On the evening of September 20, 2024, twelve determined pinball wizards gathered at Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim, California, for the Season 4 – LOSER STRIKES tournament. This knockout event had players on edge with its high-stakes format: after three strikes, you’re out. The competition was fierce, with players fighting through eight rounds and every ball flip mattering more than the last. The tournament ran just under three hours, with scattered clouds outside and a comfortable 68°F setting the mood for some epic gameplay inside.
CC Castaneda, who organized this fantastic showdown, ensured everything ran smoothly, from match setups to strike tracking. Let’s dive into the action and highlight the best moments from the night.
Captain’s Arcade Showroom: A Pinball Paradise
Located along East La Palma Avenue, the showroom offers an impressive collection of classic and modern machines, including the latest releases. The team here, especially CC, makes it easy for newcomers and veterans alike to feel at home. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just bought your first machine, the welcoming vibe makes this spot stand out. With over 46 machines ready for action, it’s clear why tournaments here always bring out top talent.
If you’re ever in the area, swing by Captain’s to play a few rounds, or even add a machine to your collection. The showroom’s staff has been praised for their excellent customer service and love for the game—just ask anyone who’s visited!
Spotlight Match: Iron Maiden Shreds in Round 4
One of the most thrilling moments of the night unfolded during Round 4 on Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern. The battle for supremacy on this machine was intense, with its captivating Egyptian theme and fast-paced gameplay keeping players on their toes. Hillary Jacobson, who’s no stranger to tough competition, took command. Her precision in hitting key shots—especially those tricky loops and ramps—secured her a first-place finish.
CC Castaneda gave her a good chase, pulling off an impressive multiball sequence but couldn’t quite outmaneuver Hillary’s lead. Meanwhile, David Green struggled to catch a rhythm, falling to third after failing to complete the Pharaoh’s Tomb mode. Hillary’s calm approach and familiarity with Iron Maiden’s devilish design ultimately won her the round, proving why she’s ranked among California’s top 150 players.
Pinball Machines That Made the Night
With 46 different machines at their disposal, players had their pick of some truly iconic titles. A few stood out for their blend of challenging design and nostalgic appeal:
- Viking (Bally, 1979): Known for its fast playfield and no-ball-save setup, this machine demands precision. One wrong flip, and you’re fighting to keep the ball in play.
- James Bond 007 (LE) (Stern, 2022): The smooth ramps and brilliant modes inspired by the world’s most famous spy made this a fan favorite. It’s a machine that doesn’t just reward skill but also an appreciation for Bond’s daring escapades.
- Ice Fever (Gottlieb, 1985): With its hockey-inspired theme, Ice Fever provided a fun twist for those looking to change the pace.
- Skateball (Bally, 1980): A true classic that took the spotlight in the final match of the night, Skateball’s challenging layout and classic Bally gameplay kept players engaged right to the end.
- John Wick (Pro) (Stern, 2024): Stern’s latest release was a hit. This machine, based on the action-packed film series, gave players plenty of multiball opportunities and brutal challenges.
From futuristic designs to 80s classics, these machines provided plenty of variety for both players and spectators alike.
Celebrating the Tournament Winners
After eight intense rounds, it was Rob Luzio who emerged victorious. His journey to first place was nothing short of impressive, especially as he faced off against tough competition in the final game on Skateball. Rob, ranked 437th in California, may not have the most tournament experience, but he showed remarkable poise in each round. His ability to stay calm during high-pressure moments truly paid off.
Second place went to Dave DiFranco, a seasoned player from Huntington Beach with over 50 IFPA events under his belt. His consistency kept him in the running throughout the night, and his 256th state ranking speaks to his skill. Meanwhile, Aaron Kennedy secured third place in his first-ever IFPA event—a fantastic debut! Fourth place was claimed by Rayce Luzio, whose unique strategies and creativity on the flippers showcased why they’re a player to watch.
California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 1001.27 |
| 2 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.56 |
| 3 | Nic Stein | Davis | 833.43 |
| 4 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.86 | |
| 5 | Jason Zahler | 778.22 | |
| 6 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 728 |
| 7 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.68 |
| 8 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.78 |
| 9 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.5 |
| 10 | Dustin Goldbarg | Sunnyvale | 613.26 |
Wrapping Up the Night
The Season 4 – LOSER STRIKES tournament at Captain’s Arcade Showroom delivered thrilling moments, great competition, and fantastic machines. Special kudos to CC Castaneda for organizing this unforgettable event and for always keeping things running smoothly. As the pinball action continues across the state, be sure to keep your eyes on Anaheim for more upcoming events. And if you haven’t yet checked out the legendary Captain’s Arcade Showroom, make it a destination next time you’re in the area—you won’t regret it!