The air crackled with anticipation as 33 pinball wizards battled it out at Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California. The MFPinball Winter Season #5, organized by Cary Carmichael, saw players vying for pinball glory on February 12th, 2024. Over the course of 5 rounds, each featuring epic duels on a single machine, points accumulated based on finishing positions. Who would rise to the top as the ultimate champion?
Game of Thrones: Stranger Things Showdown
Round 5 witnessed a nail-biting match on Stern’s Stranger Things (Premium). Nate King (IFPA rank 1455) unleashed his skills, narrowly defeating Mike Hubbard (IFPA rank 3325) for the top spot. Matthew Talley (IFPA rank 418) and Nikki Carmichael (IFPA rank 2930) also put on impressive displays, claiming 3rd and 4th place respectively.
Champion’s Circle: A Podium Filled with Stars
After the dust settled, several talented players emerged victorious. Here are the top contenders who wowed us with their impeccable gameplay:
- Michael Mattsson (Santa Cruz, CA, IFPA rank 440): This pinball veteran, with 226 IFPA events under his belt, claimed the coveted first place!
- Xavier Marin (IFPA rank 612): They displayed remarkable skill, securing the second-place position with 169 IFPA events to their name.
- Tim Priddy (IFPA rank 5081): Despite having fewer events (30), Tim’s talent shone through, earning him a well-deserved third place.
- Tee Anderson (IFPA rank 4932): Tee rounded out the top four with their impressive performance, adding another chapter to their 26-event story.
Pinball Paradise: A Feast for the Senses
The tournament wasn’t just about competition; it was a celebration of pinball culture. Lynn’s Arcade provided the perfect setting, boasting a diverse lineup of 36 machines. Here are some of the pinball gems that got players’ flippers flying, with a little extra detail to tantalize your pinball taste buds:
- James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Designed by George Gomez with art by Kevin O’Connor, this machine immerses players in the world of the iconic spy, complete with gadgets from Q Branch, a sculpted Aston Martin DB5, and classic Bond film footage and music.
- Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern: Designed by Steve Ritchie with art by Kevin O’Connor, this playful homage to the campy 1960s television series features campy sound effects, a talking Batcomputer voiced by Adam West, and a gloriously over-the-top Batcave playfield.
- Dialed In! by Jersey Jack Pinball: Designed by Pat Lawlor with art by John Yousko, this pinball masterpiece takes players on a whimsical journey through a wacky amusement park, packed with innovative toys, hidden secrets, and humor at every turn.
- Dolly Parton by Bally: Designed by George Christian with art by Dave Christensen, this country music-themed classic features the songs and persona of the legendary Dolly Parton, with campy charm and singalong fun.
- Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern: Designed by Brian Eddy, this immersive experience throws players into the world of the hit Netflix series, with Upside Down multiball, Demogorgon battles, and immersive audio and lighting effects.
And what’s pinball without a refreshing beverage? Lynn’s Arcade’s impressive selection of beers, coupled with their unique beer can holders adorning the machines, added to the fun, relaxed atmosphere.
A Big Thank You!
A huge shoutout to Cary Carmichael for organizing this fantastic event and to Lynn’s Arcade for providing the perfect venue and vibrant atmosphere. It was a memorable day filled with exciting matches, friendly competition, and the pure joy of pinball.
Stay tuned for more updates from the exciting world of pinball! We’ll be keeping you posted on upcoming tournaments, thrilling matches, and everything else that makes this game so special.