On July 24, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Superelectric Pinball Parlour for the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #3. With 63 players ready to flip, bump, and tilt their way through five intense rounds, this tournament was a thrilling showcase of skill and strategy. The event, lasting approximately two and a half hours, was orchestrated by the talented John Delzoppo. As players competed under broken clouds with a comfortable 76°F, the atmosphere was electrifying.
Superelectric Pinball Parlour: A Retro Paradise
Nestled in the heart of Cleveland at 6500 Detroit Ave, Superelectric Pinball Parlour is a beloved gem. This vibrant spot offers an eclectic mix of new and vintage pinball machines, creating a nostalgic experience for all. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or just looking for a unique night out, the Parlour has something for everyone. From the all-you-can-play pinball nights to the creative cocktail menu featuring drinks like the Bull Durham, this place is all about fun and good times. The lively ambiance, combined with the friendly staff and the buzz of excited players, makes it a top-notch destination for events and casual visits alike.
Game Spotlight: Iron Maiden Showdown
Round 2 saw a fierce battle on the Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast machine. Andrew Lee, ranked 6th in the state and 45th in the IFPA, emerged victorious, displaying impressive control during the “Number of the Beast” mode. Kevin Vogl, despite being ranked 100th in the state, put up a strong fight, securing second place. Mike Visel, unranked but passionate, and Aaron Rich, the formidable 2nd-ranked player in Ohio, added to the intensity of the round. The players’ skill and strategy made this match a highlight of the night, with Andrew’s experience clearly shining through.
Pinball Machines: A Diverse Lineup
The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #3 featured an impressive lineup of 15 pinball machines, each offering unique experiences and challenges. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout games and what made them special:
- Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern (March 2023): This machine rocks the house with its vibrant artwork and high-energy soundtrack, featuring iconic Foo Fighters hits. The game includes a dynamic upper playfield and challenging multiball modes that keep players on their toes.
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern (January 2024): A thrilling addition, JAWS captures the suspense and excitement of the classic movie. The machine’s standout feature is the shark’s mouth, which serves as a challenging target, and the innovative ball-lock mechanism that mimics the terrifying shark attacks.
- Frontier by Bally (November 1980): A vintage gem, Frontier boasts a rugged wilderness theme with intricate artwork and a unique bonus multiplier system. Its classic electro-mechanical design and challenging outlanes make it a favorite among purists.
- Bad Cats by Williams (January 1989): With its whimsical theme and catchy music, Bad Cats offers a playful pinball experience. The game’s standout feature is the “Fishbowl” target, which triggers a fun and rewarding multiball mode. The quirky artwork and unique layout make it a nostalgic favorite.
- Mousin’ Around! by Bally (January 1989): This machine brings a playful cat-and-mouse chase to life with its colorful design and lively gameplay. The game features multiple ramps and a fun “Mousetrap” capture mechanism, adding an element of strategy and excitement.
- Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019): Immersing players in the eerie world of the hit TV show, this machine boasts a stunning Demogorgon toy and captivating UV lighting. The game’s innovative projector screen, which displays various modes and challenges, adds a unique visual element.
- Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (July 2019): A modern classic, Jurassic Park delivers intense gameplay with its rich storyline and detailed playfield. The T-Rex toy that interacts with the ball and the “Smart Missile” feature offer players thrilling moments as they navigate the dangers of the island.
- Ali by Stern Electronics (March 1980): This machine is a tribute to the legendary Muhammad Ali, featuring vibrant artwork and challenging gameplay. The “Knockout” feature, which simulates a boxing match, and the tight playfield design make it a unique experience for pinball enthusiasts.
- Paragon by Bally (June 1979): Known for its beautiful fantasy-themed artwork, Paragon is a classic that challenges players with its wide-body design and complex playfield. The “Beast’s Lair” and “Waterfall” targets add layers of depth to the gameplay, making it a beloved machine for its strategic elements.
These machines provided a rich and varied playground for the players, offering everything from modern innovations to classic pinball thrills.
Victorious Pinball Wizards: Top Performers
In a tournament brimming with talent, the competitors faced a tough battle against 63 players, including some of Ohio’s best. Let’s dive into the stories of the top finishers:
- Jaden Rich – Rising star Jaden Rich showcased his growing prowess by clinching the first-place trophy. Ranked 23rd in the state, Jaden defied expectations and outplayed higher-ranked opponents, proving that determination and skill can overcome experience. With 45 IFPA events under his belt, Jaden’s journey to the top is just beginning.
- DJ Toth – Veteran player DJ Toth leveraged his extensive experience, having competed in 323 IFPA events, to secure a well-earned second place. Though ranked 42nd in the state, DJ demonstrated that consistency and a cool head can lead to success, making a strong case for himself among the top contenders.
- Aaron Rich – As one of Ohio’s finest, Aaron Rich, ranked 2nd in the state, was a formidable force throughout the tournament. Despite his impressive resume and high expectations, Aaron found himself in third place. His performance was solid, but the competition was fierce, showcasing just how unpredictable pinball can be.
- Matt E Owen – Matt E Owen’s fourth-place finish was a testament to his skill and strategy. Ranked 22nd in the state, Matt navigated the challenging lineup of machines and opponents with precision. His journey through the tournament highlighted his capability to compete at a high level, even among Ohio’s elite players.
These players battled through a talented field, each bringing their unique style and strategy to the table. The tournament was a thrilling display of pinball prowess, leaving spectators and participants alike eagerly anticipating the next showdown.
Ohio IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stephen Prusa | Cleveland | 908.23 |
| 2 | Aaron Rich | 729.97 | |
| 3 | Jesse Baker | Cincinnati | 600.2 |
| 4 | Galvin Morgan | Olmsted Falls | 581.9 |
| 5 | Carlos Delaserda | Columbus | 486.45 |
| 6 | Andrew Lee | Cleveland | 464.03 |
| 7 | John Delzoppo | Cleveland | 436.4 |
| 8 | Trent Augenstein | Delaware | 402.07 |
| 9 | Cody Webb | Westerville | 390.22 |
| 10 | Cryss Stephens | 369.08 |
Wrapping Up: A Night to Remember
The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #3 was a resounding success, with fierce competition and thrilling gameplay. A big thank you to John Delzoppo for organizing such a fantastic event and to Superelectric Pinball Parlour for hosting. Congratulations to Jaden Rich for taking the top spot! Stay tuned for more exciting pinball action and stories from the world of flippers and bumpers. Until next time, keep flipping!