A Night to Remember
The MFPinball Summer Season #1 kicked off on July 1, 2024, at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, bringing together 46 avid pinball players for an evening of intense competition. With a format of five rounds and one game per round, the event was a whirlwind of flipper action, lasting just over two and a half hours. Under clear skies and a comfortable 57°F, players battled it out, showcasing their skills and vying for top honors.
An Arcade Like No Other
Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, Lynn’s Arcade offers a unique blend of retro charm and modern amenities. The relaxed and welcoming environment makes it an ideal spot for a fun date night or a casual hangout. With a $20 unlimited play deal, a selection of beers and ciders, and accommodations for younger players, Lynn’s Arcade offers something for everyone. Check out their website here for more details.
Round 4 Showdown on Funhouse
Round 4 saw a thrilling match on Williams’ Funhouse, a game from November 1990 that brings the carnival to life. The standout game featured BeeOtch Westrum from Seaside, CA, clinching first place with her sharp reflexes and strategic gameplay. Cip Garcia put up a strong fight, securing second place, followed by Laura Masana from Monterey, CA, and Aaron Villegas, who gave it their all in this captivating game. The whimsical and slightly eerie theme of Funhouse, with its talking puppet Rudy, added an extra layer of excitement to the competition.
Spotlight on the Machines
The tournament featured a diverse lineup of 40 pinball machines, each with its own unique appeal:
- BMX by Bally (1982): A fast-paced game with a BMX bike theme, offering tight ramps and challenging shots that keep players on their toes.
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern (2024): A new release, this machine immerses players in the world of Amity Island, with thrilling modes and a menacing mechanical shark.
- Laser Cue by Williams (1984): Known for its vibrant light shows and precision shots, this machine requires strategic aiming and timing.
- Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (1992): A fan favorite, this game combines classic horror with exciting multi-ball modes and a drive-in movie theme.
- Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern (2019): A modern classic, featuring detailed animations, interactive dinosaurs, and challenging gameplay.
- Surf Champ by Gottlieb (1976): An old-school gem, capturing the essence of surfing culture with its colorful playfield and smooth mechanics.
Celebrating the Champions
The evening concluded with a celebration of the tournament’s top performers:
- Nate King: With an impressive state rank of 116th and IFPA rank of 1381, Nate’s consistent skill across 71 events earned him the top spot.
- John Tracey: Hailing from Salinas, John’s strong performance, reflected in his state rank of 53rd and IFPA rank of 251, secured him second place.
- Mitch Fadem: Placing third, Mitch’s growing experience in the pinball community is evident in his state rank of 560th and IFPA rank of 5655.
- Harry Franklin: Rounding out the top four, Harry’s state rank of 214th and IFPA rank of 2443 highlight his dedication and skill in the game.
California’s Pinball Powerhouses
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.64 |
| 2 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 808.4 |
| 3 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.97 | |
| 4 | Jason Zahler | 778.28 | |
| 5 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.76 |
| 6 | Nic Stein | Davis | 681.22 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.89 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.58 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.31 |
| 10 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 554.41 |
Wrapping Up an Exciting Night
The MFPinball Summer Season #1 was a resounding success, showcasing the passion and talent of the pinball community. Congratulations to Nate King for his outstanding performance and to all the players who made the event memorable. Lynn’s Arcade proved to be the perfect location for this lively competition, with its excellent facilities and welcoming atmosphere. For more pinball news and to relive past events, stay tuned!