How’s it going, pinball wizards? This past weekend, they had a blast at EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition², a thrilling IFPA pinball tournament held at the beloved Einsteins Pub and Arcade. It was a day filled with intense competition, camaraderie, and, of course, some spectacular pinball play. Let’s dive into the details and relive the excitement!
A Perfect Spot for Pinball Enthusiasts
Einsteins Pub & Arcade, located at 16733 West Airport Blvd. ste. 290 in Richmond, Texas, is more than just a neighborhood bar—it’s a haven for pinball lovers. Known for its great crowd, friendly staff, and a fantastic lineup of games, Einsteins has become a go-to spot for anyone looking to enjoy a good drink and some classic arcade fun. The bar food here is top-notch, with a menu that stands out among typical bar fare. Whether you’re there for the pinball or just looking to unwind with some good company, Einsteins never disappoints.
The Epic James Bond 007 Showdown
One of the standout moments of the tournament was the incredible 68-minute game during the semifinals on the James Bond 007 (LE) machine by Stern. This game had all the elements of a classic Bond adventure—high stakes, suspense, and a dash of flair. The players battled through the game’s unique features, from the intricate gadget playfields to the thrilling multiball modes, each trying to outmaneuver the other. In the end, Taylor Buckley came out on top, with Joshua Mitchell, Cree Luzskia, and Grayson Turner putting up a valiant fight. It was a nail-biter, worthy of any spy movie!
- Godzilla (LE) – This machine by Stern, released in September 2021, offers players the thrill of defending cities from kaiju attacks. Its standout features include a unique magnetic ball lock and an interactive bridge that collapses during gameplay, making it a must-play for fans of the classic monster.
- Rush (LE) – Released in January 2022 by Stern, Rush (LE) brings the iconic band’s music to life. The game features a jukebox-style song selection and a Time Machine multiball that adds layers of excitement and strategy.
- Toy Story 4 (LE) – Jersey Jack Pinball’s June 2022 release, Toy Story 4 (LE), is a delightful adventure with Woody and the gang. The game includes captivating mini-games and an interactive carnival theme, making it a family-friendly favorite.
- The Munsters (Premium) – This Stern pinball, released in January 2019, captures the spooky fun of the classic TV show. Key features include a lower playfield mini-game and a unique Herman Munster bash toy, adding to the eerie charm.
- Guns N’ Roses (CE) – Jersey Jack Pinball’s October 2020 release, Guns N’ Roses (CE), rocks players with its concert-like experience. It boasts a full-band integration, immersive light shows, and a guitar pick-shaped playfield, perfect for music lovers.
- Medieval Madness (Remake Royal Edition) – Chicago Gaming’s 2015 remake brings back the beloved classic with upgraded features. Known for its witty humor and castle-smashing gameplay, it remains a favorite with its catapult shots and dragon animations.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) – Another gem from Chicago Gaming, this November 2021 remake offers players a wild west adventure. It features quick-draw shootouts and an exciting train heist mode, capturing the spirit of the frontier.
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (LE) – Released by Stern in June 2020, this machine lets players join the Ninja Turtles in their fight against the Foot Clan. It includes dynamic team-up modes and a pizza-themed multiball, making it a hit among fans of the franchise.
- Spider-Man (Vault Edition) – Stern’s January 2016 release revisits the web-slinger’s adventures with updated visuals and gameplay. Players face off against classic villains like Green Goblin and Doc Ock, utilizing fast-paced ramps and a satisfying web-slinging experience.
A Round of Applause for the Winners
Congratulations to Grayson Turner, who clinched first place in the finals on Rush (LE). With an incredible mix of skill and timing, he navigated through the game’s complex song modes and managed to score big, showing why he’s ranked 27th in the state. Kyle Hanna took second place, demonstrating impressive control and strategy, while Taylor Buckley made a strong debut in third place. Darrin Schonefeld rounded out the top four with a solid performance. Special shoutout to Joshua Mitchell, who put up a great fight and showcased some serious skills despite the tough competition.
Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
Here’s a look at the top 10 players in Texas as they stand:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 663.48 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 437.9 |
| 3 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 345.12 |
| 4 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 318.1 |
| 5 | Gilbert Herrera | San Antonio | 311.58 |
| 6 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 273.18 |
| 7 | Ray Ford | Austin | 263.28 |
| 8 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 253.97 |
| 9 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 251.96 |
| 10 | Keith Shahan | Abilene | 248.3 |
Wrapping Up the Day
A big thank you to Space City Pinball for organizing this fantastic event and to Einsteins Pub and Arcade for being such a welcoming location. The day was filled with unforgettable moments, from the epic battles on James Bond 007 to the final showdown on Rush. Thanks to everyone who came out to play and support the community. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps, and keep those flippers ready for the next tournament adventure!