The Sizzle of the Silver Ball: A Night at the Electric Bat Arcade

In the heart of Tempe, AZ, where the temperature still touches 90°F even as the sun bids adieu, there’s a place where things get even hotter. The Electric Bat Arcade came alive on October 10, 2023, with the thrills, spills, and flippers of the Season 9 Series 1 #4 pinball tournament. An impressive turnout of 98 players, some seasoned pros and others pinball patriots, made for an electrifying event.

A Venue of Vintage Vibe and Vivid Videogames

A trip to the Electric Bat Arcade isn’t just another outing; it’s an experience. This arcade epitomizes the golden era of gaming while also embracing the new age. It’s a paradise where machines from the 70s converse harmoniously with those released just last year. The most commendable aspect? Each machine, from the oldest to the newest, is impeccably maintained, ready for the next eager player to test their mettle. And if you’re feeling competitive, their mid-week tournaments are a must-visit, drawing in a whopping 100+ attendees. Now that’s what we call ‘pinball fever’!

Pinball Picks of the Night

Among the 64 machines lined up for the tournament, a few shone brighter, attracting players and spectators alike:

  • Centaur by Bally: A blast from 1981, this machine still boasts intricate gameplay.
  • Night Rider by Bally: Representing 1976, it’s a testament to the timeless allure of pinball.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern: Fresh from 2022, this machine harmonizes music and pinball.
  • Medieval Madness (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Transporting players back to a time of knights and castles.
  • James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern: A recent addition from 2022, shaken, not stirred, with elements from the iconic spy series.

A Tribute to the Dead

Highlighting the event was the tribute to The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern, commemorating its anniversary. Unleashing the horror and thrill of the acclaimed TV series, this machine stands as a testament to the fusion of pop culture and pinball. Manufactured in 2014, its playfield sets a haunting atmosphere. Unique features, like the “Animated prison” with a bashable zombie head and the “Well Walker” bash toy, promise relentless action, making every game an adrenaline-pumping escapade. During a nail-biting Round 4, John Shopple from Mesa navigated through its post-apocalyptic challenges and emerged victorious, trailed by the skilled Andrew Kohtz and Roland Nadeau. Truly, “The Walking Dead (Pro)” isn’t just a pinball machine; it’s an exhilarating journey into AMC’s The Walking Dead universe, adding depth and excitement to the tournament.

Titans of the Tournament

A shoutout to our champions:

  1. Jard Cassell: With an IFPA rank of 1160, he clinched the top spot.
  2. Henry Hanshaw: Following close, with numerous tournaments under his belt.
  3. Matt JohnsonAZ: Another gem from Mesa, securing the third place.
  4. Paul Blanco: A pinball veteran, finishing strong at fourth.

Arizona’s Pinball Pantheon

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau671.63
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.41
3John ShoppleMesa591.98
4Adam HortonPhoenix377.73
5John MagyarGilbert351.77
6Paul BlancoChandler341.29
7Kevan CarterTempe320.85
8Jason BarreMesa313.19
9Joey RioSurprise309.16
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

The Electric Bat tournament proved once again that in the world of pinball, age is just a number. Whether you’re playing on a machine from the 70s or one released last year, the thrill remains timeless. Until the next flip, keep those scores high and the balls in play!

A Rainy Evening of Coffee and Pinball: The Belles & Chimes SATX Showdown!

On a lightly rain-soaked evening in San Antonio, as the temperature hovered at a cool 67°F, a unique blend of caffeine and pinball came alive. The venue? The unconventional What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, where the fragrant aroma of fresh coffee beans intermingled with the electrifying sounds of pinball.

The Perfect Brew: Coffee & Pinball

It’s not every day you find a venue that feels like it’s straight out of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. With the alluring scent of roasting beans, What’s Brewing Coffee Roasters stands as a testament to the marriage of nostalgia and contemporary vibes. It’s the kind of place where you can witness the art of coffee roasting, grab a flaming hot coconut mocha, and then challenge a buddy to a game of pinball.

A Twist in the Pinball Tale

With 48 machines, including legends like Black Hole and newer hits like Foo Fighters (LE), players were spoilt for choice. But the standout was a heated face-off on the iconic Twilight Zone machine by Bally. Sophie Gronnevik, with an IFPA rank of 6745, managed to outplay higher-ranked players Lori Love and Rebecca Salam, proving that in the world of pinball, anything is possible!

The Crowned Chimes of the Evening

The tournament was a rollercoaster ride, with players navigating through 5 rounds and 2 games each round. The final chimes rang out in favor of:

  1. Alice Young: Gracefully navigating her way to the top with expertise from 83 IFPA events.
  2. Hope Love: Just a stone’s throw away from the crown, with a record from 70 IFPA events.
  3. Rebecca Salam: Making a mark, yet again, after her notable performance in the Twilight Zone round.
  4. Lori Love: Her experience from 100 IFPA events clearly showing in her gameplay.

The Texan Titans of Pinball

The best in the Lone Star state as of now:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands508.94
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.78
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station331.66
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands256.06
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi254.11
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio228.33
9Jim MuellerHouston222.33
10Kevin RodriguezDenton219.11

Until the Next Flip

With every tilt, ding, and buzz, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #3 pinball tournament reminded everyone of the magic of pinball. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual coffee drinker, the charm of the silver ball is undeniable. San Antonio, keep those reflexes sharp; we’ll be back for another round of pinball pandemonium soon!

Pinball Pursuits: A Chilly October Night Warms up in Pennsylvania

On a clear and brisk evening, with temperatures hovering around 55°F, the Pinball Gallery on Lancaster Avenue was abuzz. While most might snuggle up indoors in such weather, for the pinball community, the atmosphere was heated with fierce competition and palpable excitement.

The Venue – More Than Just Pinball

The Pinball Gallery offers more than a retreat for pinball enthusiasts. For 80s kids, it’s a nostalgic journey. One visitor recalled playing Super Mario Brothers on a vintage television, stating, “It was like muscle memory – I beat the first world like it was nothing and my 12-year-old was in awe.” From vintage board games to the PacMan video game and pinball machine combo, there’s an arcade treasure at every corner. Not to mention the super friendly staff adding to the charm of the place.

Of Knights, Wizards, and Galactic Battles

The event showcased 72 pinball machines, with some making their mark more than others.

Quarterfinal Quake

Amid the flurry of flippers and flashing lights, the game on “The Addams Family” by Bally stood out. Tony Lastowka, with an impressive IFPA rank of 1302, bagged the first position. He was closely followed by Michael Reimer, Jamme Thomas, and Sam Fowler, making it a game to remember.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh156.6
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.79
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.8
5Bob ChoatePhiladelphia115.15
6Stephen LeChesterbrook110.04
7Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
8Matt GuslerPhiladelphia95.64
9Tony MakowskiLansdale88.05
10Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72

Celebrating the Champions

At the end of nearly 5 hours, Bob Choate from Delco, PA, emerged victorious. Not far behind were Michael Reimer and Tony Lastowka, securing the 2nd and 3rd spots, respectively. What’s notable is Billy Gianakopoulos’s performance, reaching 5th place despite it being his first IFPA event!

To all the players, attendees, and pinball enthusiasts, here’s to many more flippin’ fantastic tournaments. Keep those scores high, and spirits higher! Stay tuned for more updates from the enthralling 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!

A Night of Pinball Thrills at Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes Tournament

As the scattered clouds darkened the Bremerton sky on the evening of October 9th, 2023, and the temperature dipped to a pleasant 60°F, the real warmth could be found inside Tik Tok’s Workshop. At exactly 7:00 PM, the lights of the pinball machines started glowing more fiercely, echoing the competitive spirit of the 12 players who had gathered for the Fair Strikes Tournament.

The event, expertly organized by the very knowledgeable Richard Godwin, boasted of a unique “Fair Strikes” system. Players faced the nerve-wracking challenge of elimination upon accumulating 7 strikes. Four-player groups were at risk of earning 0/1/1/2 strikes based on their 1st to 4th place finishes, and the stakes got even higher in three-player groups, where they could earn 0/1/2 strikes.

Vintage to Modern: Pinball Machines That Stood Out

Among the 14 glorious pinball machines that adorned the venue, a few were particularly hard to miss:

  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: A recent favorite since its 2018 release.
  • Grand Prix by Williams: This 1976 classic reminds players of the golden age of pinball.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern: Inspired by the 2021 TV sensation, this game became the star of Round 4.
  • Firepower by Williams: A 1980 masterpiece that tests precision and strategy.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: A 2013 limited edition treat for both eyes and ears.

Speaking of The Mandalorian machine, Round 4 saw an epic battle, with Sarah Bay (IFPA rank 1644) outplaying Donovan Haga, Andrew McCann, and Rachel Kahalekulu, creating a stir among spectators.

Champions of the Evening

Conrad Rustad, with an IFPA rank of 256, clinched the first position with a performance that was nothing short of mesmerizing. Following him was Donovan Haga (yes, the same brave heart from the intense Mandalorian game!) and Michael Adcock, with Andrew McCann securing the fourth spot. Their impressive rankings and the number of IFPA events they’ve participated in speaks volumes about their dedication to the game.

Inside Tik Tok’s Workshop

For those unfamiliar with Tik Tok’s Workshop, it’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The steampunk vibe of the place, combined with a decades-spanning collection of well-maintained games, is a treat. The owner’s deep knowledge and dedication towards ensuring every machine is in top condition make it a must-visit spot in Bremerton.

Current IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond636.31
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle540.37
3Richie TerrySeattle498.13
4Sean IrbySeattle471.45
5Jarrett GaddySeattle464.74
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.46
7Dave StewartCarnation399.95
8Neal JoslynBremerton364.69
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.69
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.12

Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes tournament was not just another evening; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship in the realm of pinball. So, here’s to many more flips, tricks, and pinball kicks! Stay tuned for more updates from the pinball universe.

Pinball Pandemonium: Player 1 Arcade 2023 Showdown

In the heart of Surprise, Arizona, with a clear sky and the sun bidding its fiery goodbye at a soothing 90°F, Player One Arcade became the nucleus of a colossal clash of pinball enthusiasts on October 9th, 2023.

The Setting: Player One Arcade

Located strategically at 17239 North Litchfield Road, Player One Arcade isn’t just another game arcade—it’s a pinball haven! The feedback from regular patrons is evident: Monday nights transform into pinball paradise. With machines that resonate like the heartbeat of a true pinball fan and a convivial crowd, it’s the mecca for many. Add to this tantalizing scenario the lure of tacos and sushi from neighboring establishments, and you’ve got yourself a perfect evening!

The Machines That Stole The Show

Of the 14 luminous machines that adorned Player One Arcade, these were the crown jewels:

Guardians of the Pinball Galaxy

Round 4 etched an unforgettable narrative as players confronted the Guardians of the Galaxy machine. Christy Kohtz, ranked 3030, stood tall, securing the numero uno position. Kevin Ehlers and Andrew Kohtz followed in quick succession, while Lee Ann Scardina bagged the fourth place.

Arizona’s Pinball Pioneers

While every player exhibited an exemplary spirit, the top dogs of the night were:

  1. Mark Pearson: Holding an enviable IFPA rank of 36, Mark’s experience of 535 events was unmistakably visible.
  2. Mike McClure: Punching well above his IFPA rank of 1249, Mike clinched the second spot.
  3. Mary Profeta Scardina: Showcasing her prowess, Mary secured the third position.
  4. Jim Smith AZ: Not just the organizer, but also one of the top players, sealing the fourth position.

Arizona’s Pinball Powerhouses

The IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 standings post-tournament shimmered as follows:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau672.25
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.84
3John ShoppleMesa592.62
4Adam HortonPhoenix377.81
5John MagyarGilbert352.78
6Paul BlancoChandler342.12
7kevan carterTempe321.36
8Jason BarreMesa313.26
9Joey RioSurprise309.16
10Walter donyPhoenix281.38

Flipping Forward

With the clatter of the silver ball now a mere echo, Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3B #2 came to its grand conclusion. But remember, the pinball universe never really rests. So, get those flippers ready and stay dialed in for more updates from the radiant realm of pinball!

The Pinball Showdown in Dallas: Drama, Skill, and Flipping Action!

On the evening of October 9th, amidst the backdrop of a Dallas sky painted with a few soft clouds and a breezy temperature of 82°F, an epic showdown unfurled. The Free Play Dallas Pinball Monday tournament, buzzing with fervor, began at precisely 7:00 PM and spanned a thrilling 2 hours and 43 minutes.

The Venue:

Set in the heart of the city, Free Play Dallas is an arcade paradise, a treasure trove of games that makes one’s heart race. From the neon lights of the pinball machines to the nostalgic hum of arcade classics, it’s hard not to feel like a kid again. “Omg! Best place! So many games I love!” exclaimed an enthusiastic gamer, drink in hand, soaking up the lively atmosphere. And for those who wished to take a breather, the sight of the gorgeous nearby bridge provided a serene escape.

The Heart of the Action:

Organized by Chris Delp, whose reputation is echoed through his dedicated tournament website, the event saw 17 players clashing in 6 intense rounds. With each game, strategies evolved, rivalries deepened, and scores climbed. But only the top 8 would proceed to the all-important Finals.

Game of the Night:

The Finals were the pinnacle of nail-biting tension, especially on the Venom (Pro) by Stern, a machine released just a few months prior. The leaderboard was dominated by Garrett Shahan, a formidable player with an IFPA rank of 137, closely followed by the organizer himself, Chris Delp, and then Ken Kemp and Randy Nelson. This round was the culmination of strategy, skill, and perhaps a bit of luck.

Tournament Titans:

By the end, Garrett Shahan reigned supreme, with Chris Delp securing a proud second. Ken Kemp, Randy Nelson, Greg Gibson, Clark McCoy, Faulkner Turner, and Mike Archuleta rounded off the top 8, each marking their territory in the world of pinball.

A Machine Legacy:

Of the staggering 78 machines at the venue, some stood out for their history and design:

The Lone Star Pinball Legends:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands508.96
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.78
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station331.69
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands256.06
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi254.14
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio228.33
9Jim MuellerHouston222.33
10Kevin RodriguezDenton219.12

As the neon lights dimmed and the scores settled, the night might have ended, but the legends born would be spoken of for weeks to come. The realm of pinball has its heroes, its tales, and its undying spirit. Until the flippers rise again, stay tuned for more pinball chronicles!

The Pinball Chronicles: A Night at Logan Arcade with Chicago’s Finest

On a chilly evening in Chicago, with overcast clouds painting the skies and temperatures dipping to 51°F, Logan Arcade at 2410 W Fullerton Ave hummed with life. Here, the city’s elite pinball players converged for the ‘Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League Season 5 #4’ tournament, organized by Mike Pantoliano.

The Venue:

For those unfamiliar with Logan Arcade, it is an emblem of nostalgia and present-day passion. Hosting an array of pinball machines that encompass the classics and the contemporaries, it is every pinball enthusiast’s dream. The venue promises an amazing selection, and reasonable prices to boot. Many, like myself, leave with a note to self: “Definitely returning when next in Chicago.” Learn more about their offerings at Logan Arcade.

In the Game Spotlight:

Of the night’s pulsating matches, one stood out not just for its competitiveness but for its sheer duration. A game on ‘Robocop‘ by Data East, which lasted almost as long as the Robocop movie itself. Clocking in at 80 minutes, players Andrew Wilkening, Kevin Kolodziej, Natalie Nonos, and Alex Lecky battled fiercely, with Andrew emerging victorious.

Tournament Machines of Note:

Out of the 25 pinball machines present:

  • ‘Taxi by Williams’ took many on a nostalgic trip to the ’80s.
  • ‘Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming’ and ‘Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern’, both released in 2023, showcased how the game has evolved over the years.
  • ‘Doctor Who by Bally’ and ‘The Addams Family by Bally’ are classics that need no introduction.
  • ‘Robocop by Data East’, given its starring role in the night’s proceedings, had its legacy further cemented.

The Night’s Winners:

Mike Pantoliano, the event’s organizer, showed everyone how it’s done by clinching the top spot. Following him were Rachel Karlic, Emily Sweeney, and Jane Verwys, showcasing the talent and skill that Chicago’s pinball scene possesses.

Illinois’ Best Pinballers:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin370.86
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.12
3John Miller MOSt. Louis198.85
4Ryan McQuaid191.17
5Chuck Sanderson180.45
6Steven BowdenPalatine163.42
7Alex LeckyChicago162.84
8Stephen ChappellFerguson154.64
9Bob TwichellOaklawn140.41
10Andrew WilkeningChicago139.23

While the night celebrated individual skill, it also showcased the tight-knit and passionate community of pinball enthusiasts in Chicago. As the games ended and players dispersed, one thing was clear: The realm of pinball is alive and thriving, and we can’t wait to bring you more updates from this electrifying world!

Pinball Showdown at Blizzard Mountain: Where Skill Meets Strategy

The picturesque town of Conifer, Colorado isn’t just known for its serene beauty and clear skies. On October 8th, it was the battleground for the Blizzard Mountain October 2023 Max Matchplay Tournament! where pinball enthusiasts from around the state converged, aiming to emerge as the champions.

Setting the (Play)Field

The event was organized at Blizzard Mountain Pinball, a haven for pinball lovers, meticulously curated by Kevin McCarthy. With 33 players playing 12 games each, the top 16 moved onto the Finals, where they encountered 3 intense rounds of 3 games each.

A clear sky, with a comfortable temperature of 64°F, set a perfect atmosphere for the attendees, though the real heat was inside, amidst the flashing lights and buzzing sounds of the pinball machines.

When Time Stood Still

In the Quarterfinals, spectators witnessed one of the longest pinball games ever played. Taking a mind-boggling 87 minutes on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) by Stern, Lewis Ritenour took the lead, followed by Justin Hinman, Doug Harlow, and Stepan Mazurov.

Machines that Stole the Show

Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern proved to be an endurance test, with the longest average game duration of about 14 minutes. But the crowd’s favorite was the nostalgic Mousin’ Around! by Bally, played a total of 9 times.

Blizzard Mountain boasted a magnificent array of 36 pinball machines. Among these, standouts included a personal favorite, of course, Pinbot, the electrifying AC/DC (Premium), the adventurous Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure, the retro King Kool, the action-packed Big Buck Hunter Pro, the evergreen Mousin’ Around!, the regal Medieval Madness, and the trip down memory lane with Time Machine.

Champions of the Day

The fierce competition culminated in the crowning of the pinball wizards:

  1. Cassie Begay from Denver dazzled with 5 wins.
  2. Walt Wood from Englewood, showcasing impeccable strategy, clinched the second spot.
  3. The tenacity of Justin Hinman earned him the third spot.
  4. Alex Vanee stood fourth, proving that rank isn’t always the determinant of the day’s performance.
  5. The leaderboard was further graced by the likes of Jonathon Robel, Ryan Altermatt, David Weil, and Lewis Ritenour.

Colorado’s Pinball Elites

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood593.24
2Ryan AltermattDenver297.47
3Zach McCarthyConifer194.6
4Mark AbbottDenver176.98
5Donavan SteppLakewood166.33
6Daniel AndersonEnglewood150.31
7Ryan WangerBoulder137.44
8Robert Slyker—132.68
9Lewis Ritenour—131.25
10David Johnson COAurora129.73

A Venue Beyond Machines

While Blizzard Mountain Pinball boasts a plethora of machines, it’s the immaculate upkeep and the atmosphere that resonates with visitors. A recent review aptly summed it up, “Clean, well-maintained machines, and an atmosphere where passion for pinball meets camaraderie.”

Blizzard Mountain’s Max Matchplay was more than a tournament. It was a rendezvous of strategy, skill, and sheer determination. So, as the lights dim and the scores reset, we can’t help but wait eagerly for the next face-off.

Stay flipping, pinball lovers!

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!