Ice-Cold Competition at The Ice Box: February 2025 Matchplay

On a brisk, overcast afternoon in Seattle, 57 pinball players gathered at The Ice Box Arcade for the latest installment of the Ice Box Mixed Matchplay tournament. With five rounds of two-game matches, the competition was fierce, and after four and a half hours of flipper battles, a new champion was crowned.

A Cool Place for Hot Pinball Action

Located at 615 NW Bright St, The Ice Box Arcade is a pinball player’s dream. With an open, clean layout and a deep selection of machines, it’s a place where casual players and competitors alike can dive into a world of flashing lights and high scores. The arcade’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot for both tournament play and a night out.

Round 5 Showdown on James Bond 007

As the tournament neared its final stretch, players squared off on James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern. Released in October 2022, this limited-edition game celebrates 60 years of the world’s most famous spy. Unlike the standard James Bond releases, this edition focuses on classic Bond moments and incorporates all six actors who played 007. The game features a kinetic spinning disc, representing Oddjob’s lethal hat, along with multiple spinners, drop targets, and an exciting Bond multiball mode that forces players to strategize their shots under pressure.

Seattle’s Jon Erickson, ranked 36th in the state, took control of the game early, capitalizing on mission modes and well-timed multiballs. The key moment came when he locked in a high-scoring sequence on the left orbit, keeping his lead over David Johnston, who was right on his heels. Maka Honig and Jaran Jones made strong plays, but Erickson’s mastery of the machine’s flow sealed his victory in the round.

A Stellar Mix of Machines

With 40 pinball machines in play, competitors had no shortage of challenges. Here’s a deeper look at some of the highlights from the lineup:

Mystic (Bally, 1979) – Classic Bally Magic

One of Bally’s most unique and mysterious machines, Mystic was released in 1979 at the height of the company’s golden era. Known for its three-bank drop targets and distinct red-and-gold fantasy artwork, this wide-bodied pin delivers challenging gameplay. Players must activate the in-line drop targets in the correct sequence to rack up serious points, a task easier said than done. It’s a pin that rewards precision and patience—something tournament players had to keep in mind.

Junk Yard (Williams, 1996) – A Pinball Scrap Adventure

A wacky journey through a scrapyard, Junk Yard is one of the most unique and lighthearted games ever made by Williams. Designed by Barry Oursler, the game throws players into an adventure where they must collect junk, escape the Junk Yard Dog, and even use a time machine to revisit iconic Williams classics like Funhouse and Attack From Mars. With a moving crane toy, a toilet shot, and plenty of hidden features, this game’s chaotic energy keeps players on their toes.

The Mandalorian (Pro) (Stern, 2021) – A Bounty Hunter’s Dream

Based on the hit Disney+ series, The Mandalorian pinball machine brings the world of Din Djarin and Grogu to life. Stern’s Pro model features fast orbits, a Razor Crest multiball mode, and missions taken straight from the show, including a high-speed battle against Moff Gideon. The upper mini-playfield—representing The Child’s hovering pram—is a favorite challenge among players, requiring precision shots to maximize scores. With immersive sound design and clips from the series, this game is a must-play for Star Wars fans.

Godzilla (Pro) (Stern, 2021) – King of Pinball

Few modern pins have captured the competitive scene quite like Godzilla (Pro). Stern’s 2021 release, designed by the legendary Keith Elwin, is a chaos-filled battle between kaiju that encourages creative shot-making. The collapsing building toy, which locks balls inside before releasing them into a multiball frenzy, is a fan favorite. The Mothra, Mechagodzilla, and Monster Rampage modes offer deep strategic layers, making it one of the most skill-based games in tournament play today.

Pulp Fiction (SE) (Chicago Gaming, 2023) – The Ultimate Retro Throwback

Chicago Gaming’s Pulp Fiction (SE) is a love letter to the electromechanical era while packing in modern gameplay depth. Designed with input from Mark Ritchie, the machine strips away ramps and complex toys in favor of pure, classic pinball action. Featuring vintage-style stand-up targets, a dancing “Jack Rabbit Slims” mode, and a soundtrack loaded with Quentin Tarantino’s signature musical selections, this machine brings the 1994 cult classic to life in an unforgettable way.

The Final Game – Strategy Wins on Cheetah

As the tournament reached its final match, the remaining competitors faced off on Cheetah, a deceptively difficult Stern Electronics game from 1980. Known for its wide-open playfield and challenging drop target sequences, the game rewards patience and shot accuracy. Its Add-a-Ball feature, a rare element in early solid-state machines, allows skilled players to extend their turns by strategically hitting drop targets in a specific order.

When the dust settled, the top players showcased their skills:

1. Alex Singleterry – Ranked 29th in the state, Alex demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy throughout the tournament, culminating in a well-deserved first-place finish.
2. Sean Irby – Holding the 24th state rank and an impressive 59th in the IFPA, Sean’s consistent performance secured him the runner-up position.
3. Maka Honig – As the 2nd ranked player in the state, Maka showcased her expertise, finishing strong in third place.
4. Germain Mariolle – The tournament organizer and 3rd in state rank, Germain balanced hosting duties with competitive play, earning a commendable fourth-place finish.

Washington IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Action

The Ice Box Mixed Matchplay tournament delivered another night of intense competition and thrilling moments. Congratulations to Alex Singleterry for an incredible performance, and props to all the finalists for an outstanding run. A special thank-you to The Ice Box Arcade for providing a top-tier pinball battleground, and to Germain Mariolle for organizing another seamless event.

With each flip of the flippers and tilt of the table, Seattle’s pinball scene keeps proving why it’s one of the best in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned player climbing the ranks or a newcomer chasing your first multiball, there’s always another tournament—and another chance to put up a high score.

Stay sharp, keep those extra balls alive, and we’ll see you at the next one!