Three Strikes, You’re Out! – A Night of Pinball Action at The Game Preserve

It was another epic evening of flippers and flashing lights at the Three Strike – XXX Tuesday tournament on July 23, 2024. With a solid turnout of 23 players, the competition was fierce in this Group Knockout format. Participants faced off in four-player groups, where finishing in 1st or 2nd saved them from the dreaded strikes, while 3rd and 4th place finishers accumulated strikes like badges of honor. The action unfolded over 11 rounds, wrapping up in just over four hours—a tight and thrilling timeline.

The Game Preserve

The Game Preserve in Spring, Texas, played host to this pinball showdown. Tucked away on Sawdust Road, this place is a retro haven for pinball enthusiasts. It’s not just about the games; the atmosphere transports you straight back to the arcade-filled days of the ’80s and ’90s. With a friendly “pack it in, pack it out” policy, visitors can bring their own snacks and drinks, making it a relaxed hangout spot. The vibe is as welcoming as it gets, and the clean facilities and nostalgic setting make it a hit with both kids and adults.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula – Round 6 Thriller

The standout match of the night happened in Round 6 on Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Known for its challenging features and eerie theme, this game set the stage for some intense play. Grayson Turner, with his cool under pressure, nailed the “Mist Multiball” mode, where a floating ball must be knocked free. His strategic moves earned him a first-place finish, proving that experience and a steady hand go a long way. Fred Revnew, always a strong contender, managed a respectable second place, while Cree Luzskia had a tough time but still showed great skill. Jack Revnew, usually a top performer, had a rough go, finishing last in this round, a rare occurrence for someone of his caliber.

A Pinball Journey Through Time

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of pinball machines, each offering its unique flair and challenge. Let’s dive into a few standouts that made the night memorable.

• The Party Zone by Bally (1991) is a vibrant, psychedelic ride designed by Dennis Nordman. Its quirky humor and lively artwork by Greg Freres make it a fan favorite. The game’s unique layout and interactive features keep players on their toes.
• NBA Fastbreak by Bally (1997) brings the excitement of basketball to pinball. Designed by George Gomez, this game is known for its fast-paced action and unique scoring system that mimics a basketball game. It’s a slam dunk for anyone who loves both sports and pinball.
• Back to the Future by Data East (1990) offers a nostalgic journey back to the beloved movie franchise. With art by Paul Faris, the game captures the essence of the films, complete with iconic sound bites and a time-travel theme that never gets old.
• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021) combines cutting-edge technology with classic monster mayhem. It’s a modern masterpiece with stunning visuals and a complex ruleset that challenges even the most seasoned players.
• Jack•Bot by Williams (1995), another creation from the mind of Barry Oursler, brings a casino-style experience to the pinball table. With its dazzling lights and interactive features, it’s a game of chance and skill.
• Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams (1993) stands out with its dark, gothic theme. Another gem from Barry Oursler, it features innovative gameplay elements like Mist Multiball, creating an eerie and thrilling experience.
• Old Coney Island! by Game Plan (1979) offers a nostalgic throwback to classic amusement park themes. It’s a simpler game but still a joy to play with its old-school charm.
• Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016) captures the spirit of the beloved franchise, blending humor and supernatural elements. Designed by John Trudeau, the game features voice work from the original cast and is packed with ghost-busting action.
• Elvira and the Party Monsters by Bally (1989) is a spooky yet fun pinball game designed by Dennis Nordman. With its horror-themed humor and iconic character, it remains a favorite among pinball enthusiasts.

And the Winners Are…

The competition at the Three Strike – XXX Tuesday tournament was intense, with some of the top players in the state vying for the top spots. Nicholas Gustafson emerged victorious, clinching the first place with a stellar performance. Known for his consistent play, Nicholas’s win is a testament to his skills, especially against such a formidable lineup. He managed to outplay higher-ranked competitors, making this victory even more impressive.

Lee Balusek secured second place, demonstrating his experience and strategic gameplay. As the 6th-ranked player in the state, Lee’s finish was no surprise, but his journey to the finals was filled with challenging matches against some tough opponents.

Grayson Turner took third place, a remarkable achievement given the caliber of the competitors. Grayson, ranked 30th in the state, showcased his ability to compete with the best, proving that rankings don’t always tell the full story.

Fred Revnew rounded out the top four, adding another strong showing to his long list of achievements. Despite being one of the more experienced players in the tournament, Fred faced stiff competition and managed to hold his own.

This tournament was a reminder that on any given night, anyone can rise to the occasion and make their mark. The absence of Jack Revnew, the 2nd-ranked player in Texas, from the top four was a surprising twist, highlighting the unpredictable nature of pinball. Congratulations to all the players for an incredible evening of pinball!

Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Action

The Three Strike – XXX Tuesday tournament was a night to remember, filled with intense competition and thrilling moments. The event brought together some of the top players in the state, congratulations to Nicholas for taking top spot. Kudos to Space City Pinball for orchestrating such a well-organized and exciting event, and to The Game Preserve for providing the perfect setting with its unique blend of vintage and modern pinball machines. The tournament was a true celebration of the pinball community’s passion and talent. As we look forward to the next showdown, keep your game sharp and your eyes on the prize—there’s always another chance to flip your way to glory!