PBJ Monthly July ’24: A Thrilling Tournament in Fort Collins

A Knockout Format That Keeps You on Your Toes

The PBJ Monthly July ’24 was an intense Group Knockout Tournament that kept players on the edge of their seats. With 19 competitors battling it out in 11 rounds, players were eliminated after receiving 3 strikes. In four-player groups, the 1st and 2nd place players escaped without strikes, while the 3rd and 4th place finishers received 2 strikes. In three-player groups, the 1st place player remained strike-free, and the 3rd place player got 1 strike. This nail-biting format stretched over nearly six hours, kicking off at 4:00 PM on July 7, 2024, at Pinball Jones in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Pinball Jones: A Pinball Paradise

Nestled in the heart of Fort Collins at 107 Linden St, Pinball Jones is a true gem for pinball enthusiasts. Known for its impressive selection of top-rated pinball machines, every game is kept in prime condition, making it a haven for both casual players and serious competitors. The location also offers rental options for private events, adding a unique twist to any celebration. The atmosphere at Pinball Jones, with its vibrant, welcoming vibe, sets the perfect stage for exciting tournaments like PBJ Monthly.

Round 1 Highlight: Indiana Jones Adventure

Round 1 saw an epic showdown on Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure, a classic Williams machine from 1993. It was almost as if the stars had aligned, playing Indiana Jones at Pinball Jones—no relation! Aidan Lancaster’s skillful play secured them 1st place, demonstrating why they are a rising star despite their state rank of 48th and IFPA rank of 3534. Their precise shots and strategic gameplay set the bar high from the get-go. Phil Aumiller, who clinched 2nd place, played with a calm confidence that belied his state rank of 90th and IFPA rank of 3920. His consistency and focus were key to his strong performance. Derek C, an unranked player, brought an element of unpredictability to the table. His 3rd place finish was impressive, showing that even without a formal ranking, raw talent and enthusiasm can shine through. Jackson Fry, who finished 4th, faced tough competition despite being state-ranked 32nd and IFPA-ranked 1412. His experience and skills were evident, but the challenging nature of the Indiana Jones machine proved to be a formidable opponent. This round was a thrilling start to the tournament, setting a high standard for the matches that followed.

Spotlight on Pinball Machines

Pinball Jones boasts an array of fascinating machines that kept players entertained throughout the tournament. Here are some highlights:

• Elvira and the Party Monsters (Bally, 1989): This spooky, fun-filled machine features Elvira guiding players through a haunted house party. Its engaging gameplay and humor make it a fan favorite. The layout is designed to keep players on their toes with its mix of ramps, drop targets, and the iconic boogie men.
• James Bond 007 (Premium) (Stern, 2022): Featuring stunning artwork and immersive soundtracks, this machine brings the thrill of Bond’s adventures to life. Players get to experience high-speed chases, iconic villains, and classic Bond moments, all packed into a machine with dynamic ramps and multi-ball modes that capture the essence of the spy genre.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) (Stern, 2020): With its vibrant, action-packed playfield, this machine captures the excitement of the beloved TV series. Players can join Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael in their battle against Shredder, navigating through a maze of ramps, spinners, and interactive toys that bring the Turtles’ world to life.
• Medieval Madness (Williams, 1997): Renowned for its humorous take on medieval themes, this machine is packed with entertaining features. Players can destroy castles, battle trolls, and joust their way to victory. The interactive castle that crumbles and the witty dialogue add layers of fun and challenge, making it a perennial favorite.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Stern, 2018): Based on the legendary band’s mobile game, this machine combines fast-paced action with iconic Iron Maiden music. Players embark on a quest to defeat beasts and collect Eddie’s souls, with intense multi-ball modes, intricate ramps, and captivating artwork that make each game a unique adventure.

Celebrating the Champions

The PBJ Monthly July ’24 showcased some incredible talent and thrilling performances. Austin Quinty, who emerged as the champion, played with a precision that belied his state rank of 93rd and IFPA rank of 6301. His victory is a testament to his dedication and skill, honed over 130 IFPA events.

Paul Kardell, the tournament organizer, proved he’s just as formidable behind the flippers as he is behind the scenes. Despite being unranked, Paul’s 2nd place finish was a delightful surprise, showing that sometimes the biggest threats are the ones you least expect.

Jackson Fry, who secured 3rd place, displayed the consistency and strategic play that earned him a state rank of 32nd and an IFPA rank of 1412. With 177 IFPA events under his belt, Jackson’s experience shone through in every round.

Aidan Lancaster, who made a strong start in Round 1, finished in 4th place. Their impressive performance throughout the tournament highlighted why they are state-ranked 48th and IFPA-ranked 3534, even with only 24 IFPA events to their name.

IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the PBJ Monthly July ’24

The PBJ Monthly July ’24 was a testament to the vibrant pinball community in Colorado. The event was a thrilling experience for all involved, thanks in no small part to the excellent setup at Pinball Jones. With its top-notch machines and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder players keep coming back. Stay tuned for more pinball news and recaps of past events, and don’t forget to visit Pinball Jones next time you’re in Fort Collins for a fantastic pinball adventure!