How’s it going, pinball crew? On August 13th, they gathered at The Game Preserve NASA for an epic Group Knockout tournament. With 10 players and 11 intense rounds, it was a showdown where skill and strategy took center stage. The atmosphere? Electric. The competition? Fierce. The result? A night of unforgettable pinball action.
Stepping into the ’80s: The Game Preserve NASA
Imagine stepping into an arcade straight out of the 1980s, complete with black lights, rad music, and walls adorned with vibrant artwork that practically leaps out at you. That’s The Game Preserve NASA. Located at 20810 Gulf Freeway in Webster, TX, this place isn’t just an arcade; it’s a nostalgic journey to the golden age of gaming. With a mix of retro and modern pinball machines, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re reliving your childhood or discovering these games for the first time, The Game Preserve NASA is the perfect spot for a pinball showdown. The dedication of the owners to maintaining and preserving these machines is nothing short of heroic. It’s like a trip back in time, minus the DeLorean.
Battling for the Throne: Game of Thrones (Pro)
One of the tournament’s standout moments happened in Round 5 on Game of Thrones (Pro). This game’s Iron Throne mode saw some intense action, with players battling it out for the kingdom (and some serious bragging rights). Alex Anthony, who’s currently ranked 211th in the state, clinched first place with a display of skill that left the competition in the dust. Spence Gaskin and Cory Westfahl weren’t far behind, showing that the fight for the throne is never an easy one. This match was the kind of drama you’d expect from Westeros, with each player trying to outmaneuver the other in a battle of skill and strategy.
A Tour Through Time: Pinball Machines of the Tournament
Let’s talk about some of the stars of the night—those beloved pinball machines.
White Water by Williams, released in January 1993, is a journey down a wild river with ramps and whirlpools that make it a fast-paced adventure. Its unique upper playfield, the Insanity Falls ramp, is a challenge that rewards skilled shots with big points.
Mata Hari by Bally, from September 1977, brings the mystique of the famous spy to life with its elegant art and challenging gameplay. The machine’s drop targets and spinning saucer keep players on their toes, demanding precision and focus.
Fireball by Bally, a February 1972 classic, is all about chaos and control. With its spinning disc in the center of the playfield, the ball can shoot off in any direction, turning every game into an unpredictable thrill ride.
Beat Time by Williams, released in September 1967, offers a musical trip down memory lane with its band-themed artwork and classic layout. The captive ball feature is a highlight, adding a layer of strategy as players aim to score big.
Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, released in August 2018, is a modern masterpiece with fast-paced gameplay and hilarious callouts. The snarky humor and unique battle modes make every game a laugh-out-loud experience.
Hats Off to the Champions!
Congratulations to the top finishers in this intense tournament! The final battle on White Water was nothing short of epic. With its twisting ramps and cascading waterfalls, White Water pushed our finalists over the falls.
- Branden Martin (TX) – Branden’s tenacity and focus paid off as they navigated the wild rapids of White Water to claim the top spot. With just 10 IFPA events under their belt, this victory is a testament to their growing prowess in the pinball scene.
- Steve Clarner – Steve, currently ranked 232nd in the state, showed why experience matters. With 43 IFPA events to his name, his journey through the tournament was a masterclass in consistency and skill.
- Dawn Freedkin – Dawn’s 277th state rank and 122 IFPA events reflect a seasoned competitor who’s no stranger to the pressure of tournament play. Their performance was strong, finishing third after a night of tough competition.
- Alex Anthony – Alex, with a state rank of 211th and 25 events, started strong but faced fierce competition in the final rounds. Their fourth-place finish is a solid achievement, showcasing their potential for future tournaments.
Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 697.25 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 466.27 |
| 3 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 352.95 |
| 4 | Gilbert Herrera | San Antonio | 327.16 |
| 5 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 320.55 |
| 6 | Ray Ford | Austin | 289.35 |
| 7 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 273.18 |
| 8 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 271.69 |
| 9 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 262.25 |
| 10 | Keith Shahan | Abilene | 250.67 |
Wrapping Up the Night
A huge shoutout to Space City Pinball for organizing this knockout tournament, and to The Game Preserve NASA for hosting us in such a rad setting. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the pinball scene, nights like this are what make the pinball community so special. Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights! Until next time, keep those flippers ready and the high scores rolling—Houston’s pinball scene is just heating up!