Where the Magic Happens
Free Play Arlington is the ultimate destination for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 400 East South Street, Arlington, TX, this arcade is a haven for both casual gamers and hardcore pinball wizards. With an entrance fee that promises you more bang for your buck, Free Play Arlington boasts an impressive collection of classic and modern arcade games. From Guitar Hero and NBA Jam to an array of pinball machines that cater to all tastes, the games here are meticulously maintained, ensuring an optimal gaming experience. And let’s not forget the bar – while the food might be a tad pricey, it’s worth every penny. Check out their website for more details: Free Play Arlington.
Tournament Overview
The Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday held on July 1, 2024, was a spectacle of skill and strategy. With 36 players battling it out in 5 rounds of intense pinball action, the top 8 players advanced to the finals. The event, organized by Chris Delp, spanned 2 hours and 30 minutes, filled with nail-biting moments and spectacular comebacks. Under the clear skies and a sweltering 97°F, the tournament was a perfect summer showdown. For more details about the event, visit here.
Epic Showdown on Avengers: Infinity Quest
The semifinals saw an electrifying match on the Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) pinball machine. This game, themed around the epic Marvel saga, set the stage for an intense battle. Garrett Shahan, ranked 1st in the state and 98th in the IFPA, demonstrated unparalleled mastery, outmaneuvering Greg Gibson from Plano, TX, Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, and Daniel Martin. Garrett’s precise shots and strategic use of the game’s multiball feature led him to victory, mirroring the triumphs of the Avengers themselves.
Pinball Machines That Stole the Show
The tournament featured 23 stellar pinball machines. Here are a few highlights:
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Released in May 2021, this game immerses players in the Star Wars universe, featuring missions and battles that capture the essence of the hit TV series.
- Star Wars (Pro) by Stern: This June 2017 release takes players on a journey through the original trilogy, with iconic characters and memorable scenes.
- Attack from Mars by Bally: A classic from January 1995, known for its humor and engaging gameplay as players defend Earth from a Martian invasion.
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern: The newest addition from January 2024, this game brings the suspense of the iconic film to life, challenging players with thrilling objectives.
- Metallica (Pro) by Stern: Released in April 2013, this machine is a must-play for fans of the legendary band, featuring their greatest hits and electrifying modes.
- Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: Since September 2021, players have been battling the king of monsters in this action-packed game.
The Champions of the Night
The finals culminated in a dramatic showdown on Cyclone, manufactured by Williams. Here’s how the top players ranked:
- Steven McMullin from Stephenville, TX, claimed the top spot. With a state rank of 34th and an IFPA rank of 1365, Steven’s consistent performance and strategic prowess secured his victory.
- Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, finished in second place. His impressive state rank of 4th and IFPA rank of 449 highlight his dedication and skill in the pinball arena.
- Brian Krivonak from Corpus Christi, TX, took third place. Ranked 12th in the state and 288th in the IFPA, Brian’s experience and precision were evident throughout the tournament.
- Daniel Martin, with a state rank of 39th and an IFPA rank of 1095, rounded out the top four, showcasing his competitive spirit.
IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 663.23 |
| 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
The Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday was a night to remember, filled with spectacular plays and memorable moments. Congratulations to Steven McMullin for his outstanding victory. If you’re ever in Arlington, make sure to visit Free Play Arlington for an unforgettable arcade experience. Stay tuned for more pinball news and updates on past events!