Kicking Off the Winter Classic
The Belles & Chimes SATX – Winter Classic 2024 brought together 24 talented players for a night of flippers, strategy, and excitement on December 28, 2024. Hosted at the cozy What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters in San Antonio, this pinball showdown started at 5:00 PM and wrapped up in just under four hours. Under a clear sky and a pleasant 78°F, competitors battled through ten thrilling rounds to earn a coveted spot in the finals. Organizer Christina Cheeseman made sure everything ran smoothly, and the energy in the room was as vibrant as the coffee being brewed.
What’s Brewing? The Perfect Spot for Pinball
The industrial vibe pairs perfectly with their lineup of pinball machines, creating a laid-back and fun atmosphere. The cold brew, especially the mint chocolate flavor, has earned rave reviews, and the friendly service makes every visit memorable. Whether you’re here for coffee, pinball, or a chill spot to unwind, What’s Brewing? delivers on all fronts. And let’s not forget their focus on fresh beans, which draws in coffee aficionados and casual drinkers alike. It’s a place where great coffee and great games come together seamlessly.
A World Cup-Worthy Semifinal
The semifinals gave us a match to remember on Bally’s 1994 classic, World Cup Soccer. This game’s vibrant soccer theme set the stage for a high-energy clash between Nadia Didehbani, Kristen Saunders, Valli Irvine, and Alexa Hart. The action was as intense as a real-world penalty shootout, with Nadia showing the precision of a seasoned striker. Her skillful use of the magnetic Magna-Save feature kept the ball in play during critical moments, and her perfectly timed goals in the Striker’s Hideout secured her a win. Kristen’s strong showing earned her second place, but Nadia’s strategic plays were the true standout in this nail-biter.
Machines That Made the Magic Happen
The tournament featured a lineup of 16 pinball machines, but here are a few that truly shone:
Black Knight (Williams, 1980)
This classic introduced players to the first-ever two-level playfield, a groundbreaking design at the time. Players had to manage gameplay on both levels, with the iconic magna-save feature providing a second chance when balls neared the drain. Its fast-paced action and dramatic sound effects still captivate players decades later.
Twilight Zone (Bally, 1993)
A fan-favorite for its deep ruleset and unique features, Twilight Zone is packed with creativity. The Powerball—a lighter, faster ceramic ball—adds a thrilling twist, while the gumball machine and clock create exciting scoring opportunities. The “Battle the Power” mini-playfield remains a test of skill and nerve, ensuring players stay on their toes.
Fish Tales (Williams, 1992)
With its quirky fishing theme and fast-flowing ramps, Fish Tales kept players engaged throughout the tournament. The challenge of reeling in the Monster Fish Jackpot and managing the boat and fishing rod toys made it a standout game. Its humorous callouts and catchy soundtrack added to the fun, even under pressure.
Abra Ca Dabra (Gottlieb, 1975)
This vintage gem combines fast-paced gameplay with a classic symmetrical design. Players worked to master its challenging drop targets and spinner, rewarding accuracy and timing. The colorful artwork and mystical theme added to its timeless appeal, making it a highlight for lovers of retro pinball.
Jacks Open (Gottlieb, 1977)
For fans of card-themed pinball, Jacks Open delivered a strategic challenge. Collecting hands for points required careful planning and precision, while the open playfield design left little room for error. Its straightforward rules made it approachable, but achieving high scores demanded serious skill.
Champions of the Winter Classic
The Winter Classic crowned Kristen Saunders as the overall champion, proving that her IFPA rank of 11262 doesn’t define her ability to rise to the occasion. Kristen, with 72 IFPA events under her belt, delivered a consistent performance throughout the tournament. Second place went to Cinthia Whitefield, whose experience from 152 IFPA events and a rank of 3087 showcased her competitive edge. Valli Irvine, ranked 6604, claimed third, demonstrating resilience in a tightly contested field. Rebecca Salam rounded out the top four with her steady gameplay and impressive track record of 174 events. Every player in the top eight deserves applause for their skills and determination, with Alice Young, Julia Mendez, Nadia Didehbani, and Alexa Hart all contributing to a fantastic tournament.
Wrapping Up the Winter Classic
The Belles & Chimes SATX – Winter Classic 2024 was a night to remember. From the cozy vibes of What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters to the electrifying semifinal match on World Cup Soccer, the event delivered on every level. A huge shoutout to organizer Christina Cheeseman for putting together such a seamless and enjoyable tournament. Congratulations to Kristen Saunders on her well-earned victory, and kudos to all the competitors for their incredible performances. Stay tuned for more pinball action and updates as we roll into the new year!
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