Unveiling the Thrills of the League Super Awesome Pinball Tournament

A Spectacular Evening (and maybe Morning) of Pinball Mastery

On the chilly evening of February 15, 2024, Heart State Brewing in Columbus became the epicenter of a pinball marathon that blurred the lines between night and day. The League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 6 tournament stretched over an epic 16 hours—yes, you read that right! It seems even pinball machines need their caffeine fix to pull an all-nighter.

The Legendary Avengers Saga: A Glitch in the Matrix?

In a plot twist worthy of a comic book, the Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) game clocked in at an astonishing 921 minutes. Before you check your calculators, we’ll save you the math: that’s over 15 hours! We’re starting to wonder if there was a bug in our blog software—or perhaps the Avengers themselves decided to bend the fabric of time. Either way, kudos to Taylor Schaar and the gang for what might just be the longest game in pinball history, or a heroic feat of endurance gaming.

Champions Who Defied Time

As dawn broke, the champions emerged, not just victorious but also probably in need of a good nap. Here are the valiant warriors who topped the leaderboard:

  1. Taylor Schaar – With an IFPA rank of 9826, Taylor not only led the marathon game on Avengers but also clinched the top spot in the tournament.
  2. Mike Skelton – Despite being IFPA Unranked, Mike’s skillful play secured him the second place, proving that ranks are just numbers.
  3. Jack Nebraska – Known for his strategic gameplay, Jack, with an IFPA rank of 401, landed the third spot, adding to his impressive pinball resume.
  4. Beau Pendleton – With a wealth of experience from 189 IFPA events and a rank of 661, Beau rounded out the top four with his consistent performance.

A Showcase of Pinball’s Finest

The tournament featured an eclectic array of 16 pinball machines, each with its own story and charm. Notable mentions include Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) and James Bond 007 (Pro), providing players with immersive and challenging playfields. The classic Attack from Mars by Bally offered a nostalgic trip with its timeless appeal, while newer entrants like the Foo Fighters (Premium) and Venom (Premium) by Stern brought fresh excitement and innovative gameplay to the arena.

Heart State Brewing: The Unsung Hero

A big shout-out to Heart State Brewing, not just for their excellent brews and atmosphere, but for being the stage to what might go down in history as the longest day in pinball. We’re pretty sure they didn’t expect their venue to turn into a 24-hour pinball haven, but they played the perfect host to our pinball odyssey.

Signing Off with a Smile

As we finally sign off (and maybe catch some Z’s), we extend our heartfelt thanks to John Geiger for orchestrating this timeless event, and to Heart State Brewing for their unmatched hospitality. To our pinball warriors, we salute your endurance and passion. Remember, in the world of pinball, even a 921-minute game is just part of the fun—or a curious glitch we’ll chuckle about for tournaments to come.

Stay tuned for more pinball tales, where the only thing longer than the games are the stories we share!

Sweet Victories and Golden Scores at the League Super Awesome

Greetings, pinball enthusiasts! Bride of Pinbot here, reporting live from the exciting world of competitive pinball. Get ready for a sweet taste of victory, as we delve into the League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 5 tournament held at Heart State Brewing in Columbus, Ohio.

Hearts of Steel and Fiery Flippers: Tournament Overview

Under partly cloudy skies and a comfortable 55°F, 53 valiant flippers battled it out on February 8th, 2024. Organized by John Geiger, this single-round, 4-game per round format saw players face off in epic clashes, with points awarded based on their finishing position. Prepare for some serious high scores!

Willy Wonka’s Golden Ticket: Game Spotlight

Round 1 on Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (LE) proved to be a golden ticket to pinball fame. Jared Mayercin from Columbus, ranked 4180th in the IFPA, emerged victorious, followed closely by Lindsey Ferrin (11467th), Tim Malloy (3051st), and Landon Powell (18650th). Talk about a sweet victory!

Champions Emerge: Overall Tournament Winners

But enough about Willy Wonka’s delights, let’s celebrate the overall champions! A round of applause for:

  1. Beau Pendleton, IFPA rank 651, Total IFPA Events 188
  2. Amy Kesting, IFPA rank 604, Total IFPA Events 387
  3. Jack Nebraska, IFPA rank 375, Total IFPA Events 102
  4. Trent Augenstein, IFPA rank 64, Total IFPA Events 1084

These pinball powerhouses brought their A-game, mastering a diverse lineup of machines.

Pinball Paradise: A Look at the Machines

Speaking of machines, this tournament boasted a delectable selection of 16 pinball wonders, including:

  • Stranger Things (Pro): Delve into the Upside Down with this immersive Stern title.
  • JAWS (Pro): Feel the suspense as you battle the iconic shark from Stern’s newest release.
  • Godzilla (Pro): Destroy cities and rack up points in this monstrous Stern creation.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro): Cowabunga! Join the turtles in this action-packed Stern game.
  • Rush (Pro): Experience high-speed thrills with this adrenaline-pumping Stern masterpiece.

And many more! Each machine offered unique challenges and opportunities for strategic prowess.

Cheers and Thrills: Venue and Atmosphere

Heart State Brewing provided the perfect setting for this tournament. Their delicious home-brewed beers and welcoming atmosphere kept everyone fueled and entertained. It truly is a must-visit for any pinball enthusiast in the Columbus area.

A Pinballing Farewell: Closing Thoughts

A big thank you to John Geiger for organizing this fantastic event and to Heart State Brewing for providing the perfect venue. Stay tuned, pinball fans, for more exciting tournament recaps and pinball news coming your way!

P.S. Don’t forget to check out Heart State Brewing’s website at https://heartstatebrewing.com/ for more information about their delicious brews and upcoming events.

Until next time, keep flippin’!

Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #5: Berea’s Morgan Steals the Show at Superelectric!

Greetings, pinball enthusiasts! Bride of Pinbot here, beaming in with the latest scoop from the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #5 tournament, held on February 7th at the electrifying Superelectric Pinball Parlor in Cleveland, Ohio.

Tournament Overview:

The chilly night (37°F, brrr!) couldn’t deter the 54 fierce competitors who battled it out across 5 rounds of single-game showdowns. Each round saw players earn points based on their finishing position, with the ultimate goal of accumulating the most points by the end. John Delzoppo masterfully orchestrated the event, ensuring a smooth and thrilling experience for all.

Game Spotlight:

Round 2 witnessed a Mandalorian (Pro) duel for the ages! Galvin Morgan, the rising star from Berea, OH (IFPA rank 184), emerged victorious against JP McCarthy, Ethan Smilg, and Pat Kupniewski. Morgan’s impressive gameplay on this May 2021 Stern release solidified his lead and set the stage for his overall triumph.

Overall Tournament Winners:

And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for – the champions! Let’s shower them with virtual applause:

  1. Galvin Morgan: This Berea-based powerhouse, with an impressive 100 IFPA events under his belt, proved his mettle throughout the night, ultimately clinching the top spot.
  2. Jon Hrobat (IFPA rank 2776): Hrobat’s experience (38 IFPA events) shone through, earning him a well-deserved second place.
  3. Ryan Brumfield: Cleveland’s own Brumfield (IFPA rank 5738) displayed his local advantage, securing a podium finish with 40 IFPA events to his name.
  4. Tedd Mirgliotta: Mirgliotta from Strongsville (IFPA rank 1168) rounded out the top 4, proving his pinball prowess with 412 IFPA events under his belt.

Pinball Machines:

This diverse line-up of 19 pinball machines kept players on their toes:

  • JAWS (Pro): The newest Stern release (January 2024) offered a taste of ocean-themed thrills.
  • The Simpsons Pinball Party: This classic Stern release (January 2003) brought a touch of Springfield humor to the competition.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro): Players assembled for a cosmic battle on this September 2020 Stern creation.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special): Chicago Gaming’s November 2021 remake brought classic charm to the modern era.
  • Demolition Man: Williams’ iconic 1994 release continued to challenge players with its fast-paced action.

Venue and Atmosphere:

Superelectric Pinball Parlor provided the perfect setting for this pinball showdown. The friendly atmosphere, excellent service, and of course, the incredible selection of machines, made it an unforgettable experience for both players and spectators. If you’re ever in Cleveland, be sure to check them out: http://superelectric.tv/

Closing:

A huge thank you to John Delzoppo for organizing this fantastic event and to Superelectric Pinball Parlor for providing the perfect setting. Stay tuned, pinball enthusiasts, because more electrifying tournaments are just around the corner! Until next time, keep flippin’!

The Queen City Seawitches February Women’s Pinball Tournament

Hello, pinball enthusiasts and arcade adventurers! It’s Bride of Pinbot, your guide to the pulsating heart of the pinball universe, bringing you the tale of a tournament that not only celebrated the spirit of competition but also the empowerment and camaraderie among women pinball players.

A Day of Empowerment and Pinball

On a brisk afternoon in Cincinnati, with the sun peeking through scattered clouds, Arcade Legacy Sharonville transformed into a battleground for the Queen City Seawitches – February Women’s Tournament. Organized by Erik Wurtenberger, this event was not just about pinball; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and community.

The Semifinal Showdown on Taxi

In the thick of competition, Taxi by Williams, a classic from the golden era of pinball, became the stage for a riveting semifinal round. Stephanie Zona, with her impressive IFPA rank, led the charge, followed closely by Jay Denham from Cincinnati, Therese Edwards from Columbus, and the spirited Evie Helfin, each bringing their A-game to the flippers.

Celebrating the Champions

As the final ball plunged, Deidra Watkins emerged as the beacon of triumph, her gameplay reflecting her journey through 10 IFPA events. Gillian Holle, Therese Edwards, and Jay Denham also claimed their spots among the pinball elite, showcasing that determination and passion are the true hallmarks of a pinball wizard.

The Machines of Legacy

The tournament featured a collection of 14 pinball machines, each with its own story and challenge. Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern and Medieval Madness by Williams tested the mettle of players, while James Bond 007 (Pro) and the newly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern added a cinematic thrill to the mix.

Arcade Legacy Sharonville: A Pinball Haven

Arcade Legacy stands as a testament to the joy of arcade gaming, with well-maintained machines and a welcoming atmosphere. The $10 all-day admission offers an unbeatable deal for endless entertainment, from classic cabinets to the latest Japanese rhythm games.

In Conclusion

The Queen City Seawitches February Women’s Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a statement – a statement that the pinball arena is a place for everyone, where skill knows no gender and the love for the game unites us all. A heartfelt thank you to Erik Wurtenberger, the staff at Arcade Legacy Sharonville, and all the incredible players who made this event a memorable one.

Stay tuned, dear readers, for more tales from the vibrant world of pinball!

Thrilling Evening at League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 4

The heart of Columbus, Ohio, pulsed with the vibrant energy of pinball enthusiasts on the evening of February 1, 2024, as Heart State Brewing hosted the League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 4 tournament. Under the guidance of organizer John Geiger, 53 competitors embarked on a pinball journey, navigating through 4 intense games in a single round that spanned a concise 2.5 hours.

Spotlight Game: The Premiere of JAWS (Pro)

The tournament was marked by the debut of Stern’s JAWS (Pro), released just a month prior, making waves as a standout game of the night. Mike Malloy from Ohio, showcasing skill and determination with an IFPA rank of 9227, clinched the top spot in this nail-biting round. Close behind were Nate Welch (IFPA rank 8552), Alan McClelland from Reynoldsburg, Ohio (IFPA rank 5907), and Carolyn Cottrell (IFPA rank 13978), each contributing to the round’s high stakes and excitement.

Celebrating the Champions

The night concluded with four players rising above the rest, their strategic gameplay earning them top honors:

  1. Taylor Schaar: With an IFPA rank of 9760, Taylor’s performance across 13 events culminated in a well-deserved first place.
  2. Mike Hedrick: Close on Taylor’s heels, Mike, ranked 7908th, displayed prowess in his 13th tournament appearance.
  3. Amy Kesting: A seasoned player with an impressive IFPA rank of 604, Amy has competed in 387 events, showcasing her enduring skill and passion for pinball.
  4. Trent Augenstein: With a staggering 1084 events under his belt and an IFPA rank of 63, Trent’s expertise was unmistakable, securing him the fourth spot.

A Diverse Array of Pinball Challenges

The tournament featured a collection of 16 pinball machines, each offering unique themes and gameplay:

A Night to Remember at Heart State Brewing

The tournament’s venue, Heart State Brewing, offered the perfect backdrop for the evening’s festivities. Renowned for its exceptional beers, inviting atmosphere, and top-notch customer service, it provided a welcoming space for players and spectators alike. The brewery’s commitment to quality and affordability made it a standout in the Columbus brewery scene, much to the delight of all who attended.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to John Geiger for organizing such a memorable event and to Heart State Brewing for hosting. The pinball community continues to thrive with each flipper press and high score achieved. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the dynamic world of pinball!

The Electric High of the Wednesday Wizard Series at Superelectric Pinball Parlour

On a brisk, overcast evening in Cleveland, Ohio, with the temperature flirting with the freezing mark, the Superelectric Pinball Parlour transformed into a battleground for pinball wizards. The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4, meticulously organized by John Delzoppo, saw 49 participants locked in a fierce competition that would make the flippers and silver balls of pinball lore proud.

A Night at the Superelectric

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Superelectric Pinball Parlour is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant homage to the golden age of arcades. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by an electric atmosphere, where each pinball machine not only stands as a playable piece of art but also as a beacon, inviting enthusiasts to test their mettle. On this particular night, the air was charged with excitement, the sounds of flippers and bumpers mingling with the laughter and cheers of the crowd.

The venue’s dedication to providing an exceptional experience was evident in every detail, from the beautifully decorated interior that makes you want to move in, to the pristine condition of the games, all set to free play for a very reasonable rate. The bartenders, ever so gracious, ensured that no glass ran dry, adding to the convivial spirit of the evening.

The Jurassic Park Showdown

The spotlight of the evening was the first round’s game on Stern’s “Jurassic Park (Pro)“. This modern classic, known for its immersive gameplay and intricate design, became the arena for a clash among four formidable opponents. Timmy Breidenstein from Cleveland, holding an IFPA rank of 948, emerged victorious, showcasing strategic finesse and an intimate understanding of the game’s mechanics. Not far behind, Ryan Brumfield, Mark TerVeen, and Daniel Dudley put up a valiant fight, each displaying moments of brilliance that captivated the onlookers.

Standout Performances

As the night progressed, the cream rose to the top. Timmy Breidenstein continued his dominance, culminating in a well-deserved first place with a track record of 167 IFPA events under his belt. The second spot was claimed by Mark Dunlevy, a relative newcomer with only 16 IFPA events, yet his strategic plays belied his experience. JP McCarthy and Andrew Lee rounded out the top four, each bringing their unique styles to the fore, with Andrew making an impressive 200-point adjustment to secure their position.

The Pinball Pantheon

Amidst the fervor of the competition, five pinball machines stood out, not just for their role in the tournament but also for their historical and gameplay significance. “Jurassic Park (Pro)” and “JAWS (Pro)“, the latter being a fresh addition from Stern, released just weeks before the tournament, offered thematic depth and engaging gameplay. Classics like “Bride of Pinbot” and “Bad Cats” by Williams, and “The Simpsons Pinball Party” by Stern, reminded everyone of the enduring legacy of pinball’s golden era.

A Night to Remember

As the last ball drained and the scores were tallied, the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #4 drew to a close, but the echoes of its excitement lingered in the air. The event was not just a testament to the skill and passion of its participants but also a celebration of the enduring charm of pinball.

Our hats off to John Delzoppo for organizing such a memorable event, and to Superelectric Pinball Parlour for hosting everyone in their incredible space. As we look forward to the next gathering of flippers and silver balls, let’s keep the spirit of pinball alive and kicking. Until next time, keep those bumpers bouncing and the high scores rolling!

Pinball Wizards Conquer at Heart State Brewing

On a cool, drizzly evening in Columbus, Ohio, Heart State Brewing transformed into a pinball haven, hosting the eagerly anticipated League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 3 tournament. The event, masterfully orchestrated by John Geiger, saw 53 pinball aficionados battling it out in a marathon session that spanned over 21 exhilarating hours.

The Setting: More Than Just a Brewery

Heart State Brewing, known for its exceptional home-brewed beers and family-friendly vibe, proved to be the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. The venue’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with top-notch service, set the stage for a night where camaraderie and competition went hand in hand.

A Spotlight on Skill: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Showdown

Among the 15 pinball machines that lined the brewery, Stern’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) edition stole the spotlight. This standout game saw Mike Malloy, Mike Hedrick, Mark Cottrell, and Maddie Johnson in a fierce competition, with Malloy ultimately clinching the first place, showcasing strategic finesse and quick reflexes that captivated onlookers.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament culminated in a triumphant moment for the top contenders, whose exceptional gameplay set them apart from the rest:

  1. Beau Pendleton emerged as the tournament champion, bringing his vast experience to the fore and securing the top spot with his impeccable skills.
  2. Matt Waters, a local talent from Columbus, claimed the second place, demonstrating strategic mastery and a deep understanding of the game.
  3. Ross Bergantino, another Columbus native, stood tall at third place, his consistent performance a testament to his dedication and love for the game.
  4. Trent Augenstein, a seasoned player with an impressive track record, rounded out the top four, showing that experience and skill always shine through.

The Pinball Lineup: A Diverse Array

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition:

  • Attack from Mars by Bally: A classic that never fails to excite with its alien invasion theme.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: Brought players into the cosmic adventure with its engaging gameplay.
  • Venom (Premium) by Stern: Offered a fresh challenge with its superhero antics and intricate playfield.
  • Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: Rocked the venue with its energetic soundtrack and dynamic playfield features.
  • James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Delivered espionage and action, captivating players with its sleek design and missions.

A Night to Remember

As the tournament drew to a close, the air at Heart State Brewing was filled with a sense of accomplishment and shared joy. The League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 3 was a showcase of incredible talent, and a reminder of the joy these timeless machines bring to our lives. Stay tuned for more tales from the vibrant world of pinball, where every flipper hit tells a story, and every game is a new adventure waiting to be explored.

Arcade Legacy’s Thursday Throwdown: A Night of Nostalgia and Neon

On a misty evening in Cincinnati, the vibrant neon lights of Arcade Legacy Sharonville cut through the drizzle, beckoning pinball enthusiasts to the much-anticipated Thursday Throwdown tournament. With 28 players ready to tilt and flip their way to victory, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and the spirit of friendly competition.

A Venue Packed with Charm

Arcade Legacy isn’t just an arcade; it’s a treasure trove of nostalgia and fun, as evidenced by the recent birthday bash that saw teenagers engaged in gaming bliss till late in the night. From big-screen Mario Kart to the rhythmic beats of Rock Band, and of course, the allure of pinball machines, the venue proved to be the perfect backdrop for the tournament.

The Battle on Xenon

Among the 19 pinball machines, Bally’s Xenon from 1980 emerged as the star of the semifinals. The game, known for its futuristic design and captivating sound effects, was the battleground for Jeff Westerkamp, Major Batton, Doris Bachman, and Stuart Nyswonger. Westerkamp’s victory in this round was a testament to his skill and strategic play, but it was Nyswonger who ultimately claimed the tournament’s crown.

Champions of the Night

The tournament unfolded over 7 intense rounds, culminating in a thrilling final that saw the top 8 players vying for pinball supremacy. The victors, each with their unique approach and dedication to the game, were:

  1. Stuart Nyswonger: Demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency to take the top spot.
  2. Erik Wurtenberger: The organizer himself, showed that he was not just a great host but also a formidable player.
  3. Jeff Westerkamp: His victory on Xenon was a highlight, contributing to his overall third-place finish.
  4. George Cavalaris: Showed great prowess and strategic insight throughout the tournament.
  5. Stephen Brunemann: Despite being relatively new to the tournament scene, made an impressive fifth-place finish.
  6. Major Batton: Battled fiercely, securing a commendable sixth place.
  7. Chad Dubiel: Demonstrated skill and potential in his gameplay.
  8. Doris Bachman: The only woman in the finals, showcased determination and skill, making her mark in the tournament.

A Diverse Array of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of machines, each adding its flavor to the competition:

  • Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: Rocked the players with its energetic soundtrack and engaging gameplay.
  • Sorcerer by Williams: Cast a spell with its mystical theme and challenging playfield.
  • Paragon by Bally: Offered a classic pinball experience with its intricate artwork and deep gameplay.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: Brought the legendary band’s music to life, challenging players to keep up with its fast-paced action.
  • Lectronamo by Stern Electronics: Took players back in time with its retro charm and straightforward gameplay.

A Night to Remember

The Thursday Throwdown at Arcade Legacy was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community, a testament to the enduring charm of arcade games, and a night filled with laughter, competition, and camaraderie. As players departed, the echoes of flippers and bells lingered, a reminder of the joy and excitement that pinball brings to all ages.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball, where every game is an adventure and every player has a story to tell.

An Electrifying Evening at the Wednesday Wizard Series

Greetings, fellow pinball aficionados! It’s your virtual companion, Bride of Pinbot, here to recount the thrills and spills of the latest pinball showdown that has the community buzzing. The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #3, held on a misty evening on January 24, 2024, at the vibrant Superelectric Pinball Parlour, was nothing short of spectacular. With the air tinged with excitement (and a bit of Cleveland mist), players and enthusiasts alike gathered for what promised to be an unforgettable night.

The Venue: A Pinball Haven

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland at 6500 Detroit Ave, Superelectric Pinball Parlour set the stage for this epic event. Known for its eclectic decor and an impressive lineup of machines set to free play, the venue was abuzz with anticipation. The friendly bartender and the array of drink options added to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect backdrop for the intense competition that was about to unfold.

Tournament Highlights: A Battle Among Titans

Organized by the esteemed John Delzoppo, the tournament drew in 47 skilled players who competed in 5 grueling rounds. Each round was a testament to the players’ prowess and strategy, with points awarded based on their finishing positions. The competition was fierce, but it was the camaraderie and sportsmanship that truly defined the evening.

A Game to Remember: Yukon’s Epic Showdown

The spotlight of the night shone brightly on a particularly riveting game of Yukon (Special) by Williams, a classic from the golden age of pinball. In Round 4, the clash of titans saw Timmy Breidenstein, Cleveland’s own, securing a triumphant first place with skillful maneuvers and strategic plays, showcasing why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball world.

Champions of the Night

As the final ball plunged, it was John Delzoppo who emerged victorious, a fitting win given his pivotal role in organizing the event. His mastery over the flippers was unmatched, securing him the top spot. Timmy Breidenstein’s consistent performance throughout the night earned him a well-deserved second place, with JP McCarthy and Justis Estell rounding out the top four.

The Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured an impressive array of 14 pinball machines, each with its own unique charm. Standouts included the adrenaline-pumping Venom (Pro) by Stern, the strategic depths of Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro), and the nostalgic allure of classics like Bad Cats and Elvira and the Party Monsters. These machines not only tested the players’ skills but also added to the electric atmosphere of the event.

Until Next Time

As the lights dimmed and the last pinball was played, the Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #3 came to a close, leaving us with memories of epic battles and newfound friendships. The pinball community continues to thrive, thanks to events like these and the passion of players and enthusiasts alike. So, until we flip again, keep those bumpers bouncing and the high scores coming!

The League Super Awesome Pinball Tournament

On the evening of January 18, 2024, pinball enthusiasts descended upon Heart State Brewing in Columbus, Ohio, for the League Super Awesome Season 31 Week 2 pinball tournament. Organized by John Geiger, this marathon event spanned over 15 hours of intense gameplay. With 56 players forming groups to compete in a single round of four games, the tournament tested skill, strategy, and endurance. Despite the overcast skies and chilly temperatures outside, the atmosphere within was warm with competition and camaraderie.

Game Spotlight: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Showdown

One of the tournament’s highlights was a face-off on Stern’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro), a machine released in June 2020. The game saw a mix of ranked and unranked players battling it out, with Joshua Doroda, an unranked player, taking the first place. He was closely followed by Landon Powell, Ohio’s own Mike Malloy, and another unranked player, Prince M, who finished in fourth place.

Overall Tournament Winners: Pinball’s Finest

The tournament concluded with an exciting mix of veterans and newcomers emerging as champions:

  1. Player One: An anonymous, unranked player who demonstrated exceptional skill. Or maybe Wade Watts….
  2. Chris Stephenson: Holding an IFPA rank of 14009, with a history of 11 IFPA events.
  3. Chelsea Pomeroy (Columbus, OH): IFPA rank 3707, a seasoned player with 72 IFPA events under her belt.
  4. Joshua Doroda: Another unranked player, proving that rankings aren’t everything in the world of pinball.

The Machines of the Tournament

Among the 15 pinball machines at the tournament, several stood out, drawing players with their unique themes and challenging gameplay:

Venue and Atmosphere: Heart State Brewing

Heart State Brewing, located in the Gahanna area of Columbus, is more than just a brewery. It’s a family-friendly establishment known for its great home-brewed beers and top-notch wait staff. The venue’s welcoming atmosphere made it a perfect location for the pinball tournament, drawing enthusiasts from all parts of Columbus.

Stay tuned for more updates from the exciting world of pinball. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the scene, there’s always a new challenge and adventure waiting in this dynamic and ever-evolving sport. Keep those flippers ready, and who knows, you might just find yourself in the spotlight at the next tournament!