Pinball Under the Texas Stars

Hey pinball fans! On the evening of August 5th, 2024, Free Play Arlington hosted its much-anticipated Monday night pinball tournament, pulling in a crowd of 29 sharp-shooting players ready to battle it out under the clear Texas sky. With temperatures hovering around a toasty 94°F, the competition inside was even hotter as participants duked it out over five intense rounds. The top 8 scorers moved on to the finals, playing two more rounds to determine who would walk away with the title.

If you missed this one, don’t sweat it—Free Play Arlington has plenty more events on the horizon. Check out their event page here for upcoming tournaments!

The Arcade Oasis

Located at 400 East South Street in Arlington, TX, Free Play Arcade is a haven for gaming enthusiasts. Step through the doors, and you’re greeted by a wave of nostalgia, surrounded by row after row of classic and modern pinball machines. The vibe is electric, the staff is friendly, and the best part? Pay once, and you’re free to play all night. With a bar and food on site, plus non-smoking seating areas outside, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a game or twenty. Whether you’re here to win or just to have some fun, Free Play Arlington’s got your back.

For more details, check out their website here.

Bond… Pinball Bond

The semifinals got especially heated on the James Bond 007 (Pro) machine, a slick table by Stern that’s packed with espionage-themed features. In this round, the action was all about the ‘Spectre Mode’—an exciting chase where players collect weapons and gadgets while dodging traps set by the nefarious organization. Steven McMullin from Stephenville, TX, came out on top, showing off his state-ranked 34th skills, with Michael Hew from Texas hot on his heels. Randy Nelson and Daniel Martin also put up a strong fight, but Steven’s familiarity with Bond’s world gave him the edge he needed.

Machines That Stole the Show

This tournament wasn’t just about the players—it was also about the amazing lineup of pinball machines that kept everyone on their toes.

Checkpoint by Data East (February 1991)
Checkpoint is a high-octane racing-themed pinball that features an innovative dot-matrix display—a first for Data East back in the day. The machine’s vibrant colors and fast-paced gameplay make it a fan favorite, especially with its unique player-selectable soundtrack. It’s not just a race against the clock; it’s a race to top the leaderboard!

The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (May 2021)
This table brings the Star Wars universe to life with immersive missions and intricate mini-playfields. The Mandalorian’s Grogu character, also known as “Baby Yoda,” is central to many game modes, requiring players to navigate through complex sequences to advance. A must-play for any Star Wars fan!

Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (September 2021)
Roaring onto the scene with city-smashing action, Godzilla is all about destruction and chaos. Players must control the King of Monsters as they destroy buildings and battle other kaiju. It’s a game that combines stunning visuals with deep strategy, perfect for both casual players and hardcore pinball wizards alike.

Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern (May 2011)
TRON: Legacy transports players into the digital world, complete with light cycles and disc battles. The glowing blue ramps and electrifying soundtrack are a nod to the movie’s aesthetic, making this machine a visual and auditory feast. The fast-paced gameplay and multi-ball modes keep the adrenaline pumping.

Family Guy by Stern (February 2007)
Quahog’s favorite family takes center stage in this machine, offering humor and chaos in equal measure. The mini Stewie pinball inside the machine adds a fun twist, as players try to complete missions involving all the show’s beloved characters. It’s a mix of comedy and skill that only Family Guy can deliver.

Top Pinball Wizards

After a fierce battle, here are the players who stood tall:

1. Michael Hew, from Texas, clinched the top spot. With a state rank of 57th and 30 IFPA events under his belt, Michael’s consistency paid off big time.
2. Chris Noah, from Pottsboro, TX, took second place. His state rank of 37th and experience in 34 events made him a formidable opponent.
3. Gage Carroll rounded out the top three, proving that even with a state rank of 310th, persistence is key.
4. Steven McMullin, from Stephenville, TX, came in fourth, showing why he’s ranked 34th in the state.
5. Randy Nelson, from Roanoke, TX, finished fifth. His 15th state rank speaks volumes about his pinball prowess.
6. John Richardson, from Grand Prairie, TX, secured sixth place, continuing to impress with his 89th state rank.
7. Daniel Martin claimed seventh, with his 33rd state rank reflecting his solid performance.
8. Greg Gibson, from Plano, TX, took the eighth spot, proving it doesn’t take a human to master the game, as this machine-focused competitor boasts a 31st state rank.

Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Wrapping Up the Fun

What a night! The Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday delivered thrills, upsets, and a whole lot of fun. Hats off to Chris Delp for organizing such a smooth event and to Free Play Arlington for being the perfect host. And of course, a big congrats to Michael Hew for his well-deserved victory!

Stay tuned for the latest pinball news and follow-ups. Catch you at the next tournament!