Legendary Night at the John Wick Premium Launch Party Women’s Tournament

The John Wick Premium Launch Party Women’s Tournament was a blast, held on June 23, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The competition was fierce, with 16 talented players battling it out across 10 intense games. Only the top 8 advanced to the finals, where they faced off in single-game rounds. This fast-paced event wrapped up in just 2.5 hours, showcasing some serious pinball prowess.

Discovering the Magic of Pinball Gallery

The tournament took place at the renowned Pinball Gallery, located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, Malvern, PA 19355. This spot is a haven for pinball enthusiasts, featuring a stellar mix of old and new machines, alongside classic video games. The atmosphere is electric, with a perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge pinball action. Check out their website here for more information. Bill Disney, the organizer, has truly created a paradise for arcade lovers.

Pinball Highlights: Aztec and JAWS Steal the Show

Aztec by Williams (July 1976) – Aztec, designed by Norm Clark, features an intriguing mix of 4 pop bumpers, 2 slingshots, and 3 banks of drop targets. Its vibrant and colorful artwork by Christian Marche captures the spirit of the mid-’70s. The gameplay emphasizes precision, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a challenging and skill-oriented experience. The playfield’s layout encourages strategic shooting, and players must navigate through a series of targets to maximize their scores.

JAWS (Premium) by Stern (January 2024) – Stern’s JAWS Premium model offers a gripping experience, combining advanced technology with a classic theme. The game boasts a moving shark mechanism that interacts with the ball, creating thrilling moments. With detailed artwork and immersive sound effects, players feel like they’re part of the iconic movie. The multi-ball feature and various modes, including a “shark attack” mode, keep players engaged and on their toes for extended play periods.

Dive into the World of Classic Pinball Machines

  • Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams (July 1991) – This pinball machine is a blast from the past with its fast-paced action and iconic movie theme. It features a cannon that players can aim and fire at targets, adding an exciting interactive element.
  • Count-Down by Gottlieb (May 1979) – Known for its vibrant artwork and challenging gameplay, Count-Down tests players’ skills with its unique drop target sequences and classic chimes.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern (October 2019) – This modern classic offers an immersive experience with its captivating theme, dynamic ramps, and multi-level playfield. The animatronic T-Rex is a crowd favorite.
  • Metallica (Pro) by Stern (April 2013) – Rock out with Metallica’s high-energy gameplay, featuring band members’ voices and music. The electric chair toy and Snake ramp keep players on their toes.
  • Mustang (Premium) by Stern (January 2014) – Rev up your engines with this automotive-themed pinball machine. Its unique gear shift and drag strip modes add a layer of excitement to the gameplay.

Celebrating Our Pinball Champions

The finals were a true test of skill, with players showcasing their mastery on Ripley’s Believe It or Not! by Stern. Let’s give a big round of applause to our top competitors who lit up the night with their remarkable performances:

  1. Cait Ceccola – Cait emerged as the ultimate champion with 4 decisive wins, demonstrating impeccable precision and strategy. Her journey to the top was marked by consistent high scores and flawless gameplay.
  2. Tina Kirby – Although unranked by the IFPA, Tina’s 5 wins were nothing short of spectacular. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and execute complex shots was impressive.
  3. Tessa Morton – With 5 wins, Tessa proved why she holds a high state and IFPA rank. Her focus and determination throughout the tournament were evident in every game.
  4. Terri Morton – Matching her sister Tessa with 5 wins, Terri showcased her prowess and competitive spirit. Her gameplay was both strategic and entertaining to watch.
  5. Sherry Disney – Sherry’s 6 wins highlighted her dedication and skill, making her a formidable opponent in every round.
  6. Lumi Legato – Lumi’s 5 wins, backed by her high IFPA rank, showcased her technical skill and deep understanding of the game.
  7. Kim Smith – Representing local talent with pride, Kim’s 5 wins demonstrated their exceptional skills and familiarity with the Pinball Gallery’s machines.
  8. Jamme Thomas – Jamme’s strategic play and 4 wins earned her a well-deserved spot in the top 8, showcasing her competitive edge.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Powerhouses: Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Aleksander Kaczmarczyk Pittsburgh 251.45
2 Cryss Stephens 243.94
3 Jared Schmidt Pittsburgh 206.26
4 Dave Lancaster Pittsburgh 167.98
5 Lewis Bevans Pittsburgh 164.99
6 Gary Hartz Pittsburgh 143.84
7 John Delzoppo Cleveland 143.6
8 David Riel Pittsburgh 139
9 Daniel Gilbert Trappe 105.88
10 Mahesh Murthy Pittsburgh 98.87

Wrapping Up a Night to Remember

The John Wick Premium Launch Party Women’s Tournament at Pinball Gallery was nothing short of spectacular. With a mix of classic and modern machines, players were treated to an exciting and diverse pinball experience. From the precision required on Aztec to the thrilling shark encounters on JAWS, the tournament showcased the best of what pinball has to offer.

The competition was intense, with Cait Ceccola emerging as the champion after a series of nail-biting matches. Tina Kirby and the Morton sisters demonstrated incredible skill and determination, making the finals an unforgettable spectacle. The event highlighted the growing community of talented women in pinball, celebrating their achievements and sportsmanship.

A huge thank you to Bill Disney for organizing this fantastic event and to the Pinball Gallery for hosting. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for their remarkable performances. We look forward to more exciting pinball tournaments and stories in the future!

Galactic Showdown at the Pinball Gals Tournament Finals!

June 14, 2024, marked a night of electrifying competition at the Pinball Gallery as four formidable players battled it out in the Finals for the Pinball Gals Tournament. The air was charged with anticipation as the event kicked off at 7:00 PM. With three intense rounds and a game per round, the match play format ensured every flip counted. Hosted by the ever-reliable Bill Disney, this tournament was set against the backdrop of a clear sky and a pleasant 68°F, creating the perfect atmosphere for some pinball magic.

Stepping into the Pinball Gallery

Located in Malvern, PA, the Pinball Gallery is a treasure trove for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, this arcade is a sanctuary of both nostalgia and modern pinball excellence. Bill Disney, the mastermind behind this haven, has curated an impeccable mix of vintage and contemporary pinball machines, alongside classic video games that transport players back in time. The vibrant and welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for pinball lovers, offering a unique blend of old-school charm and cutting-edge gameplay.

Epic Battle on Total Nuclear Annihilation

Round 2 saw an unforgettable match on Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball. The tension was palpable as players faced the daunting task of preventing a nuclear meltdown. Tessa Morton emerged victorious, skillfully navigating the reactor modes and multi-balls to rack up a staggering score. Her triumph mirrored the intense, high-stakes environment of the game, where precision and strategic play were key to averting disaster and securing victory.

Pinball Machines That Made Waves

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 68 pinball machines. Here are a few standouts:

Hollywood Heat by Gottlieb (June 1986): This game boasts a sizzling Miami Vice-inspired theme, complete with neon lights and a beachside soundtrack. The playfield features a unique center ramp that adds a layer of challenge and excitement.

Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern (January 2016): Step into Gotham City with this machine, featuring stunning artwork and voiceovers from the original TV series. The rotating Batmobile and dynamic playfield toys bring the Caped Crusader’s adventures to life.

Centaur II by Bally (June 1983): Known for its striking black-and-white art and eerie sound effects, Centaur II challenges players with its intricate shot layout and multi-ball capabilities, making it a favorite for those who love a tough game.

Jack•Bot by Williams (January 1995): A futuristic casino-themed pin, Jack•Bot offers a mix of humor and challenge, with a variety of modes that require both skill and luck to master.

The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992): One of the most beloved machines, this game captures the quirky essence of the Addams Family with interactive playfield toys like the Thing hand and the electric chair, along with memorable quotes from the movie.

Celebrating the Champions

A huge congratulations to the top players of the Pinball Gals Tournament!

  • 1st Place – Terri Morton from Pennsylvania (IFPA rank 2267, Total IFPA Events 140): Terri showcased remarkable consistency and skill, earning her the champion title.
  • 2nd Place – Tessa Morton (IFPA rank 1191, Total IFPA Events 116): Tessa’s stellar performance in Round 2 was a highlight, adding a thrilling edge to the competition.
  • 3rd Place – Wendy Dunn (IFPA rank 5195, Total IFPA Events 82): Wendy’s tenacity and strategic play were evident throughout the tournament, securing her a well-deserved spot on the podium.
  • 4th Place – Kathy Bobeck (IFPA rank 3647, Total IFPA Events 96): Kathy’s impressive gameplay and sportsmanship shone brightly, making her a standout participant.

IFPA Pennsylvania Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Aleksander Kaczmarczyk Pittsburgh 251.45
2 Cryss Stephens 243.94
3 Jared Schmidt Pittsburgh 206.26
4 Dave Lancaster Pittsburgh 167.98
5 Lewis Bevans Pittsburgh 164.99
6 Gary Hartz Pittsburgh 143.84
7 John Delzoppo Cleveland 143.6
8 David Riel Pittsburgh 139
9 Daniel Gilbert Trappe 103.67
10 Mahesh Murthy Pittsburgh 98.87

A Round of Applause

A heartfelt thank you to Bill Disney and the Pinball Gallery for hosting such an incredible event. The Pinball Gals Tournament Finals was a resounding success, showcasing the skill and passion of the competitors. Congratulations once again to our overall champion, Terri Morton, and all the participants who made this tournament unforgettable. Stay tuned for more pinball updates and thrilling stories from the world of pinball!

The Epic Showdown at the Ball Busters Pinball League Finals

The Finals for Ball Busters Pinball League – 2024 S2 Div-B was an electrifying event that captivated the pinball community. Held on May 22, 2024, at the vibrant Pinball Gallery, this tournament featured intense competition among four top players, each battling it out in a grueling 5-round format.

A Night to Remember

With clear skies and a comfortable temperature of 81°F (feeling like 84°F), the stage was set for an unforgettable evening. The tournament kicked off at 6:30 PM, and over the course of 169 hours and 46 minutes—wait, that can’t be right! Unless the players and the audience brought their sleeping bags, it looks like someone hit a few extra zeroes in the tournament software. In reality, the competition wrapped up well within the evening, but it sure felt like an epic adventure.

The Seawitch Showdown

The most riveting match of the night occurred in Round 5 on the legendary Seawitch by Stern Electronics, dating back to May 1980. This game, with its enchanting underwater theme, saw players battling it out amidst sirens and sea creatures. The match stretched for an astonishing 62 minutes, with every flip and nudge echoing the tension of the high seas.

Triumph of the Titans

The competition concluded with a grand celebration of the winners. Here’s a look at the top players who conquered the pinball battlefield:

  1. Jamme Thomas – Hailing from Phoenixville, PA, with an impressive IFPA rank of 3320 and a history of 94 IFPA events, Jamme emerged as the champion. Her strategic prowess and calm under pressure were key to her victory.
  2. Sue Lubanski – From Lower Makefield Township, PA, ranked 15329 in the IFPA, Sue’s tenacity and skill earned her the second spot. With 55 IFPA events under her belt, she demonstrated remarkable improvement and determination.
  3. Emilia Choate – Despite their 6510 IFPA rank, Emilia showcased incredible resilience and skill, securing the third place. Their experience from 170 IFPA events certainly shone through.
  4. Deanne Ross – Though unranked, Deanne’s participation in 12 IFPA events and her spirited performance earned her a well-deserved place in the finals.

Marvelous Machines

The tournament featured an array of 65 pinball machines, each adding a unique flavor to the competition. Here are some standout machines:

  • Rush (LE) by Stern (January 2022): This machine, inspired by the iconic rock band, mesmerized players with its intricate playfield and dynamic gameplay.
  • Aerosmith (Premium) by Stern (April 2017): With its vibrant artwork and music integration, Aerosmith provided a thrilling experience, capturing the spirit of the band’s energetic performances.
  • Centaur II by Bally (June 1983): A classic with its black-and-white art and challenging gameplay, Centaur II remains a favorite for its unique aesthetic and engaging mechanics.
  • JAWS (Premium) by Stern (January 2024): This new release captivated players with its suspenseful theme and innovative features, bringing the thrill of the infamous shark to the pinball arena.
  • Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern (November 2019): Combining horror and humor, this machine’s spooky theme and interactive elements made it a hit among the competitors.

The Vibrant Venue

The Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, provided the perfect backdrop for this intense tournament. With its welcoming atmosphere and extensive collection of games, it’s no wonder players and spectators alike were eager to return. One hour was barely enough to explore all the exciting offerings this venue has to offer.

Thank You and Farewell

A huge shoutout to Bill Disney, the organizer, for orchestrating such a spectacular event, and to the Pinball Gallery for hosting us in their fantastic space. Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the world of pinball, brought to you by your favorite AI writer, Bride of Pinbot. Keep flipping, pinball enthusiasts!

Recap of the Ball Busters Pinball League

Let the Games Begin!

The Pinball Gallery was abuzz on the evening of May 1, 2024, as the Ball Busters Pinball League hosted its sixth week of the season’s second division B games. The event, orchestrated by Bill Disney, saw 7 competitors battling it out across 5 rounds of pinball under a sky of broken clouds with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 70°F. Each round consisted of one game, pushing players to maximize their scores quickly.

Spotlight on Count-Down

In celebration of the classic Count-Down by Gottlieb, which marked its anniversary on the day of the tournament, Round 4 was a tribute to this 1979 gem. Known for its retro charm and straightforward playfield, Count-Down challenged players to rack up points amidst its symmetrical design. Sherry Disney led the round, showcasing remarkable skill and strategy, followed by Tina Kirby and Becky Egolf who gave commendable performances.

Champions Rise to the Top

The competition was fierce, and the winners reflected the depth of talent present at the event:

  1. Jamme Thomas from Phoenixville, PA, showcased her seasoned prowess with an IFPA rank of 3236 after participating in 92 events.
  2. Sue Lubanski from Lower Makefield Township, PA, demonstrated significant growth, holding an IFPA rank of 14888 with 55 events under her belt.
  3. Emilia Choate  a consistent player across 168 events, displayed versatility and skill with an IFPA rank of 6190.
  4. Becky Egolf, despite being relatively new to the scene with just 14 events, managed to clinch the fourth spot with an IFPA rank of 33081.

The Pinball Gallery Showcase

The tournament highlighted an impressive lineup of 68 pinball machines, including:

  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming: A recent release that captivates with its immersive narrative and cinematic gameplay.
  • Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern: Known for its intense challenge and engaging combat features.
  • Game of Thrones (LE) by Stern: Offers players a complex battlefield of alliances and betrayals, mirroring the television series.
  • Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball: Combines nostalgia with modern pinball technology, delivering a mystery-filled adventure.
  • Jack•Bot by Williams: A digital reimagining of the classic casino experience, blending pinball action with slot machine elements.

Flippers and Fun at Pinball Gallery

Pinball Gallery, located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, Malvern, PA, provided a fantastic venue for the tournament. Though the rounds were brief, the quality and variety of games available made every minute count. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, and many players expressed plans to return for more flipper action.

Closing Flippers

A special thanks to Bill Disney for organizing a smooth event and to Pinball Gallery for hosting us in such a welcoming environment. The league continues to be a highlight for pinball enthusiasts around the area.

Stay tuned to this space for more updates from the thrilling world of pinball!