A League of Their Own: Tournament Overview
On July 31, 2024, the Ball Busters Pinball League’s 2024 Season 3 Division-A Week 6 event brought an electrifying evening of competition to the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA. With seven skilled players battling it out over five intense rounds, the tournament lasted a thrilling 1 hour and 48 minutes. Under the clear sky and a balmy 86°F, the excitement inside the venue was palpable as players pushed their skills to the limit in a series of classic and modern pinball games. Organized by the enthusiastic Bill Disney, the event was a celebration of pinball passion and community.
Stepping Back in Time: Pinball Gallery
Pinball Gallery, located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, Malvern, PA, is a nostalgic paradise for arcade enthusiasts. With its 1980s-inspired vibe, the arcade boasts an impressive collection of pinball machines and vintage electronic arcade games. The venue’s extensive selection of pins promises hours of entertainment, making it a must-visit spot for both seasoned pinball wizards and those seeking a nostalgic escape. While the noise level can get high, the atmosphere is vibrant and full of energy. Be sure to check their hours, as most open slots are in the evenings, perfect for an after-dinner dose of flipper action.
Spotlight Showdown: Jim Henson’s Labyrinth
Round 2 of the tournament featured a standout game on Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, a pinball machine by Barrels of Fun released in October 2023. The game, inspired by the magical and mysterious world of the 1986 film, captivated players and spectators alike. In a dazzling display of skill, Stephanie Savy from Media, PA, claimed the top spot, navigating the twists and turns of the labyrinth with precision. Anita Thallmayer secured second place, followed by Kathy Furlong and Sherry Disney. The game was a highlight of the evening, with its whimsical theme and challenging gameplay keeping everyone on their toes.
Pins in the Lineup: A Diverse Collection
The tournament featured an exciting lineup of 65 pinball machines, showcasing a mix of vintage classics and modern hits. Among them, Stern’s Venom (Premium) stood out with its fast-paced gameplay and vibrant artwork. The legendary Joker Poker by Gottlieb, released in January 1978, brought back memories of the golden age of pinball with its simple yet captivating design. The medieval-themed Excalibur, also by Gottlieb, offered a unique challenge with its intricate playfield layout. Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams, a classic from July 1991, provided a nostalgic blast with its iconic sounds and fast-paced action. Other notable mentions include the musical journey of Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern and the retro charm of Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy by Bally.
Triumph on Hollywood Heat: Tournament Champions
The final match on Hollywood Heat was a fitting end to an exhilarating tournament. Anita Thallmayer, a seasoned player with 204 IFPA events under her belt, showcased her experience and skill, earning her the top spot. Her win was no surprise to those familiar with her consistent performance, as she adeptly navigated the game’s unique rooftop multiball feature to rack up a high score.
Julia Furlong, despite being unranked in the IFPA, delivered a stunning performance that defied expectations. Her solid play throughout the tournament, particularly in the fast-paced sequences of Hollywood Heat, secured her a well-deserved second place.
Kathy Furlong, another unranked player, proved that rankings aren’t everything. Her steady and calm approach earned her third place, showing that even without a ranking, skill and focus can lead to a podium finish.
Stephanie Savy, ranked 5327th in the IFPA, put on a valiant effort and finished in fourth place. Though her ranking suggests she is still climbing the competitive ladder, her gameplay demonstrated growth and potential, hinting at greater achievements in future tournaments.
Pennsylvania IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cryss Stephens | 456.16 | |
| 2 | Aleksander Kaczmarczyk | Pittsburgh | 268.63 |
| 3 | Jared Schmidt | Pittsburgh | 227.6 |
| 4 | Lewis Bevans | Pittsburgh | 215.18 |
| 5 | Gary Hartz | Pittsburgh | 207.52 |
| 6 | Dave Lancaster | Pittsburgh | 194.5 |
| 7 | David Riel | Pittsburgh | 160.38 |
| 8 | Elliott Keith | Catonsville | 152.96 |
| 9 | John Delzoppo | Cleveland | 143.61 |
| 10 | Bill Mason | Huntersville | 132.62 |
Wrapping Up the Action
A big round of applause goes out to all the players and fans who made the Ball Busters Pinball League’s latest event a smashing success. Special thanks to Bill Disney for organizing such a fantastic evening and to the Pinball Gallery for hosting us in their retro haven. The spotlight game on Jim Henson’s Labyrinth was a true highlight, showcasing the blend of nostalgia and excitement that only pinball can offer. Stay tuned for more thrilling pinball action and recaps as we continue to follow the competitive scene across the country. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!