The NWPC 2024 PreTourney – Shorty’s: Pinball Madness in Seattle

The NWPC 2024 PreTourney at Shorty’s was a night to remember, packed with thrilling pinball action and intense competition. This Basic Knockout Tournament drew in 26 passionate players, each vying to outlast their opponents in 11 rounds of head-to-head battles. With three strikes to their name, they were out, making every round a high-stakes showdown. Starting at 8:00 PM on August 14, the tournament ran for just over three and a half hours, keeping the energy high until the very end. Organizer Germain Mariolle orchestrated a seamless event that left everyone talking about their epic pinball battles.

Shorty’s: The Ultimate Pinball Destination

Shorty’s isn’t just a bar—it’s a pinball paradise nestled in the heart of Seattle at 2316 2nd Ave. For over 15 years, this iconic spot has been a haven for pinball enthusiasts and vintage arcade lovers. Every table in the bar is made from a glass-top pinball game, giving the entire place a unique, nostalgic vibe. You’ll find a mix of classic and modern machines, from “Stranger Things” to “Medieval Madness,” ensuring there’s something for everyone. The atmosphere at Shorty’s is as friendly as it gets, with bartenders and patrons alike sharing a love for the game. And if you’re old school, you’ll appreciate the coin machines for those moments when a bill reader just won’t do. Whether you’re there for the games, the vibes, or just to hang out with your dog, Shorty’s has it all.

Godzilla Takes Center Stage

Round 5 of the tournament brought a particularly fierce match on the Godzilla (Premium) pinball machine, a Stern release from September 2021. Max Davidoff, ranked 41st in the state, faced off against Dave Stewart, a seasoned player from Seattle with a state ranking of 7th. The highlight of the game was the “Heat Ray” mode, where players must hit the moving building and attack the bridge, all while avoiding destruction from Godzilla’s fiery breath. Max’s quick reflexes and strategic play saw him taking the lead, but not without a strong fight from Dave, who kept the game close right until the final ball. The excitement of the game had everyone in the room on the edge of their seats.

Standout Pinball Machines at Shorty’s

Shorty’s had an impressive lineup of 16 pinball machines, each offering a unique challenge to the players. Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern, released in October 2019, featured the thrilling “T-Rex Rampage” mode, where players must dodge a rampaging dinosaur while collecting valuable rescues. Bally’s classic Centaur from February 1981 also made an appearance, with its distinctive black-and-white design and the ability to summon multiple balls with a single shot, keeping players on their toes. Another crowd favorite was the Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern, a March 2023 release, blending rock music and pinball with its guitar-themed playfield and fast-paced action. And let’s not forget the iconic Addams Family by Bally, which has been captivating players since January 1992 with its “Thing” hand that snatches the ball right off the playfield.

Congratulations to the Tournament Winners

A big round of applause goes to Sean Irby, who clinched the top spot in the tournament. Sean’s win was no easy feat, given the fierce competition. With a state rank of 12th and an IFPA rank of 53rd, Sean’s experience and skill clearly paid off. Lee Ford, who took second place, also put up an impressive fight. Lee’s state rank of 21st and IFPA rank of 687 show his consistency and dedication to the game. Jaran Jones, who came in third, is another player to watch, with a state rank of 8th and an IFPA rank of 162. And rounding out the top four was Max Davidoff, whose strategic gameplay on Godzilla earlier in the night was a highlight of the tournament. Max’s state rank of 41st and IFPA rank of 1161 might be lower than some, but his performance proves he’s a formidable competitor.

Washington IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the NWPC 2024 PreTourney

The NWPC 2024 PreTourney at Shorty’s was a night filled with exciting matches, standout performances, and a fantastic atmosphere. Congratulations once again to Sean Irby for taking home the win, and to all the players who battled it out on the machines. Shorty’s proved to be the perfect venue for this event, offering a mix of old-school charm and modern pinball thrills. If you’re ever in Seattle, it’s a must-visit spot for any pinball enthusiast. Stay tuned for more pinball news, tournament recaps, and insider tips—there’s always something exciting happening in the world of pinball!