Lights, Action, Pinball: OC Belles & Chimes Clash at Captain’s Arcade

The sky may have been wrapped in a thick layer of overcast, but inside Captain’s Arcade Showroom, the only thing gray was the ball as it bounced across the playfields. With 13 players competing in the second event of OC Belles & Chimes’ 17th season, the competition was fierce, the flippers were hot, and the games were—thankfully—well lit.

Discovering Captain’s Arcade Showroom

Located on East La Palma Avenue in Anaheim, Captain’s Arcade Showroom is more than just a venue; it’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts. Boasting over 70 new and refurbished pinball machines, this interactive showroom invites players to test their skills and even take home their favorite games. As an official Stern Pinball distributor, they ensure the latest titles are always within reach.

But the experience doesn’t end there. Connected to Captain’s Auction Warehouse, the showroom offers access to a vast array of vintage and classic coin-operated and amusement games. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer eager to dive into the world of pinball, the knowledgeable staff, led by the ever-helpful CC Castaneda, ensures a seamless journey from selection to setup.

The Hit Job on John Wick (LE)

One of the most action-packed matches of the night unfolded in Round 1 on John Wick (LE), Stern’s 2024 adrenaline-fueled machine inspired by the legendary hitman himself. Much like Keanu’s character in the films, this game doesn’t forgive mistakes, and only the most precise players make it out alive (or, in this case, with a high score).

Designed by Keith Elwin, John Wick (LE) brings a high-speed, combo-heavy playstyle with deep, mode-based gameplay that requires careful shot planning. The game features dynamic fight sequences, where players must choose different hit contracts and execute precise shots to complete missions. One of its standout features is the Bullet Frenzy multiball, a fast-paced chaos mode where points rack up quickly—but only if you can keep up with the action.

Nicole Thornhill took control of the playfield like she had her own contract out on victory, navigating multiballs with precision and racking up combos that would have made even the High Table take notice. Kat Hill put up a strong fight, but in the end, Nicole’s pinpoint accuracy sealed her win. The match was a whirlwind of chaos, much like a John Wick movie—just with fewer car chases and a lot more flashing lights.

A Pinball Lineup Worth Talking About

With 66 machines available, this tournament had a dream lineup. Here’s a look at some of the standout games that kept the action flowing:

Dungeons & Dragons: The Tyrant’s Eye (Pro) (2025, Stern)

The latest fantasy adventure from Stern, this machine transports players into a world of magic and monsters, based on the legendary tabletop RPG. The Tyrant’s Eye introduces a unique spinning crystal ball feature that determines random in-game effects, similar to a Dungeon Master rolling dice. The machine also includes spellcasting through skill shots and an innovative playfield that transforms based on the choices players make. For those who love a deep ruleset, this one rewards strategic thinking as much as flipper skills.

Metallica Remastered (LE) (2024, Stern)

A modern reimagining of Stern’s Metallica pinball from 2013, this version cranks up the volume—literally. With enhanced animations, improved sound quality, and new LED displays, this machine brings a fresh take on a fan-favorite. The gameplay remains as aggressive as ever, with bash targets shaped like electric chairs and a “Fade to Black” wizard mode that challenges even the most experienced players. If you didn’t leave this game headbanging, you weren’t playing it right.

Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons (2015, Stern)

A throwback to the era of electromechanical pinball, this game is as much about style as it is about skill. Designed by Dennis Nordman, Whoa Nellie! features oversized flippers and a small playfield that forces players to control rebounds with precision. Despite its simple layout, the game’s scoring system rewards controlled play over frantic flipper mashing. Plus, the fruit crate-style cabinet is one of the most visually unique designs Stern has ever produced.

Totem (1979, Gottlieb)

A game from the early solid-state era, Totem is one of those machines that punishes impatience and rewards shot accuracy. Featuring four flippers, in-line drop targets, and a multiplier system that builds massive bonus scores, Totem is an exercise in precision. The key to victory here was controlling the ball’s momentum—something easier said than done with its unforgiving outlanes.

Ice Fever (1985, Gottlieb)

Hockey meets pinball in Ice Fever, a game that features goal-scoring mechanics, penalty shot bonuses, and a slick, fast-paced layout. One of its unique features is the “goal lamp,” which flashes when a player completes certain targets—mimicking the experience of scoring in an actual hockey game. For players who appreciate a theme that translates into real gameplay mechanics, Ice Fever delivered an experience that felt different from everything else in the lineup.

And the Winners Are…

After an evening of tight competition, it was Nicole Thornhill who came out on top, proving that her State Rank of 402nd doesn’t mean she can’t skate circles around higher-ranked players when it counts. Nicole’s consistent shot-making and composure under pressure helped her claim victory.

Stephanie Setmire took a well-earned second place finish, showing impressive improvement in her 41st IFPA event. Meanwhile, seasoned competitor Hillary Jacobson claimed third, with a wealth of experience from over 300 events helping her navigate the night’s challenges. Rounding out the top four was Erica Oursland, who held her own against the competition to secure a solid finish.

California’s Top Pinball Players

For those keeping an eye on the bigger picture, here’s a look at the current top 10 IFPA players in California:

The Last Tilt

As the final scores were tallied and the flippers came to rest, OC Belles & Chimes wrapped up another thrilling night of competition at Captain’s Arcade Showroom. The games were fast, the battles were fierce, and the only thing cloudier than the night sky was the future of anyone who drained their last ball too soon.

A huge shoutout to CC Castaneda for organizing yet another seamless event and keeping the games running at their best. Congratulations again to Nicole Thornhill for taking the top spot—proving that rankings are just numbers when you’ve got skill, strategy, and maybe a little bit of multiball magic on your side.

The season isn’t over, and with more tournaments ahead, the race for pinball glory is just heating up. Until next time, may your flips be precise, your tilts be gentle, and your extra balls be plentiful!