Swashbuckling Showdown at Pins & Pirates League

The Pins & Pirates League – Season 4 – #4 was a thrilling event that took place on July 12, 2024, at 7:30 PM. The competition followed a format of one round with five games per round, engaging 32 eager players over the course of two and a half hours. This exciting tournament was held at the Captain’s Arcade Showroom and orchestrated by the skilled organizer, CC Castaneda. The weather was favorable, with scattered clouds and a comfortable temperature of 76°F.

Captain’s Arcade Showroom: A Treasure Trove of Fun

Located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, Anaheim, CA, the Captain’s Arcade Showroom is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. This unique spot combines a pinball arcade with a showroom, providing a vibrant atmosphere where all machines are in excellent working order. The reasonable pricing and welcoming management make it a delightful place to dive into the world of pinball. The Captain’s Arcade Showroom is more than just a showroom; it’s a hub where players can immerse themselves in the game.

Epic Battle on JAWS: Round 1 Highlight

One of the standout games of the evening was the first round match on JAWS (Premium/LE) by Stern, released in January 2024. The fierce competition mirrored the movie’s thrilling shark encounters, with players battling it out to avoid being “bitten” by the game’s challenging features. Michael Kostolnik, ranked 140th in the state and 1126th by IFPA, emerged victorious, navigating the treacherous waters with precision and skill. He was followed closely by Tom Shelley from Orange County, who put up a strong fight despite his lower ranking. Jim Collins and Luca Varriale also showcased their talents, making it a memorable round.

Marvelous Machines: Pinball Favorites

The tournament featured a total of 59 pinball machines, including some crowd favorites:

The Avengers (LE) by Stern (November 2012): This game brings Marvel’s iconic superheroes to life with stunning artwork and intricate gameplay. Players assemble the Avengers to defeat Loki, using unique features like the Hulk Smash and Iron Man Multiball.

The Mandalorian (LE) by Stern (June 2021): Inspired by the hit TV series, this machine features missions and battles across the galaxy. The Razor Crest and Grogu’s (Baby Yoda’s) inclusion add to the immersive experience.

Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): With scenes from the classic film, this machine offers a nostalgic trip with dynamic audio and video integration. The Royale with Cheese multiball and adrenaline-pumping challenges keep players on their toes.

Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019): Dive into the eerie world of Hawkins, Indiana, with this machine. The Demogorgon Battle and Upside Down mode provide thrilling twists and turns.

Hot Tip by Williams (June 1977): A classic machine with a straightforward design, Hot Tip offers fast-paced gameplay and nostalgic charm. Its simple yet engaging mechanics make it a timeless favorite.

Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (July 2019): This game captures the excitement of the Jurassic Park franchise, with a T-Rex that physically interacts with the ball and a variety of missions to rescue park staff.

Godzilla (LE) by Stern (September 2021): Players join Godzilla in a rampage across the city, with destructible buildings and innovative multiball modes that bring the chaos to life.

Mousin’ Around! by Bally (January 1989): This quirky game features a fun theme of mice stealing cheese, with ramps and targets that keep the gameplay lively and entertaining.

Victorious Champions: Top Performers

The final game was played on Creature from the Black Lagoon, and the top performers of the tournament were:

Brian Sutherland clinched the first place with his consistent performance, reflecting his state rank of 193rd and IFPA rank of 3745. His experience in 23 IFPA events clearly paid off.

Michael Kostolnik secured second place, showcasing his skill and determination. With 119 IFPA events under his belt, his high ranking in the state (140th) and nationally (1126th) was evident in his gameplay.

Jonathan Soon from SoCal took third place, displaying impressive skill and strategy. Ranked 67th in the state and 390th nationally, Jonathan’s extensive experience of 416 IFPA events was on full display.

David Green rounded out the top four, proving his mettle with a state rank of 120th and an IFPA rank of 813. His performance in 159 IFPA events highlighted his capability and competitive spirit.

IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings

Anchors Aweigh!

The Pins & Pirates League – Season 4 – #4 was a swashbuckling success, thanks to the stellar organization by CC Castaneda and the welcoming atmosphere of Captain’s Arcade Showroom. The tournament showcased top-notch pinball action, bringing together players of all ranks for a night of competitive fun. Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights—stay tuned for more adventures in the world of pinball! And remember, in Anaheim, there’s always another treasure waiting to be discovered.