Family Rivalry Reignites at Three Strike – XXX Tuesday

The latest installment of the Three Strike – XXX Tuesday event took place on a slightly damp September evening at The Game Preserve in Spring, Texas. As light rain drizzled down, the competition inside heated up, with 12 skilled players facing off in a knockout format that pushed everyone to their limits. The recurring tournament, hosted by Space City Pinball, has become a proving ground for local talent, and this time, the stakes felt higher than ever. The familiar faces from the previous tournament made it clear that tonight would be no ordinary Tuesday.

Inside The Game Preserve

The Game Preserve, located at 473 Sawdust Road in Spring, Texas, continues to be the perfect battleground for these tournaments. Known for its vast collection of classic arcade and pinball machines, it offers a nostalgic throwback for players. What sets it apart is its pay-once, play-all-you-want setup, making it a favorite among regulars. Whether you’re here to compete or just enjoy a night of fun, the relaxed atmosphere and reasonably priced snacks make it an all-around great experience. With such a rich selection of machines and the inviting ambiance, it’s no wonder The Game Preserve keeps drawing players back for more.

Pinball Machines to Watch

The tournament featured 30 pinball machines, offering players a wide range of challenges. Here’s a closer look at some of the standouts:

• Jungle Lord (Williams, 1981) – A dual-level playfield and Magna-Save feature make this machine a constant test of skill and timing. Its intense jungle theme and fast-paced gameplay keep players on their toes, and tonight it claimed more than a few strikes.
• No Fear: Dangerous Sports (Williams, 1995) – This machine is all about adrenaline. With its high-speed ramps and the intense “Skydive” feature, it’s a crowd favorite, especially among players who thrive on fast, risky shots. Those who dare to take it on tonight had to bring their A-game.
• Elvira and the Party Monsters (Bally, 1989) – Campy fun meets serious pinball in Elvira’s world. The chaotic multi-ball moments and quirky characters keep players engaged, but only those who could master the “Boogie Men” feature truly dominated this machine tonight.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Stern, 2018) – A modern gem, Iron Maiden brings heavy metal to the playfield. Its complex layout and challenging modes, like “Tomb Treasure,” tested the reflexes of every player who stepped up. The machine has become a tournament staple, and those familiar with it often have a leg up.
• Paragon (Bally, 1979) – Known for its wide-body playfield, Paragon is a game of endurance and skill. Tonight, its unpredictable ball paths and tricky outlanes once again proved to be a player’s downfall—or victory, depending on who was at the controls.

A Standout Game on Bram Stoker’s Dracula

Round 6 delivered a heart-pounding match on Bram Stoker’s Dracula, a game notorious for its punishing shots and eerie atmosphere. Grayson Turner, a player who has steadily climbed the ranks in local competitions, took the lead during the “Mist Multi-ball” mode, managing to keep the ball in play far longer than his opponents. Kyrra Warren fought valiantly, but Grayson’s skill in utilizing the game’s multi-ball features gave him the edge. Nicholas Gustafson and Hunter Reed, both well-known competitors, found themselves struggling with the game’s fast-moving ball and relentless drains, putting them behind the curve. Grayson’s performance on Dracula was a clear signal that he’s becoming a force to reckon with in these tournaments.

The Rise of the Reeds: Tournament Winners

The familiar faces of Hunter and Cameron Reed dominated the night once again. In the last tournament, Hunter came in 2nd, but this time he secured the top spot, showing his steady rise in the local pinball ranks. Cameron, who previously held 3rd place, moved up to 2nd, demonstrating a familial rivalry that continues to push both of them to improve. Their combined knowledge of The Game Preserve’s machines, especially the tricky ones like Paragon and Iron Maiden, gave them a decisive advantage.

1. Hunter Reed – Coming from Conroe, TX, Hunter’s performance tonight showed the kind of consistency that comes from experience. Having competed in over 275 IFPA events, he’s no stranger to the pressure of tournament play, and tonight’s victory solidifies his place among the top local talent.
2. Cameron Reed – Cameron’s move from 3rd to 2nd place since the last event is a testament to his adaptability and skill. Based in Spring, TX, his knowledge of the local machines and his steady improvement make him a constant threat in these competitions.
3. David Pollock – Representing Conroe, TX, David continues to impress with their strong performances in tournament after tournament. With over 500 events under their belt, David’s ability to consistently place in the top spots is a testament to their deep understanding of pinball strategy.
4. Grayson Turner – A player who’s been quietly improving over the last few tournaments, Grayson from Spring, TX, made his mark tonight by finishing 4th. His mastery of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in Round 6 was one of the highlights of the evening and shows that he’s on the rise.

Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Closing Thoughts on the Tournament

The Three Strike – XXX Tuesday on September 10th once again brought out some of the best local talent at The Game Preserve. Hunter Reed’s victory, following his strong performance in the previous tournament, shows that he’s only getting better with each event. Meanwhile, Cameron Reed and David Pollock continue to be fixtures in the top ranks, with Grayson Turner emerging as a player to watch in future tournaments. With the rain adding a little extra tension to the evening, the action inside was as intense as ever.

As The Game Preserve continues to host these exciting events, its role as a hub for local pinball competition remains undeniable. Stay tuned for more pinball news and tournament recaps!