Rolling into the Night: The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza Recap

On a slightly rainy December evening in Oviedo, Florida, the air inside The Pinball Lounge was charged with excitement and the sounds of silver balls clashing against bumpers. The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza, organized by Kurt van Zyl, was a perfect blend of skill, fun, and pinball wizardry.

A Cozy Venue for Pinball Aficionados

The Pinball Lounge, nestled within the Oviedo Bowling Center (find more about them here), strikes a delightful balance between old school charm and modern marvels. Their collection caters to all tastes, making it a haven for both purists and those seeking the latest in pinball technology.

The Tournament in Full Swing

The competition saw 23 players diving into 6 rounds of intense pinball action. Each round was a showcase of strategy, reflexes, and a touch of luck. The light rain outside seemed a world away as players focused on racking up points and climbing the leaderboard.

Spotlight on ‘Stranger Things’

Round 1 featured a standout game on ‘Stranger Things (Pro)‘ by Stern, a recent hit in the pinball world. Al Neumann took the top spot, followed closely by Dawn Ziatyk, Doug Bernard, and Mike Zink. The game was a thrilling start to the tournament, setting the tone for the evening.

The Victorious Few

The tournament concluded with Nick Smith FL claiming the top spot. John Moschella, Mike Zink, and Al Neumann also earned their places in the pantheon of the night’s pinball champions. Each player displayed a blend of skill and passion that was a joy to witness.

Machines That Stood Out

The tournament featured an impressive array of machines, including the adrenaline-pumping ‘Rush (LE)‘ by Stern, the classic ‘Star Trek‘ by Bally, and the adventurous ‘Jurassic Park (Premium)‘ by Stern. ‘The Mandalorian (Premium)‘ and ‘Monster Bash (Remake LE)‘ were crowd favorites, adding to the night’s excitement.

Until Next Time

As the night ended, players left with memories of a fantastic evening spent amongst peers who share a love for this timeless game. The Pinball Lounge, with its unique blend of old and new, promises many more nights of pinball bliss.

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball, and remember, there’s always room for one more game!

Decking the Flippers: A Festive Fling at the Pinsomniacs Pinball Xmas Bash

The holiday spirit and the clatter of pinball machines made a harmonious duo at the Pinsomniacs Pinball Xmas Bash 2023. Held at the vibrant Tepey’s Taps & Tacos in Jacksonville, this December 10th tournament wasn’t just about competition; it was a celebration of pinball passion under the mistletoe of camaraderie.

The Stage is Set

With the venue’s flavorful tacos and a diverse beer list that could make any connoisseur’s day (trust me, the Munich dunkel is a must-try), Tepey’s was more than just a backdrop. It was an integral character in this pinball play. A light rain drizzled outside, but inside, the warmth of friendly competition and laughter lit up the room.

The Game is Afoot

Organized meticulously by Nick Byrd (check out their site for future events), the tournament saw 27 pinball wizards battle through 9 intense rounds. Each round was a dance of flippers, with points accumulating towards the grand finale. Our top four contenders – Shannon Stafford, Jokton Strealy, Anthony Dickson, and Tristan Stafford – showed skills that were nothing short of magical.

Spotlight on ‘Queen’

A standout moment was in Round 3 on the ‘Queen‘ machine by Pinball Brothers. This recent addition to the pinball world, released in July 2022, became the arena for an epic showdown. The results spoke of talent and strategy, with Shannon Stafford leading the pack, followed closely by Jokton Strealy, Anthony Dickson, and Tristan Stafford.

The Victors

Shannon Stafford emerged as the champion, a testament to skill and strategy. Jokton Strealy, our runner-up from Valdosta, GA, showed that perseverance and flair go hand in hand. Anthony Dickson and Tristan Stafford, each with their unique play styles, added to the tournament’s electric atmosphere.

More than Just a Game

The tournament wasn’t just about winning or losing. It was a celebration of a community brought together by a shared love for pinball. The machines – from the classic ‘Creature from the Black Lagoon‘ to the newest ‘Venom‘ by Stern – each told a story, a piece of pinball history that we all got to be a part of.

Farewell, but not Goodbye

As the flippers stilled and the lights dimmed, we left with memories of a holiday season spent among friends, both old and new. The Pinsomniacs Pinball Xmas Bash was more than a tournament; it was a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing a passion.

So, keep those flippers ready, and follow us for more updates from the realm of pinball. Until next time, keep the ball rolling and the spirits high!


Visit the Pinsomniacs Website | Tepey’s Taps & Tacos

The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 12/5/23

Under a clear Floridian sky with a gentle 61°F breeze, The Pinball Lounge at the Oviedo Bowling Center became the epicenter of pinball excitement on December 5th, 2023. The Bonanza 12/5/23 tournament, meticulously organized by Kurt van Zyl, was not just a test of skill but a celebration of pinball’s rich history and vibrant community.

The Pinball Lounge: A Hub for Pinball Enthusiasts

Visitors to The Pinball Lounge, nestled at 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, FL, find themselves immersed in a pinball wonderland. With an extensive selection of machines and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a haven for both die-hard pinball fans and curious newcomers. The absence of food or drink trials didn’t detract from the experience, as the vast array of pinball machines more than compensated, offering hours of entertainment.

Celebrating the Legacy of Paragon

A special highlight of the tournament was the celebration of Paragon by Bally’s anniversary. Paragon’s project started on December 5, 1978, and has stood the test of time, enchanting players for over four decades with its intricate artwork and challenging gameplay. This classic machine, known for its captivating backglass and playfield design, encapsulates the golden era of pinball. The Paragon game in Round 4 was a riveting display of skill and strategy. Garrett Smoke emerged victorious, followed by Dawn Ziatyk, John Osborne, and Doug Bernard from Orlando, each player bringing their best to this classic machine. It was a round filled with cheers, high-fives, and a shared appreciation for Paragon’s enduring charm.

The Champions of the Evening

The tournament concluded with a showcase of exceptional skill and strategic gameplay:

  1. Dawn Ziatyk – A triumphant display of pinball mastery led to her well-deserved victory.
  2. Garrett Smoke – Consistent and focused, earning a respectable second place.
  3. Al Neumann – Showed impressive prowess to secure the third position.
  4. Justin Derazza – Finished strong, rounding out the top four with a commendable performance.

A Selection of Pinball Legends

The tournament featured 28 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure. Machines like Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern, Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, Venom (Premium) by Stern, and Rush (LE) by Stern not only challenged the players but also added to the diverse tapestry of the evening’s entertainment.

An Evening to Remember

As the final scores were tallied and players exchanged stories and laughs, The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 12/5/23 tournament left everyone with a sense of fulfillment and camaraderie. It was a night that celebrated not just the winners but the entire pinball community, and the timeless joy that these machines bring to our lives.

For more stories from the captivating world of pinball and updates on upcoming tournaments, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on this blog!

A Night of High Scores and High Spirits: The Bonanza at The Pinball Lounge

In the heart of Oviedo, Florida, as the evening sky cleared and temperatures dipped to a cozy 52°F, The Pinball Lounge at the Oviedo Bowling Center turned into a buzzing hub of pinball enthusiasts. The Bonanza 11/28/23 FINAL pinball tournament, starting at 7 PM, was not just a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball community, complete with clattering flippers, ringing bells, and the excitement of players and spectators alike.

The Pinball Lounge: A Haven for Pinball Aficionados

The Pinball Lounge, known for its impressive array of pinball machines, scrumptious food, and an extensive selection of drinks, provided the perfect backdrop for this event. Despite the occasional hustle for drinks and the warmth from the enthusiastic crowd, the atmosphere remained electrifying, with everyone sharing a common passion for pinball.

A Night of Intense Competition

Organized by the experienced Kurt van Zyl, the tournament challenged 15 players across 6 intense rounds. Each round featured one game, with players vying for points based on their finish. The strategy, skill, and a bit of luck were the ingredients for success in this high-stakes battle.

Spotlight on Deadpool

Round 1 saw an enthralling game on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro), a fan favorite since its release in 2018. Nick Smith from Florida emerged victorious, followed closely by Mike Zink and Patrick Durland, setting a high bar for the rounds to follow.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament culminated in a display of outstanding pinball wizardry, with the top players demonstrating why they are the best in the game:

  1. Doug Bernard (from Orlando) – His impeccable gameplay and strategic brilliance earned him the first place.
  2. Nick Smith (from Florida) – Showed consistent performance throughout to secure the second spot.
  3. Robert Viera – Claimed the third place with his skilled and calculated play.
  4. Sheri Lewis – Rounded out the top four, showcasing her talent and determination.

Legendary Machines of the Tournament

The tournament featured 28 pinball machines, each offering a unique challenge. Highlights included the action-packed Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, the heavy metal-themed Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern, the whimsical Monster Bash (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming, the road-tripping Red & Ted’s Road Show by Williams, and the city-stomping Godzilla (Premium) by Stern. These machines not only tested the players’ skills but also added to the overall excitement of the tournament.

A Night to Remember

As the final flipper hit and scores were tallied, the Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 11/28/23 FINAL tournament left everyone with memories of a thrilling night. It was more than just a competition; it was a gathering of a community that shares a deep love for the art of pinball.

For more stories from the flipper-filled world of pinball and updates on upcoming events, keep your eyes on this space!

A Thrilling Day at the Pinsomniacs Venom Launch

On a misty afternoon in Jacksonville, Florida, the Pinsomniacs Pinball @ VGR Venom Launch Party tournament brought excitement and intense competition to the Video Game Rescue Arcade. With the temperature sitting at a comfortable 60°F, pinball enthusiasts gathered on November 12, 2023, for a showdown that promised both skill and strategy.

Venue Vibes: Video Game Rescue Arcade

Nestled at 2415 Blanding Blvd, the Video Game Rescue Arcade, known for its excellent selection of games and fair prices, turned into a battleground for pinball wizards. This cozy arcade was bustling with energy and enthusiasm, making it a perfect spot for a pinball face-off.

Video Game Rescue Arcade

The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Endurance

Organized by Nick Byrd, the tournament spanned nearly 5 hours, featuring 13 nail-biting rounds of pinball. Eleven players competed fiercely, with each round offering a chance to climb the leaderboard. The top four players then advanced to the finals, consisting of three intense rounds.

Round 1 Spotlight: Venom Takes Center Stage

The tournament kicked off with a bang on the Venom (Premium) machine by Stern. The game saw Tristan Stafford clinching the top spot, followed closely by Shannon Stafford. Drake Abbott from Jacksonville, FL, and Breanne Abbott, also from Jacksonville, rounded out the top four, setting a high standard for the rounds to come.

Celebrating the Champions

In a turn of events, Shannon Stafford emerged as the overall winner, showcasing remarkable skill and consistency. Drake Abbott claimed the second spot, with Tristan Stafford and Breanne Abbott securing third and fourth places, respectively.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament highlighted some of the best pinball machines, including:

Wrapping Up

The Pinsomniacs Pinball @ VGR Venom Launch Party tournament was a testament to the enduring popularity of pinball. As players and spectators left Video Game Rescue Arcade, they took with them memories of an afternoon filled with friendly rivalry, strategic plays, and the unmistakable sound of pinball machines.

For the latest in pinball tournaments and news, stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Flippers, Fun, and Florida Nights: The Pinball Lounge Bonanza!

On a pleasantly warm November 7th, 2023, under a starry Floridian sky at 70°F, The Pinball Lounge at Oviedo Bowling Center transformed into a buzzing hub for pinball aficionados. It was time for the much-anticipated Bonanza tournament, meticulously organized by Kurt van Zyl.

A Haven for Pinball Enthusiasts

The Pinball Lounge, renowned for its eclectic mix of classic and modern pinball machines, delicious food, and an impressive selection of drinks, once again welcomed players and spectators. Despite the occasional challenge in getting a drink during the peak hours and the warmth from the excitement and machines, the venue remained a cherished spot for many.

A Night of Competitive Flipping

With 27 competitors battling through 6 rounds, the tournament was a display of sharp skills and strategic plays. The players, divided into groups, competed fiercely, each aiming to score the highest points in their rounds to clinch the victory.

Deadpool Takes Center Stage

The standout game of the night occurred in Round 1 on the “Deadpool (Pro)” by Stern. This particular machine saw Garrett Smoke taking the lead, followed closely by Mike Zink, with Patrick Durland and Sheri Lewis rounding up the top four. It was a game that combined humor, action, and skill in a thrilling showdown.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament concluded with some exceptional performances:

  1. Justin Derazza: Emerged as the top player, his gameplay benefiting from a strategic 30-point adjustment.
  2. Brayden DeRazza: Hailing from Lake Mary FL, showcased exceptional skills to secure the second spot.
  3. Patrick Durland: Consistently strong performance earned him a well-deserved third place.
  4. John Moschella: From Winter Springs Florida, rounded up the top four with his commendable gameplay.

Pinball Galore: A Line-Up to Remember

The tournament featured an impressive array of 37 pinball machines, including:

A Night to Remember

With memories made and champions crowned, we all eagerly await the next flipper-filled event under the clear Floridian skies. Stay tuned for more updates from the ever-exciting realm of pinball!

The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 10-10-23: When Steel Balls Tell Tales

On October 10, 2023, as a clear sky watched over Florida and the temperature nudged a pleasant 76°F, inside The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center, a different tempest was brewing. At 7:00 PM, flippers flipped, bells chimed, and scores soared as the Pinball Bonanza unfurled.

The Arena and Its Gladiators

Located at 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, The Pinball Lounge is no stranger to pinball aficionados. Organized by the ever-passionate Kurt van Zyl, this latest edition saw 19 competitors, each eager to leave an indelible mark on the leaderboard. Over 6 intense rounds, strategies were deployed, rivalries flared, and champions emerged.

Rushing to Glory on Rush (LE)

One cannot talk about this evening without shining a spotlight on Round 6. Stern’s Rush (LE), a modern marvel, became the stage for an epic battle. Garrett Smoke emerged victorious, closely trailed by Dawn Ziatyk, Mike Zink, and the spirited Doug Bernard from Orlando.

Here’s to the Champions!

  • 1st: Mike Zink – Proving that experience, with 73 IFPA Events under his belt, indeed counts.
  • 2nd: Garrett Smoke – A rising star, with a game as fiery as his surname suggests.
  • 3rd: John Osborne – Consistency is key, and John is its master.
  • 4th: Dawn Ziatyk – Earning respect with each flick of her flipper, and accounting for a 10-point adjustment.

A Pinball Time Machine

The machines at the Lounge are not just tables; they’re portals to different eras:

The Pinball Lounge: A Realm Beyond the Flippers

It’s not just about the game; it’s about the experience. As one vacationer shared on The Pinball Lounge’s website, their brief detour turned into a two-hour love affair with pinball, sans the food and drinks.

The Titans of Florida Pinball

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.53
2Eric StoneFort Myers312.68
3Sebastian Bobbio279.04
4Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale272.4
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.72
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace147.87
8David Miller FLTampa142.44
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.7
10John MoschellaWinter Springs127.5

The echoes of clashing steel balls might have subsided for now, but the stories, rivalries, and dreams live on. Here’s looking forward to the next battle under the neon lights! Until then, stay flippin’, Florida!

The Pinball Lounge Showdown: Strategy, Stamina, and Superb Gameplay

Florida’s sizzling sun might have been obscured by a few clouds on October 7th, 2023, but inside The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center, the atmosphere was positively electric. As the temperature outside teetered at 85°F, inside, the real heat was generated by 25 pinball wizards, meticulously mastering machines from yesteryears to contemporary classics.

The Pinball Lounge: An Arcade Utopia

Situated on 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, The Pinball Lounge is a paradise for aficionados of the silver ball. For visitors dropping by while vacationing in Orlando, it offers an escapade back in time. While they might not have tested the gastronomy, the pinball variety is nothing short of staggering. An essential stop for pinball enthusiasts and the perfect backdrop for the Pre Play Florida 2023 tournament.

Machines that Echoed through Time

Out of the 27 pinball machines present, a few definitely demanded the spotlight:

An Epic Round to Remember

Round 5 was not just another game—it was a saga. The players faced off on the Spirit of 76 by Gottlieb, a machine from 1975. An astounding 73 minutes saw Patrick Durland clinch the top spot, followed closely by Sebastian Bobbio and Sierra Lieffort, with David Miller finishing fourth.

The Titans of the Tournament

After hours of flippers flipping and balls bouncing, the champions emerged:

  1. Sebastian Bobbio: With his IFPA rank at 253 and equal number of IFPA events, Sebastian’s win wasn’t just about numbers—it was a showcase of sheer skill.
  2. Shannon Stafford: Ranked 77 globally, Shannon secured the second spot, further solidifying her position atop Florida’s pinball standings.
  3. Patrick Durland: The hero of the Spirit of 76 round secured a respectable third spot. Not bad for someone who’s participated in only 66 IFPA events!
  4. Garrett Smoke: Rounding out the top four, Garrett demonstrated that while his IFPA rank might be 3263, he’s a force to be reckoned with.

Florida’s Best Flippers

The IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 standings post-tournament are:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.54
2Eric StoneFort Myers306.2
3Sebastian Bobbio279.07
4Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale271.69
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.72
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace146.87
8David Miller FLTampa140.89
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.72
10John MoschellaWinter Springs127.51

Until the Next Plunge!

With the echoes of the bells and buzzers now a memory, The Pinball Lounge – Pre Play Florida 2023 came to a close. But rest assured, the pinball cosmos is ever-evolving. So, whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the strategy, or the sheer thrill of the game—stay tuned for more from the exciting realm of pinball!

The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 10-3-23: The Night Oviedo Stood Still

Under a clear Florida sky, punctuated by a few drifting clouds and with the temperature tipping at a delightful 75°F, the night was set for the most gripping pinball action Oviedo has ever witnessed.

Setting the Stage

At the heart of this electric atmosphere was The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo Bowling Center, bustling with enthusiasm and the echoing chimes of pinball machines. For those who weren’t clock-watching, it was a whirlwind of approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes of relentless competition, organized by the indomitable Kurt van Zyl.

A Trip to the Jurassic Era

While every game had its moment, the talk of the night was an intense showdown on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Premium) during the first round. Anton Samilian led the charge, but with Dawn Ziatyk not far behind. Florida’s own Patrick Durland and Sheri Lewis also put up a commendable fight. It was as if the players had been transported to a time of dinosaurs, maneuvering through treacherous terrains and outsmarting the T-rex.

Conquering the Night: The Winners

Bravery, strategy, and a little bit of luck crowned our victors:

  • John Osborne: Steadiness personified.
  • John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida: The strategic genius of the night.
  • Dawn Ziatyk: A force to reckon with.
  • David Troum: Consistency in every move.

Machines Through Time

The Lounge showcased a diverse range of machines, each echoing a different era of pinball’s storied history:

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Every inch of The Pinball Lounge screamed passion for the game. It wasn’t just about the collection of machines but the vibe. Praise should be reserved for Kurt and Ed who have turned this spot into the pinball Mecca for Florida. Their recent unveiling of the Cirqus Voltaire was the icing on the cake!

IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.53
2Eric StoneFort Myers304.72
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale271.68
4Sebastian Bobbio265.88
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.73
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace146.87
8David Miller FLTampa140.89
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.69
10John MoschellaWinter Springs126.81

In a nutshell, Oviedo witnessed a night that will be talked about in the pinball circles for a long time. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and never let that ball drain!

Thunder, Lightning, and Pinballs: A Night to Remember at The Pinball Lounge

On the evening of September 26, 2023, amidst a dramatic Florida thunderstorm with temperatures rising to a steamy 84°F, enthusiasts gathered for a showdown of flippers and silver balls at The Pinball Lounge’s “Bonanza 9-26-23”. Located within the heart of Oviedo Bowling Center, The Pinball Lounge provided the perfect shelter from the weather’s theatrics and the ideal stage for some pinball magic.

The Dance of the Silver Ball

The night was orchestrated by Kurt van Zyl and was divided into six tense rounds, with each round featuring one game. Seventeen top-notch players, from various corners of Florida, vied for the title. As the rounds unfolded, strategies were revealed, rivalries intensified, and the leaderboard kept everyone guessing.

Deadpool Dominance

Round 6 witnessed a stellar performance on the “Deadpool (Pro)” by Stern. John Moschella, hailing from Winter Springs, FL, clinched the top spot, showing his prowess despite his rank of 1118. But he was closely trailed by Doug Bernard from Orlando and John Osborne. Brayden DeRazza from Lake Mary, FL also showcased his skills, ensuring his name was not forgotten that evening.

Pinball Royalty

The night concluded with some clear champions:

  1. Doug Bernard – This Orlando native topped the charts, reminding everyone of his mastery.
  2. John Moschella – He might have been second on the list, but his gameplay resonated with flair and finesse.
  3. Justin Derazza – Consistently great throughout.
  4. Brayden DeRazza – Proving that Lake Mary, FL, has some serious pinball talent.

Spotlight on Machines

The Pinball Lounge’s vast collection of 37 machines ensured that players had a diverse range of games to test their skills. Some of the crowd favorites included:

The Lounge Experience

For those unfamiliar with The Pinball Lounge, it’s more than just a venue with pinball machines. It’s a vibrant community spot where novices can feel at ease and professionals can feel challenged. With all-you-can-play nights, themed events, and a fantastic atmosphere, it’s no wonder pinball fans flock here. Plus, who can resist the delightful combo of pinball, food, and adult beverages?

Florida’s Finest Flippers

A glance at the top pinball players in Florida:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.54
2Eric StoneFort Myers304.72
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale271.69
4Sebastian Bobbio265.88
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.73
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace146.87
8David Miller FLTampa140.89
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.7
10John MoschellaWinter Springs126.82

As the thunderstorm raged outside, inside The Pinball Lounge, another storm was brewing. But by night’s end, players left with memories of thrilling victories, narrow defeats, and the promise of more pinball adventures to come. Stay plugged in for more pinball updates, because the silver ball saga never truly ends!