Captain’s Arcade Hosts a Legendary Pinball Battle

A Quick Rundown of the Event

This tournament was a thrilling one-round, six-game showdown that brought together nine fierce competitors at Captain’s Arcade Showroom on August 19, 2024. The event kicked off at 7:30 PM and wrapped up in just about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Perfect timing to keep the energy high and the action intense. With the clear skies and a balmy 84°F, it was an ideal summer evening for some competitive pinball action.

Stepping Into Captain’s Arcade Showroom

Captain’s Arcade Showroom, nestled in the heart of Anaheim, is a bit of a hidden gem for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, this spot is a dream come true for anyone who loves the charm and challenge of classic arcade games. Walking in, you’re greeted by rows upon rows of pinball machines, each more tempting than the last. The arcade has this almost magical vibe, a place where the past meets the present in the best way possible. It’s no wonder it’s become a favorite spot for local pinball tournaments. If you haven’t been yet, I’d say it’s definitely worth a visit. And for more details, check out their website.

A Match to Remember on John Wick (Pro)

One of the standout games of the night happened during the first round on John Wick (Pro) by Stern. Released in May 2024, this machine is as intense and action-packed as the movies themselves. Picture this: Nicole Thornhill, with her nerves of steel and sharp reflexes, taking on the high-stakes world of assassins. With every shot, she was channeling her inner John Wick, making it clear she was there to win. Nicole’s precision in hitting those critical shots earned her the top spot in this match, outpacing Hillary Jacobson and Stephanie Setmire. It was a battle that truly mirrored the relentless, action-filled spirit of the John Wick series.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

With 64 machines at the ready, here are a few that really stood out:

• Godzilla by Sega (1998): This game is all about chaos and destruction, just like the legendary monster itself. Players had to navigate through the mayhem, with ramps and targets that brought the epic battles to life. It’s a crowd favorite for a reason—there’s something about unleashing destruction that never gets old!
• The Mandalorian (LE) by Stern (2021): This machine is as epic as the show itself, with a playfield that draws you into the Star Wars universe. The dynamic gameplay, complete with missions that mimic the adventures of the Mandalorian, kept players on their toes. Every shot felt like a step closer to glory, or perhaps, to earning some Beskar steel.
• Skateball by Bally (1980): This retro gem brings the skateboarding culture of the ’80s to life. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s got that classic Bally feel. The players had to master the steep ramps and challenging targets—just like pulling off a perfect ollie in real life.
• Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern (2019): This machine is a dark and thrilling ride. The interactive upper playfield and the menacing Black Knight taunting you with every miss made for some intense moments. It’s a game where courage and skill are your best allies.

Congrats to the Champions!

The final game of the night on Attack from Mars was nothing short of spectacular. This machine, with its iconic Martian targets and chaotic multiball sequences, set the perfect stage for the grand finale.

1. Sheri Howell claimed the top spot, with her state rank of 255th and a well-earned IFPA rank of 3099. Sheri’s skills on Attack from Mars were unmatched as she blasted through Martians like a true intergalactic hero.
2. Nicole Thornhill wasn’t far behind, continuing her strong performance from earlier in the night. With a state rank of 155th, she showed why she’s a force to be reckoned with.
3. Lisa Buhrmester also had a great run, securing third place with her consistent and impressive gameplay. With 166 IFPA events under her belt, she’s got the experience to back up her ranking.
4. Hillary Jacobson rounded out the top four, demonstrating the kind of skill that comes with being ranked 143rd in the state.

California’s Pinball Elite

The California IFPA Pinball Top 10 standings saw some familiar names holding their ground:

Wrapping It Up

All in all, OC Belles & Chimes Season 15 – #6 was a night to remember. Congrats to Sheri Howell for taking home the win! And a special shoutout to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing such a stellar location. The machines were top-notch, and the atmosphere made for a perfect pinball night.

Stay tuned for more pinball news, events, and maybe even a few tips to up your game. See you at the next tournament!