Pinball Action Heats Up at The Ice Box

Hey pinball enthusiasts! The Finals for the Max Value Classic Challenge on July 7, 2024, was one for the books. Held at The Ice Box Arcade, 36 players went head-to-head in a Group Knockout Tournament, battling it out over 15 intense rounds. Each player was eliminated after receiving 14 strikes, using the Progressive Strikes system. The tournament kicked off at 6:00 PM and wrapped up just over five and a half hours later, filled with excitement, skill, and a ton of pinball action.

Discover the Magic of The Ice Box Arcade

If you haven’t been to The Ice Box Arcade at 615 NW Bright St, Seattle, WA 98107, you’re missing out! This place is a pinball lover’s dream. With a huge collection of pinball machines, an air hockey table, and a few other arcade classics like Mario Kart, it’s the perfect hangout spot. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, and they even have a change machine for quarters. The vibe is always lively, making it a must-visit for anyone in Seattle. Check out their website for more info!

Star Gazer Showdown: A Clash of Titans

One of the most thrilling moments of the night was Round 11 on Star Gazer by Stern Electronics, a classic from January 1980. This game, with its celestial theme, brought out the best in the players. John Robinson from Bothell, who’s ranked 2nd in the state and 209th in the IFPA, clinched first place with some stellar moves. Jon Salzman, ranked 13th in the state, took second. Germain Mariolle, from Redmond, who’s 23rd in the state, landed in third place. Sean Irby, ranked 11th, rounded out the group in fourth. It was a nail-biter that showed off everyone’s skills and the game’s unique challenges.

Standout Pinball Machines You Need to Play

The tournament had 19 different machines, each with its own quirks and challenges. Here are some standout pins and what makes them special:

• Frontier by Bally (November 1980): With a theme inspired by the American West, this game features two flippers, three pop bumpers, and a unique mix of standup and drop targets. The artwork, designed by Greg Freres, Margaret Hudson, and Kevin O’Connor, adds to the game’s rugged, adventurous feel​​.
• Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): This modern machine brings the iconic film to life with immersive gameplay, featuring custom callouts from the movie, a captivating storyline, and striking visuals that keep players engaged.
• Stars by Stern Electronics (March 1978): A vintage gem with straightforward yet tricky gameplay, Stars offers a classic pinball experience with its minimalist design, three pop bumpers, and drop targets that challenge players to achieve high scores.
• Genesis by Gottlieb (January 1986): Known for its robotic theme and multi-ball features, Genesis challenges players with its complex playfield and futuristic design, making it a favorite among pinball enthusiasts.
• James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern (October 2022): Celebrating six decades of the iconic spy, this machine features sleek design elements and spy-themed adventures that provide an immersive experience for players.

Top Players Shine: Celebrating the Tournament Champions

The competition was fierce, but the top players rose to the occasion and delivered exceptional performances:

1. Leslie Ruckman from California, ranked 3rd in the state and 82nd in the IFPA, played with precision and strategy, ultimately securing the first-place trophy. With 414 total IFPA events under her belt, Leslie’s experience and skill were on full display.
2. John Robinson WA from Bothell, known for his consistent high-level play, finished in a strong second place. Ranked 2nd in the state and 209th in the IFPA, John has participated in 723 IFPA events, showcasing his dedication to the sport.
3. Lonnie Langford, the top-ranked player in the state and 99th in the IFPA, showed why he holds the top spot with a solid third-place finish. Lonnie’s 232 total IFPA events highlight his experience and competitive edge.
4. Jon Salzman, ranked 13th in the state and 646th in the IFPA, rounded out the top four with a commendable performance. With 194 total IFPA events, Jon’s persistence and skill were evident throughout the tournament.

Current IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Max Value Classic Challenge

The Max Value Classic Challenge was a spectacular event from start to finish. Congratulations to Leslie Ruckman for her phenomenal first-place victory, showcasing remarkable skill and strategy. Kudos to all the competitors for making this tournament an unforgettable experience filled with high-level pinball action. The Ice Box Arcade, with its fantastic atmosphere and impressive array of pinball machines, proved once again to be the perfect venue for such an exciting competition. If you haven’t visited yet, make sure to drop by and experience the magic yourself. Stay tuned for more pinball news and updates on future events!