On a cool March evening, under the flickering lights and the digital pings of pinball machines, a gripping tale unfolded at Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California. The event? The electrifying MFStrikes!!! pinball tournament. The contenders? A motley crew of ten pinball wizards, battling it out in a Basic Knockout Tournament that promised to be anything but basic.
The Scene: Where Retro Meets Modern
Imagine stepping into a realm where the nostalgic charm of vintage pinball machines blends seamlessly with the vibrant buzz of a modern arcade. This is Lynn’s Arcade: a haven for pinball enthusiasts and casual players alike, renowned not just for its impressive array of machines but also for its warm, inviting atmosphere. The staff, as friendly as they come, and an unparalleled selection of beers, make this place the pinball mecca of California.
The Showdown: A Tale of Rivalry and Redemption
The tournament was structured as a fierce battle of resilience and skill, with players being eliminated after receiving three strikes over 9 intense rounds. But amidst the clattering of flippers and the flashing lights, one game stood out as the stuff of legends: a showdown on the Radical! machine by Bally, a gem from the neon-soaked era of 1990.
In this corner, Matt Nielsen, a seasoned player whose hands moved with the precision of a seasoned craftsman, his eyes locked on the silver ball as if he could control its every move with his mind. And in the other, Kevin Johnston from Watsonville, a wildcard entrant, whose unorthodox style and fierce determination had made them the dark horse of the tournament. The clash was not just a game; it was a dance, a duel, a drama that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
The Champions: From Underdogs to Legends
As the dust settled and the lights dimmed, three players emerged victorious, their names forever etched in the annals of Lynn’s Arcade. At the pinnacle, Matt Nielsen, whose victory on Radical! had propelled him to the top, proving that rank 1941 was just a number. Philip Priddy, with his consistent performance and strategic mastery, clinched the second spot, his 120th event marking a significant milestone in his pinball career. And Nikki Carmichael, whose spirited gameplay and infectious enthusiasm earned her a well-deserved third place, proving that in the world of pinball, passion trumps all.
A Closer Look at the Machines
Amidst the intense battles and the sounds of victory, the real stars of the MFStrikes!!! tournament were the pinball machines themselves, each offering a unique world for players to dive into. Let’s shine a spotlight on the machines that not only tested the skills of the players but also captured the imagination of everyone present.
Released into the wilds of the pinball world in December 2019, Rick and Morty isn’t just a game; it’s an interdimensional adventure. With its custom animations and voiceovers directly from the show’s creators, playing this machine feels like being dropped into an episode of the beloved series. The game’s innovative mechanics and quirky features perfectly encapsulate the chaotic charm of Rick’s garage and the endless possibilities of his portal gun.
The newest kid on the block, having made its grand debut almost a year ago in March 2023, Pulp Fiction (SE) transports players straight into Quentin Tarantino’s cinematic masterpiece. The game is a thrilling ride through the film’s iconic scenes, complete with original soundtracks and dialogue. Its immersive gameplay and narrative-driven missions invite players to step into the shoes of Vincent, Jules, and the rest of the gang, making each game a narrative adventure.
A true classic from the golden age of pinball, released in June 1979, Paragon is a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball’s analog era. With its fantasy-themed artwork and deep, challenging playfield, it offers a nostalgic trip back to a time when pinball was all about high scores and perfecting your flipper skills. The absence of modern gimmicks brings the player’s focus back to the purity of the game, making each match a battle against gravity itself.
Dialed In! by Jersey Jack Pinball
Dialed In! is a modern marvel in the pinball landscape, launched into arcades in August 2017. Designed by the legendary Pat Lawlor, it’s one of the first machines to fully integrate a smartphone theme, offering a unique and engaging storyline. With its high-tech features, including a quantum theater that creates 3D effects and interactive elements that respond to players’ actions, Dialed In! represents the cutting edge of pinball technology, blending classic gameplay with innovative twists.
Released in January 2010, Big Buck Hunter Pro brings the excitement of the popular hunting video game series to the pinball world. This machine is a hit with players who enjoy action-packed gameplay and vibrant, detailed art. Its interactive features, like the moving buck target and multi-ball events, make each game a dynamic experience, challenging players to hone their aim and reflexes in a hunt for the high score.
Celebrating the iconic 1960s Batman TV series, Batman 66 (Premium) was released in January 2016, offering a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay. With artwork and clips from the original series, this machine invites players to join the Caped Crusader and the Boy Wonder in their fight against Gotham’s most notorious villains. The game’s missions, based on classic episodes, and the Batmobile turntable mechanism, add depth and variety to the gameplay, making each round an episode in itself.
Each of these machines brought its own flavor to the MFStrikes!!! tournament, creating a diverse playground that tested every aspect of the players’ skills. From the nostalgic allure of classics like Paragon to the immersive narratives of modern masterpieces like Pulp Fiction (SE), the lineup at Lynn’s Arcade was a pinball enthusiast’s dream come true.
A Night to Remember
As the night drew to a close, the air was thick with the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and a shared love for pinball. A special shoutout to Cary Carmichael, whose dedication and passion made this unforgettable night possible, and to Lynn’s Arcade, for providing a sanctuary for pinball lovers to converge, compete, and celebrate.
So, here’s to the flickers and flashes, the cheers and the gasps, the victories and the defeats. The world of pinball is alive and thriving, and we can’t wait to see what’s next. Stay tuned!
