In the heart of Anaheim, California, where dreams are often encased in theme parks and fantasy lands, another kind of dream was realized at Captain’s Arcade Showroom. On a crisp November evening, with a clear sky and a temperate 64°F, the OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #4 pinball tournament unfolded in a whirl of lights, sounds, and unbridled enthusiasm.
The Stage Is Set
Entering Captain’s Arcade Showroom at 4411 East La Palma Avenue felt like stepping into a different era. The venue, known for its dedication to the arcade arts, was buzzing with excitement. The air was electric, charged with anticipation and the familiar, comforting sounds of pinball machines. The event, masterfully organized by CC Castaneda, featured 59 pinball machines, each with its own story and legacy.
The Games of Glory
The tournament’s structure was simple yet intense. With 15 players forming groups to face off in 1 round consisting of 6 games each, the competition was fierce. Players earned points based on their finishing positions in each round, culminating in an edge-of-the-seat finale.
A standout game in Round 1 featured the Deadpool (Premium) by Stern, a machine dating back to August 1, 2018. The game saw Nicole Thornhill clinching the top spot, followed closely by Erica Oursland and Laura Stoddard from California, with CC Castaneda securing the fourth position.
The Champions Emerge
In a show of skill and determination, the tournament crowned its champions. Anita Dominqu from Irvine emerged victorious, demonstrating not just her mastery over the flippers but also her strategic acumen. Erica Oursland, consistent in her performance, claimed the second spot. Jordyn Koedyker and Mayumi Mae followed, marking their names in the annals of pinball history.
The Machines That Witnessed History
Of the 59 pinball machines present, a few stood out, not just for their gameplay but for the stories they carried. The Jack•Bot by Williams, a relic from January 1995, Road Kings by Williams (July 1986), Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (June 2017), Cactus Canyon by Bally (January 1998), and the Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019) – each machine added a unique flavor to the tournament.
A Venue with Heart
Captain’s Arcade Showroom isn’t just a venue; it’s a community hub for pinball enthusiasts. Their service, as a customer experienced firsthand with their Foo Premium machine, is unparalleled. CC’s personal touch in helping them set up their first pinball machine was a testament to the passion and dedication that resonates within the walls of this establishment.
The Final Flip
As the lights dimmed and the last ball was played, the OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #4 tournament left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended. It was more than a competition; it was a celebration of skill, history, and the enduring love for pinball.
For more tales from the silver ball’s realm, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on this space!