Seattle’s Pinball Elite Clash in the Max Value Classic Finals

The Finals for the Max Value Classic Challenge brought together 36 skilled pinball players for an intense Group Knockout Tournament. Over the course of 16 rounds and six hours, the competitors navigated the Progressive Strikes system, each aiming to stay in the game and claim victory. With 14 strikes to eliminate players, the tournament tested endurance, strategy, and a whole lot of flipper finesse. Organized by Germain Mariolle and set against a backdrop of overcast Seattle skies at 47°F, the event proved to be an electrifying showdown of talent.

Stepping Into The Ice Box Arcade

The Ice Box Arcade, located at 615 NW Bright St, Seattle, WA, is more than just a gaming venue—it’s a haven for arcade enthusiasts of all ages. From the clean, open space to the inviting ambiance, this spot effortlessly combines nostalgia with modern-day fun. The staff’s friendliness adds a cherry on top, making every visit memorable. Whether you’re chasing high scores on vintage pinball machines or introducing your little ones to the joys of arcade gaming, The Ice Box Arcade delivers an experience worth every quarter.

Star Gazer Lights Up Round 1

To kick things off, players faced off on Star Gazer by Stern Electronics, a celestial-themed pinball classic released in January 1980. Stern Electronics was known for pushing boundaries with innovative designs during its heyday, and Star Gazer is no exception. Its intricate starfield backdrop and rare three-flipper setup make it a favorite among collectors and players alike. MK Walker, an emerging talent with an IFPA rank of 1815, soared to victory, proving that skill and focus can sometimes outshine more experienced competitors. Trevor McDonald, ranked 206, gave a stellar performance, leveraging his experience to claim second place by skillfully navigating the upper flipper loops. Mandy Woodard, a determined competitor ranked 2376, showcased adaptability and grit to secure third, while Tom Walsh, a local player ranked 844, displayed strong form but settled for fourth. Star Gazer’s cosmic charm and demanding design made it a fitting start to an unforgettable evening.

Pinball Machines That Shone Bright

The tournament featured 23 machines, each offering unique challenges. Here’s a closer look at five standout games:

Viking by Bally (1979): Viking’s Norse-themed artwork and drop target-heavy design demand precision. Released during Bally’s golden era of pinball, this machine showcases the company’s knack for combining engaging themes with challenging gameplay. Bally, a leader in pinball innovation during the late 1970s, introduced features like dual spinners and a high-speed playfield, making Viking a classic example of their expertise. Players particularly appreciated the rewarding risk of chasing multipliers through the intricate drop targets.

Dolly Parton by Bally (1978): A tribute to the country music legend, this game charms with its colorful playfield and simple, yet satisfying, shot layout. Bally was among the first manufacturers to experiment with celebrity-themed pinball machines, and Dolly Parton’s design reflects the era’s emphasis on approachable, fun gameplay. The vibrant playfield, adorned with imagery of the iconic singer, paired with its memorable jukebox bonus feature, made it a standout for players seeking a mix of nostalgia and pinball thrills.

Barracora by Williams (1981): Known for its futuristic aquatic theme, Barracora was one of the first machines to feature a double-scoring system, a hallmark of Williams’s innovative spirit. The machine’s bold design, which included a visually striking playfield and challenging lane setups, reflected Williams’s leadership in introducing cutting-edge mechanics during the early ’80s. The hypnotic lighting and sound effects amplified the immersive experience, while the unique lock-and-release ball feature kept competitors on their toes.

Cheetah by Stern (1980): Cheetah’s wide-body design and standout upper playfield offered high-risk, high-reward opportunities. Stern Electronics, founded in 1977, became known for their daring and experimental designs, and Cheetah embodies this philosophy with its asymmetrical playfield and clever use of split flippers. The game also introduced players to advanced target banks, where timing and accuracy were key to unlocking bonus multipliers. For players, the challenge came not only from the unique playfield layout but also from its fast-paced gameplay.

Seawitch by Stern (1980): Released during the same era as Star Gazer, Seawitch cemented Stern’s reputation for creating machines with smooth gameplay and flowing shots. Stern leaned heavily into thematic playfields during this time, and Seawitch’s nautical design was no exception. The looping shots, reminiscent of waves, and the cleverly placed pop bumpers added depth and excitement to the gameplay. Stern’s use of a compact, efficient design allowed for strategic scoring opportunities, earning Seawitch a spot as a fan favorite in both casual and competitive settings.

Champions Crowned on Quicksilver

The final game took place on Quicksilver, a Stern Electronics masterpiece known for its hypnotic green playfield and lightning-fast ball action. Released in 1980, Quicksilver is a prime example of Stern’s commitment to speed-focused designs during its early years. Joshua Francis, a steady competitor from Edmonds, WA, clinched first place by expertly capitalizing on the game’s inline drop targets and spinner shots. His victory is particularly impressive given his rank of 191, proving that he’s a force to be reckoned with despite competing against players with higher rankings. Germain Mariolle, one of the state’s top players ranked 12, demonstrated his elite skill set and experience, finishing strong in second place. Vincent Sperrazza, ranked 170, showed consistency and determination, rounding out the podium with a third-place finish. Meanwhile, Robert Gagno, an internationally respected player ranked 67, delivered a solid performance but couldn’t quite edge into the top three this time. The combination of skill, strategy, and quick thinking made for an unforgettable finale.

1. Joshua Francis – Edmonds, WA, with a rank of 191, triumphed over higher-ranked competitors with precision and strategy.
2. Germain Mariolle – Redmond, WA, ranked 12, brought his extensive experience to bear but fell just short of first place.
3. Vincent Sperrazza – Bremerton, WA, ranked 170, displayed consistency and determination to secure a podium finish.
4. Robert Gagno – Seattle, WA, a highly regarded player ranked 67, showed strong form but couldn’t break into the top three.

Washington IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping It All Up

The Finals for the Max Value Classic Challenge was a night to remember, filled with standout performances and thrilling gameplay. Special thanks go to Germain Mariolle for organizing the event and to The Ice Box Arcade for providing such a fantastic setting. Congratulations to Joshua Francis on his well-deserved win and to all the competitors who made this tournament unforgettable. Stay tuned for more exciting pinball action—there’s always another high score to chase!