Dark overcast clouds settled over Seattle, giving the city a cinematic, moody feel, fitting for an event that was anything but predictable. With the temperature hovering around 66°F outside this evening, inside the 4Bs Tavern the atmosphere was entirely different: feverish, exciting, and palpable.
On the evening of September 7, 2023, pinball enthusiasts gathered for the NWPC Pre-Tourney – 4Bs pinball tournament, held at the ever-popular 4Bs Tavern. This wasn’t just another gathering; it was a war zone of flippers, silver balls, and brilliantly lit playfields. Organized by the revered Germain Mariolle, the event lasted a whopping 10 hours and 12 minutes.
The Machines That Took The Limelight
With 13 pinball machines from various eras vying for attention, a few managed to steal the limelight:
- Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure took players on a whirlwind journey, echoing its cinematic counterpart.
- The Walking Dead (Pro) elicited shrieks, not of fear, but of pure thrill.
- Swords of Fury resonated with retro enthusiasts, offering a beautiful contrast to the latest machines.
- Alien (Remake) was a firm favorite, given its recent release and fascinating design.
… And several others had players queued up for another shot at glory.
Standout Game: The Wheel of Fortune Decides
The semifinals saw a fierce battle on the Wheel of Fortune machine, a classic from Stern that’s been captivating players since 2007. Leslie Ruckman from California, boasting an impressive IFPA rank of 168, clinched the first spot. She was closely followed by Maka Honig and Seattle’s very own Jarrett Gaddy, with Daniel Salo from Los Angeles finishing fourth. The dynamics, energy, and sheer skill on display were a testament to how intense and competitive pinball can be.
Champions Rise
Jon Salzman, with his agile fingers and focused demeanor, emerged as the champion, followed by Maka Honig, Zac Wollons, and the ever-talented Leslie Ruckman. These players showcased an unparalleled mastery over the machines, ensuring their positions among the elite.
The Venue: 4Bs Tavern
Having been revamped in late 2021 or early 2022, 4Bs Tavern managed to retain its dive bar soul while adding a touch of modern class. Apart from the immersive pinball experience, one could sense a comfortable, unpretentious charm about the place, further elevated by its unique square wooden-framed area, perhaps ready for an impromptu music session or a stand-up act.
The IFPA Washington Standings Speak Volumes
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lonnie Langford | Seattle | 479.13 |
| 2 | Jarrett Gaddy | Seattle | 427.93 |
| 3 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 427.18 |
| 4 | David Chernicoff | Seattle | 417.6 |
| 5 | Richie Terry | Seattle | 375.66 |
| 6 | Sean Irby | Seattle | 360.93 |
| 7 | Dave Stewart | Carnation | 350.99 |
| 8 | Neal Joslyn | Bremerton | 339.8 |
| 9 | Jaran Jones | Seattle | 291.33 |
| 10 | Alex Singleterry | 284.17 |
The standings are a testament to the level of dedication and passion the players bring to the table (pun intended).
As the silver balls came to rest and the scores were tallied, the event closed with anticipation in the air. For in the realm of pinball, there’s always another game, another tournament, another challenge just around the corner. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates!