In a city where the neon lights never dim and the pinballs fly with fury, San Francisco’s Emporium Arcade Bar became the battleground for an unforgettable night. Welcome to the John Wick Launch Party Tournament, a showdown where 23 warriors clashed in a pinball frenzy. This wasn’t just a game; it was a quest for glory, where only the fiercest would survive the gauntlet and rise to the top.
The Emporium: A Neon Paradise
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Emporium Arcade Bar on Divisadero Street is a haven for thrill-seekers and pinball enthusiasts alike. With its eclectic mix of games, vibrant ambiance, and top-notch service, it’s the perfect playground for an epic pinball tournament. Guests rave about the fantastic selection of drinks and the security that ensures a safe and enjoyable night. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or a casual gamer, Emporium guarantees a night of endless fun and excitement.
Game Spotlight: Unleashing the John Wick (Pro)
In a night where skill and precision reigned supreme, the John Wick Launch Party Tournament put the spotlight on Stern’s latest masterpiece: the John Wick (Pro) pinball machine. Unveiled in May 2024, this game is a tribute to the action-packed world of the legendary assassin. With intricate playfields, jaw-dropping artwork, and heart-pounding gameplay, it immerses players in the relentless thrill of John Wick’s universe. The tournament’s most intense battle unfolded on this very machine in the first round. The epic showdown stretched to an incredible 75 minutes, embodying the fierce combat and strategic brilliance that John Wick himself would admire. As the balls ricocheted off ramps and targets, the tension mounted with each flip.
Lawrence Aguiar, hailing from Redwood City with an IFPA rank of 1141, displayed unparalleled skill and precision, claiming the top spot. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he navigated the high-stakes challenges of the John Wick (Pro) with surgical precision. Conner Silverstein, ranked 3431, demonstrated remarkable resilience, pushing through each stage with determination. San Francisco’s own Gene X Hwang, ranked 244, showcased his expertise and deep familiarity with the machine, earning a commendable third place. Shannon Sweetser, ranked 3223, proved her mettle, battling fiercely in this intense match.
The Pinball Machines: Stars of the John Wick Launch Party
The John Wick Launch Party at Emporium Arcade Bar showcased an impressive lineup of 12 standout pinball machines, each a testament to the craft and creativity of their designers.
- John Wick (Pro) by Stern: Released in May 2024, this machine was the star of the night. With its breathtaking artwork and dynamic gameplay, it immerses players in the high-octane world of the legendary assassin. Packed with thrilling modes and challenges, it quickly became the centerpiece of the tournament, captivating all who played.
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern: From June 2020, this machine transports players into the sewers of New York City, where they join the beloved turtles on their quest to defeat Shredder. Its vibrant animations and engaging missions make it a fan favorite.
- Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: Released in September 2021, Godzilla pits players against the iconic monster in a battle to save the city. With its stunning visuals and adrenaline-pumping gameplay, it’s a must-play for any pinball enthusiast.
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern: Launched in January 2024, this machine plunges players into the deep blue sea, where they must face off against the fearsome shark. Its suspenseful gameplay and immersive sound design create an unforgettable experience.
- Spider-Man by Stern: A classic from June 2007, this machine allows players to swing through the city with Spider-Man, battling iconic villains like the Green Goblin and Doctor Octopus. Its fast-paced action and intricate playfield keep players on their toes.
- Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern: Since July 2019, this machine has transported players to the perilous world of Isla Nublar, where they must escape from rampaging dinosaurs. Its thrilling modes and captivating storylines make it a standout.
- Star Wars (Pro) by Stern: Released in June 2017, this machine takes players on a journey through the galaxy far, far away. With missions based on the original trilogy, it’s a must for any Star Wars fan.
- Metallica (Pro) by Stern: From April 2013, this rock-themed machine features the music and imagery of the iconic band. Its hard-hitting gameplay and electrifying soundtrack make it a perennial favorite.
- Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: Released in December 2019, this machine plunges players into the eerie world of Hawkins, Indiana. With its supernatural themes and exciting missions, it captures the essence of the hit TV show.
The Champions: Battle for the Podium
In the crucible of competition, where only the strongest survive, four warriors emerged victorious in the John Wick Launch Party Tournament. The battle was fierce, and the stakes were higher than ever. Each contender brought their A-game, but only the most relentless could claim the ultimate prize.
Lawrence Aguiar, the Redwood City titan ranked 137th in the state, fought his way to the top with unmatched precision and unyielding determination. His 90 IFPA events honed his skills to perfection, making him a formidable force on the battlefield. Conner Silverstein, a rising star with a state rank of 201st, showcased his incredible talent and tenacity. Despite his limited experience with only 31 events, he defied expectations and secured second place with sheer willpower.
San Francisco’s own Gene X Hwang, ranked 54th in the state and a veteran of 455 events, demonstrated why he’s considered a local legend. His deep knowledge of the game and strategic prowess earned him a well-deserved spot on the podium. Shannon Sweetser, another San Francisco native ranked 324th, showed the heart of a warrior. With 143 events under her belt, she fought valiantly, proving her mettle and securing fourth place.
These champions, through grit and skill, carved their names into the annals of pinball history, leaving a legacy of epic battles and hard-won victories.
California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.69 |
| 2 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 856.79 |
| 3 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.99 | |
| 4 | Jason Zahler | 778.32 | |
| 5 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.78 |
| 6 | Nic Stein | Davis | 681.23 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.91 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.6 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.33 |
| 10 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 554.41 |
Wrapping Up the Carnage
As the dust settled and the flippers stilled, the John Wick Launch Party Tournament at Emporium Arcade Bar concluded with cheers and celebrations. Kudos to Myriad Pinball for orchestrating this electrifying event and to Emporium for being the perfect host. To all the warriors who competed and the fans who cheered them on, we hope you had a blast. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the pinball world!