High Scores and High Spirits at MFPinball Spring Season

Overview of the Competition

On the evening of April 15, 2024, Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California, played host to the MFPinball Spring Season #2. The tournament attracted 41 pinball wizards who competed across 5 rounds, each participant playing one game per round. The competition lasted over 2 and a half hours and was characterized by strategic plays and a dash of luck under a slightly cloudy sky with temperatures around 53°F.

Highlight Match: Pabst Can Crusher Faceoff

In Round 2, the Pabst Can Crusher machine by Stern became the center of attention. This unique pinball game, celebrating the iconic American beer brand, saw Nate King taking the top spot followed closely by John Tracey, Tyler Heath, and Andreina Ramirez. The game not only tested their flipper skills but also their ability to handle the pressure of the tournament spotlight.

Champions of the Night

As the final ball plunged, the top players emerged victorious, their rankings reflecting their prowess and experience in the pinball community:

  1. Matthew Talley from Seaside, California, with an impressive IFPA rank of 362 and 159 events under their belt, clinched the first position, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency.
  2. John Tracey, a seasoned player from Salinas with an IFPA rank of 240 and 156 events, demonstrated his strategic acumen to secure second place.
  3. Christian Gainsley from San Francisco, despite being relatively new to the tournament scene with only 19 events, performed remarkably well to take third place.
  4. Nate King, known for his competitive spirit, rounded out the top four, proving his mettle among a field of seasoned competitors.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue was equipped with an impressive lineup of 37 pinball machines, providing both classic and modern challenges:

  • Abra Ca Dabra by Gottlieb, a classic from the mid-70s, enchanted players with its nostalgic charm and tricky gameplay.
  • Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern and Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming brought modern sensibilities to the arcade with their recent releases, featuring band-themed playfields and movie-based narratives.
  • Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball and JAWS (Pro) by Stern were crowd favorites, offering thematic depth and innovative game mechanics that captivated players.
  • Demolition Man by Williams, known for its futuristic theme and interactive gameplay features, continued to draw competitive players looking for a complex challenge.

Venue and Atmosphere

Lynn’s Arcade, located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, not only provided a competitive arena but also a welcoming environment perfect for social gatherings. With its diverse array of pinball machines and a cozy setting for enjoying a beer or cider, it’s an ideal spot for a casual outing or a playful date night. The unlimited play deal offered adds even more value for enthusiasts and families alike.

Acknowledgements

A huge thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing another successful chapter of the MFPinball Spring Season and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting this fantastic event. Your efforts continue to bring the pinball community together and create memorable experiences for all who attend.

Striking Competition at Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes Tournament

Inside the Tournament

The air was brisk and the clouds hovered as pinball enthusiasts gathered at Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, Washington, on April 15, 2024. The venue hosted the captivating “Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes” tournament, which saw 13 competitors battle through 10 grueling rounds starting at 6:55 PM. Under the Fair Strikes format, players faced the relentless challenge of accumulating the least number of strikes to survive, with strikes awarded based on their finish in each round. This intense competition lasted over four hours, filled with strategic plays and the clattering echo of pinball machines.

Game of the Night: Monster Bash (Remake)

Round 5 proved pivotal with a standout game on Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming. The match featured Jennifer Bremerton who secured a first-place finish against formidable opponents. Andrew McCann, Conrad Rustad, and Pinky Barney battled fiercely but couldn’t surpass Jennifer’s skillful manipulation of the flippers, highlighting the game’s enchanting design and modern twists on classic pinball play.

Honoring the Champions

The tournament concluded with remarkable displays of skill and determination:

  1. Donovan Haga from Bremerton showcased his adeptness and strategic depth, finishing first with an impressive track record of 132 IFPA events.
  2. Conrad Rustad, also from Bremerton, leveraged his vast experience from 248 events to claim a well-earned second place.
  3. Jessica Barron demonstrated her pinball prowess and consistency, securing third place with experience from 321 IFPA events.
  4. Sarah Bay rounded out the top four, bringing her considerable experience from 262 events to the forefront of the competition.

Featured Pinball Machines

The event was supported by an eclectic mix of 15 pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the tournament:

  • Cyclone by Williams, known for its vibrant artwork and engaging carnival theme, was a fan favorite.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball captivated players with its intricate game mechanics and immersive storytelling.
  • Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons provided a quirky and nostalgic play experience with its retro visuals and simplistic charm.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern drew players with its deep rule set and thematic elements tied to the popular series.
  • Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball challenged players with its intense, fast-paced gameplay and unique soundtrack.

Venue Vibes

Tik Tok’s Workshop not only hosted the tournament but also offered a vibrant atmosphere that resonated with nostalgia and excitement. Players enjoyed a diverse selection of pinball machines, some harking back to their childhood, and other activities like bowling and classic arcade games like Galaga, making for a fun-filled evening.

A Grateful Farewell

A big thank you goes out to Richard Godwin for organizing such a dynamic event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing a perfect setting for pinball magic. This tournament was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball, combining fierce competition with communal joy.

Electric Nights at Free Play Denton Pinball Monday

Dive into the Action

On the evening of April 15, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Free Play Arcade in Denton, Texas, for a thrilling competition. The Free Play Denton Pinball Monday drew a spirited crowd of 28 players who battled it out across five rounds, with each round consisting of a single game. The top eight players advanced to the finals, where they faced off in two additional rounds to determine the champion. Under broken clouds and a comfortable 76°F, the tournament lasted just over three hours of intense pinball action.

Semifinal Showdown on Venom (Pro)

The spotlight game of the tournament occurred during the semifinals on the Venom (Pro) machine by Stern, a recent addition to the pinball world. Garrett Shahan, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 100, emerged victorious in this high-stakes match. He was closely followed by local competitor Clark McCoy, Randy Nelson from Roanoke, and Boss Hernandez from Dallas, who each displayed exceptional skill and strategy.

Celebrating the Victors

The competition was fierce, and the rankings reflected the high caliber of play:

  1. Garrett Shahan demonstrated why he’s ranked among the top players globally, adding yet another victory to his record of 166 events.
  2. Clark McCoy, a Denton local, showed hometown prowess and secured a strong second place with consistent performances throughout his 129 events.
  3. Kevin Rodriguez, known for their resilience and strategic gameplay, proudly represented Corinth, finishing third.
  4. Ken Kemp brought his vast experience from 415 events to bear, finishing in the fourth spot.
  5. Greg Gibson from Plano made a notable fifth-place finish, showing significant growth over his 63 events.
  6. Randy Nelson also left a mark with his tactical gameplay, finishing sixth.
  7. Austin Kemp, displaying skills honed over 255 events, took seventh place.
  8. Boss Hernandez rounded out the top eight, making a strong showing in his 64th event.

A Pinball Paradise

The tournament featured 15 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the event:

The Venue and Its Vibes

Free Play Arcade, located at 101 West Hickory Street in Denton, proved to be the ideal host for this event. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and extensive collection of games, the venue offered a perfect backdrop for both competitive play and casual fun. With promotions like half-off admission during the first hour on weekdays and early opening times during school holidays, Free Play ensures that pinball is accessible to everyone.

Heartfelt Thanks

A huge thank you to Chris Delp for organizing this fantastic event and to Free Play Arcade – Denton for hosting us. These tournaments are not just competitions; they are celebrations of the pinball community and the joy of the game.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates from the exciting world of pinball across the United States!

Pinball Prowess at Player 1 Arcade in Surprise AZ

Overview of the Tournament

On a perfect spring afternoon of April 15, 2024, 35 enthusiastic pinball players converged at Player 1 Arcade in Surprise, Arizona for the fifth tournament of the 2024 Series 3. The event unfolded over five rounds, with each round consisting of a single intense game, lasting a total of about 7 hours and 12 minutes. Jim Smith, the organizer of this popular series, successfully orchestrated another thrilling day of flipper action under clear skies and a pleasant 74°F.

Spotlight on James Bond 007 (Premium)

The grand finale of the tournament featured a riveting session on the James Bond 007 (Premium) machine by Stern, which highlighted the skills of the top competitors. Mark Pearson, with an impressive IFPA rank of 49, managed to secure a first-place finish in this round, outplaying opponents such as Del Kyger, Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix, and Crystal De La O in a nail-biting conclusion to the series.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament showcased exceptional talent and strategic gameplay, culminating in noteworthy victories:

  1. Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ, with a ranking of 4438, demonstrated his rising prowess in the pinball community by clinching the top position.
  2. Mark Pearson, a seasoned player with an IFPA rank of 49, added another runner-up finish to his extensive record of 585 events.
  3. Robert Paluc, relatively new to the tournament scene with just 11 events, made a remarkable third-place finish.
  4. Scott Ping from Arizona, showcasing consistent skills across 33 events, rounded out the top four.

The Machines That Stole the Show

Player 1 Arcade featured a diverse lineup of 12 pinball machines, each with its own charm and challenge:

  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, known for its deep rule set and engaging modes that faithfully represent the beloved franchise.
  • Stranger Things (Pro), also by Stern, drew players with its immersive gameplay and interactive features based on the hit series.
  • Deadpool (LE) offered not just vibrant artwork but also quirky humor and challenging shots, making it a crowd favorite.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams transported players to a world of magic carpets and genies with its rich visuals and compelling story-driven gameplay.
  • Foo Fighters (LE), the newest addition, thrilled fans with its rock theme and exclusive tracks, creating a concert-like experience.

Venue Highlights

Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, is more than just a venue; it’s a community hub where locals gather to unwind. The arcade offers a cozy, not-too-loud atmosphere perfect for both intense gaming and relaxed conversations, enhanced by a friendly owner who adds a personal touch to the experience.

A Special Thanks

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Jim Smith for organizing such a fantastic event and to Player 1 Arcade for providing a welcoming space for pinball enthusiasts. Events like these enrich the pinball community, bringing together players of all skill levels to share in the joy of the game.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the pinball tournaments!

Action and Antics at the Speakeasy Special at DK Arcade

Dive into the Tournament

On a bright afternoon in April, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Terry’s Terrace in Harrison Township, Michigan, for the “Speakeasy Special at DK Arcade.” The event, orchestrated by Joe Wade, featured intense competition with 29 contenders engaging in 5 rounds of pinball. As they racked up points through the preliminary rounds, the top 8 moved on to a ‘grueling’ final showdown that humorously consisted of zero games—talk about a suspenseful way to keep the balls in the air!

Spotlight on Elvira’s House of Horrors

The tournament’s standout game occurred in the third round on Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE) by Stern, a recent favorite among the pinball community. Marco Vendetti clinched first place, demonstrating his prowess alongside Thomas Ruszkiewicz Jr., Philip Salminen, and Dominic Labella, who all showed remarkable skill and strategy in their quest for pinball glory.

Champions of the Day

The tournament concluded with high spirits as the champions took their well-deserved accolades:

  1. Marco Vendetti topped the leaderboard, confirming his reputation with his precise flips and tactical gameplay.
  2. Thomas Ruszkiewicz Jr. followed in second place, bringing a spirited challenge from the heart of Detroit’s Barcade.
  3. Philip Salminen secured third, showing that Midland, MI, has game.
  4. Dominic Labella took fourth place, impressing with his consistency and skill.
  5. Brandon Blake placed fifth, demonstrating growing prowess in the competitive pinball scene.
  6. Isaiah Bingham from Ann Arbor captured sixth place, showing great potential in his gameplay.
  7. Jared August, ranked eleventh worldwide, finished in seventh place with his expert moves.
  8. Ian Montgomery, though unranked, rounded out the top eight, proving his mettle in the competitive field.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament boasted a lineup of 9 pinball machines that ranged from classic to contemporary:

  • Attack from Mars by Bally: An alien invasion theme that keeps players on their toes.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams: Offers a magical carpet ride through Middle Eastern folklore.
  • Monster Bash by Williams: Where players reunite the classic Universal monsters for a rocking concert.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern: A thrilling hunt in Amity Island waters, fresh from its 2024 release.
  • Monopoly by Stern: Turns the classic board game into a pinball strategic battleground.
  • James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Engages players in espionage and action worthy of the iconic spy.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Lets players delve into bounty hunting missions across the Star Wars universe.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: Introduces the antihero’s fierce encounters and dynamic playfield features.

Venue Vibes

Terry’s Terrace provided more than just a venue; it offered a perfect blend of good food, great service, and excellent pinball. From mimosas and ‘man mosas’ to spicy Nashville Hot Chicken sandwiches, the food was as much a hit as the pinball was. The arcade corner, filled with pinball machines and classic games, made for a nostalgic yet vibrant backdrop to the day’s events.

Thanks and Farewells

A big shout-out to Joe Wade for organizing a seamless and spirited tournament and to Terry’s Terrace for their fantastic hospitality and setting, which added to the charm of the day’s events. Their combined efforts created a memorable experience for everyone who attended.

For more pinball tournament tales and updates, keep flipping through this blog!

Thrills and Flips at the Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024

A Full Day of Pinball Action

The Atomic Pinball Arcade in Wood River, Illinois, was buzzing with activity as it hosted the Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024. On a sunny day with temperatures hovering around 77°F, 41 players gathered on April 14, 2024, to participate in a grueling contest stretching over five rounds and ten games, each round averaging about 5 hours and 19 minutes. The event, organized by Tyler Becker, showcased a mix of strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck.

Marathon Match on JAWS (LE)

A standout moment of the tournament was the marathon game on the newly released JAWS (LE) by Stern, which unfolded during Round 4. This gripping game stretched to an incredible 65 minutes, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats. Tyler Hund emerged victorious, with Will Hoffmann and Mike Howard placing second and third respectively. John Ragusa rounded out the top four, showcasing the competitive spirit that defined the day.

Showcasing Premier Pinball Machines

The Derby featured 39 pinball machines, each bringing its unique flair to the event. Notable among them were:

  • Eight Ball Deluxe by Bally, a classic favorite known for its challenging gameplay and retro charm.
  • Aerosmith by Stern, which combines rock ‘n’ roll with engaging playfield features, attracting players with its vibrant art and soundtracks.
  • Metallica (Pro) also by Stern, thrilled players with its fast-paced action and iconic music integration.
  • JAWS (LE), the newest addition, proved to be a monster hit with its deep rule set and immersive shark-hunting theme.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming, introduced in 2023, drew attention with its cinematic graphics and quotes from the cult classic film.

Tournament Champions

The event concluded with several players standing out for their exceptional performance:

  1. Logan Henderson from Downers Grove, IL, with an IFPA rank of 1720, showcased remarkable skill throughout the tournament to clinch first place.
  2. Travis Murie, ranked 32nd, demonstrated why he is one of the top players in the world, securing a well-fought second place.
  3. Chuck Sanderson, another high-ranking player with a standing of 369 in IFPA, took home third place, adding another solid performance to his record.
  4. Mike Howard, despite the exhausting rounds, managed to finish strong in fourth place.

Venue Praise

Atomic Pinball Arcade, with its friendly staff and vast selection of games, provided the perfect setting for this pinball showdown. The venue’s bright and clean environment, paired with the option to play unlimited games for a set price, made it an ideal spot for both casual visitors and serious competitors.

Closing Acknowledgements

A big thank you to Tyler Becker for organizing an unforgettable pinball tournament and to the Atomic Pinball Arcade for hosting this spectacular event. The Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024 was a testament to the thriving pinball culture, and we look forward to more such exciting tournaments. Stay tuned to our blog for further updates from the pinball world across the United States!

Dazzling Play at Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout Tournament

Overview of the Knockout Challenge

The Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout pinball tournament took place on a sunny afternoon in Bremerton, Washington. The event, hosted at Tik Tok’s Workshop and skillfully organized by Richard Godwin, was a fast-paced competition running for nearly 3 hours. Fourteen players battled through 12 rounds of intense pinball action under a Group Knockout format, where the stakes grew higher with each strike given for lower finishes in the rounds.

Game of the Day: The Wizard of Oz Face-Off

One of the tournament’s most thrilling games unfolded in Round 3 on The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball. Jessica Barron took the lead with stellar gameplay, followed by Kathleen Rush and Jennifer Bremerton, while Pinky Barney faced a challenging round. This game not only tested their pinball skills but also highlighted their strategic depth under pressure.

Celebrating the Victors

The event concluded with a celebration of remarkable skill and endurance:

  1. Pinky Barney emerged victorious, showcasing great resilience and strategy throughout the tournament.
  2. Kathleen Rush claimed the runner-up spot with consistent performances that reflected her growing expertise.
  3. Jennifer Bremerton displayed formidable skill, earning a well-deserved third place.
  4. Rachel Kahalekulu rounded out the top four, bringing experience and precision to the fore.

Showcase of the Pinball Arena

Participants enjoyed a selection of 12 diverse pinball machines, providing various styles and eras of gameplay:

  • Twister by Sega: Known for its stormy, chaotic gameplay mirroring the movie’s tornado theme.
  • Cyclone by Williams: A classic amusement park-themed game that’s beloved for its whimsical design and fun quotes.
  • Eight Ball by Bally: One of the best-selling pinball machines of all time, offering classic pool hall action.
  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: Rocks players with high-energy music and electrifying play features.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Stands out with its colorful graphics and innovative game mechanics.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Brings back classic monsters with modern technology, enhancing play with updated effects.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern: Engages players with missions and adventures based on the popular TV series.

Venue Vibes and Final Impressions

Tik Tok’s Workshop not only provided the stage for this pinball spectacle but also crafted a welcoming atmosphere that was praised by all attendees. With its combination of vintage games, delightful food, and a friendly staff, the venue made everyone feel like part of a vibrant community.

Grateful Acknowledgments

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Richard Godwin for organizing such an engaging and smoothly run tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for their fantastic hospitality. Their efforts made the Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout a memorable event for everyone involved.

For more stories and updates from the exciting world of pinball tournaments, keep your flippers ready and stay tuned to this blog!

Classic Pinball Showdown at D82 Saturday Night

Inside the Tournament

On a crisp April evening, the District 82 Saturday Night Classics pinball tournament captivated enthusiasts and players alike. Held at District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin, and meticulously organized by Erik Thoren, this tournament drew a crowd of 65 competitors who battled it out over 7 rounds and 2 games each. With clear skies and a cool atmosphere, players were in high spirits as they vied for the top 24 spots to advance into an intense final consisting of 4 rounds with 3 games each.

Semifinal Spotlight: Dolly Parton by Bally

In the heat of the semifinals, a thrilling game on Dolly Parton by Bally took center stage. Erik Thoren, not just the organizer but also a formidable competitor, clinched first place in this round, showing off his deep understanding of the game. He was followed by Nathan Zalewski, Jason Werdrick, and Rick Miller in a closely fought contest that was a highlight of the evening.

Tournament Champions

The event concluded with some outstanding performances. Erik Thoren secured the championship position, adding yet another win to his impressive pinball resume. Nathan Zalewski followed in second place, with Ryan Eggers and Tom Graf rounding out the top four. Special mentions go to Jeff Asman, Jason Werdrick, Adam VanDynHoven, and Rick Miller, who all placed in the top eight, showcasing great skill and strategy.

Featured Machines of the Tournament

The tournament featured an eclectic array of 46 pinball machines, each contributing to the day’s challenges and excitement:

  • Eight Ball Deluxe (LE) by Bally: Renowned for its challenging gameplay and strategic ball control.
  • Hot Hand by Stern Electronics: Captures attention with its unique rotating flipper.
  • Hi-Deal by Bally: Known for its fast-paced play and retro charm.
  • Strikes and Spares by Bally: Combines bowling and pinball for a unique twist.
  • Frontier by Bally: Offers players a rugged wilderness theme with intricate gameplay.
  • Magic by Stern Electronics: Enchants players with its mystical artwork and classic pinball layout.
  • Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally: Provides a fun and dynamic basketball-themed game.
  • Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics: Features a futuristic space travel theme with advanced features for its time.
  • Mata Hari by Bally: Delves into espionage with its spy-themed playfield and mechanics.

Venue and Experience

Traveling all the way from New York for the tournament, the experience at District 82 was nothing short of spectacular. The venue boasted an exceptional collection of well-maintained pinball machines, reflecting the owner’s passion and dedication to the pinball community. The welcoming atmosphere made it a memorable visit for out-of-towners and locals alike.

Gratitude and Farewell

A massive thank you to Erik Thoren for organizing such a thrilling and smooth-running tournament and to District 82 Pinball for providing an impeccable venue for this classic pinball showdown. Your hard work and hospitality have undoubtedly enriched the pinball community.

Keep up with GobbleHole for more recaps and features from the pulsating world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

A Clash of Titans at Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals

Setting the Scene at Wormhole

On a pleasantly warm evening of April 13, 2024, with the skies only partially obscured by clouds, the Space City Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals unfolded at Wormhole, located at 2017 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX. As the doors opened at 5:00 PM, enthusiasts and competitors alike stepped into an electrifying atmosphere charged with anticipation and the distinct, animated sounds of pinball machines in active contest.

Strategic Play and Standout Moments

The tournament was tightly formatted with four players competing in three games over a single round lasting nearly four hours. A notable highlight was the intense showdown on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) machine. Alice Young, wielding an impressive IFPA rank of 1822, showcased a blend of sharp reflexes and strategic nudging that outplayed her competitors, including the formidable Tracy Abrahams from Texas and the ever-consistent Elizabeth Dronet from Space City.

Featured Pinball Machines: Blending Art and Mechanics

Among the 19 pinball machines, a few stood out not just for their gameplay but also for their unique designs:

  • Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball, which combines modern technology with classic pinball layout, captivated players with its sophisticated software and engaging missions.
  • Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, the latest from Barrels of Fun, intrigued with its enchanting artwork and complex playfield, bringing the beloved movie to life.
  • James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern offered espionage-themed excitement with gadgets and missions fit for a secret agent.
  • Warlok and Barracora by Williams threw back to the early ’80s with their mystical themes and challenging gameplay, drawing in both nostalgia enthusiasts and new players.

Crowning the Champions

The fierce competition culminated in a dramatic final tally:

  1. Alice Young, triumphing as the tournament champion, showed why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball community, adding this victory to her portfolio of 128 IFPA events.
  2. Tracy Abrahams, who employs a calm, methodical approach to gameplay, secured second place, reflecting their growing prowess over 162 events.
  3. Elizabeth Dronet, a seasoned player with 383 events, demonstrated consistency and skill to claim third place.
  4. Veronica Seymour, despite being relatively new to the scene with only 7 IFPA events, made an admirable showing in fourth place.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As the night wound down, the energy of the competition gently settled into shared stories of narrow misses and spectacular wins. A special thanks goes to Space City Pinball, the organizers who not only put together a seamless event but also fostered a community where camaraderie and competitive spirit thrive together. And to Wormhole, for hosting an unforgettable evening of pinball wizardry.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the dynamic world of pinball!

Flipping Out at the Starfighters Monthly Pinball Tournament

Tournament Highlights

On a clear and warm April afternoon, the Starfighters Monthly pinball tournament saw an exciting battle among pinball enthusiasts. Held at Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, and organized by Kevin Curtis, this event lasted for a spirited 4.5 hours. Fifty-seven competitors took part in a grueling 8-round competition where precision and strategy were key to accumulating points and advancing in the standings.

Unforgettable Gameplay Moments

The standout game of the tournament took place during Round 4 on Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams. Kevin Curtis himself, not just the organizer but also a skilled player, led the round. He was closely followed by Krisha Shufran from Chandler, Jim Smith from Phoenix, and Mike McClure from Glendale, making it a memorable battle that showcased some top-notch pinball skills.

Celebrating Our Champions

At the close of the tournament, accolades were awarded to the most skillful and persistent players:

  • Will McKinney claimed the top spot, further solidifying his standing as a formidable player in the pinball community.
  • John Shopple from Mesa followed closely in second place, bringing years of experience to the fore.
  • Mark Pearson, one of the highest-ranked players present, finished a strong third.
  • Hailey Buhrman from Chandler rounded out the top four, demonstrating great skill and potential for future tournaments.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue was packed with 31 pinball machines, each adding its own unique challenge:

Venue Vibes

Starfighters Arcade, with its vintage charm and bustling atmosphere, provided the perfect nostalgic backdrop for the tournament. Although the space was a bit cramped due to the large turnout, the array of classic and modern pinball machines made it a pinball lover’s paradise. The atmosphere was lively, evoking memories of childhood arcades and fostering a community spirit among players.

Acknowledgments and Thanks

A big thank you to Kevin Curtis for organizing such a fantastic event and to Starfighters Arcade for hosting. Your efforts have created a vibrant and welcoming community space that celebrates the joy of pinball.

Be sure to follow us for more news and stories from the pinball tournament circuit across the United States!