On July 9th, the pinball community gathered at The Game Preserve for the thrilling Three Strike – XXX Tuesday tournament. Despite the light rain and the sweltering heat that felt like 104°F, the excitement inside was palpable. This Group Knockout Tournament saw 24 players battle it out over 12 intense rounds. The rules were simple yet brutal: three strikes and you’re out. With four-player groups, the bottom two earned strikes, while in three-player groups, the last player received a strike. After 4 hours and 18 minutes of fierce competition, the final standings were decided.
The Game Preserve: A Retro Paradise
Located in Spring, Texas, The Game Preserve transports you back to the golden age of arcades. Situated at 473 Sawdust Road, this spot is a treasure trove of classic 80s and 90s arcade games. The atmosphere is vibrant and full of nostalgia, making it a perfect spot for both kids and adults to enjoy. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the experience of reliving the past and sharing it with the next generation. The Game Preserve is a gem that keeps the spirit of old-school arcades alive.
Highlight Match: Round 5 on Star Trek (Pro)
Round 5 saw an epic showdown on the Star Trek (Pro) machine, a Stern classic from October 2013. Grayson Turner, with his state rank of 27th and IFPA rank of 1498, showcased his skills and secured the top spot. Cree Luzskia followed closely, proving that his 63rd state rank and 2337 IFPA rank were no barriers to giving a stellar performance. Cameron Reed and Nicholas Gustafson, despite their strong state ranks, faced tough competition, ending in 3rd and 4th place respectively. The Star Trek machine, known for its fast-paced gameplay and intricate missions, truly tested the mettle of these players.
A Glimpse at the Pinball Machines
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 19 pinball machines. Here are a few highlights:
- Cyclone by Williams (1988): This carnival-themed game features a ferris wheel and roller coaster ramps, offering a thrilling experience with every play.
- The Party Zone by Bally (1991): With its vibrant party atmosphere and unique character animations, this machine is a blast to play.
- Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021): This modern machine brings the chaos of giant monster battles to life with stunning visuals and immersive gameplay.
- Twilight Zone by Bally (1993): A fan favorite, this machine is packed with intricate features and references to the classic TV show, providing a deep and engaging experience.
- World Cup Soccer by Bally (1994): Capturing the excitement of the World Cup, this machine is perfect for soccer fans, with its goal-scoring mechanics and vibrant playfield.
Celebrating the Champions
The final game on Bram Stoker’s Dracula was a thrilling climax to the tournament, and our champions truly showed their mettle. Here’s a look at the top players and their impressive finishes:
- Ben Whittington: With a state rank of 20th and an IFPA rank of 1011, Ben Whittington proved to be the Dracula of the tournament, sinking his teeth into the competition and dominating the final game. His relentless pursuit of points mirrored Dracula’s relentless hunt, leading him to a well-deserved victory.
- Grayson Turner: Hailing from Spring, TX, Grayson Turner, with his 27th state rank and 1498 IFPA rank, played with the precision of a seasoned vampire hunter. His sharp skills and strategic moves kept him in the running till the very end, making him a formidable contender throughout the tournament.
- Nicholas Gustafson: Also from Spring, TX, Nicholas Gustafson, ranked 16th in the state and 914 in the IFPA, brought a fierce energy to the table. Much like Jonathan Harker in the Dracula tale, Nicholas showed courage and determination, battling through each round with intensity and focus.
- Lee Balusek: With an impressive 6th state rank and 496 IFPA rank, Lee Balusek played the role of the wise and experienced Van Helsing. His deep understanding of the game and calculated moves saw him navigating the treacherous playfield of Bram Stoker’s Dracula with skill, earning him a well-respected fourth place.
Top 10 IFPA Texas Pinball Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 663.48 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 428.67 |
| 3 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 332.14 |
| 4 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 318.12 |
| 5 | Gilbert Herrera | San Antonio | 286.67 |
| 6 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 272.72 |
| 7 | Ray Ford | Austin | 262.47 |
| 8 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 251.96 |
| 9 | Keith Shahan | Abilene | 248.3 |
| 10 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 237.58 |
Wrapping Up
Kudos to Space City Pinball for organizing such a fantastic event and to The Game Preserve for hosting it in their incredible venue. This tournament was a testament to the thriving pinball community in Texas. Keep an eye out for more tournament news and highlights, and until next time, keep those flippers ready and aim for that high score!