The recent Three Strike – XXX Tuesday tournament at The Game Preserve in Spring, Texas, was a whirlwind of flippers and fun. Hosted by Space City Pinball, the event drew 25 eager players ready to outplay and outlast in an intense Group Knockout format. The evening was electric, lasting four and a half hours, with players vying for victory and striving to avoid those dreaded strikes.
The Game Preserve: A Retro Paradise
Nestled at 473 Sawdust Road, The Game Preserve is a nostalgic haven for pinball enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. This spacious arcade, adorned with classic machines and modern marvels, offers a clean, welcoming environment perfect for all ages. With a full kitchen, party area, and even a private restroom, it’s clear that The Game Preserve knows how to keep its patrons happy. Encouraging outside food and drink with a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy, this venue ensures everyone feels right at home. Whether you’re reliving your Gen X glory days or discovering the magic of pinball for the first time, The Game Preserve is a must-visit.
Godzilla Showdown: Round 6 Highlight
Round 6 was a nail-biter, featuring a standout match on Godzilla (Pro) by Stern. Grayson Turner, from Spring, TX, took control of the board like a true kaiju commander. With strategic shots and deft nudges, he tamed the mighty Godzilla, outscoring his competitors. Nicholas Gustafson fought valiantly, but couldn’t quite match Grayson’s monster moves. Jessica DeNardo and Travis Hanna rounded out the group, showcasing their skills but ultimately succumbing to the beast. Grayson’s victory in this round set the stage for a thrilling remainder of the tournament.
Marvelous Machines: Highlights of the Tournament
Among the 19 pinball machines at the event, several stood out for their unique features and design.
- The Simpsons by Data East (1990) charmed players with its animated antics and iconic catchphrases, bringing the beloved TV family to life.
- Cyclone by Williams (1988) offered a carnival of fun with its intricate ramps and engaging gameplay, reminiscent of a summer fair.
- Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern (2017) transported players to the cosmos, battling intergalactic villains with a killer soundtrack.
- Paragon by Bally (1979) challenged participants with its wide-body design and intricate playfield, demanding precision and strategy.
- NBA Fastbreak by Bally (1997) brought the excitement of the basketball court to the arcade, with fast-paced action and competitive scoring.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament culminated in a spectacular showdown, with the top players showcasing their skills.
- Nicholas Gustafson from Spring, Texas, clinched first place. His steady hands and sharp focus earned him the top spot, reflecting his impressive state rank of 16th and extensive experience in 245 IFPA events.
- Stan Dessens from Cypress took second place. With a state rank of 80th, Stan’s strategic gameplay and quick reflexes were on full display.
- Thomas Dessens, also from Cypress, claimed third place. Despite being ranked 353rd in the state, Thomas’s performance demonstrated that rankings aren’t everything.
- David Pollock from Conroe rounded out the top four. Their consistent play and strategic prowess earned them a well-deserved spot in the finals.
IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 663.48 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 428.67 |
| 3 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 345.08 |
| 4 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 318.11 |
| 5 | Gilbert Herrera | San Antonio | 310.82 |
| 6 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 272.72 |
| 7 | Ray Ford | Austin | 262.47 |
| 8 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 251.96 |
| 9 | Keith Shahan | Abilene | 248.3 |
| 10 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 237.58 |
Wrapping Up an Epic Event
A huge thank you to Space City Pinball for organizing such a fantastic event and to The Game Preserve for providing the perfect backdrop for an evening of pinball magic. Congratulations to all the participants, and especially to our winners. The spotlight match on Godzilla (Pro) was a true highlight, showcasing the skill and passion of our players. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps in the coming weeks!