What’s up, pinball fans? We just wrapped up the exciting MFStrikes!! tournament at Lynn’s Arcade, and it was a blast. This knockout tournament featured 18 fierce competitors battling it out over nine rounds. With the event kicking off at 7:00 PM on August 1, 2024, it took a little under three hours to crown our champion. Let’s dive into the highlights!
The Thrilling Tournament Rundown
The event followed a Basic Knockout format where players faced off in two-player games, earning strikes for losses. After accumulating three strikes, players were eliminated, adding a thrilling edge to each match. The cool evening weather with a few clouds and a pleasant temperature of 61°F made for a perfect pinball night.
Discovering Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Paradise
Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, Lynn’s Arcade is a pinball lover’s dream. This parlor, known for its impressive range of both new and classic pinball machines, has something for everyone. The prices are great, ensuring that you can play to your heart’s content without breaking the bank. With a variety of canned beers and cup holders on every machine, it’s easy to see why this place is a hit among pinball enthusiasts. Whether you’re spending an hour or more, you’re guaranteed a fantastic time.
Epic Faceoff: Pabst Can Crusher Showdown
One of the standout games of the night happened in Round 8 on the Pabst Can Crusher machine by Stern. This game, released in January 2016, is a crowd favorite with its unique features and cool design. Linda G, ranked 555th in the state, faced off against Cary Carmichael, ranked 238th. The game was intense, with both players demonstrating incredible skill. In the end, Linda G took the victory, showcasing the unpredictable nature of pinball where anything can happen.
Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show
The tournament featured a total of 37 pinball machines, but here are a few that truly stood out:
Laser Cue by Williams (1984)
This classic machine from Williams is known for its vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay. With its unique combination of pool and pinball, Laser Cue challenges players with its intricate shots and strategic play.
Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern (2019)
Jurassic Park brings the excitement of the blockbuster movie to the pinball world. Featuring stunning visuals and thrilling game modes like “Raptor Multiball” and “Escape Nublar,” this machine is a must-play for any fan of the franchise.
Spider-Man by Stern (2007)
Spider-Man swings into action with its fast-paced gameplay and impressive playfield. Players can battle famous villains like Green Goblin and Doctor Octopus, making it a hit among comic book fans.
Funhouse by Williams (1990)
Funhouse is a beloved classic, featuring the iconic Rudy, a talking dummy who interacts with players throughout the game. The unique playfield and challenging shots make it a perennial favorite.
Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (2021)
Godzilla roars onto the scene with its incredible design and immersive gameplay. Players can unleash chaos as they battle through various cityscapes, facing off against legendary monsters.
Celebrating the Champions: Tournament Winners
A huge congratulations to our top players who showcased their superior pinball skills:
1st – Greg Gorelick clinched the first-place spot with a stellar performance, despite being ranked 281st in the state and 2027th in the IFPA rankings. This victory marks a significant achievement in Greg’s pinball career, considering his extensive participation in 78 IFPA events. It was a thrilling upset, as Greg outplayed several higher-ranked opponents to emerge victorious.
2nd – Linda G, ranked 6943rd in the IFPA, displayed remarkable skill and consistency throughout the tournament. Her second-place finish is a testament to her dedication and improvement in the sport, especially considering her extensive experience with 93 IFPA events. Linda’s impressive showing surprised many and highlighted her potential to climb the ranks in future tournaments.
3rd – Cary Carmichael, a local favorite from Seaside, secured third place, showcasing why they are ranked 238th in the state and 1669th in the IFPA. Cary’s experience in 167 IFPA events shone through as they navigated through tough matches with finesse. Cary’s performance was solid, and their familiarity with the local scene undoubtedly gave them an edge.
4th – Philip Priddy, with an IFPA ranking of 1140 and 147 events under his belt, rounded out the top four. Philip’s high ranking and extensive experience made him a formidable opponent. While he didn’t clinch the top spot, his consistent play ensured a strong finish, maintaining his reputation as a top-tier competitor.
These players demonstrated incredible talent and perseverance throughout the tournament, making for an exciting and competitive event. Special kudos to Greg Gorelick for taking the top spot and defying the odds with his outstanding performance!
California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 951.51 |
| 2 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.68 |
| 3 | Nic Stein | Davis | 818.87 |
| 4 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.99 | |
| 5 | Jason Zahler | 778.32 | |
| 6 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.78 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.91 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.59 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.33 |
| 10 | Andrei Massenkoff | San Francisco | 593.07 |
Wrapping It Up: Cheers to a Fantastic Event
A big thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing such an enjoyable event and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting. Everyone brought their A-game, making it a night to remember. Don’t forget to relive the excitement of the Pabst Can Crusher showdown—it’s moments like these that make pinball so exhilarating. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps right here!