On a balmy evening, with temperatures hanging around a comfortable 72°F, the heart of San Francisco pulsated with a different kind of energy. On October 04, 2023, at 7:30 PM, the pinball wizards of the West converged at the iconic Free Gold Watch, ready to face off in the much-anticipated SFPD Fall 2023 #5 pinball tournament.

Venue Vibes: Free Gold Watch

Free Gold Watch wasn’t just another arcade. The retro lighting, the clattering of the pinball machines, and the excited murmurs created a symphony, making it the perfect place for dates, friendships, and of course, some serious pinball action.

A Game That Bent The Fabric of Time

In a peculiar and somewhat humorous turn of events, one game in particular, the Snow Derby by Gottlieb (circa 1970) seemed to stretch the very fabric of time. Clocking in at a mind-boggling 150 minutes, this game magically outlasted the entire tournament’s duration. Whether it was a rift in the space-time continuum or just some very intense gameplay, we might never know.

A hearty shoutout to the players of this marathon match:

• Josh Campoverde: Leading the pack with the calm composure that comes with an IFPA rank of 3688.
• Eric Wagensonner: A close second and a force to be reckoned with given his rank of 308.
• Mikey Lee Barton: Third on the Snow Derby but first in enthusiasm with a rank of 7398.
• Dominic DiPalantino: Completing the quartet with a respectable fourth position, showcasing his skillset ranked at 4681.

The Crowning Glories of the Evening

Amidst the echoes of flippers and bells, emerged some clear victors:

1. Zac Wollons: Dominated the evening, backed by his impressive track record with 362 IFPA events.
2. Jon Oberto: Made a mark despite his relatively newcomer status, landing a proud second.
3. Jared Garvey: This Berkeley local clinched third with style, leveraging his experience from 277 IFPA events.
4. Josh Lehan: Another force from Castro Valley, finishing the night strong in fourth place.

The Machines That Made The Night

A stellar line-up of 63 machines entertained the crowd, with some standouts like:

• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: A recent addition, bringing Hawkins right to San Francisco.
• Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball: The latest entrant from 2023, taking players on a spooky adventure.
• The Simpsons Pinball Party by Stern: An oldie but goldie, replete with Springfield shenanigans.
• The Godfather (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Another newbie, offering an offer you can’t refuse.
• Theatre of Magic by Bally: Casting a spell since ’95, never ceases to enchant.

Golden State’s Pinball Giants

While the evening celebrated individual games, it also acknowledged the prowess of California’s finest pinball players:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	599.79
2	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	553.28
3	Escher Lefkoff	–	532.32
4	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	520.25
5	Scott Macias	Glendora	461.57
6	Nic Stein	Davis	436.01
7	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	420.6
8	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.03
9	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
10	Leslie Ruckman	–	408.05

As flippers rested and lights dimmed, the SFPD Fall 2023 #5 came to a close, leaving attendees with memories, stories, and a palpable excitement for the next gathering.

Stay locked on San Francisco Pinball Dept for more adventures in the world of pinball!

In the heart of San Francisco, where the fog meets the neon lights and the echo of flippers, the Emporium Hi-Scorium Oct 3 pinball tournament took place. Players and fans gathered on October 3, 2023, starting at 7:00 PM for an action-packed event that would last almost two hours.

The Setting

The Emporium Arcade Bar on Divisadero St provided the perfect backdrop, with the hint of a few clouds in the sky and a crisp 63°F temperature. Organized by the esteemed Myriad Pinball, this showdown saw 20 participants locked in a fierce competition, spread across four qualifying rounds. After which, the top four contenders advanced to the nail-biting finals.

Turtles Take The Spotlight

One of the most thrilling moments of the night was during Round 1 on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern. Clocking in at a staggering 75 minutes, this game kept everyone on the edge of their seats. The ever-resilient Jackie Olson from San Francisco claimed the top spot, with Rob Coli, Gabriel Jensen, and Josh Campoverde following in her tracks.

Tournament Titans

It’s always a pleasure to witness sheer pinball prowess. And this evening was no different. The final rankings had Rob Coli leading the pack. Josh Campoverde, with his unique style, clinched the second spot. Gabriel Jensen’s strategic play earned him the third, while Jackie Olson’s remarkable skills landed her the fourth position.

Arcade Arsenal

A plethora of machines adorned the venue, with a selection of both vintage and latest releases. Some noteworthy machines included:

• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern – a testament to the eerie world of Hawkins.
• Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern – a journey through the dino-infested island.
• Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern – a musical journey with Dave Grohl & co.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern – a dive into the sewers with the iconic turtles.
• And the list goes on with Spider-Man, Star Wars (Pro), Metallica (Pro), and the colossal Godzilla (Pro).

The Vibe

Emporium Arcade Bar is more than just a gaming hub; it’s an experience. With a delightful frozen raspberry margarita in hand, players could indulge in a bit of nostalgia with some of the slightly older games or challenge themselves on the newer ones. And here’s a little secret – the pool tables are free! So, shhh…

California’s Pinball Pros

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	599.78
2	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	553.28
3	Escher Lefkoff	—	532.31
4	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	520.25
5	Scott Macias	Glendora	461.58
6	Nic Stein	Davis	435.99
7	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	420.6
8	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.03
9	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
10	Leslie Ruckman	—	408.04

San Francisco’s pinball scene continues to grow and shine. It’s evenings like these that showcase the passion, strategy, and community spirit that keeps the game alive. So whether you’re an enthusiast or a novice, the world of pinball awaits. Stay flippin’, and see you at the next tournament!

As the sun dipped and the Californian sky draped itself in an inviting blanket of stars, the pinball enthusiasts of Anaheim convened. Held at Captain’s Arcade Showroom, the “OC Belles & Chimes Season 13 – #1” tournament commenced on the evening of October 2nd, 2023. And with a clear sky overhead and the temperature at a comfortable 66°F, it promised to be a night to remember.

Venue Vibes

The Captain’s Arcade Showroom didn’t just play host; it showcased an unparalleled dedication to pinball. As per a patron’s glowing review, “We got a Foo Premium from them! CC is great. She helped us unbox and ensure everything was ok in our first pinball machine!” A testament to the venue’s credibility was evident as it emerged as the trusted alternative to others in SoCal.

Into the Venomverse

Venture into the world of Venom, the symbiotic sensation from Spider-Man comics, in this brand-new pinball experience. Stern Pinball’s Venom (Pro) truly channels the chaos and the thrill the character embodies. With an aesthetic inspired by the ’80s comic roots of Venom, the machine brings to life the dark charisma of the alien symbiote and its various hosts, spotlighting over 20 characters from the Marvel universe. From Eddie Brock to Gwen Stacy and Venomized versions of iconic heroes, each character adds a layer of depth to the gameplay.

One of the game’s most compelling features allows players to bond with a host at the beginning, which affects not just the digital display but the tangible gameplay as well. There’s the visually captivating Agro-Lab, the mysterious Life Foundation pathways, and the central antagonist – Carnage – who players must bash into the Ravencroft Institute. The gameplay keeps one on their toes, especially when the unpredictable Doppelganger swings into action, unraveling mayhem.

This depth of gameplay was particularly evident during Round 1, where four avid players took on the Venom (Pro) challenge: Lisa Buhrmester, bearing an IFPA rank of 2908, emerged triumphant. Following close were Ally Vides, Nicole Thornhill, and Hillary Jacobson. Lisa’s victory served as a gentle reminder that in the world of pinball, strategy and agility often trump rank.

The round was a vivid display of strategy, reflexes, and the pure fun of engaging with Stern’s latest creation.

The Belle of the Ball

While the Venom saga was a highlight, the night was brimming with outstanding performances. Kudos to the champions:

1. Laura Stoddard – Leading the charge with an enviable winning streak.
2. Anita Dominqu – Irvine’s pride, clinching the second spot.
3. Erica Oursland – Holding her ground with remarkable consistency.
4. Jordyn Koedyker – Proving that every event adds to the experience, irrespective of the IFPA rank.

Machines that Stood Out

With a vast selection of 62 pinball machines, some inevitably caught more attention. Among them were the vintage Scuba by Gottlieb from 1970, the dramatic Stranger Things (Pro) from 2019, the catchy Foo Fighters (Premium) released earlier this year, and the nostalgic Road Kings from 1986.

The Golden State’s Best

At present, the IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings are as follows:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	570.02
2	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	553.3
3	Escher Lefkoff		532.34
4	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	520.25
5	Scott Macias	Glendora	460.53
6	Nic Stein	Davis	436.01
7	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	420.6
8	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.03
9	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
10	Leslie Ruckman		408.05

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In a state known for its vibrant entertainment scene, pinball remains an enduring passion. It’s not just about flashing lights and high scores; it’s about community, strategy, and the sheer joy of the game. With tournaments like these, California continues to stamp its authority as a hub for pinball lovers.

Until next time, keep the balls rolling and the flippers flipping! The realm of pinball awaits your return.

The Buzz Before the Storm

In the heart of Anaheim, California, 44 pinball enthusiasts gathered on a pleasantly cool evening with overcast skies, just a few degrees shy of 70°F. The reason? The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL pinball tournament. Hosted at the Captain’s Arcade Showroom and organized by CC Castaneda, it was an evening designed for the swift, the skilled, and the pinball-savvy.

Venue Vibes

Captain’s Arcade Showroom was everything a pinballer could hope for. If you haven’t yet visited, check out their website and take my word for it: it’s a slice of arcade heaven. With well-maintained machines and a welcoming manager, it’s a local treasure where the love for pinball is palpable in the air.

Intricacies of the Game

Running for a little over four hours, the tournament was arranged into 5 challenging rounds. In each round, players grouped up to face off against each other across a grand total of 31 pinball machines, battling it out for the most points. In the end, points were tallied and the top players etched their names into the annals of Captain’s Arcade Showroom history.

Godzilla Steals the Show

Round 4 saw an intense game that had spectators and participants alike on the edge of their seats. The game of choice? Godzilla by Sega, released in 1998. Dennis Eichhorn emerged victorious, but not without formidable competition from Sean Irby, Hillary Jacobson, and Scott Macias. When two of the players rank in the top 100, you know you’re in for a masterclass in pinball strategy.

The Glorious Winners

1. Sean Irby: Ranked 86th but played like he was in the top 10.
2. Johnny Modica: With a whopping 431 total IFPA events, experience pays off.
3. David Green CA: Consistency is key for this contender.
4. Glenn Habas: A player to watch out for in future competitions.

Machine Highlights

The event showcased a variety of pinball machines, each bringing its unique flavor to the tournament. Among them:

• Galaxy by Stern: A jump into cosmic wonders.
• Future Spa by Bally: A journey into a futuristic realm.
• Congo by Williams: Navigate through the jungle, avoiding perils.
• The Bally Game Show: For those with a penchant for trivia and luck.
• Godzilla by Sega: The crowd-pleaser, offering destructive fun.

Golden State’s Pinball Elite

The competitive spirit in California is strong, especially if we take a look at the IFPA’s top 10:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	538.95
2	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	518.08
3	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	462.95
4	Scott Macias	Glendora	456.81
5	Nic Stein	Davis	418.12
6	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	415.03
7	Escher Lefkoff		411.53
8	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63
9	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Hts	401.79
10	Leslie Ruckman		360.98

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The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL tournament was a high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping evening that both casual players and pinball pros will be talking about for a long time. If this event is any indication, the realm of pinball has a bright and competitive future ahead.

Stay tuned for more updates and keep those flippers ready!

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.