Last Thursday, July 18, 2024, Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California, was the epicenter of pinball excitement. The MFStrikes!! tournament, organized by Cary Carmichael, featured a thrilling Basic Knockout format that kept everyone on their toes for nearly four hours. Let’s dive into the highlights, the standout games, and celebrate the winners!
Welcome to Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Paradise
Nestled in the heart of Seaside, Lynn’s Arcade is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, this arcade offers an impressive range of machines, from vintage classics to the latest releases. Reviews rave about its budget-friendly pricing, well-maintained machines, and the friendly staff (shoutout to Bea!). Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or a curious newbie, Lynn’s Arcade promises a fantastic time with plenty of variety to keep you entertained. Plus, with a wide selection of canned beers and cup holders on every machine, you’re set for a great night out.
Game Spotlight: Cherry Bell Showdown
In Round 6, the tension peaked with an epic duel on Cherry Bell by Sonic, a gem from February 1978. Philip Priddy and Mitch Fadem went head-to-head, their skills put to the ultimate test. Cherry Bell’s classic design, with its vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay, set the stage for a memorable battle. Philip, ranked 139th in the state, showcased his finesse and strategic mastery, clinching the win against Mitch, who held a rank of 575th. It was a match for the ages, highlighting the timeless appeal of vintage pinball.
Pinball Machines Galore
With 39 pinball machines on hand, the tournament had something for everyone. Here are some standout machines that caught our eye:
Paragon by Bally (June 1979): Known for its massive playfield and intricate artwork, Paragon is a player’s dream. The game’s challenging layout includes a unique combination of drop targets, spinners, and the infamous “beast’s lair” that tests precision and strategy.
Pabst Can Crusher by Stern (January 2016): This machine is a nod to Pabst Brewing Company with its retro artwork and rockin’ soundtrack. Featuring a straightforward yet engaging layout, it’s a perfect mix of fun and nostalgia.
JAWS (Pro) by Stern (January 2024): Dive into the thrilling world of JAWS with this recent release. Its dynamic playfield includes a motorized shark, interactive targets, and cinematic sound effects, making every game an adventure.
Laser Cue by Williams (February 1984): This classic offers a blend of pool and pinball. With its unique billiards-themed gameplay, including cue ball and eight-ball targets, it’s a refreshing twist on traditional pinball mechanics.
Road Kings by Williams (July 1986): With a post-apocalyptic theme, Road Kings features an engaging storyline and challenging shots. Its multi-ball feature and distinctive art make it a standout in any arcade.
Celebrating the Champions
The final showdown on Godzilla (Premium) was nothing short of spectacular. Xavier Marin, with an impressive IFPA rank of 799 and 176 events under their belt, showcased their mastery by dominating the Monster Rampage mode. This mode’s fast-paced, multi-ball action and dynamic playfield elements brought Xavier’s skill to the forefront, sealing their victory. Philip Priddy secured a well-earned second place, navigating through Godzilla’s thrilling Destruction Jackpot feature with precision. John Tracey from Salinas, ranked 252nd, captured third, demonstrating strategic prowess in the intense Bridge Attack mode. Greg Gorelick from Monterey rounded out the top four, their relentless pursuit of victory evident in every flipper shot. Kudos to all the winners for their exceptional performances and for making this tournament unforgettable!
California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
Here are the latest top 10 standings in California:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.69 |
| 2 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 856.79 |
| 3 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.99 | |
| 4 | Jason Zahler | 778.32 | |
| 5 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.78 |
| 6 | Nic Stein | Davis | 681.23 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.91 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.6 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.33 |
| 10 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 554.41 |
Wrapping Up
The MFStrikes!! tournament was a thrilling event that brought together fierce competitors and passionate pinball enthusiasts. Over nearly four hours, players showcased their skills and determination across a variety of exciting games, culminating in a memorable final showdown on Godzilla (Premium). The energy and camaraderie at Lynn’s Arcade made this tournament a truly special occasion.
A big thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing such a fantastic event and to Lynn’s Arcade for providing the perfect venue. Congratulations once again to Xavier Marin for their outstanding victory, and to all the participants for making this tournament such a success. Stay tuned for more pinball news and follow-ups, and we look forward to seeing you at the next tournament!