The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza tournament on August 27, 2024, was the kind of night that reminds you why you fell in love with pinball in the first place. With 21 players, six intense rounds, and a packed house, the energy was electric from start to finish. The action kicked off at 7:00 PM, and over the next two and a half hours, we witnessed some epic battles, clever strategies, and a whole lot of flipper action.
Where the Magic Happens
If you’ve never been to The Pinball Lounge at the Oviedo Bowling Center, you’re missing out on a gem. Tucked away on E Broadway Street, this spot is like a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. The machines are impeccably maintained, and the tap-and-go cards make playing a breeze. You’ve got a full bar to keep your spirits high and a friendly vibe that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re looking to escape the Florida heat or just want to knock down some bowling pins while you wait for your next game, this place has it all. Seriously, it’s hard to beat.
JAWS Takes a Bite Out of Round 6
The highlight of the night was easily Round 6, where players faced off on Stern’s JAWS (LE). If you know this machine, you know that its Bite Sensor is no joke—it’s as unforgiving as the Great White itself. Al Neumann, who snagged first place, showed exactly why he’s ranked 37th in the state. He navigated the dangers with precision, racking up points with every bite, while Ken MacMillan, who finished second, fought hard but couldn’t quite take the lead. Garrett Smoke, ranked 9th in the state, and Mike Zink from Ocala, brought some serious competition, but Al’s mastery of the machine left them all in the wake.
A Closer Look at the Machines
Now, let’s talk about the machines that made this tournament so special.
- John Wick (Premium/LE) by Stern: Released in May 2024, this one is a thriller. The multi-ball modes and intense light shows make every game feel like you’re in the middle of an action scene. The design captures the spirit of the movies, with fast-paced gameplay that keeps you on your toes.
- Spy Hunter by Bally: A classic from January 1984, this machine is a blast from the past. Its unique car chase theme and smooth ramp shots still hold up, making it a favorite for those who love old-school pinball.
- Rush (LE) by Stern: From January 2022, this machine is a tribute to the legendary rock band. The music integration is top-notch, with Rush’s greatest hits blaring while you aim for the multi-ball and time machine shots. It’s a rhythm game and pinball experience rolled into one.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE) by Chicago Gaming: November 2021 brought us this remake, and it’s been a hit ever since. The wild west theme is perfectly executed, with a fun mix of shootouts, quick draw modes, and some of the best voice acting in pinball.
- Space Invaders by Bally: Released in April 1980, this one is a true classic. The alien invasion theme is iconic, and the wide-body design gives you plenty of room to strategize. It’s a challenging game, but those who can master it know it’s one of the greats.
Shoutout to the Champions
Big congratulations to the winners of the night! Taking home the top spot was Justin Derazza from Sorrento, who played like a pro, proving why he’s ranked 18th in the state. Doug Bernard, who’s from Orlando and ranked 85th, fought his way to a solid second place. Al Neumann, already a familiar name in the scene, landed in third, showing his consistency. And rounding out the top four was Ken MacMillan, whose impressive performance shows he’s a player to watch.
Florida IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shannon Stafford | Orange Park | 317.73 |
| 2 | Sebastian Bobbio | 289.49 | |
| 3 | Eric Stone | Fort Myers | 229.51 |
| 4 | Adam Gray | Temple Terrace | 211.93 |
| 5 | Tristan Stafford | Orange Park | 173.06 |
| 6 | Vince Gelormine | Fort Lauderdale | 171.04 |
| 7 | Dan Coyle | St. Petersburg | 152.83 |
| 8 | David Miller FL | Tampa | 119.62 |
| 9 | Garrett Smoke | Orlando | 105.87 |
| 10 | Nick Smith FL | 105.39 |
Wrapping Up with a Thank You
What an incredible night of pinball action! The tournament at The Pinball Lounge was a great mix of skill, strategy, and a lot of fun. From the thrilling matches to the camaraderie among players, it was everything a pinball enthusiast could hope for. A big shoutout to Kurt van Zyl for organizing this fantastic event, and to The Pinball Lounge for providing the perfect backdrop for some intense competition. We can’t wait to see what the next tournament has in store. Keep those flippers ready, and we’ll see you at the next showdown!