The 1up Colfax REAPER Event: Pinballs, Chills, and Venom Thrills in Denver

As Denver basked under a clear sky with temperatures dipping to a chilly 37°F, inside The 1Up – Colfax, the atmosphere was ablaze with excitement. Pinball enthusiasts from far and wide gathered on October 15, 2023, to partake in the much-anticipated REAPER event & Venom launch party.

All Day, All Play at The 1Up – Colfax

Housed at 717 E Colfax Ave and brilliantly orchestrated by Deanna Scalf, this pinball marathon commenced at 1 PM and spanned a staggering 15 and a half hours. With 49 players battling through 13 rounds, the tournament format was simple yet brutal. In this Group Knockout Tournament, players would earn strikes based on their placement in each round. Eleven strikes, and you’re out!

A Cirqus of Endurance

The spotlight inevitably shone on Cirqus Voltaire, a classic from 1997. Here, in Round 13, players were treated to an astonishing 75-minute spectacle. Donavan Stepp emerged as the ringmaster, clinching the top spot, closely followed by Chase Hart and Mat Brundage.

Meeting the Pinball Wizards

  • 1st: Donavan Stepp – A titan in the world of pinball, and his ranking of 85 only hints at his prowess.
  • 2nd: Chase Hart – His progress and performance in the tournament were nothing short of impressive.
  • 3rd: Mat Brundage – Another strong contender, not far behind in the ranks.
  • 4th: Drew Donohue – With a commendable record, he showcased his skills beautifully.

A Journey through Pinball Time and Space

A stunning array of 19 pinball machines was at play, including:

More Than Just Games at The 1Up – Colfax

With rave reviews about its vibrant ambiance, great drinks, and fantastic bartenders, The 1UP Arcade Bar – Colfax ensures it’s more than just about pinball. The added touch of clean and gender-neutral restrooms further enhances the inclusive atmosphere.

Colorado’s Pinball Elites

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood593.26
2Ryan AltermattDenver297.47
3Zach McCarthyConifer194.6
4Donavan SteppLakewood193.11
5Mark AbbottDenver176.98
6Daniel AndersonEnglewood150.31
7Mat BrundageDenver141.57
8Ryan WangerBoulder137.44
9Robert Slyker132.69
10Lewis Ritenour131.25

As the night drew to a close, exhausted yet exhilarated players left with memories of epic battles, close calls, and the unending charm of pinball. Denver, until the flippers meet again!

Pinball Wizards & Womxn Warriors: A Knockout Day at Tik Tok’s!

On a clear day, with the temperature mildly kissing 59°F, Bremerton’s air was buzzing not just with nature but with the thrilling sounds of pinball machines and excited chatter. The reason for this electrifying atmosphere? The Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout October pinball tournament!

Bremerton’s Hidden Gem: Tik Tok’s Workshop

Tucked away on Sylvan Way, Tik Tok’s Workshop isn’t just your run-of-the-mill gaming joint. With a stream of music providing the ambiance and a jukebox for those with specific tunes in mind, it’s the hub for pinball enthusiasts. Whether you’re taking aim at the pins in the bowling alley (only a quarter per player!) or teaming up for a 4-player Pac-Man, there’s something for everyone. In Richard Godwin’s own words, “Whether solo or group, Tik Tok’s has you covered!” And judging by the rave reviews, many will be returning for more action.

Tik Tok’s Workshop

Gameplay Mechanics: The Ultimate Knockout Challenge

The tournament, a brainchild of Richard Godwin, brought together 7 fierce players, who were eliminated only after accumulating three strikes. The knockout format: in four-player groups, the bottom two earned two strikes each, while in three-player groups, only the last player received a strike. A tense, thrilling game of survival!

Rising to the Occasion: Monster Bash!

In a standout game of Round 1, Rachel Kahalekulu showcased her impeccable pinball skills, landing the top spot on the “Monster Bash (Remake)” machine, followed by Bremerton’s own Ashley Parsons. Meanwhile, Meredith Parsons and Colleen Godwin made a notable effort, but faced the fierce competition of the round.

Honoring the Womxn of the Hour

An astounding performance by Pinky Barney clinched her the top position, with Astrid Morrison and Gocelyn Morgado tailing closely. Rachel Kahalekulu’s consistent gameplay secured her the fourth spot. Kudos, ladies!

Vintage and Modern: Machines Galore

Among the 15 pinball machines present, some classics and modern gems stood out:

Washington’s Pinball Royalty

The IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond636.34
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle572.96
3Richie TerrySeattle519.43
4Sean IrbySeattle472.63
5Jarrett GaddySeattle464.8
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.46
7Dave StewartCarnation409.94
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.71
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.69
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.13

Until the Next Flip

As flippers rested and lights dimmed, Tik Tok’s Workshop bore witness to a day of passion, competition, and camaraderie. Keep your calendars marked and your game face on; the pinball realm is always awaiting your return!

Starfighters Kids Monthly: Young Pinball Wizards Soar High!

With a clear blue Arizona sky overhead, sun beaming gently at a comfortable 81°F, the vibes inside Starfighters Arcade on the morning of October 14th were anything but tranquil. Here, in this retro sanctuary nestled in the heart of Mesa, AZ, young pinball enthusiasts convened for a duel of dexterity and strategy.

Setting The Stage: The Tournament Overview

Organized by the indefatigable Kevin Curtis and showcased on Starfighters Arcade’s website, the tournament saw 26 spirited young competitors square off over 4 high-intensity rounds. Each competitor had their eyes on the prize, with the promise of pinball glory only 48 minutes away.

The Ghostbusters Showdown

Fast forward to Round 4, and the ambiance was at its peak. Stern’s Ghostbusters (Pro) took center stage, its dazzling lights mirroring the players’ burning ambitions. Jason C. showed true mastery, clinching 1st place. Jamil M., though a force to reckon with, had to settle for 2nd, while Tatum V. and Chase V. followed in quick succession.

Honoring the Pinball Prodigies

While every player brought their A-game, the final leaderboard reflected those who outshined the rest:

  • 1st: Jason C. – The day’s unstoppable force.
  • 2nd: Alex G. – Pinball precision personified.
  • 3rd: Graham H. – A master of angles and reflexes.
  • 4th: Jamil M. – Passionate play, personified.

A Journey Through Pinball History

Starfighters’ selection for the tournament was nothing short of legendary:

Venue Vibes: All About Starfighters Arcade

Inside an industrial building, adjacent to Falcon Field Airport, Starfighters Arcade is a testament to gaming’s golden era. $11 grants you access to an unparalleled retro collection, devoid of coin-swipe hassles. With a fun layout, affordable drinks, and a friendly staff, it’s a haven for gamers young and old.

Arizona’s Top Pinball Maestros

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland NadeauNot Specified671.64
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.86
3John ShoppleMesa591.98
4Adam HortonPhoenix378.21
5John MagyarGilbert351.77
6Paul BlancoChandler341.8
7Kevan CarterTempe320.85
8Jason BarreMesa313.18
9Joey RioSurprise309.15
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

The echoes of flippers and steel balls might have faded for now, but the memories made during Starfighters Kids Monthly will linger for a long time. Keep the ball rolling, Arizona!

When the Mist Descends: Drama at District 82’s Super Series Pinball Extravaganza!

On a misty morning in De Pere, Wisconsin, as the thermometer hesitated at 48°F but felt more like a chilling 42°F, a different kind of frostiness was unfolding inside District 82 Pinball. The Super Series Event 5: Certified Main Event had set the stage for intense pinball combat.

The 12-Hour Odyssey

Kicking off at a brisk 9:00 AM on October 14, 2023, Erik Thoren, the mastermind behind District 82, had orchestrated a symphony of flippers and lights. Over 10 grueling rounds, 102 players vied for the top spots, and the spotlight of the day was truly stolen by the magnificent eight:

  1. Max Senesac – A Top 10 player in Wisconsin with an IFPA rank of 115 and a vast experience of 248 IFPA Events.
  2. Dave Stewart – Hailing from Seattle, Dave showcased why he’s a force to reckon with, boasting an IFPA rank of 64 and having competed in 748 IFPA Events.
  3. Carlos Delaserda – With an IFPA rank of 13 and having participated in 442 IFPA Events, Carlos proved why he’s a titan in the pinball world.
  4. Travis Murie – Holding the IFPA rank of 18 and having been part of 194 IFPA Events, Travis’s gameplay spoke louder than words.
  5. Erik Thoren – Not just an organizer but also a player par excellence, Erik, with an IFPA rank of 54, has been a part of 377 IFPA Events.
  6. Aaron Rich – Climbing the ranks with an IFPA rank of 62 and having 149 IFPA Events under his belt, Aaron truly shone.
  7. Nate Grant – hailing from Pelzer, SC, Nate, with an IFPA rank of 56, has participated in 193 IFPA Events.
  8. Luke Nahorniak – Wisconsin’s current pinball leader, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 5 and having been part of a massive 523 IFPA Events.

Monopoly: A Game of Time and Skill

In a jaw-dropping Quarterfinal on Stern’s Monopoly, the game extended for an incredible 100 minutes! Luke Nahorniak proved his mettle, followed by Aaron Rich, Matthew Richardson, and Ken Grant.

A Pinball Museum

District 82 isn’t just an arcade; it’s a treasure trove of pinball’s golden history, with machines like Doodle Bug, Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure, Star Trek by Bally, and many more, each with its own storied legacy.

Atmosphere: A Double-Edged Sword?

While District 82 Pinball’s website is awash with 5-star reviews, some find the challenging gameplay not to their liking. Yet, for a tournament of this scale, the settings seem apt.

Wisconsin’s Pinball Legends

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1523.54
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.21
3Steven BowdenPalatine1143.75
4Neil GrafAppleton1143.64
5Escher Lefkoff1050.06
6David DalugaMilwaukee892.83
7Erik ThorenDe Pere864.22
8Jason WerdrickPark Ridge848.45
9Carlos DelaserdaColumbus771.31
10Max SenesacCudahy759.17

In the world of pinball, the game is more than just flippers and scores. It’s about passion, strategy, and the journey to the top. Keep the ball rolling, and stay tuned for more tales from the flipper-filled world!

Friday the 13th Frights and Flippers: A Spooky Night at the IFPA Pinball Tournament

The air was charged with excitement and a hint of eerie anticipation on Friday the 13th, October 2023. Pinball enthusiasts from near and far gathered at Atomic Age Modern on Main Street, Mesa, Arizona, for the highly anticipated IFPA pinball tournament. Bob Kennedy, the mastermind behind the event, transformed the venue into a pinball paradise, complete with the latest and greatest machines that had players buzzing with excitement.

As the sun set, casting eerie shadows over the venue, the stage was set for an unforgettable night of flipper-fueled fun. With clear skies and a temperature of 82°F (feeling like 80°F), it was the perfect backdrop for an evening of pinball mastery.

Game Spotlight: Cactus Canyon Strikes Fear

One of the standout moments of the tournament came in Round 4 when players gathered around the mesmerizing Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming. The game unfolded with nail-biting intensity, and when the dust settled, the results were spine-tingling:

1st Place: Jason Barre, hailing from Mesa, AZ, with an IFPA rank of 258. 2nd Place: Miguel Martinez, a local player with an IFPA rank of 4282. 3rd Place: Connor Kennedy, ranked 1877 in IFPA. 4th Place: Everett Day, a rising star with an IFPA rank of 0.

Jason Barre’s eerie precision on Cactus Canyon was a sight to behold, earning them the top spot and sending shivers down the spines of their competitors.

Champion of the Night: John Shopple’s Haunting Victory

When the final ball rolled to a stop, it was John Shopple who emerged as the champion of the night. With an IFPA rank of 104 and a whopping 360 IFPA events under his belt, Shopple’s victory was a testament to his unwavering dedication to the game.

Mark Farina Jr., another local player from Gilbert, Arizona, took the second spot with an IFPA rank of 1865 and 89 IFPA events. Nate Tornero, with a 10-point adjustment, secured third place, while Jason Barre, who left a mark with their Cactus Canyon victory, finished fourth.

The Spooky Lineup of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured a spine-chilling lineup of 12 pinball machines, each with its own unique charm and terror. Among them were classics like The Party Zone, Taxi, Gilligan’s Island, Night Rider, Pinbot, The Getaway: High Speed II, Flight 2000, and the recently released Godzilla and Rush by Stern. These machines added an extra layer of thrill and excitement to the tournament.

Venue and Atmosphere: A Pinball Haven

The Atomic Age Modern venue was nothing short of a pinball haven, boasting a super cool Mid-Century Modern cedar chest with reversible panels, creating an atmosphere that was both retro and mysterious. The venue’s unique ambiance added to the allure of the tournament, making it a night to remember for all attendees.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau671.64
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.86
3John ShoppleMesa591.98
4Adam HortonPhoenix378.21
5John MagyarGilbert351.77
6Paul BlancoChandler341.8
7Kevan CarterTempe320.85
8Jason BarreMesa313.18
9Joey RioSurprise309.15
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

The top 10 rankings in Arizona’s pinball scene showcase the fierce competition and talent that was on display at the tournament.

In the realm of pinball, Friday the 13th proved to be more thrilling than spooky, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the art of the silver ball. Stay tuned for more updates as the world of pinball continues to captivate players and fans alike.

Pinballs, Players, and Points: A Night at Murphy’s On 21

With scattered clouds above and a cozy 64°F on the ground, Murphy’s On 21 in St. Louis transformed into a pinball haven on the night of October 13th, 2023. For over four hours, the bells, buzzers, and excited gasps echoed throughout the venue as players locked horns in the Venom Launch Party – Murphy’s pinball tournament.

Machines that Made the Magic:

While the tournament boasted 12 magnificent pinball machines, some stood out, whisking players away on adventures of pop culture nostalgia and thrill:

The Game that Had Everyone Buzzing:

Round 3 on Venom (Pro) had onlookers on the edge of their seats. John Miller from MO, with an impressive IFPA rank of 175, snatched first place, proving why he’s a top contender in the pinball realm. But Ryan Willenbrock, Aurora Bihler, and Darrin Bosco weren’t far behind, each showcasing their skills and strategy.

Missouri’s Pinball Maestros:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1John Miller MOSt. Louis313.49
2Kendell HolderSt. Louis264.54
3Brennan SullivanSt. Louis218.59
4Adam McKinnieColumbia214.23
5Steve RolsingSt. Louis189.82
6Chris WardSt. Louis167.42
7Jacob FischerSt. Louis158.63
8Carleton PlourdeSt. Louis124.65
9Mike HowardSt. Louis122.79
10Steve Hill MOKansas City119.17

A Venue that Scores a Perfect 10:

Murphy’s On 21 wasn’t just the backdrop for a tournament; it was an integral part of the experience. As one attendee recalled, “Went to Murphy’s on 21 for a pinball tournament (I’m not good but it’s fun) and this place was great. Busy – the bartender rocked and got all orders out quickly.” Kudos to the bartender and the entire crew of Murphy’s for making the night memorable!

So, as the flippers rest and the lights dim, we wrap up another thrilling chapter in the world of pinball tournaments. The balls will roll, the scores will rise, and the passion for pinball will continue to light up arcades around the world. Stay flipping, and stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!

Terror and Triumph: The Horror-Themed Showdown at the Sparks Pinball Museum

In the darkest depths of the night, when overcast clouds shrouded the moon, and the temperature hovered around a spine-chilling 52°F, a sinister gathering took place on Friday the 13th, October 2023. It was no ordinary night—it was the Sparkseasy Friday the 13th pinball tournament, a chilling battle of flippers and nerves that unfolded at the Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar in Chesterfield, MI. Organized by the enigmatic Joe Wade, this event would go down in history as a spine-tingling showdown.

The Tournament: A Battle of Horror and Skill

As the clock struck 7:30 PM, 32 brave souls gathered to face the terror of 10 grueling pinball games. These players fought relentlessly for a coveted spot in the top 8, where the finals would take place over three harrowing rounds, with no margin for error.

The atmosphere was electrifying, as the arcade’s eerie lighting and the sounds of countless pinballs filled the air. The top players brought their A-game, determined to outshine the competition.

Godzilla: The King of the Pinball Monsters

One machine reigned supreme with six spine-tingling games played—Godzilla (Premium/LE) by Stern, released on September 14, 2021. This monstrous pinball machine was a favorite among the contestants, offering a relentless challenge reminiscent of the iconic movie monsters.

Elvira’s House of Horrors: A Standout Nightmare

The Mistress of the Dark’s spectacle reached its peak in Round 1 when players gathered around Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE) by Stern, born from the nightmares of September 18, 2019. The game unfolded with heart-pounding intensity, leaving us with these results:

1st Place: Scott Styles, hailing from New Baltimore, with an IFPA rank of 2009. 2nd Place: Daniel Walczak, an IFPA contender with a rank of 2282. 3rd Place: Chris Beaugrand, whose IFPA rank added to the mystery. 4th Place: Mike Stewart Jr., from parts unknown, with an IFPA rank of 513.

Scott Styles’ gameplay was nothing short of supernatural, earning him the top spot and sending shivers down the spines of his competitors.

Champions of Horror and Glory

When the final ball settled, it was Joe Wade who emerged as the champion of this bone-chilling tournament. With five wins under his belt and an IFPA rank of 1720, his victory was a testament to his mastery of the eerie pinball realm. He was closely followed by Daniel Walczak, who proved to be a formidable adversary with a rank of 2282 and 93 IFPA events.

Other notable champions included Mike Bradley, Chris Grace, Scott Styles, Chris Phillips, Chris Beaugrand, and Mike Stewart Jr., each showcasing their own unique brand of pinball terror.

The Haunting Lineup of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an astonishing array of 45 pinball machines, each one a portal to a different dimension of fright and excitement. Among them were classics like Champion Pub, The Getaway: High Speed II, The Addams Family Gold, Rush (Pro), Monster Bash, hey look, it’s me! Bride of Pinbot, Star Wars Episode I, Elvira and the Party Monsters, and The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern. These machines added an extra layer of thrill and horror to the tournament.

Venue and Atmosphere: Where Scares and Fun Collide

The Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar provided the perfect backdrop for this night of horror-themed pinball mayhem. The atmosphere was infused with a unique blend of nostalgia and eeriness, with most pins priced at just 75 cents, including the newer Stern machines at a dollar.

IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Sterling MitoskaBrooklyn458.31
2Rodney MinchGrand Rapids450
3Rick KnopikEvansville402.06
4Dominic LabellaBay City328.72
5Matthew StacksGrand Rapids313.85
6Alex HarmonSpring Lake301.12
7Jason HumphreyJackson276.37
8Ethan Magnum257.11
9Sean BurkeWaterford Township220.52
10Philip SalminenMidland212.95

These rankings demonstrate the sheer talent and horror-infused competition that the Michigan pinball scene has to offer.

In the realm of pinball, Friday the 13th was more than a date; it was an unforgettable experience of terror, triumph, and flippers. Stay tuned for more updates from the spine-tingling world of pinball!

Venom and Vintage: The Pinball Tournament at Pinball Gallery

On a clear evening, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 56°F, the retro walls of the Pinball Gallery on Lancaster Ave in Malvern, PA were filled with the electrifying sounds of flippers, bells, and cheers. The reason? The Venom Pro Launch Party OPEN Tournament.

History Meets Modern Day:

The venue was a pinball enthusiast’s dream, featuring a total of 62 machines ranging from classic vintage to the latest releases. Highlights from this retro-modern fusion included:

The Venomous Climax:

But, of course, the star of the evening was Venom (Pro) by Stern, released just a few months prior in July 2023. With its stellar team comprising Lead Game Designer Brian Eddy, Technical Lead Artist Jeremy Packer (AKA Zombie Yeti), and music tracks by Mark Tremonti, it was the machine everyone had their eyes on.

During the finals, the tension was palpable. Each flipper action was a statement, each ball release a breath of anticipation. Stephen Le, with an IFPA rank of 1228, demonstrated impeccable skill, making his mark as the undisputed champion of the evening. Following closely were Kevin Lubanski, Stephen Haberman, and Tony Makowski, showcasing their prowess and passion for the game.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Titans:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh157.84
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh142.41
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk138.63
5Stephen LeChesterbrook117.63
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia116.68
7Tony MakowskiLansdale103.31
8Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
9Matt GuslerPhiladelphia96.01
10Cliff Albert89.06

More than Just Machines:

Beyond the competition and the iconic machines, the atmosphere of the venue itself was noteworthy. The Pinball Gallery, with its rich array of machines and energetic ambiance, is more than just an arcade. As one visitor recounted, “I went to my friend’s birthday party that was being held here and I had soo much fun!! The bad cats pinball was my favorite!”

With another exciting tournament wrapped up, the journey of pinball continues, bringing together generations, blending nostalgia with modern-day thrills. Keep flipping, and stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!

Punk Rock Pinball – The 4th Quarter 2023 Showdown in Mesa

The streets of Mesa, Arizona were abuzz with excitement as the sun cast a gentle warmth of 85°F under a clear sky. As the golden hour approached, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade’s neon lights gleamed, signaling the onset of the “Punk Rock Pinball 4th Quarter 2023 #2” tournament on October 11, 2023.

An Enigmatic Elapsed Time – A Glitch in the Matrix?

Starting at a prompt 6:30 PM, this pinball showdown was noted to last a whopping 37 hours and 54 minutes! Could it be a slip in the time-space continuum or a mere mishap by MatchPlay Matt? Only the machines might know!

At the Heart of the Game

Hosted at the iconic B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade on 213 W Main St, Mesa, the event was orchestrated by the savvy Matt Trethewey. With 10 games a pop, 14 players unleashed their skills, battling flipper to flipper for the ultimate glory.

Machines of Honor

Victory Bells Ring!

  • 1st: Mayia Hayashi – The surprise package with 6 magnificent wins.
  • 2nd: Nick Goegan of Chandler AZ – An impressive tally of 4 victories.
  • 3rd: Dave Halley – An embodiment of experience and strategy.
  • 4th: John Magyar of Arizona – With 6 wins, proving that rankings aren’t everything.

The Venue – A Portal to the ’80s

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade offers more than games. Its 80’s ambiance, heady with tunes from The Cure and a splendid variety of beers, creates the perfect setting for both kid and adult players. Just remember, the young ones need to teleport out by 7 pm!

Arizona’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau–671.64
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.87
3John ShoppleMesa591.98
4Adam HortonPhoenix378.21
5John MagyarGilbert351.77
6Paul BlancoChandler341.8
7Kevan CarterTempe320.85
8Jason BarreMesa313.19
9Joey RioSurprise309.16
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

As the night drew to an end and the neon lights dimmed, stories of prowess, rivalries, and nail-biting finishes remained etched in the memories of those present. Keep those flippers ready, Arizona; the pinball saga continues!

Guardians, Galaxies, and Girl Power: A Night of Pinball Prowess in the Heart of Texas

On October 11, 2023, the silhouettes of pinball machines stood tall against the fading Texas sunset. At precisely 7:00 PM, the LOWer Level buzzed with a unique energy – 16 fierce competitors were about to embark on a thrilling journey at the Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level #5 pinball tournament.

Enter the LOWer Level Lab

Although the exact coordinates of Low’s Sound Lab remain enigmatic (come on, Space City Pinball, spill the beans on MatchPlay already!), one could imagine its electric atmosphere. Dim lights, the pulsating sounds of pinball machines, and the hushed tones of competitive strategy discussions filled the space.

From 1990 to 2017: A Pinball Time Machine

The game roster was a delightful mix, teleporting players through various eras:

A 64-Minute Galactic Odyssey

In Round 2, the Guardians of the Galaxy machine became the star of the night. Four pinball warriors – Lisa Shore, Karen Ward, Leslie Speights, and Summer Ellington – embarked on an intense battle that stretched for an incredible 64 minutes. Lisa Shore emerged victorious, proving why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball community.

Championing the Night

At the end of an electrifying evening:

  1. Gina Low: With 151 IFPA Events under her belt, Gina showcased her stellar skills, clinching the top spot.
  2. Lisa Shore: After her epic Guardians game, Lisa secured second place.
  3. Elizabeth Dronet from Space City: With an impressive record, she took the third podium position.
  4. Miette Dronet: Not far behind, she showcased her pinball prowess, ending in the fourth position.

The Lone Star Pinball Titans

Behold, the IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands508.92
2Garrett ShahanDenton446.86
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station331.66
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands256.06
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi254.11
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio228.33
9Jim MuellerHouston222.32
10Kevin RodriguezDenton219.13

Till the Balls Roll Again

As the night drew to a close, the echoes of pinball bells and triumphant cheers lingered. Texas had once again proved its mettle in the realm of pinball.

Stay with us for more electrifying tales from the pinball world!