Carnage multiball mode and the challenging symbiote modes, showcased his prowess and earned him the champion title.
Florida IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shannon Stafford | Orange Park | 301.61 |
| 2 | Sebastian Bobbio | 261.62 | |
| 3 | Eric Stone | Fort Myers | 216.64 |
| 4 | Adam Gray | Temple Terrace | 210.14 |
| 5 | Vince Gelormine | Fort Lauderdale | 167.31 |
| 6 | Dan Coyle | St. Petersburg | 152.83 |
| 7 | Tristan Stafford | Orange Park | 141.58 |
| 8 | David Miller FL | Tampa | 113.96 |
| 9 | Joel Cohen | Miami | 93.17 |
| 10 | Dr. Frank Sposaro | Lakeland | 92.01 |
Wrapping Up the Bonanza
Congratulations to Garrett Smoke for his stellar performance and well-deserved victory! The Pinball Lounge, a beloved location known for its vibrant community and excellent pinball selection, provided the perfect setting for this thrilling tournament. Whether you’re there with family, friends, or flying solo, the bartenders are always ready to chat and share a laugh, making it a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy some quality pinball action.
For those who couldn’t make it, be sure to visit The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo, or check out their website at www.thepinballlounge.com. Stay tuned for more pinball news and recaps of past events, as we continue to follow the exciting journey of competitive pinball!