It was another electrifying night of pinball at Eureka Heights Brew Co as 33 players gathered for the Space City Pinball: Eureka Heights Summer League 2024 #5. With rounds of fast-paced games, plenty of friendly competition, and a steady flow of cold brews, the event kept everyone on their toes. Despite the Houston heat—feeling like a sweltering 97°F—the tournament played out over nearly three hours, with each flipper enthusiast battling it out on some of the best machines in the lineup. From thrilling victories to nail-biting moments, it was a night to remember for pinball fans of all levels.
Eureka Heights Brew Co – The Perfect Pinball Playground
Located at 941 West 18th St, Eureka Heights Brew Co has become a go-to spot for local tournaments, and it’s easy to see why. This place is known for its laid-back, yet lively atmosphere that feels like Spinal Tap turned up to 11. Whether you’re there for the award-winning flight of beers or just to enjoy the ambiance, this brewery is always buzzing. Their diverse beer selection never misses, and honestly, it’s rare to hear someone say every beer in a flight hits the mark, but this place seems to pull it off. With ample space, quirky decor, and a team that knows how to keep the fun flowing, it’s the perfect location for flippers and sippers alike.
The Epic Battle on Stranger Things (Pro)
Round 1 brought the standout match of the night—a grueling, 89-minute game on Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern. This machine, released in December 2019, is known for its immersive theme based on the hit Netflix show, and it was full of upside-down thrills for the players. Hunter Reed, with nerves of steel, outlasted the competition, taking first place with an impressive series of jackpots and multiball madness. His ability to keep the ball in play while navigating the game’s Demogorgon and telekinesis ball lock showed true mastery. Craig Hughes gave it his all, battling through the eerie game modes, but ultimately couldn’t match Hunter’s consistency. Jamie Burchell and Ben Whittington also fought hard, with Jamie narrowly edging Ben for third in a game that had everyone on edge.
Pinball Machines You Should Know
If you were lucky enough to play in this tournament, you got a crack at some serious classics and a few new kids on the block. Here’s a rundown of five highlights from the lineup:
- Godzilla (Premium) – This one’s been a fan favorite since its release in September 2021. With its intricate layout and chaotic destruction themes, Godzilla feels like you’re controlling a monster movie. Keep an eye out for that bridge—it’s not just for show. Smashing it opens up a world of combos.
- Jurassic Park (Premium) – Released in October 2019, this game is every dinosaur lover’s dream. Dodging raptors and hitting those chaotic modes makes it a fast-paced thrill ride. The T-Rex mech is still one of the coolest pinball toys ever.
- Rush (Pro) – Stern dropped this one in January 2022, and it’s a jam session every time. For all the music lovers out there, playing through the band’s hits while navigating fast orbits and spinners is pure rock-and-roll mayhem.
- John Wick (Pro) – One of the newer releases from May 2024, this machine delivers high-octane gameplay that fits the intense nature of the film series. Featuring modes where you take on adversaries just like in the movies, it’s packed with combos and brutal challenges.
- The Munsters (Premium) – Stern’s 2019 tribute to the classic TV show is a blend of nostalgia and solid pinball mechanics. It’s a colorful game that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but the mini-playfield keeps things interesting, and the family charm makes it a joy to play.
Battling for the Top Spot
With 33 players vying for the top, it was Joshua Mitchell who emerged victorious after a tough series of matches. Joshua’s skillful play, cool under pressure, helped him navigate each round like a true champion. Xe stayed consistent, making each shot count, and managed to come out ahead of the competition. Jamie Burchell came close, showing impressive focus and adaptability throughout the night. John Speights fought hard for his third-place finish, using his experience to push through the competition, while Jonathan Henson rounded out the top four with a performance that, while strong, couldn’t quite get him the gold this time around.
Tournament Winners:
- Joshua Mitchell
- Jamie Burchell
- John Speights
- Jonathan Henson
Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 726.97 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 473.31 |
| 3 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 352.94 |
| 4 | Gilbert Herrera | San Antonio | 327.16 |
| 5 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 322.15 |
| 6 | Ray Ford | Austin | 289.33 |
| 7 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 276.54 |
| 8 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 273.79 |
| 9 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 273.18 |
| 10 | Randy Nelson | Roanoke | 258.93 |
Wrapping Up with a Cheers
As the night wrapped up, it was clear that everyone had a blast—especially the new players like Sarah Connor and Jake Ramirez, who made their debut in the tournament scene. Huge thanks to Space City Pinball for organizing such a fantastic event and to Eureka Heights Brew Co for being the perfect host.
Looking forward to the next tournament? Stay tuned for more updates, recaps, and all the pinball action coming your way soon!