Pinball Jones Tournament Delivers Thrills, Drains, and a New Champ

On February 26, 2025, the PBJ League’s Season 12 Week 6 tournament lit up Pinball Jones in Fort Collins, Colorado. With 34 players battling it out over five games in a single round, the competition was as fierce as a multiball frenzy. The event kicked off at 7:00 PM and wrapped up around 9:30 PM, just in time for everyone to grab a celebratory (or consolatory) drink.

Pinball Paradise in Fort Collins

Located in the heart of Old Town Square, Pinball Jones is the go-to spot for both pinball wizards and novices alike. Situated at 107 Linden Street, this underground arcade boasts an impressive lineup of 38 pinball machines, ranging from vintage classics to the latest releases. Visitors rave about the venue’s welcoming atmosphere and the friendly staff who are always ready to share a tip or two. Whether you’re there for the $5 free play Mondays or just to soak in the nostalgic vibes, Pinball Jones offers a unique blend of entertainment and camaraderie.

The Marathon on The Addams Family

The highlight (or should we say endurance test?) of the evening was undoubtedly the marathon session on The Addams Family pinball machine. Designed by the legendary Pat Lawlor and released by Bally in 1992, this game remains one of the most beloved and best-selling pinball machines of all time. It features engaging mechanics like the “Thing Flip,” where the game itself shoots for you, and the Mansion modes, which keep gameplay fresh every time you step up to the flippers.

The game stretched on for a whopping 127 minutes, with Rob, an unranked player, clinching the top spot. He was followed by Richard Osada (IFPA rank 28,713), Devin Halsey (IFPA rank 1,678), and Josh Sonnier (IFPA rank 5,235). It’s a testament to pinball’s unpredictability when an unranked player outlasts seasoned competitors. Maybe the machine saw an opportunity for an underdog victory and lent Rob a Thing Flip or two.

A Stroll Through the Machine Lineup

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of pinball machines that catered to all tastes. Here’s a deeper dive into some of the standout tables:

The Big Lebowski (Dutch Pinball, 2015)

A dream theme for many, The Big Lebowski pinball machine immerses players in the cult classic film with its dazzling playfield and challenging modes. Dutch Pinball, an independent company, took on the ambitious task of bringing The Dude’s world to life, despite financial struggles that nearly derailed the project. With bowling alley mechanics, White Russian callouts, and a playfield featuring all your favorite characters, this game is a true love letter to the movie.

Pulp Fiction (Chicago Gaming, 2023)

Designed to emulate the feel of 1980s solid-state games, Pulp Fiction is a relatively recent release that plays fast and features callouts straight from Tarantino’s film. Chicago Gaming Company, known for its high-quality remakes of Bally/Williams classics like Medieval Madness, took a different route with this machine, crafting a brand-new but vintage-feeling experience that brings the film’s gritty charm to the silver ball.

Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (LE) (Jersey Jack Pinball, 2019)

Jersey Jack Pinball made waves in the industry by pushing the boundaries of pinball design, and Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory is a shining example of that innovation. Designed by Pat Lawlor, it features a deep rule set, incredible LCD animations, and a layout that rewards both casual players and hardcore competitors. The game even includes a physical Everlasting Gobstopper and multiple multiball modes, making it a feast for the senses.

The Mandalorian (Pro) (Stern, 2021)

Stern’s The Mandalorian pinball machine captures the epic journey of Din Djarin and Grogu, with missions that take players across the galaxy. The Pro model, while lacking some of the Premium’s upper playfield features, still delivers the heart-pounding action Stern is known for. The game’s Razor Crest multiball and dynamic use of assets from the show keep fans engaged, proving that This Is The Way—to a great pinball experience.

Attack from Mars (Bally, 1995)

One of the most well-loved pinball machines of all time, Attack from Mars was designed by Brian Eddy and features an approachable yet skillful layout. The game’s humor, straightforward objectives, and chaotic multiball sequences have cemented its place in pinball history. With its Martian animations and an explosive saucer to destroy, this machine never fails to bring excitement to a tournament.

A Thrilling Final Round on James Bond 007

The final battle of the night played out on James Bond 007 (Premium/LE), a machine that blends Stern’s modern engineering with the timeless allure of the 007 franchise. Featuring a jetpack ball grab, multiple ramps, and deep objective-based play, this table challenges players to complete missions and battle classic villains. It proved to be a fitting stage for the night’s most intense match.

Clint Reeves, a player who’s been steadily climbing the competitive ranks, showcased his skill with pinpoint accuracy and clutch multiballs, securing the tournament victory. David Klausa, always a strong contender, played with calculated precision, pushing their way into second place with well-timed shots and a strategic approach to multipliers. Nick Corcoran, a rising local competitor, proved that experience isn’t everything, making a strong statement with a third-place finish in just his third IFPA-sanctioned event. Meanwhile, veteran player Dave Mercer put on a solid performance, leveraging his extensive tournament experience to claim fourth place, reinforcing why he remains a top-ranked player in Colorado.

Colorado’s Pinball Powerhouses

For those curious about the top contenders in the Colorado pinball scene, here’s a snapshot of the current standings:

These rankings highlight the depth of talent and passion within the state’s pinball community.

Wrapping Up the Flippin’ Fun

The PBJ League’s Season 12 Week 6 tournament was a resounding success, blending spirited competition with the unmistakable camaraderie that pinball fosters. A hearty shout-out to Pinball Jones for hosting and organizing such a stellar event. And, of course, a big congratulations to Clint Reeves for his well-deserved victory. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest machines and upcoming tournaments. Keep those flippers flipping!