Tournament Overview: The Showdown Begins

June 29, 2024, saw a gathering of 20 fierce competitors at the MF Ladies Quarterly, a nail-biting event where skill and strategy reigned supreme. Hosted at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, this tournament followed a thrilling format of 13 rounds with one game each, where the top 8 players battled it out in the finals over two rounds of three games each. With the event kicking off at 10:30 AM and wrapping up in a swift 5 hours and 30 minutes, the day was packed with excitement under broken clouds and a pleasant 60°F temperature.

Lynn’s Arcade: Where Pinball Dreams Come True

Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, in Seaside, California, Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery is a haven for pinball enthusiasts and craft beer lovers alike. The atmosphere is buzzing with excitement, thanks to the knowledgeable staff who share their passion for both pinball and beer. The arcade features a meticulously maintained collection of pinball machines, ensuring top-notch gameplay for every visitor. With its blend of engaging pinball action and a vibrant social scene, Lynn’s Arcade is a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.

Game Spotlight: Wheel of Fortune Magic

The semifinals witnessed an unforgettable match on Stern’s Wheel of Fortune, released in October 2007. Paige Peck, with an IFPA rank of 4102, triumphed over her competitors with a blend of sharp focus and impeccable timing. Louise Wagensonner, Sam Stanko, and Ikela Lagapa battled fiercely, but Paige’s mastery of the game’s unique features, including the spinning wheel and challenging modes, led her to a well-deserved victory.

Pinball Machines: A Showcase of Excellence

Lynn’s Arcade boasted an impressive lineup of 38 pinball machines for the tournament. Here are reviews of five standout games:

Road Kings by Williams (July 1986): This classic game captures the essence of a post-apocalyptic world with its striking artwork and challenging gameplay. The dual-level playfield and exciting multiball feature keep players on their toes.

Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern (May 2011): A visually stunning machine that immerses players in the TRON universe with dazzling LED lights and a captivating soundtrack. The fast-paced gameplay and unique ramps make it a favorite among pinball aficionados.

BMX by Bally (January 1982): A nostalgic nod to the BMX craze of the ’80s, this machine offers fast and furious action with its innovative playfield design. The challenging ramps and loops test players’ reflexes and precision.

Sorcerer by Williams (March 1985): Known for its mystical theme and intricate artwork, Sorcerer combines spellbinding gameplay with challenging features like the spinning disc and complex ramp shots.

Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern (March 2023): This limited edition machine celebrates the iconic rock band with an energetic playfield and dynamic audio. The innovative features and engaging modes make it a standout addition to any arcade.

Overall Tournament Winners: Celebrating the Champions

The final showdown on Disney TRON: Legacy saw the following players emerge victorious:

1. Louise Wagensonner – State Rank: 130th, Total IFPA Events: 449
   Louise showcased her extensive experience, navigating through the intense competition with ease. Her strategic play and familiarity with the machines gave her the edge to clinch the top spot.
2. Laura Masana – State Rank: 636th, Total IFPA Events: 48
   Laura, hailing from Monterey, CA, demonstrated remarkable skill and resilience, rising through the ranks despite fewer tournament appearances. Her consistent performance was a highlight of the event.
3. Paige Peck – State Rank: 436th, Total IFPA Events: 46
   Paige’s journey to third place was marked by her impressive semifinal victory on Wheel of Fortune. Her ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver precise shots made her a formidable competitor.
4. Amy Wolfrum – State Rank: 196th, Total IFPA Events: 82
   Amy, also from Monterey, showcased her expertise and competitive spirit. Her deep understanding of the game mechanics was evident as she navigated through the challenging rounds.
5. Sam Stanko – State Rank: 342nd, Total IFPA Events: 66
   From Seaside, CA, Sam’s strong showing in the semifinals highlighted her pinball prowess. Her ability to adapt to different machines and maintain high scores was commendable.
6. Ivy Simpson – State Rank: 296th, Total IFPA Events: 129
   Ivy’s extensive experience in numerous tournaments shone through as she played with precision and strategy. Her familiarity with various pinball machines was a significant advantage.
7. Nikki Carmichael – State Rank: 201st, Total IFPA Events: 181
   Nikki, the organizer’s relative, demonstrated exceptional skill and a deep love for the game. Their strategic maneuvers and consistent play earned them a well-deserved spot in the top 8.
8. Ikela Lagapa – State Rank: 485th, Total IFPA Events: 98
   Ikela’s determination and passion for pinball were evident throughout the tournament. Her ability to stay focused and perform under pressure secured her place among the top competitors.

IFPA California Pinball Top 10 Standings: The Elite

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Arvid Flygare	Lund	881.64
2	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	808.4
3	Escher Lefkoff		803.97
4	Jason Zahler		778.28
5	Daniele Celestino Acciari	Rocca di Papa	713.76
6	Nic Stein	Davis	681.22
7	Viggo Löwgren	Furulund	667.89
8	Germain Mariolle	Redmond	623.58
9	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	617.31
10	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	554.41

Closing Thoughts: A Tournament to Remember

Congratulations to Louise Wagensonner for her spectacular performance and well-earned victory at the MF Ladies Quarterly. Lynn’s Arcade proved to be the perfect venue, combining excellent facilities with a welcoming atmosphere. For more pinball news and to stay updated on past events, follow along with our blog. Until next time, keep those flippers ready and the multiballs rolling!