The Battle Begins in Seattle
The Max Value Classic Challenge, a notable event in the pinball calendar, took place at The Ice Box Arcade in Seattle on January 14, 2024. Organized by Germain Mariolle, this tournament saw 64 players battling it out over 3 and a half hours, under overcast skies with temperatures hovering around 31°F. The competition was structured into 4 rounds of intense gameplay with 2 games per round, leading up to a high-stakes final consisting of 17 rounds for the top 32 players.
Frontier Showdown: A Highlight of the Tournament
In Round 9, the spotlight was on the vintage Frontier machine by Bally. This round was particularly notable for its surprising outcome. Going into the game, predictions were largely based on the IFPA rankings of the players. Ryan Slanicka, ranked 2940th, and Liberty Ruderman, ranked 1712th, from Seattle, WA, were not the expected frontrunners. Vanessa Ish, with an IFPA rank of 1095, and Andrew McCann, ranked 872nd, were anticipated to lead the round.
However, the final results defied expectations. Vanessa Ish emerged as the victor, demonstrating that rankings don’t always paint the full picture of a player’s potential on the day of the tournament. Ryan Slanicka’s second-place finish was a remarkable achievement, considering his lower ranking compared to his competitors. Andrew McCann managed to secure the third position, aligning somewhat with his ranking, while Liberty Ruderman’s performance, though commendable, landed her in fourth place. This round was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of pinball tournaments, where skill, strategy, and sometimes a bit of luck, can lead to unexpected outcomes.
Celebrating the Pinball Champions
The tournament concluded with a roster of winners who demonstrated unparalleled skill and endurance:
- John Robinson: Hailing from Bothell, WA, and boasting an impressive IFPA rank of 347, John dominated the tournament, reflecting his vast experience in 685 IFPA events.
- Lonnie Langford: With an IFPA rank of 139 and participation in 216 events, Lonnie’s consistent performance earned him the runner-up spot.
- Joshua Francis: From Edmonds, WA, and ranked 349th, Joshua’s strategic gameplay across 218 events secured him the third place.
- Jarrett Gaddy: A Seattle native, ranked 192nd, Jarrett’s performance in his 241st IFPA event was remarkable, landing him in fourth place.
- Dave Stewart: Also from Seattle and ranked 77th, Dave’s vast experience in 766 events was evident in his gameplay.
- Richie Terry: With an IFPA rank of 60 and 256 events under his belt, Richie’s skill shone through.
- Conrad Rustad: From Bremerton, WA, ranked 241st, Conrad’s performance in his 223rd event was impressive.
- Mandy Woodard: Representing Everett, WA, and ranked 3616th, Mandy’s determination in her 75th event was commendable.
A Pinball Machine Extravaganza
The tournament was a showcase of 18 diverse pinball machines. Notable among them were classics like Stars by Stern Electronics, Alien Star by Gottlieb, and Nine Ball by Stern Electronics, each offering a unique blend of nostalgia and challenge. Frontier and Quicksilver by Stern Electronics, along with Viking by Bally, were standout machines for their intricate playfields and engaging themes. Modern machines like The Beatles by Stern, Fathom by Bally, and Meteor by Stern Electronics added a contemporary flair to the tournament, impressing players and spectators alike with their advanced features and immersive gameplay.
The Ice Box Arcade: A Cozy Hub for Pinball Enthusiasts
The Ice Box Arcade, described as a cute little place with tons of pinball, provided the perfect setting for this tournament. While it offered a great selection of snack items and beer, the venue’s charm lay in its focus on the pinball experience, making it a haven for enthusiasts. The bustling atmosphere, coupled with the friendly community vibe, made it a memorable location for both the competitors and the spectators.
As we continue to cover the exciting world of pinball tournaments across the United States, The Max Value Classic Challenge at The Ice Box Arcade stands out as a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball. It’s a blend of skill, strategy, and a bit of nostalgia that keeps the pinball spirit alive. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball!