A Midweek Showdown
Cleveland’s pinball scene lit up on August 7th as 65 eager competitors packed into the Superelectric Pinball Parlour for the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #5. With 5 intense rounds and only one game per round, every flip mattered. The clock ticked for 2 hours and 20 minutes, but the real action was in the fast-paced gameplay that had participants on edge, vying for supremacy under the flickering lights and the thrum of pinball magic. Organizer John Delzoppo orchestrated this high-stakes event, where seasoned players and new challengers alike faced off in a true test of skill and strategy.
Superelectric: A Pinball Haven
Nestled in the heart of Cleveland at 6500 Detroit Ave, Superelectric Pinball Parlour is more than just a place to play—it’s an experience. With its vintage charm and electric atmosphere, Superelectric effortlessly blends nostalgia with a modern twist. Whether you’re there for date night or hosting a grand event, the place hums with the energy of fun and camaraderie. The well-stocked bar, reasonably priced, only adds to the allure, making it a favorite for both pinball aficionados and casual players alike. The walls reverberate with the sounds of laughter and the satisfying click of flippers, a testament to why this spot is a go-to for Cleveland’s pinball crowd.
A Shark-Filled Battle: JAWS Takes the Stage
In Round 3, the stakes were high as the players faced off on Stern’s JAWS (Pro), a machine that perfectly captures the tension and thrill of the classic film. It was DJ Toth who emerged as the victor, navigating the perilous waters with a combination of sharp reflexes and smart play. Like a seasoned shark hunter, Toth used every feature to his advantage, outscoring Nick Uroseva, Michael Trombetta, and Nick Orosan, who all fought valiantly but ultimately couldn’t escape the jaws of defeat. Toth’s triumph was a masterclass in pinball precision, his performance as electrifying as the machine itself.
Pinball Perfection: Machines That Dazzled
The tournament boasted an impressive lineup of 17 machines, each with its own unique flair. Among them, Mousin’ Around! by Bally, designed by the legendary Mark Sprenger, brought a light-hearted cat-and-mouse chase to life. Meanwhile, Stern’s Deadpool (Pro), with its vibrant artwork by Zombie Yeti, combined humor and action in a way that left players grinning between shots. Another highlight was Jurassic Park (Pro), also by Stern, where the thrill of dino-mayhem was brilliantly captured in Keith Elwin’s dynamic design. But it wasn’t all modern action; classics like Flash Gordon (Bally, 1980) brought a retro challenge that tested even the most skilled players with its brutal speed and tight shots.
Champions Crowned: A Salute to the Winners
In the end, it was Andrew Lee who took home the crown, adding another feather to his already impressive cap. With a state rank of 6th and an IFPA ranking of 46th, Lee’s victory was no surprise, but it was hard-earned. Jon Hrobat secured second place, showing that his 38th state rank was well-deserved, while JD Chips rounded out the top three, proving that his 218th state rank didn’t stop him from punching above his weight. Fourth place went to Jaden Rich, whose consistent performance mirrored his solid state ranking of 23rd. Each player showcased their skill, strategy, and love for the game in what was a thrilling competition from start to finish.
Ohio IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:
Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Stephen Prusa | Cleveland | 908.23 |
2 | Aaron RIch | 730 | |
3 | Jesse Baker | Cincinnati | 605.2 |
4 | Galvin Morgan | Olmsted Falls | 581.93 |
5 | Carlos Delaserda | Columbus | 486.46 |
6 | Andrew Lee | Cleveland | 464.03 |
7 | John Delzoppo | Cleveland | 436.43 |
8 | Trent Augenstein | Delaware | 402.13 |
9 | Cody Webb | Westerville | 390.23 |
10 | Cryss Stephens | 369.08 |
Wrapping It Up
The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #5 was a whirlwind of excitement, showcasing some of the best talent Ohio has to offer. A huge thanks to John Delzoppo for organizing such a stellar event and to Superelectric Pinball Parlour for providing the perfect backdrop for this epic battle. Congratulations to Andrew Lee for his outstanding victory and to all the participants who made this tournament a memorable one. Keep your eyes peeled for more pinball action—there’s always another challenge waiting on the horizon!