The smoky air outside couldn’t hold a candle to the heated competition inside Dyno Bar on August 13th, where 26 players clashed in the Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – August 2024 pinball tournament. With the Fair Strikes system in play, each player faced the ultimate challenge of avoiding the dreaded fifth strike over eight intense rounds. As the strikes piled up, so did the excitement, and after three and a half hours of relentless play, the victors emerged.
The Ultimate Arcade Experience at Dyno Bar
Located at 3367 India Street, this spot is a nostalgic dream for pinball wizards and arcade aficionados alike. The bar’s vibe is all about the games—think classic pinball machines and retro cabinets that transport you back to the golden age of arcades. With a rotating selection of craft drinks that have earned rave reviews, this place isn’t just about gaming; it’s about the full experience. Whether you’re tackling the 60th Anniversary James Bond pinball machine or throwing down in Golden Axe II, Dyno Bar offers a slice of arcade heaven in the heart of the city.
Deadpool Brings the Heat in Round 4
Round 4 of the tournament took a wild turn on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro), released in August 2018. This game, known for its witty humor and fast-paced action, saw some impressive performances. Brian Pollard, ranked 1086th in the state, went on a tear, channeling the energy of Deadpool’s “Katana-Rama” mode to slice through the competition, securing a first-place finish. Mark Maleko Schulz, a San Diego local and state’s 82nd-ranked player, gave a solid showing but had to settle for second after a close battle. Naoko Neikirk and Kenny Pulliam rounded out the group, with Naoko holding off Kenny for third in a hard-fought match. This round was a clear reminder that in pinball, sometimes the underdog can surprise even the most seasoned players.
Tournament Guide: The Pinball Battleground
This month’s lineup of pinball machines was nothing short of spectacular, offering a mix of modern hits and classic favorites. Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) and Jurassic Park (Pro) delivered fast, adrenaline-pumping gameplay that kept players on their toes. Godzilla (Pro), with its jaw-dropping design and challenging modes, proved to be a fan favorite. Meanwhile, Evel Knievel by Bally took players back to the ’70s with its vintage charm, and the newly released John Wick (Pro) by Stern offered a fresh challenge for those looking to test their skills. Each machine brought its own unique twist, making for a diverse and thrilling tournament experience.
Saluting the Champions
A huge shoutout to the top players who proved their pinball prowess in this fierce competition. Tom Isaak, ranked 19th in the state, showed why they’re a force to be reckoned with, clinching the top spot with a cool confidence that comes from playing in over 200 IFPA events. Brian Heath, despite being ranked 385th, played with the heart of a champion, earning a well-deserved second place. Brian Decker, with only seven IFPA events under his belt, made a name for himself by securing third. Brian Pollard, who dominated in Round 4, finished strong in fourth, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement that makes pinball so thrilling.
California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 951.43 |
| 2 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.53 |
| 3 | Nic Stein | Davis | 818.74 |
| 4 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.85 | |
| 5 | Jason Zahler | 778.2 | |
| 6 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.66 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.76 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.47 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.17 |
| 10 | Andrei Massenkoff | San Francisco | 592.95 |
Wrapping Up a Night of Pinball
With the wildfire smoke outside serving as a reminder of the challenges beyond the arcade, the players at Dyno Bar made the most of their time inside, battling it out in an epic showdown. Newcomers like Brian Decker and Tom Isaak showed that the future of pinball is bright with fresh talent. Special thanks to Mark Schulz for organizing yet another unforgettable event and to Dyno Bar for hosting with style. Until next time, keep those flippers sharp and stay safe out there!