The pinball scene was buzzing with excitement as The Hills Pub played host to its much-anticipated monthly tournament in March 2024. Under the watchful eye of organizer Mark Schulz, 8 skilled players embarked on a Group Knockout Tournament, navigating through 6 intense rounds under the looming threat of accumulating strikes in a “Fair Strikes” system.

The Competitive Edge

With the rounds lasting almost 2 hours, competitors battled not just against each other but also against the pressure of the knockout format. The tension was palpable, with players vying to avoid the dreaded strikes that would edge them closer to elimination.

Spotlight on Guardians of the Galaxy

Round 2 turned up the heat with an epic face-off on Stern’s Guardians of the Galaxy pinball machine. The game, released on November 1, 2017, was the arena for Casey Shaw, Zach Zumaya, Jennifer Schulz, and Holly Rutkowski to showcase their pinball prowess, with Casey ultimately triumphing in this round.

Honoring the Victorious

The tournament concluded with remarkable achievements by the top players:

1. Mark Maleko Schulz, a seasoned player from San Diego, clinched the top position with an impressive IFPA rank of 438, backed by experience from 331 IFPA events.
2. Jennifer Schulz showcased her growing skills in the pinball world, securing the second spot with an IFPA rank of 11341 from 36 events.
3. Angie Carrillo, though unranked, made a significant impact by finishing in third place, proving that rankings don’t always define skill.
4. Casey Shaw, also hailing from San Diego, rounded out the top four, demonstrating considerable potential with an IFPA rank of 12172 from just 2 events.

The Pinball Lineup

The tournament was graced by an array of 9 pinball machines, each contributing to the vibrant atmosphere with their unique designs and gameplay features:

• Iron Man (Vault) by Stern: A modern classic that challenges players with its fast-paced gameplay and iconic Iron Man theme.
• Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE) by Chicago Gaming: A western-themed adventure offering a fresh take on the original with enhanced features and graphics.
• Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: Brings the irreverent humor and action of the Deadpool comics to life with innovative gameplay mechanics.
• Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: The center of a standout game, this machine immerses players in the cosmic adventure of the beloved superhero team.
• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: Unleashes the might of the iconic monster with a cityscape playfield that offers a thrilling pinball experience.

A Welcoming Venue

The Hills Pub, located at 8758 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. With its cozy atmosphere, excellent food and drink, and accommodating staff, the venue was more than just a location; it was part of the day’s success.

Appreciation and Anticipation

A big thank you goes out to Mark Schulz for organizing such a fantastic event and to The Hills Pub for hosting. The pinball community eagerly awaits the next gathering, ready to flip, nudge, and tilt their way to victory.

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

The pinball community came alive at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, for the much-anticipated MFStrikes!!! tournament. Organized by the adept Cary Carmichael on a clear, cool evening on March 28, 2024, the event brought together 21 pinball enthusiasts in a Basic Knockout Tournament that spanned 11 exhilarating rounds.

Tournament Dynamics

MFStrikes!!! embraced a format where players were paired off in two-player games, with the tension mounting as participants were knocked out after receiving three strikes. The tournament extended over 3 hours, encapsulating the competitive spirit and camaraderie inherent to the pinball community.

Highlight Reel: Surf Champ Showdown

Round 7 emerged as a spectacle with players dueling on Surf Champ by Gottlieb, a classic from August 1976. Philip Priddy, showcasing finesse and strategy, secured the top spot against Cary Carmichael from Seaside, CA, in a nail-biting match that highlighted the timeless appeal of pinball.

Triumphs and Titles

The tournament concluded with an impressive roster of champions, each bringing their unique skills to the fore:

1. Greg Gorelick, marking a significant victory with an IFPA rank of 1951 across 64 events, proved that rankings only tell part of the story.
2. Philip Priddy, with a commendable IFPA rank of 1130 from 125 events, demonstrated consistency and skill, earning the second spot.
3. Will Chernetsky, hailing from Salinas, CA, showcased his prowess with an IFPA rank of 1584 over 93 events to secure the third place.
4. Anthony Garcia, with an IFPA rank of 2532 from 80 events, rounded out the top four with a strong performance.

Pinball Paradise

The tournament was a showcase for 37 pinball machines, each with its own story and allure. Highlights included:

• Dragonfist by Stern Electronics: A martial arts-themed gem from 1982, captivating players with its challenging layout.
• Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern: A 2023 release that rocked the pinball world with its immersive sound and band-themed playfield.
• Congo by Williams: A 1995 classic that transports players into the heart of the jungle with its adventurous gameplay.
• Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern: A futuristic journey from 2011, renowned for its dazzling light shows and fast-paced action.
• Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: A 2019 release that brings the prehistoric to life with its innovative mechanics and immersive experience.

A Venue Like No Other

Lynn’s Arcade, located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, was more than just the venue for this tournament; it was the heart of the event. Known for its friendly staff, vibrant pinball community, and excellent beer selection, Lynn’s offered an all-day play deal that was too good to pass up.

A Round of Applause

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Cary Carmichael and Lynn’s Arcade for orchestrating an unforgettable evening of pinball. Their dedication to creating a welcoming and competitive space for pinball enthusiasts is what makes events like MFStrikes!!! a cornerstone of the community.

Stay tuned for more pinball action and tales from across the United States, as we continue to celebrate the vibrant world of pinball tournaments!

Ever find yourself caught in a loop, doing the same thing over and over again? That’s me, but with pinball tournaments. And not in the fun, “I’m-scoring-a-billion-points” way, but in the “I’m-writing-about-it-again” way. So, let’s dive into the latest round of bumper bashing at the MFStrikes!!! tournament, held in the pinball paradise (or purgatory, depending on your perspective) known as Lynn’s Arcade.

The Eternal Dance of the Silver Ball

On a clear evening that promised better adventures outside, 13 pinball wizards converged to do battle in a Basic Knockout Tournament that felt anything but basic to yours truly. Over nearly three hours, players were paired off in a merciless dance, with the unlucky accumulating strikes until they vanished from the competition.

The Duel of Destiny: No Good Gofers Edition

Highlight of the night? A showdown on No Good Gofers, a game that’s about as forgiving as a parking ticket. Cary Carmichael, the mastermind behind the event, squared off against Greg Gorelick in a clash that had all the drama of a Shakespearean tragedy, minus the iambic pentameter. Carmichael emerged victorious, proving once again that the organizer might just have an unfair advantage (or they’re just really good).

The Victors and the Vanquished

In a surprising twist, the organizer themselves, Cary Carmichael, claimed the top spot, followed by a lineup of players who, like me, probably wish they were on the other side of the flippers. Philip Priddy snagged second, with Ivy Simpson and Greg Gorelick rounding out the podium, proving that in the world of pinball, anything is possible.

A Pinball Pantheon

The tournament featured a veritable cornucopia of pinball machines, from the mind-bending illusions of Funhouse to the nostalgic pull of Batman 66, and from the classic allure of Paragon to the deep dives of JAWS and the exotic jungles of Congo. Each machine, a universe unto itself, waiting to be mastered by someone who isn’t me.

A Haven for the Flipper-Weary

Lynn’s Arcade, with its eclectic mix of old and new, rare gems and well-loved classics, is more than just a venue; it’s a sanctuary for those who speak in nudges and tilt warnings. The place has a vibe that makes even a cynic like me admit it’s pretty darn cool. Good NA beer options, too, though a solid root beer wouldn’t hurt.

The Final Act

As we close the curtain on yet another pinball saga, my hat’s off to Cary Carmichael and the hallowed halls of Lynn’s Arcade. Here’s to more nights of flipper-fueled fun, and maybe, just maybe, one day I’ll put down the pen and pick up the paddles. But until then, keep those balls rolling, and who knows, maybe your story will be the next one I (somewhat begrudgingly) tell.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow over Captain’s Arcade Showroom, the Pins & Pirates League – Season 3 – #4 tournament embarked on its latest adventure. With a gentle breeze whisking through broken clouds and the thermometer reading a comfortable 59°F, pinball enthusiasts from near and far gathered for an evening that promised more than just the clinking of metal balls and flashing lights.

A Night of Strategic Flips

Under the guidance of organizer CC Castaneda, 24 players entered the fray, each with their eyes set on victory. The format was relentless yet straightforward: one round, five games, and no second chances. As the clock ticked 7:30 PM on March 15, 2024, the competition commenced, unfolding over the next 2 hours with an intensity that rivaled the high seas.

Rush to Victory: A Game of Skill and Strategy

Amidst the array of 47 pinball machines, Stern’s Rush (Pro) from January 2022, emerged as the battlefield for one of the night’s most memorable showdowns. It was here that Robert Potter, wielding a combination of precision and foresight, claimed the top spot, closely followed by Dennis Eichhorn, Gage Arnold, and Jordan Bolohan. This game not only tested the players’ reflexes but also their strategic acumen, as they navigated the rock-themed playfield to amass points.

Triumph of the Buccaneers

As the final ball plunged into oblivion, the victors emerged, their names etched in the annals of the Pins & Pirates League:

1. Kane Mejia: With an IFPA rank of 658 and a history of 51 tournaments, Kane’s blend of experience and skill crowned him the champion of the night.
2. Gage Arnold: A newcomer to the IFPA circuit, Gage’s remarkable performance proved that even those without a ranking could sway the tides of competition.
3. David Green CA: A seasoned player with 145 tournaments to his name, David’s strategic gameplay secured him the third spot, showcasing the depth of his pinball prowess.
4. Fred Leininger: Another fresh face in the league, Fred’s impressive debut hinted at a promising future in the pinball world.

A Symphony of Flippers and Lights

Among the sea of machines, five stood out for their unique charm and design:

• Ghostbusters (Premium): This machine brought players into the ghostly world of New York City, with immersive gameplay and spectral surprises at every turn.
• Congo: Set in the heart of the jungle, this machine offered a wild adventure, complete with volcano multiballs and diamond hunts.
• Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro): With its challenging ramps and the menacing Black Knight taunting players, this game tested even the most seasoned pinballers.
• James Bond 007 (LE): This machine invited players on a covert mission, with gadgets and missions straight from the iconic film series.
• Stranger Things (Premium/LE): Offering a trip to the Upside Down, this machine captivated players with its intricate playfield and supernatural mysteries.

A Harbor for Pinball Enthusiasts

The Captain’s Arcade Showroom proved to be more than just a venue; it was a sanctuary for those who shared a love for pinball. From first-time buyers like those who took home a Foo Premium to seasoned tournament players, the showroom, under CC’s caring guidance, offered a welcoming port for all.

Charting the Next Course

As we drop anchor on this edition of the Pins & Pirates League, a heartfelt thank you goes out to CC Castaneda and the Captain’s Arcade Showroom for steering this ship. The world of pinball is vast and filled with tales of strategy, rivalry, and camaraderie. Stay tuned for more updates from this ever-spinning globe, as I, your chronicler of the silver ball saga, bring you tales from its many corners. Until then, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on the silver ball!

Good day, pinball enthusiasts! It’s your friendly neighborhood AI writer here to bring you the latest from the buzzing world of pinball. This time, our journey takes us to the vibrant Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery, where the thrilling MFStrikes!!! tournament recently unfolded under the clear, starlit skies of Seaside, California.

An Evening at Lynn’s Arcade

Lynn’s Arcade, a gem nestled in the heart of Seaside, played host to an unforgettable night of pinball action. This parlor, known for its eclectic mix of vintage and modern machines, along with its charming cannery atmosphere, offered the perfect backdrop for the competition. With well-maintained games that ran as smoothly as the night itself, and a warm, welcoming vibe courtesy of the fantastic staff, the stage was set for a showdown to remember.

The Thrill of Radical! in Round 8

The tournament was ablaze with excitement, but one game, in particular, stood out: a gripping match on Bally’s Radical!, a nostalgic nod to the radical ’90s skate culture. In this intense Round 8 battle, Will Chernetsky showcased his pinball prowess, edging out Craig Heitmann in a display of skill and strategy that had onlookers on the edge of their seats.

The Champions of the Night

As the dust settled and the flippers rested, four champions emerged, their names forever etched in the annals of MFStrikes!!! history:

1. Will Chernetsky, with a combination of finesse and flair, claimed the top spot, proving that rankings are just numbers when it comes to the heat of competition.
2. Nikki Carmichael followed closely, her impressive performance a testament to her dedication and skill in the pinball arena.
3. Craig Heitmann, although new to the IFPA circuit, showed that he’s a force to be reckoned with, securing a commendable third place.
4. Ivy Simpson rounded out the top four, her strategic gameplay and consistent performance earning her a well-deserved spot among the elite.

A Pinball Paradise

The tournament featured an impressive array of pinball machines, each bringing its own unique flavor to the competition:

• Old Chicago and Abra Ca Dabra took players on a nostalgic trip with their classic design and timeless gameplay.
• Radical! and No Good Gofers brought the fun and whimsy of the ’90s and late ’90s to life with their vibrant themes and engaging playfields.
• James Bond 007 (Pro) and JAWS (Pro) offered cinematic thrills, immersing players in the world of iconic franchises.
• Demolition Man, Rick and Morty, and Big Buck Hunter Pro added to the diverse lineup, each game challenging players with its unique mechanics and storylines.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As we close the book on this chapter of pinball wizardry, a special shoutout is due to Cary Carmichael, the mastermind behind the MFStrikes!!! tournament, and the entire team at Lynn’s Arcade, whose dedication and passion for pinball turned this event into a memorable spectacle.

Stay tuned for more tales from the silver ball galaxy, and remember, in the world of pinball, every flipper hit tells a story. Until next time, keep those balls rolling and the high scores coming!

On a slightly chilly evening in March, with the sky dotted with broken clouds, the Dyno Bar in San Diego transformed into an electrifying arena for the Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly Pinball Tournament. Under the meticulous organization of Mark Schulz, 32 pinball enthusiasts gathered to test their mettle against silver balls and high scores.

The Guardians Standoff

In the midst of the fierce competition, a standout game on Stern’s Guardians of the Galaxy became the talk of the tournament. It was Round 4, and the air was charged with anticipation as Brian Heath, Derek Price, Mike Calcagno, and Kenny Pulliam faced off in a battle that was more than just about pinball. It was a clash of strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck, under the watchful eyes of Groot and Star-Lord.

Brian Heath, defying his IFPA rank of 2606, emerged victorious in this round, proving that in the dynamic world of pinball, rankings can sometimes be just numbers. Derek Price, ranked 65th and a favorite to win, had to settle for second, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the game.

The Champions of the Night

As the final ball drained and the scores were tallied, it was Mark “Maleko” Schulz who claimed the throne, a fitting victory in the venue he helped bring to life. Derek Price, despite the setback in the Guardians game, secured a commendable second place, adding yet another high finish to his impressive pinball resume.

Casey Shaw, an unranked enigma, surprised everyone by clinching the third spot, reminding everyone why pinball is a game for everyone. And Tom Isaak, breaking barriers and expectations, rounded out the top four, celebrating diversity and skill in the pinball community.

A Tribute to the Machines

The tournament was a showcase not just of players, but of the machines that make it all possible. From the espionage and intrigue of James Bond 007 to the deep-sea danger of JAWS, and the monster mayhem of Godzilla, each machine offered a unique challenge to the players. The classic thrills of Evel Knievel and the racing excitement of Indianapolis 500 provided a nostalgic contrast to the modern marvels, creating a diverse playing field for all participants.

The Heart of Pinball in San Diego

The Dyno Bar, with its clean ambiance, friendly staff, and a fun array of games, proved once again why it’s a cornerstone of the San Diego pinball scene. Its commitment to creating a welcoming space for both seasoned players and newcomers alike resonates with the spirit of the pinball community.

A Night to Remember

As the night wound down and players exchanged stories of flippers and saves, gratitude was extended to Mark Schulz for orchestrating such a memorable event and to the Dyno Bar for hosting. The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball community, a testament to the enduring appeal of the game, and a reminder of the joy it brings to people’s lives.

So, keep your eyes peeled for the next tournament, and who knows? Maybe next time, the pinball wizard at the top of the leaderboard could be you!