At the strike of 7:30 PM on September 20, 2023, the pinball wizards of California convened at Free Gold Watch in San Francisco for a night of electrifying competition. Organized by the San Francisco Pinball Department, the SFPD Fall 2023 #4 tournament had all the makings of a legendary showdown, complete with a game that lasted longer than time itself.

A Timeless Venue

First, let’s talk about the venue. Free Gold Watch has a name that sounds like a secret society for time travelers, and it felt just like that. Imagine walking into a space where every flick of a pinball flipper seems to slow down time. It’s a pinball parlor that doubles as a date spot, ideal for lovebirds who’d rather bond over a high score than a candlelit dinner.

The Longest Game in SFPD History

Black Knight: Sword of Rage, a Stern pinball machine from 2019, was the real star of the evening. As though caught in a time warp, the game extended to a mind-boggling 145 minutes. Now, if you’re a math wizard, you’ll notice that’s longer than the entire tournament (which lasted 139 minutes). How does that happen? Only in the realm of pinball, my friends.

It was Guest Amy Martin, an unranked player, who claimed first place in this never-ending battle, putting seasoned players to shame. Following her were Jose Godinez (IFPA rank 2827), Zac Wollons (IFPA rank 173), and Josh Lehan (IFPA rank 1059).

Pinball Titans & Their Machines

The event featured an impressive array of 62 pinball machines, but a few stood out in particular:

• Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern: A real prehistoric beast where T-Rex doesn’t want to be fed; it wants to hunt.
• Snow Derby by Gottlieb: This 1970 classic is more about strategy than speed, a real vintage gem.
• Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams: Every pinball geek’s final frontier.
• Led Zeppelin (Premium) by Stern: A rock-and-roll paradise where every flipper flick is a guitar riff.
• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: A monster of a game, as thrilling as its namesake.

Winners Take It All

The overall winner was none other than Jared Garvey from Berkeley, CA, closely followed by Gabe Da Silveira from Oakland and Andrei Massenkoff from San Francisco. Eric Wagensonner rounded out the top four, proving that the city’s local pinball scene is a force to be reckoned with.

California Dreamin’

Here’s a quick look at the IFPA’s current California Top 10 Standings to give you an idea of the fierce competition:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	538.96
2	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	518.08
3	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	462.95
4	Scott Macias	Glendora	456.81
5	Nic Stein	Davis	418.14
6	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.03
7	Escher Lefkoff	–	411.53
8	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
9	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	401.79
10	Leslie Ruckman	–	360.98

A Night to Remember

In a city known for its eccentricities, the SFPD Fall 2023 #4 pinball tournament did not disappoint. From time-defying games to rookie upsets, this was one for the books.

Keep flipping those flippers and stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

When neon lights flicker and the crowd gathers in a huddle, you know the Emporium Arcade Bar in San Francisco has something special in store. On September 19, 2023, the popular arcade bar turned into a battle arena, a proving ground where pinball aficionados vied for the title of Emporium Hi-Scorium Champion.

The Ambiance and Setting

The atmosphere was electric, both figuratively and literally, as pinball enthusiasts from all over the Bay Area filled the retro-style arcade. The venue’s vintage neon aesthetic bathed the competitors in otherworldly light, their eyes fixed on the pinball screens. Who says you can’t enjoy nostalgia while gulping down a good drink?

A Long Night of Flipper Magic

Organized by Myriad Pinball, the tournament saw 25 players divide into groups and compete across 4 initial rounds. With scattered clouds and a chilly 59°F outside, the competition inside was only getting hotter. The finalists would then proceed to a final showdown featuring not one but three games.

Spider-Man Swings into Action

One game that stood out during the tourney was a marathon 71-minute clash on the Spider-Man pinball machine by Stern. Players usually complete a game in a fraction of this time, but Jackie Olson, Jared Garvey, Reuben Esparza, and Ryan Dunn had other ideas. Each ball seemed to defy gravity, dancing between flippers, ramps, and tunnels, as if Peter Parker himself had orchestrated their path.

In the end, it was Jackie Olson who took the crown, with Jared Garvey not too far behind. Reuben Esparza, a wildcard entry with an IFPA rank of zero, surprised everyone by placing third, ahead of Ryan Dunn.

The Machines that Stole the Spotlight

Besides the legendary Spider-Man machine, other pinball games included in the tournament were:

• Star Wars (Pro) by Stern, a space opera saga trapped in a pinball machine.
• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, where every ramp is a Tokyo skyscraper waiting to be demolished.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern, a literal sewer full of adventure and peril.
• Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern, the place where balls could go extinct.
• Metallica (Pro) by Stern, where every flipper move was like shredding a guitar.

Meet the Champions

When the dust settled, Jackie Olson from San Francisco emerged victorious, followed by Jared Garvey from Berkeley, and Ryan Dunn from Sacramento. The biggest surprise was the rookie Reuben Esparza, who had never played in an IFPA event before and yet managed to snatch the 4th place.

The Cream of the Californian Crop

The tournament wasn’t just a spectacle but a platform where the rising stars could measure themselves against the state’s best:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	538.96
2	raymond ashby	Los Angeles	518.08
3	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	462.95
4	Scott Macias	Glendora	456.81
5	Nic Stein	Davis	418.14
6	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.03
7	Escher Lefkoff		411.53
8	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
9	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	401.79
10	Leslie Ruckman		360.98

Final Thoughts

If the Emporium Hi-Scorium tournament proved anything, it’s that pinball is a sport where anything can happen. Veterans and newcomers alike can find common ground, even if it’s a playfield decked out with lights, bumpers, and obstacles. From the intense 71-minute Spider-Man round to the Cinderella story of Reuben Esparza, the night was a testament to why we still love to hear that silver ball bounce.

So, until the flippers flip again, let the spirit of friendly competition and nostalgia guide you to the next pinball showdown.

Stay tuned for more updates from the electrifying realm of pinball!

When you think of Anaheim, your first thought might be Disneyland or the Angels, but for pinball enthusiasts, a new star is on the rise: The Captain’s Arcade Showroom. Nestled inconspicuously on East La Palma Avenue, this venue was the battleground for the Pins & Pirates Season 1 – #7 pinball tournament, an event that showcased both rising talents and the undying charm of the silver ball.

An Unexpected Turn on Halloween

During the solitary round of the tournament, players and spectators alike were treated to a thrilling game on the “Halloween (Blood Sucker Edition)” machine. Scott Macias, ranked a respectable 78 in the IFPA, led the charge, but the real surprise was the runner-up, Brandon Bityk, who defied his rank of 7580 to clinch second place. The machine, one of the latest additions to the arcade, seemed to resonate with the spooky spirit of the event.

The Victorious and The Valiant

Scott Macias took home the gold, proving that experience and skill often go hand in hand. Fran Irwin from SoCal, Hillary Jacobson, and Johnny Modica followed, each putting on an impressive display of pinball prowess.

A Journey Through Time

Captain’s Arcade wasn’t just a venue; it was a time capsule. From the vintage charm of Meteor by Stern (1979) to the contemporary allure of James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern (2022), the arcade showcased a stunning collection of 59 pinball machines. The recently introduced Halloween (Blood Sucker Edition) and Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) added to the allure, making it an unforgettable evening for all.

Captain’s Arcade: Anaheim’s Best-Kept Secret

Nestled at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, Captain’s Arcade is a testament to times when pinball reigned supreme. CC, the ever-vibrant manager, ensures each machine resonates with memories of the past, while offering an unparalleled gaming experience. And while you may spend countless quarters, the joy of playing on these timeless machines is priceless.

For those who’ve never been, consider this your invitation to step back in time and indulge in the magic of pinball.

A glance at the IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	518.02
2	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	513.5
3	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	462.95
4	Scott Macias	Glendora	439.46
5	Nic Stein	Davis	418.14
6	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.04
7	Escher Lefkoff		411.53
8	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
9	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	362.92
10	Daniele Celestino Acciari	Rocca di Papa	360.27

Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newbie trying to understand the charm of the game, Captain’s Arcade Showroom is the place to be. And if you’ve got a few quarters to spare, remember: in the world of pinball, anything is possible.

Till the next flip, keep those bumpers buzzing and balls rolling! Stay plugged for more from the pinball universe!

Shiny Balls and Clear Skies

The sun had dipped below the San Francisco skyline on August 23rd, 2023, and even though the clear sky showcased a comfortable 72°F, inside the Free Gold Watch arcade, the atmosphere was heating up. Located at 1767 Waller St, the arcade buzzed with the electrifying energy of the SFPD Fall 2023 #2 pinball tournament. With 73 fervent players and the San Francisco Pinball Dept. at the helm, the stage was set for an unforgettable night.

The ‘Dirty Harry’ Standoff

In a setting where time typically flies, one game seemed to defy this norm. A fierce competition on the classic ‘Dirty Harry‘ by Williams had players and spectators riveted. Lasting an astounding 2 hours and 8 minutes, Eric Wagensonner, with an IFPA rank of 287, showcased his prowess by claiming the top spot. Rob Coli, Anish Adalja, and Bridget McCracken made it an event to remember, each with their flips and tricks.

Masters of The Pinball Universe

When the dust settled, and the final ball had rolled into place, Eric Wagensonner stood tall as the champion of the evening. Gabe Da Silveira, Zac Wollons, and Chris Heilig followed suit, securing the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th spots respectively. These players, with their incredible skills and strategy, truly exemplified what it means to master the art of pinball.

Legends and Classics: The Machines

With a staggering collection of 59 machines, Free Gold Watch was nothing short of a pinball paradise. Notable among them were the adventurous ‘Pirates of the Caribbean‘ by Jersey Jack Pinball, the thrilling ‘Rick and Morty‘ by Spooky Pinball, and the mysterious ‘Tales of the Arabian Nights‘ by Williams. Each machine, with its unique gameplay and design, promised (and delivered) hours of fun.

An Arcade Gem in The Heart of San Francisco

Free Gold Watch isn’t just another arcade. It’s an experience. With a vibrant atmosphere, spotlessly clean environment, and a pricing that won’t hurt your wallet, it’s a haven for both arcade newbies and veterans. A heartfelt shoutout to the staff for their friendliness and to the owner for conceptualizing such a gem in the heart of San Francisco. Rest assured, many will be back for more!

Golden State’s Pin;/ball Titans

To honor those who’ve made a mark in the California pinball scene, here are the top 10 standouts:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	513.6	20	16
2	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	510.98	18	4
3	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	460.9	14	1
4	Scott Macias	Glendora	439.46	20	10
5	Nic Stein	Davis	413.47	14	3
6	Escher Lefkoff		411.53	4	1
7	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	411.17	11	4
8	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63	3	1
9	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	362.08	20	3
10	Daniele Celestino Acciari	Rocca di Papa	360.27	6	0

So, from the city that gave us the Golden Gate, we received another golden memory. As the balls rest and the lights dim, we await the next pinball extravaganza. Keep those flippers ready!

Underneath a few teasing clouds and with a temperature hovering around a comfortable 72°F, the heart of San Diego at Dyno Bar (Aero Club) transformed into a battlefield of flipper knights. As the sun began its descent on July 11, 2023, at precisely 6:30 PM, 14 pinball aficionados converged for a 10-hour-long saga, replete with drama, strategy, and the sweet chime of victory.

Dyno Bar: The Pinnacle of Pinball

Dyno Bar, renowned as the ultimate hangout for pinball enthusiasts in San Diego, served as the grand arena. The succinct review? “By far the best place to go in San Diego for pinball and a few pints.” Mark Schulz, the chief orchestrator, ensured each round echoed with excitement.

The Machines That Held the Field

Every knight needs a steed, and every pinball player, a machine. The tournament showcased a diverse range: Deadpool (Pro) carried the humor, The Mandalorian (Pro) brought the force, Stranger Things (Pro) introduced a dimension of suspense, and James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) added the thrill of espionage. However, it was the freshly released Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern that was the talk of the town, given its debut earlier in March 2023.

The Godzilla Face-off: A Round to Remember

The fourth round, however, was where legends were truly made. The Godzilla (Pro) by Stern was the chosen battlefield. All eyes were on Derek Price, with an IFPA rank of 96, and he didn’t disappoint, stomping through the competition. Brian Heath, Adrian Skibine, and Gaizah Wagschal may not have emerged victoriously but garnered respect with their gameplay.

When The Dust Settled: The Champions

While Derek Price’s Godzilla triumph was notable, it wasn’t his only victory. He championed the tournament, with Mark Maleko Schulz 👾, the organizer himself, clinching the second spot. Michael Kostolnik and Mark Bandong, with their impressive IFPA ranks and experience, secured the third and fourth spots respectively.

The Golden State’s Pinball Powerhouses

A glance at the IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings provides a perspective on the bigger picture:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	530.15
2	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	518.06
3	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	462.95
4	Scott Macias	Glendora	439.46
5	Nic Stein	Davis	418.14
6	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.04
7	Escher Lefkoff		411.53
8	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
9	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	362.92
10	Leslie Ruckman		361

From novices to the top brass, the Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly was a testament to the passionate pinball community in California. With flippers flipping and bells ringing, the realm of pinball is alive and kicking! Stay tuned for more such exhilarating tales.