The Hills Pub Monthly – July 2024, was a fierce Group Knockout Tournament where 21 players went head-to-head, aiming to avoid the dreaded five strikes that would see them eliminated. The Fair Strikes system was in play, adding an extra layer of strategy to each round. Over 4 hours and 30 minutes, players battled through 8 intense rounds, each hoping to outlast their competitors and take home the top prize.
Discovering The Hills Pub
The Hills Pub, located at 8758 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA, has become a beloved spot for pinball enthusiasts. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and an impressive lineup of arcade games, this pub has something for everyone. The food is consistently praised, with menu highlights including carne asada fries, chips and salsa, and a variety of other delicious dishes. The recent addition of an outdoor patio and expanded arcade area has only enhanced the experience. While parking can be tricky at peak times, the friendly staff and great service make it worth the effort. It’s no wonder this place has become a staple in the local pinball scene.
Spotlight on Godzilla (Pro) Round 4 Showdown
One of the tournament’s standout matches took place in Round 4 on the ever-exciting Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, released in September 2021. This game is known for its immersive playfield and thrilling “Heat Ray” feature, which players activated with skill and precision. Jim Fitzgerald, ranked 9192 in the IFPA, clinched the first place with masterful control, showcasing how lower-ranked players can sometimes outshine their higher-ranked peers. Kyle Smith, ranked 821, took second, while Mike Welsh, ranked 1515, secured third place. Ron Rezendes from San Diego, ranked 3621, put up a valiant fight but ended in fourth.
Pinball Machines That Made the Tournament
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 9 pinball machines. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout games:
- JAWS (Premium/LE): Stern’s January 2024 release brings the classic shark tale to life with thrilling features like the “Shark Attack” mode, where players must complete missions to avoid being eaten.
- AC/DC (Pro Vault Edition): Released in May 2017, this machine rocks with its “Hell’s Bells” mode, offering players a chance to jam out while scoring big.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE): Chicago Gaming’s November 2021 remake offers a Wild West adventure with its “Bad Guy Multiball” feature, providing a shootout experience on the playfield.
- Toy Story 4: Jersey Jack Pinball’s June 2022 release brings the beloved characters to the playfield with engaging modes like “Buzz Lightyear’s Mission,” where players embark on intergalactic adventures.
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Stern’s November 2017 machine immerses players in the Marvel universe, with the “Orb Multiball” feature providing chaotic and exciting gameplay.
Celebrating the Champions
Competing against 20 other skilled players, the top four showcased exceptional skill and determination. Here’s a rundown of the tournament winners:
- Mark Maleko Schulz: A veteran in the pinball community, Mark has participated in an impressive 344 IFPA events. His wealth of experience and strategic gameplay were evident as he navigated the tournament with precision, ultimately clinching the top spot. Mark’s performance demonstrated why he’s consistently ranked among the top players in the region.
- Kyle Smith: With a solid track record of 228 IFPA events, Kyle brought his growing expertise to the table. He played with confidence and determination, securing second place. Kyle’s steady rise in the rankings reflects his commitment to honing his skills and his ability to perform well under pressure.
- Ron Rezendes: Despite being ranked lower than some of the other competitors, Ron’s extensive experience in 412 events shone through. Their third-place finish highlighted their ability to compete with higher-ranked players and showcased their passion for the game. Ron’s performance was a testament to their skill and perseverance.
- Zach Carrillo: As a relative newcomer with just 7 IFPA events under his belt, Zach’s fourth-place finish was nothing short of remarkable. His performance displayed natural talent and a quick adaptation to competitive play. Zach’s strong showing suggests a promising future in the pinball circuit, and he’s certainly a player to watch as he continues to gain experience.
California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 951.47 |
| 2 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.68 |
| 3 | Nic Stein | Davis | 818.83 |
| 4 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.99 | |
| 5 | Jason Zahler | 778.32 | |
| 6 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.78 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.91 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.59 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.33 |
| 10 | Andrei Massenkoff | San Francisco | 593.04 |
Wrapping Up the Event
The Hills Pub Monthly – July 2024 was a thrilling event filled with competitive spirit and camaraderie. A big thank you to Mark Schulz for organizing such a fantastic tournament and to The Hills Pub for providing an excellent location. Congratulations to Mark Maleko Schulz for his well-deserved victory. Stay tuned for more exciting pinball updates and stories from the world of competitive pinball!