Immersion in Pinball Paradise: MFStrikes!!! Tournament Chronicles

Embark on an Epic Pinball Journey:

Enter the realm of MFStrikes!!!, where pinball aficionados from far and wide gathered at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery for an unforgettable showdown. Under the meticulous organization of Cary Carmichael, the tournament unfolded on April 25, 2024, amidst the backdrop of broken clouds and a crisp temperature of 57°F, setting the stage for an evening of gripping competition.

A Clash of Titans:

As the tournament progressed through its nine rounds, players engaged in intense battles of skill and strategy. Each round, players were paired off, facing elimination after accumulating three strikes. Tensions ran high as competitors fought tooth and nail to secure their spot in the next round, with every flipper flip and bumper bounce crucial to survival.

The Spotlight Shines:

In Round 5, all eyes were on Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern, a machine renowned for its captivating gameplay and immersive theme. Craig Heitmann, a newcomer with a fire in his eyes, emerged victorious, showcasing his prowess on the playfield. Jaclyn Tingco-Graham, hailing from Monterey, put up a valiant fight, proving her mettle amidst the flashing lights and echoing sounds of the arcade.

Triumph of the Pinball Kings and Queens:

As the dust settled and the final balls came to rest, it was time to crown the champions of MFStrikes!!!. Leading the pack was Philip Priddy, a seasoned competitor whose precise aim and strategic maneuvers secured him the coveted first place. Ivy Simpson followed closely behind, demonstrating remarkable finesse and determination throughout the tournament. Greg Gorelick, known for their unorthodox yet effective playing style, claimed the third spot on the podium. And let’s not forget Craig Heitmann, whose meteoric rise from obscurity to the top ranks left spectators in awe.

Journey Through Pinball History:

Amidst the frenzy of competition, players had the opportunity to explore an impressive array of pinball machines, each offering a unique experience:

  • Radical! by Bally: Released in January 1990, Radical! is known for its dynamic design and high-energy gameplay, capturing the essence of the radical ’90s era.
  • Old Chicago by Bally: Step back in time to April 1976 with Old Chicago, a classic machine exuding vintage charm and offering challenging gameplay that stands the test of time.
  • Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern: Transport yourself to the world of Gotham City with Batman 66, released in January 2016. Featuring captivating artwork and engaging gameplay, this machine immerses players in the iconic TV series.
  • Funhouse by Williams: Released in November 1990, Funhouse takes players on a whimsical journey through a carnival-themed world, complete with innovative mechanics and quirky characters.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming: Experience the magic of March 2023 with Pulp Fiction, a recent addition to the pinball scene offering a unique blend of nostalgia and modern features, inspired by the cult classic film.

The Allure of Lynn’s Arcade:

Nestled in the heart of Seaside, California, Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery beckoned with promises of endless fun and excitement. From the moment visitors stepped through the door, they were greeted by the sights and sounds of a true pinball paradise. With its wide selection of machines, welcoming ambiance, and ample amenities like beer and cupholders, Lynn’s Arcade left a lasting impression on all who entered its doors.

Gratitude and Anticipation:

As the tournament drew to a close, there remained a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation for future events. A heartfelt thank you to Cary Carmichael for orchestrating such a thrilling competition, and to Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery for providing the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of pinball madness. Stay tuned as the adventure continues, with more tournaments, more excitement, and more pinball magic on the horizon.

High Scores and High Spirits at MFLadies Pinball Spring

On the evening of April 24, 2024, the vibrant Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery in Seaside, California, played host to the MFLadies Pinball Spring Season #2. Organized by Cary Carmichael, this tournament brought together 20 skilled players for a thrilling competition across five rounds, as they played under the soft glow of overcast skies at a cool 58°F.

A Zombie Showdown on The Walking Dead

Round 3 featured a tense battle on The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern, with players navigating the post-apocalyptic challenges crafted into this 2014 pinball machine. BeeOtch Westrum clinched the round with finesse, closely followed by Sam Stanko and Laura Masana, in a game that had all the drama and suspense of the TV series it’s based on.

Celebrating the Champions of the Evening

The tournament saw fierce competition, with the final standings as follows:

  1. Sam Stanko from Seaside, CA, emerged as the tournament champion with her strategic gameplay earning her the top spot with an IFPA rank of 2451.
  2. Paige Peck showcased her pinball skills and rapid improvement, securing a respectable second place with an IFPA rank of 3856.
  3. Jaclyn Tingco-Graham from Monterey, displayed versatility and resilience throughout the rounds, finishing third with an IFPA rank of 6460.
  4. Lindsay McClure from Salinas, wrapped up the top four, proving her mettle against seasoned competitors with an IFPA rank of 5600.

Pinball Gallery: Machines of Marvel

The tournament was supported by an impressive roster of 36 pinball machines, including:

  • Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern, engaging players with its mission-based gameplay that echoes the narrative style of the iconic TV show.
  • Dolly Parton by Bally, a classic from the disco era that combines the charm of the country legend with vibrant pinball action.
  • Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern, known for its futuristic aesthetics and immersive light cycles bonus rounds.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern, the newest thriller that challenges players to hunt or be hunted, in a suspense-filled oceanic adventure.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming, bringing the Quentin Tarantino classic to the pinball world with stylized graphics and iconic soundtracks.

Relaxed Vibes at Lynn’s Arcade

Lynn’s Arcade is more than just a venue; it’s a community hub where the nostalgia of pinball meets modern leisure in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. With an inviting setup that encourages casual hangouts and serious play, it’s the ideal spot for dates or family outings, offering deals like unlimited play and refreshing beverages to enhance the experience.

Thanks Where It’s Due

A heartfelt thank you to Cary Carmichael for orchestrating such a dynamic gathering and to Lynn’s Arcade for providing a fantastic backdrop filled with enthusiastic pinball action. As the community looks forward to the next tournament, stay connected with us for more updates and stories from the exciting world of pinball!

Thrilling Tides at the JAWS Launch Party

On April 21, 2024, the pinball enthusiasts of San Diego gathered at Dyno Bar for the electrifying JAWS Launch Party. Organized by Mark Schulz, this Group Knockout Tournament pitted 23 players against each other across 8 intense rounds. Using the Fair Strikes system, competitors were eliminated upon receiving 5 strikes, making every round critical. The clouds may have been broken above, but the focus inside was unyielding as the players battled amidst a cool 65°F.

Epic Showdown on JAWS (Pro)

The tournament’s grand finale unfolded on the freshly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern, drawing a crowd eager to see this new machine in action. In a gripping conclusion to Round 8, Derek Price emerged victorious, demonstrating why he holds an impressive IFPA rank of 64. Mark Maleko Schulz, also from San Diego, showcased his home turf advantage, securing a commendable second place.

Celebrating the Champions

As the flippers stilled, the tournament’s top contenders were lauded for their pinball prowess:

  1. Derek Price – A seasoned competitor with 406 IFPA events under his belt, Derek’s strategic gameplay and quick reflexes earned him the champion’s title.
  2. Mark Maleko Schulz – With an IFPA rank of 460 and 333 events, Mark’s deep knowledge of the game was on full display, earning him a well-fought second place.
  3. Mike Calcagno – Despite being a relative newcomer with only 34 events, Mike’s remarkable third-place finish proves his rising talent in the pinball world.
  4. Brian Heath – A testament to perseverance, Brian clinched fourth place, adding to his growing experience of 135 events.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was adorned with a stellar lineup of 11 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure:

  • James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern, celebrated for its sleek design and intricate missions that encapsulate the espionage and excitement of the Bond series.
  • Indianapolis 500 by Bally, a fast-paced table that captures the thrill of one of America’s most famous races with high-speed gameplay and challenging loops.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern, offers an adventurous escape to Isla Nublar, where players navigate through dinosaur encounters and terrain obstacles.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern, draws players into the Marvel universe with its vibrant graphics and engaging storyline that mirrors Venom’s dynamic character.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern, the star of the show, brings to life the suspense and danger of the iconic shark hunt with innovative gameplay and a chilling soundtrack.

Dynamic Dyno Bar: The Heart of San Diego’s Pinball Scene

Located at 3367 India Street, Dyno Bar is not just a venue; it’s a cultural hub for adult gamers. This 21+ establishment is renowned for its cool atmosphere and exclusive array of pinball machines and indie arcade games, making it a prime destination for nightlife and entertainment in San Diego.

A Round of Applause

Heartfelt thanks go to Mark Schulz for his impeccable organization of the JAWS Launch Party and to Dyno Bar for providing a perfect setting for this pinball extravaganza. As we continue to explore the vibrant pinball scenes across the nation, stay tuned for more thrilling updates and tales from the silver ball’s journey across America!

A Night Under the Stars at Pins & Pirates League

The sixth event of Season 3 of the Pins & Pirates League was held on a clear evening of April 19, 2024, at Captain’s Arcade Showroom. Organized by CC Castaneda, this tournament attracted 18 players who competed in 1 round of 5 games each, totaling approximately 2 and a half hours of intense gameplay.

Spotlight on Stranger Things (Pro)

The standout game of the tournament was on Stern’s Stranger Things (Pro), which was released in December 2019. The game drew considerable attention due to its immersive theme and dynamic playfield. Rob Luzio triumphed in this round, followed by Alan Cardenas and Tom Shelley from Orange County, CA.

Tournament Champions

The tournament culminated with top performances from seasoned players:

  1. Dennis Eichhorn, demonstrating his prowess with an IFPA rank of 275, led the pack after participating in 229 IFPA events.
  2. Fran Irwin, from Southern California, ranked 522nd, showed his seasoned skills in his 201st IFPA event.
  3. Michael Kostolnik brought his A-game, securing the third spot with a rank of 1186 across 111 IFPA events.
  4. Kane Mejia also made notable strides, placing fourth with an IFPA rank of 696 in just his 57th event.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an array of 49 pinball machines, each with its own unique appeal:

  • James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern: Released in September 2022, this machine offers intricate gadgets and missions that encapsulate the espionage and thrill of the James Bond series.
  • JAWS (Premium/LE) by Stern: One of the newest machines, released in January 2024, it plunges players into the suspenseful waters of Amity Island with shark attack features and a gripping soundtrack.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern: This machine brings superheroes to life with complex missions and multiball events that reflect the epic battles of the Marvel Universe.
  • The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern: Released in October 2014, it challenges players to survive in a post-apocalyptic world with zombie-themed playfields and immersive storytelling.
  • Jurassic Park (LE) by Stern: This game, launched in September 2019, captivates players with dinosaur chases and rescue missions, delivering a prehistoric adventure with each flip.

Captain’s Arcade Showroom: More Than Just a Venue

Located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue in Anaheim, CA, Captain’s Arcade Showroom not only hosted the tournament but also provided excellent service to patrons purchasing their first pinball machines. The venue’s commitment to customer satisfaction and its vibrant atmosphere make it a beloved spot in the community.

Appreciation and Anticipation

A heartfelt thank you to CC Castaneda for orchestrating a fantastic tournament and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing an ideal setting for pinball enthusiasts. The pinball community remains vibrant thanks to such well-managed events. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball!

Thrills at the Pins & Pirates League Season 3, Episode 6

On a clear evening of April 19, 2024, the Pins & Pirates League hosted its sixth tournament of the third season at Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim, California. With 18 competitors playing five games each over a single round, the event spanned approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes of intense pinball action, meticulously organized by CC Castaneda.

Standout Performance on Stranger Things (Pro)

The evening’s highlight came during the first round on the Stranger Things (Pro) pinball machine by Stern, released in December 2019. This machine, known for its immersive playfield and engaging multi-ball sequences themed around the popular TV series, saw Rob Luzio take the lead, followed by Alan Cardenas and Tom Shelley from Orange County, CA, showcasing their skills amidst stiff competition.

Champions of the Night

The tournament concluded with impressive victories from seasoned players:

  1. Dennis Eichhorn, demonstrating formidable skill and strategic mastery, claimed the top spot with an IFPA rank of 281 and participation in 232 events.
  2. Fran Irwin, from Southern California, ranked 530th, used his extensive experience from 203 events to secure second place.
  3. Michael Kostolnik took third place with a rank of 1186, having competed in 114 IFPA events, showing consistent performance.
  4. Kane Mejia finished fourth, his IFPA rank of 696 and participation in 57 events evidencing his growing prowess in the field.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue boasted an eclectic mix of 49 pinball machines, including:

  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: A fan favorite for its engaging missions and vibrant visuals inspired by the Marvel film series, released in November 2017.
  • Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: This 2023 release captures the essence of the iconic rock band with integrated music tracks and concert-themed playfield elements.
  • Sinbad by Gottlieb: A classic from 1978, this machine is beloved for its straightforward yet challenging gameplay, offering a nostalgic dive into pinball history.
  • JAWS (Premium/LE) by Stern: The newest addition from January 2024, it features intense shark attack modes and oceanic adventures, thrilling players with its innovative design.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming: Released in March 2023, this machine brings Quentin Tarantino’s cinematic masterpiece to life with unique storytelling and character-focused missions.

A Hidden Gem in Anaheim

Captain’s Arcade Showroom, located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, proved to be a perfect venue for the tournament, offering both new and classic pinball machines in an atmosphere that resonates with nostalgia and modern flair. Described as a hidden gem, the venue is a haven for both veteran players and newcomers to the pinball scene.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Special thanks to CC Castaneda for organizing such a well-run event and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing a top-tier venue that enhances the competitive pinball experience. The community looks forward to more thrilling competitions and continued coverage from the exciting world of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates!

Epic Showdown at MINBOSS and the MULTIBALL Crusade

Tournament Thrills at Miniboss

On the cool evening of April 16, 2024, the vibrant Miniboss arcade in San Jose, California, played host to the electrifying “MINBOSS and the MULTIBALL Crusade” pinball tournament. Orchestrated by Myriad Pinball, this event featured 27 competitive players engaging in a fast-paced format of 4 rounds, followed by a top-4 finals showdown across three games. The tournament was a whirlwind of excitement, wrapping up in just under two hours amid broken clouds and mild 66°F weather.

Battle on Black Knight: Sword of Rage

The tournament’s most intense battle erupted over Stern’s Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) during the first round. This grueling game extended to an extraordinary 70 minutes as players clashed with the game’s notorious challenges and relentless pace. Lawrence Aguiar from Redwood City emerged victorious in this epic standoff, setting a high standard for skill and endurance early in the competition.

Tournament Champions Crowned

As the final flippers fell, the top players emerged:

  1. Dustin Goldbarg displayed remarkable skill and consistency throughout the tournament, securing the first place with an IFPA rank of 428.
  2. Lawrence Aguiar, after his dramatic win in the first round, continued to show great form and agility to finish second.
  3. Shannon Sweetser from San Francisco demonstrated strategic finesse to claim third place, proving her mettle against seasoned opponents.
  4. Tim Hansen from Sunnyvale, although highly ranked at IFPA rank 40, faced stiff competition and rounded out the top four.

Pinball Machine Lineup

Miniboss featured a stellar lineup of 12 pinball machines, offering both classic designs and modern mechanics:

Location and Hospitality

MINIBOSS, located at 52 E Santa Clara St, is more than just an arcade; it’s a retreat that combines gaming with great drinks, delicious food, and excellent service. With free game nights on Thursdays and happy hours offering superb deals, Miniboss is a must-visit for anyone looking to relax, play, and enjoy some quality time.

Acknowledgements and Farewell

A huge thanks to Richard Godwin and the team at Myriad Pinball for organizing such a thrilling event, and to MINIBOSS for providing an outstanding venue. These tournaments highlight the thriving pinball community and the joy and competition it brings.

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.

Welcome to the Electrifying MFStrikes! Pinball Tournament

Overview of the Competition

On the evening of April 11, 2024, Lynn’s Arcade became the battleground for the MFStrikes!!! pinball tournament. Organized by Cary Carmichael, this knockout event saw 11 competitors vying for supremacy across 9 intense rounds, under a clear sky and pleasant 60°F.

Highlight Match: Transformers Face-Off

The tournament kicked off with a memorable first round on the Transformers pinball machine by Stern, where Dexter Farm, with an IFPA rank of 4006, narrowly defeated Craig Heitmann, an unranked challenger, setting an energetic tone for the night.

Showcasing the Machines

The tournament featured an impressive roster of 36 pinball machines. Highlights included:

  • No Fear: Dangerous Sports, known for its adrenaline-pumping action.
  • Demolition Man, offering a glimpse into a sci-fi future with unique control features.
  • Radical! by Bally, which brought back the colorful ’90s skate culture.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium), famous for its realistic dinosaur animations and interactive gameplay.
  • Foo Fighters (LE), the latest addition, drawing crowds with its rock ‘n’ roll theme and exclusive content.

Champions of the Arena

As the flippers stilled, the top players emerged victorious:

  1. Nikki Carmichael (IFPA rank 2697), with vast experience from 170 events, clinched the top spot.
  2. Linda G (IFPA rank 6871), proved her mettle with strategic plays in her 77th event.
  3. Melina Meltzer from California, leveraging their experience from 76 events, secured third place.
  4. Matt Nielsen demonstrated solid skills, finishing strong in fourth place.

The Venue: Lynn’s Arcade

Lynn’s Arcade, with its eclectic mix of pinball machines and unique beer selections, provided a perfect setting for an engaging night. Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, the venue promised—and delivered—a fantastic pinball experience.

A Final Salute

Thanks to Cary Carmichael for a seamlessly executed tournament and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting an unforgettable evening. For those passionate about the ping of pinball and the thrill of the game, stay connected for more tales from the pinball circuit across the nation!

Rolling Through the Emporium Hi-Scorium April Pinball Tournament

Key Highlights from the Evening

The Emporium Hi-Scorium April pinball tournament, orchestrated by Myriad Pinball, dazzled players and spectators alike on the evening of April 10, 2024. Hosted at the Emporium Arcade Bar in San Francisco, this competitive gathering lasted a spirited 2.5 hours. Despite the evening being draped in overcast skies, the mood inside was anything but gloomy, with 29 pinball aficionados clashing flippers in a series of four intense rounds, leading up to a high-stakes final showdown.

Battle of the Flippers: Tournament Insights

Competitors were divided into groups, battling across 4 initial rounds with each round consisting of a single game. The points accumulated based on their rankings in these games determined the top 4 players who advanced to the finals—a rigorous test of skill with three games in one decisive round.

Game of the Night: Stranger Things Showdown

Highlighting the game roster was Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern, which saw the longest game duration of the tournament. This epic round stretched to an astonishing 61 minutes, where strategy and stamina were key. Rob Coli triumphed in this marathon game, leading Conner Silverstein, Shannon Sweetser, and Mitch Diemert in a thrilling finish.

Champions of the Arena

Rob Coli emerged as the tournament champion, continuing to build his legacy with his 158th IFPA event. Close on his heels was Shannon Sweetser, a local talent from San Francisco, followed by Conner Silverstein and the spirited Mitch Diemert, who made an impressive showing despite his lack of an IFPA ranking.

Spotlight on the Machines: Icons of Pinball

The tournament featured a lineup of 11 enthralling pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the competition:

  • Star Wars (Pro) by Stern (2017): A fan favorite for its deep rule set and dynamic playfield, challenging players to navigate the galaxy.
  • Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern (2023): The newest addition, combining rock music with fast-paced pinball action, quickly became a crowd-pleaser.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern (2020): Known for its collaborative gameplay mechanics, encouraging teamwork and strategy.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021): Offering a monstrous challenge with its city-crushing, multi-ball events.
  • Metallica (Pro) by Stern (2013): Rock and roll meets pinball, featuring electrifying soundtracks and engaging missions.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (2019): Players embark on a dinosaur-hunting adventure with intricate play modes and immersive graphics.
  • Spider-Man by Stern (2007): A classic that combines superhero antics with intricate web-slinging pinball mechanics.
  • Revenge From Mars by Bally (1999): A throwback to the late ’90s with its unique blend of video and pinball gameplay, creating a hybrid experience.

Each machine offered unique challenges and played a pivotal role in testing the adaptability and skill of every participant.

Atmosphere and Acoustics: More Than Just Pinball

The Emporium Arcade Bar provided a perfect backdrop with its vibrant atmosphere. Arriving post-dinner, attendees were greeted by the energetic tunes of a live DJ, enhancing the competitive spirit with great music and a selection of refreshing beverages—a true pinball paradise.

Hats Off to the Hosts

A special thanks to Myriad Pinball for organizing an unforgettable night of pinball wizardry and to the Emporium Arcade Bar for hosting. Their combined efforts created a fantastic environment for both new enthusiasts and seasoned players to enjoy the grandeur of pinball competition.

Stay tuned for more pinball tournament updates and tales from the silver ball battlefield!

Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024

A Night of Flippers and Strikes in San Diego

The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024 pinball tournament, nestled in the heart of San Diego at the vibrant Dyno Bar, was a spectacle of skill and strategy. Over the course of 3 hours and 30 minutes, 23 pinball enthusiasts engaged in a thrilling Group Knockout Tournament, masterfully put together by Mark Schulz. The clear San Diego sky set a perfect backdrop for an evening filled with excitement and friendly competition.

An Epic Start on Deadpool

The tournament kicked off with an electrifying match on the Deadpool (Pro) machine. Kenny Pulliam’s victory in this initial round set a high standard and showcased the intense level of competition that would define the evening. This match was not just a highlight of skill but also of the camaraderie that makes pinball tournaments so special.

Celebrating the Pinball Masters

As the final pinball came to rest, the winners emerged, each demonstrating exceptional skill and passion for pinball:

  1. Mark Maleko Schulz, embodying the spirit of San Diego pinball, clinched the top position, further solidifying his reputation in the pinball community.
  2. Tom Isaak, with their remarkable strategy and consistent plays, secured a well-deserved second place.
  3. Kenny Pulliam, fresh from his round one victory, maintained his momentum to claim the third spot on the podium.
  4. Brian Heath, with steady hands and a strategic mind, rounded out the top four, showcasing the depth of talent present at the tournament.

The Machines That Made the Night

The Dyno Bar was home to an impressive lineup of 11 pinball machines for the tournament, each bringing its own unique challenge and charm:

  • JAWS (Pro): The newest addition to the lineup, its immersive gameplay and shark-themed challenges captivated the players.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy: Offered a cosmic adventure with its dynamic gameplay and beloved characters from the Marvel universe.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro): Took players on a prehistoric journey, combining intense action with innovative pinball mechanics.
  • Godzilla (Pro): Unleashed monstrous fun, with its towering challenges and city-stomping excitement.
  • Deadpool (Pro): Delivered action-packed rounds with its witty banter and engaging missions.

A Hub of Pinball Enthusiasm

The Dyno Bar, with its clean, welcoming environment and enthusiastic staff, provided the perfect setting for this pinball gathering. It’s not just a venue but a cornerstone of the local gaming community, offering a space where both seasoned players and newcomers can share their love for the game.

Gratitude and Cheers

As the night wound down, heartfelt thanks went to Mark Schulz for orchestrating such a seamless and engaging tournament, and to the Dyno Bar for hosting us amidst their fantastic games and ambiance. The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024 was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit, skill, and passion. Here’s to many more evenings of pinball wizardry and camaraderie!