Hey there, pinball wizards and enthusiasts! Let’s dive into the highlights from the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #1, held on July 10, 2024, at the lively Superelectric Pinball Parlour. With 53 players battling it out over 5 intense rounds, this tournament was one for the books. Despite the moderate rain and a cool 68°F, the competition was heated and the fun was endless.
Discovering Superelectric Pinball Parlour
Superelectric Pinball Parlour, located at 6500 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OH, is a true hidden gem. Whether you’re sipping on unique drinks like the Bull Durham with apricot-infused bourbon and peanut brittle or enjoying $6 all-you-can-play pinball, there’s something for everyone. With both new and vintage machines, it’s perfect for burning a few hours. They even have a pinball league, making it a must-visit for any pinball aficionado. Date night? Swing by for some retro fun and make it a night to remember.
Jurassic Park: The Battle in Round 2
Round 2 saw an epic showdown on Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern, transporting players to a world where dinosaurs roamed the earth and danger lurked around every corner. The top player in this prehistoric battle was Douglas Hansen from Renton, WA, who navigated the perilous jungles and dodged rampaging T-Rexes with the skill of a seasoned paleontologist. Despite his IFPA rank of 7227, Douglas tamed the beasts and claimed first place. Hot on his heels was Galvin Morgan from Berea, OH, who, like a cunning velociraptor, strategically outmaneuvered his opponents, showcasing his impressive IFPA rank of 89. Amy Virostko, with a state rank of 94 and an IFPA rank of 3041, played like a true adventurer, navigating the hazards with finesse. Meanwhile, Jamie Mansfield, with a state rank of 845 and an IFPA rank of 20770, braved the wilds and fought valiantly against the odds. The round was a thrilling ride through Jurassic Park, with each player bringing their A-game to survive and thrive in this dino-filled adventure.
Highlights from the Pinball Lineup
The tournament featured 14 thrilling pinball machines, each bringing its unique flavor to the event. Here are a few standouts:
Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern (March 2023): Designed by the talented Jack Danger, Foo Fighters (Pro) is a rockin’ adventure filled with fast-paced action and amazing soundtracks. The game captures the essence of the band’s high-energy performances, with intricate ramps and targets that keep players engaged. The artwork is vibrant and dynamic, making it a visual treat as well as a gaming delight. With its challenging modes and interactive features, this machine is a must-play for music and pinball fans alike.
Paragon by Bally (June 1979): A classic designed by Paul Faris, Paragon is known for its intricate playfield and stunning fantasy artwork. This widebody pinball machine stands out with its unique layout, featuring a large, open playfield with plenty of space for the ball to travel. The game’s fantasy theme is brought to life with detailed illustrations of mythical creatures and epic landscapes. Players love the multi-level playfield and the challenging gameplay, making Paragon a beloved piece of pinball history.
Elvira and the Party Monsters by Bally (January 1989): With artwork by Greg Freres and a design that captures Elvira’s quirky charm, this game is both fun and visually stunning. Elvira and the Party Monsters brings a spooky yet humorous theme to the pinball world, with campy callouts and a playful storyline. The game features ramps, drop targets, and a spinning turret, providing a variety of challenges for players. Its combination of humor, horror, and engaging gameplay has made it a fan favorite for decades.
Bad Cats by Williams (January 1989): This feline-themed machine, designed by Barry Oursler, combines humor and challenging gameplay, making it a crowd favorite. Bad Cats features a colorful playfield adorned with playful cats and fishbowl targets. The game’s unique features include a rotating fishbowl, a moving cat toy, and plenty of ramps and targets. The whimsical theme and the catchy tunes add to the overall charm, making it a fun and entertaining game for all skill levels.
Demolition Man by Williams (February 1994): Inspired by the action movie, this machine offers an intense gaming experience with a unique flipper arrangement and thrilling modes. Demolition Man features an array of ramps, targets, and multi-ball modes that keep players on their toes. The game’s futuristic theme is enhanced by voice clips and sound effects from the movie, immersing players in the action-packed world of the film. Its innovative design and fast-paced gameplay make it a standout in any pinball lineup.
Cheers to the Champions
With an impressive turnout of 53 players, this tournament was a true testament to the thriving pinball community. Among the fierce competitors, these players rose to the top with their exceptional skills and determination.
Valencia Kelly from Cleveland, Ohio, took the top spot, proving that perseverance pays off. With a state rank of 85 and an IFPA rank of 759, Valencia demonstrated her impressive prowess and strategic finesse throughout the tournament. Her 230 IFPA events have honed her skills to perfection, making her a formidable competitor.
John Delzoppo, the mastermind behind the tournament and a top-tier player, clinched second place. Hailing from Cleveland, OH, John’s state rank of 9 and an IFPA rank of 24 reflect his elite status in the pinball community. With a whopping 517 IFPA events under his belt, John’s experience and passion for the game are unmatched.
Kevin Vogl took third place with a state rank of 96 and an IFPA rank of 2093. Kevin’s 113 IFPA events have solidified his reputation as a consistent and skilled player. His performance in the tournament showcased his ability to stay cool under pressure and deliver when it counts.
Rounding out the top spots is Aaron Rich from Louisville, OH, who secured fourth place. Aaron’s state rank of 2 and an IFPA rank of 36 speak volumes about his exceptional talent and competitive spirit. With 216 IFPA events to his name, Aaron’s dedication and skill were on full display.
IFPA Ohio Pinball Top 10 Standings
Here are the current top 10 players in Ohio:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stephen Prusa | Cleveland | 744.19 |
| 2 | Aaron Rich | 668.17 | |
| 3 | Jesse Baker | Cincinnati | 588.21 |
| 4 | Galvin Morgan | Olmsted Falls | 424.25 |
| 5 | Andrew Lee | Cleveland | 423.79 |
| 6 | Carlos Delaserda | Columbus | 390.81 |
| 7 | Cryss Stephens | 369.08 | |
| 8 | Cody Webb | Westerville | 327.92 |
| 9 | John Delzoppo | Cleveland | 319.36 |
| 10 | Trent Augenstein | Delaware | 311.42 |
Wrapping Up the Wizardry
All in all, the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #1 was a blast, thanks to the fantastic players, the engaging games, and the warm hospitality of Superelectric Pinball Parlour. Major kudos to John Delzoppo for organizing such a stellar event. And a special shoutout to the Cleveland community for their enthusiastic support. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and the scores soaring. Don’t forget to follow us for more pinball tournament news and highlights.
And hey, if you’re ever in the area, don’t miss out on visiting the historic West Side Market, just a short distance from the venue. It’s a Cleveland gem, much like our beloved Superelectric Pinball Parlour. Catch you at the next tilt in town!