Clouds Over Cleveland: Pinball Planet Mega Matchplay Brings the Action

Broken clouds and a brisk 57°F set the tone for an unforgettable day of competition at Pinball Planet. With 64 players and over 12 hours of intense matchplay, the Pinball Planet Mega Matchplay tournament tested the stamina, skill, and determination of every competitor. By the end of this marathon event, the results showcased a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars.

A Galaxy of Pinball Awaits at Pinball Planet

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland at 6277 Pearl Rd, Pinball Planet is a treasure trove for pinball enthusiasts. Whether you’re drawn to the mechanical magic of electro-mechanical classics or the dazzling displays of modern machines, this location has it all. Guests often mention the careful maintenance of every machine, ensuring gameplay is smooth and precise. For families, little touches like step stools make it a welcoming space for players of all ages. Whether you’re chasing high scores or just having fun, Pinball Planet delivers a pinball paradise worth every quarter.

Spotlight Game: Gorgar’s Grueling Showdown

The quarterfinals saw one of the most grueling games of the tournament, with Gorgar holding players captive for a jaw-dropping 98 minutes. This Williams classic from 1979, infamous for being the first talking pinball machine, tested the mental fortitude of its competitors with its ominous “heartbeat” mode, which grows faster as you rack up points, adding to the tension.

Gary Hartz, ranked 255, played like a man possessed, conquering Gorgar’s punishing setup and showcasing why rankings only tell part of the story. Stephen Prusa, one of the top-ranked competitors in this tournament at 69, fought valiantly, proving his elite status but ultimately coming up just short. Zak Bowers, ranked 492, reminded everyone that underdogs can thrive when the stakes are high, outlasting competitors with a strategic approach. Meanwhile, Mark Brown, ranked 356, showed consistent, calculated gameplay to round out the top four. Gorgar didn’t just talk—it roared, and these players answered the challenge.

Tournament Highlights: Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

This tournament featured 34 machines that challenged players with their unique designs and gameplay mechanics. Here are some standouts:

• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern devoured players with its monster-themed chaos, including magnetic ball locks and intricate ramp setups.
• John Wick (Pro), a 2024 release, brought sleek, fast-paced action inspired by the hit film franchise, with brutal difficulty that mirrored the assassin’s intensity.
• Cyclone by Williams, a 1988 carnival-themed classic, offered nostalgic thrills with its iconic “ride the Ferris Wheel” mechanic.
• Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) brought Old West charm to the lineup, complete with a shootout mode that tested quick reflexes.

From the cinematic storytelling of Pulp Fiction (SE) to the family-friendly whimsy of Toy Story 4 (CE), each machine added its own flavor to the tournament’s rich tapestry.

The Final Showdown: Who Rose Above the Rest?

After 20 grueling rounds and a highly competitive finals bracket, the cream of the crop emerged. Each placement tells a story:

1. Aaron Rich battled through a tough field to take the crown. With 257 IFPA events under his belt, his experience and determination proved unstoppable, marking his rise from steady performer to tournament champion.
2. John Delzoppo, the tournament organizer, leveraged his local knowledge and pinball expertise to claim second place, showcasing why he’s a dominant force in Cleveland pinball.
3. Cody Webb, a seasoned player with over 300 events to his name, continued to impress with consistent, calculated gameplay that secured him third place.
4. Galvin Morgan demonstrated their versatility, taking fourth place with sharp decision-making and adaptability that will undoubtedly make them a player to watch in future events.
5. Stephen Prusa, fresh off his battle on Gorgar, brought his high-ranking consistency into the finals but couldn’t quite close the gap for a podium finish.
6. Carlos Delaserda, the highest-ranked player in the field at 13, showed flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament but fell short of the top spots in a fiercely competitive finals.
7. Andrew Lee displayed excellent skill, with a top-eight finish that reinforces their reputation as a strong contender in Cleveland’s competitive pinball scene.
8. Gary Hartz, fresh off his Gorgar triumph, capped his tournament with a well-earned eighth-place finish, proving he’s a player who thrives under pressure.

A Tournament to Remember

Hats off to John Delzoppo for organizing an event that kept the energy high and the competition fierce. Pinball Planet provided the perfect backdrop for this marathon tournament, with its unmatched variety of machines and welcoming atmosphere.

And who could forget Gorgar’s moment in the spotlight? The tension of that 98-minute game will be talked about for months to come, a true testament to the skill and endurance of its players.

Thank you to everyone who came out to play, cheer, or simply enjoy the thrill of pinball. Stay connected for more pinball excitement and recaps as we roll into 2025. Until then, keep flipping and chasing those high scores!