Hey pinball fans! If you missed out on the Free Play Denton Pinball Monday on August 19th, you missed one sizzling tournament—literally. With temperatures soaring to 105°F outside, things weren’t much cooler inside as 19 players battled it out for pinball glory. This wasn’t just another Monday night at the arcade; it was a showdown where every flip counted. The event, expertly organized by Chris Delp, featured six rounds of intense competition, with the top eight players advancing to the finals. It all wrapped up in just under two and a half hours, proving that these pinball wizards know how to keep the action fast and fierce.
For more details on upcoming events at this great location, check out their Facebook page here.
A Hidden Gem in Denton
In the heart of Denton, Free Play Arcade is a paradise for anyone looking to relive their arcade glory days—or just to have a great time. Located at 101 West Hickory Street, this spot is more than just your average arcade. With a mix of nostalgia-packed games and a lively atmosphere, it’s no wonder this place is a hit. Whether you’re there on a discounted late night or during prime time, the entrance fee is a steal considering the endless gameplay. The dual-level setup means there’s plenty of room to explore, and with bars on both floors, you can grab a drink while you take a break from the action. Just be sure to keep an eye on your tab—those drinks can add up faster than you think!
If you’re planning a visit, make sure to check out their website for more details on their hours and special events.
The Showdown on John Wick
The semifinals of the tournament brought us a match that won’t soon be forgotten, played out on Stern’s John Wick (Pro). Released in May 2024, this machine is packed with the kind of intense action you’d expect from the John Wick franchise. As the players battled it out, it was clear that strategy and quick reflexes were key. Daniel Martin, who ranks 32nd in the state, demonstrated why he’s a force to be reckoned with, mastering the game’s tricky shot sequences and high-speed gameplay. In the end, it was Martin who came out on top, leaving his competitors in the dust. With each round, he was like John Wick himself—unstoppable and precise, claiming victory with the same cool efficiency as the movie’s titular character.
Machines That Made a Mark
The lineup of pinball machines at this tournament was nothing short of spectacular. Among the standouts was Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, a game that’s been thrilling players since its release in September 2021. Its multi-ball madness and chaos on the playfield make it a fan favorite. Also drawing a crowd was Attack From Mars (Remake) by Chicago Gaming, with its classic alien invasion theme and smooth gameplay that has stood the test of time. For music lovers, Led Zeppelin (Pro) offered a rock ‘n’ roll experience like no other, complete with iconic tracks that kept players energized and engaged. And let’s not forget The Mandalorian (Premium/LE), which brought the epic Star Wars universe to life with challenging missions and the chance to team up with Baby Yoda himself.
The Champions of Free Play Denton
With 19 competitors fighting for a spot in the finals, only the best of the best made it through to the end. Daniel Martin, who you might remember from that thrilling John Wick match, secured the top spot after battling through a field of skilled opponents. Daniel has steadily climbed the ranks in the Texas pinball scene, sitting at 32nd in the state and showing the kind of consistency that makes him a formidable competitor. His victory here wasn’t just another notch on his belt; it was a testament to the hours he’s spent honing his craft across 62 IFPA events.
Coming in second was Chris Noah from Pottsboro, TX. Chris might not have as many events under his belt as some of the other top contenders, but his 36th state ranking and 37 IFPA events show that he’s no stranger to the pressure of competition. He put up a fierce fight, proving that he’s a player to watch as he continues to rise through the ranks.
David Whitlock from Flower Mound, TX, took third place. With 179 events to his name, David’s experience in the world of competitive pinball is undeniable. His 50th state ranking might make him seem like a dark horse, but his steady hand and deep understanding of the game propelled him to the podium.
Rounding out the top four was Joe McBride, who, despite being unranked in the IFPA, showed that raw talent and determination could carry you far in this sport. While he may not have the rankings to back him up yet, his performance at this tournament suggests that might change soon.
Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 697.24 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 473.31 |
| 3 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 352.94 |
| 4 | Gilbert Herrera | San Antonio | 327.16 |
| 5 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 320.55 |
| 6 | Ray Ford | Austin | 289.33 |
| 7 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 273.18 |
| 8 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 271.69 |
| 9 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 262.24 |
| 10 | Keith Shahan | Abilene | 250.67 |
Wrapping Up the Night
As the tournament came to a close, it was clear that everyone had brought their A-game to Free Play Denton. Organizer Chris Delp deserves a huge shoutout for pulling off another great event, and Free Play Arcade continues to be the perfect spot for pinball enthusiasts to come together and compete. Whether you were there to witness Daniel Martin’s epic win on John Wick or just to enjoy the arcade’s impressive lineup of games, it was a night to remember.
Thanks to everyone who came out to play and support the community. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps—because in the world of pinball, there’s always another game waiting to be played!