On a chilly November morning with scattered clouds and a brisk 45°F, the Southland Lanes in the heart of town buzzed with excitement for the Southland Mega Matchplay pinball tournament. Organized by John Delzoppo, this event was not just a test of skill but a marathon of endurance, lasting an impressive 13 hours and 38 minutes.

Southland Lanes: The Perfect Host

Southland Lanes proved to be an ideal venue for this pinball extravaganza. With its easy accessibility, comfortable interiors, and reasonable prices, it was a hit among players and families alike. The great food and beverages added to the charm, making it more than just a bowling alley – but a community hub.

The Tournament: A Test of Pinball Prowess

With a staggering 63 players competing in 20 rounds, the tournament was a thrilling display of pinball wizardry. The top 24 players advanced to the finals, which consisted of 4 rounds with 3 games each. This format not only tested the players’ skills but also their strategies and stamina.

Game Spotlight: A Marathon on Taxi

One of the tournament highlights was a quarterfinals match on the classic Taxi by Williams. This game turned into a 75-minute epic battle, showcasing the endurance and skill of the players. Lewis Bevans emerged victorious, followed by Andrew Lee from Cleveland, OH, Mark Brown OH, and Evan Bingham.

Celebrating the Winners

The tournament saw some exceptional performances:

• Lewis Bevans: Dominated the competition and clinched the first position.
• Gary Hartz from Pittsburgh: A close second, demonstrating great skill and determination.
• Stephen Prusa: Secured third place with his consistent gameplay.
• Aaron Rich and Gregory Kennedy from Plain City, OH: Also made it to the top spots, showcasing their prowess in pinball.

The Pinball Lineup

The 33 pinball machines at the tournament provided a diverse range of challenges, including:

• Jurassic Park by Data East: A trip back to the dinosaur-infested island.
• RollerCoaster Tycoon by Stern: Where players managed their own amusement parks.
• Toy Story 4 (CE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Brought the beloved movie characters to life.
• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern: A battle with Marvel’s mightiest heroes.
• Rush (Pro) by Stern: Combined the thrill of rock music with pinball action.

Wrapping Up

The Southland Mega Matchplay pinball tournament was a day filled with excitement, competition, and fun. As the last ball drained and winners celebrated, players and spectators left with fond memories and stories to share.

Stay bookmarked for more enthralling updates from the realm of pinball!

On a crisp November evening in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a clear sky and temperatures hovering around a cool 57°F, the Arcade Legacy Sharonville transformed into a vibrant battleground for the Thursday Throwdown pinball tournament. Held on November 16, 2023, this event wasn’t just a competition; it was a celebration of pinball, strategy, and community.

Arcade Legacy Sharonville: A Gamer’s Paradise

Arcade Legacy Sharonville, located at 2241 Crowne Point Dr, is more than just an arcade. It’s a haven for gamers of all ages, offering an all-you-can-play experience at an unbeatable price. The venue, known for its clean and well-run atmosphere, boasts an impressive array of both classic and modern pinball machines. It’s a perfect spot for family outings, date nights, or even solo adventures for the after-work crowd.

A Marathon Game on Sorcerer

The tournament’s highlight was an epic 65-minute showdown on Williams’ Sorcerer from March 1985 during the semifinals. Thomas Sheehan emerged as the victor in this battle of endurance and skill. Devin Halsey, Chad Hobbs, and Matt Hugenberg followed closely, each showcasing their mastery over this classic machine.

Celebrating the Champions of Pinball

The tournament saw fierce competition across 7 rounds, culminating in an intense final showdown. The top players who stood tall with their impeccable gameplay were:

• 1st: Devin Halsey from Cincinnati, Ohio – A master of strategy and precision.
• 2nd: Roy Richey from Cincinnati – Demonstrating remarkable skill and consistency.
• 3rd: Chad Hobbs from Cincinnati – A strong contender with impressive gameplay.
• 4th: Jesse Baker – A rising star in the pinball community.

A Lineup of Pinball Legends

The event featured a lineup of 14 machines, including:

• Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: A new addition that rocks the pinball world.
• Mars God of War by Gottlieb: A throwback to the classic era of pinball.
• Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern: Bringing the digital world to life.
• Red & Ted’s Road Show by Williams: A road trip adventure in pinball form.
• James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: A spy-themed challenge for every 007 fan.

A Night to Remember

As the night drew to a close, players and spectators left Arcade Legacy with stories of triumphant wins, near-misses, and the shared camaraderie that defines the pinball community. The Thursday Throwdown at Arcade Legacy was more than just a tournament; it was an exhilarating celebration of the spirit of pinball.

Follow us for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball, where every flip and tilt tells a story!

On a crisp November evening in Cleveland, Ohio, under a clear sky with the mercury dipping to 55°F, the Superelectric Pinball Parlour transformed into a vibrant arena of flashing lights and resonating sounds. The Wednesday Wizard 2X Series #2, held on November 8, 2023, wasn’t just a tournament; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the timeless joy of pinball.

A Hidden Gem in Cleveland: Superelectric Pinball Parlour

Located at 6500 Detroit Ave, Superelectric Pinball Parlour is more than just an arcade. It’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts and newbies alike, offering a unique blend of modern and vintage machines. The venue, known for its quirky drinks like the apricot-infused bourbon and nostalgic atmosphere, is the perfect backdrop for competitors and spectators to lose themselves in the thrill of the game. With its league nights and all-you-can-play deals, it’s a focal point for the community and a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a blast from the past.

Elvira and the Party Monsters: The Spotlight Game

The highlight of the tournament was the third round on Elvira and the Party Monsters by Bally, a classic from 1989. This game saw Bill Taylor taking the lead with a mix of skillful play and strategic nudges. Andrew Lee from Cleveland, OH, and Tom Goldthwait followed close behind, with Daniel Dudley rounding out the top four in a tense battle that kept onlookers on the edge of their seats.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

The tournament was a showcase of exceptional talent and keen competition. The top players who emerged victorious were:

• 1st: DJ Toth – Demonstrating a masterful understanding of the game’s nuances.
• 2nd: John Delzoppo from Cleveland, OH – A testament to local talent and dedication.
• 3rd: Andrew Lee from Cleveland, OH – Proving their mettle in a field of skilled competitors.
• 4th: Galvin Morgan from Berea, OH – Displaying impressive skills and strategic acumen.

A Parade of Pinball Greats

With 12 machines on the floor, the tournament featured a variety of themes and challenges:

• Demolition Man by Williams: A futuristic action-packed adventure.
• Venom (Pro) by Stern: Bringing the Marvel anti-hero to life.
• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern: A galactic quest with beloved superheroes.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern: Merging rock music with pinball action.
• Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming: A wild west shootout in pinball form.

Verdict

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the realm of pinball, where every flip and tilt tells a story!

In the heart of Cincinnati, on a slightly cool evening with broken clouds, the unmistakable sounds of flippers and bells resonated at the Arcade Legacy Sharonville. The occasion? None other than the eagerly awaited “Thursday Throwdown at Arcade Legacy 9/28/23” pinball tournament, which kicked off at 7:00 PM on September 28, 2023.

An Evening at Arcade Legacy Sharonville

Nestled in the urban expanse of Cincinnati at 2241 Crowne Point Dr, the venue is a haven for arcade lovers. And its website doesn’t do justice to the electrifying atmosphere inside. It’s not just about the games, but the impeccable staff, tantalizing cocktails, and the overall vibe. As one enthusiast put it, “Gonna have to make it a regular stop on my hometimes!” High praise indeed.

The Legendary 69-Minute Game

While each round had its moment, the semi-finals on Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) took the cake. Clocking in at a whopping 69 minutes, it was a test of skill, patience, and endurance. Stuart Nyswonger emerged victorious, with Jesse Baker, Shawn Kenter, and Sam McConnell trailing closely.

Champions Rise

In the world of pinball, every point counts, every flipper move matters, and every strategy can make or break the game. And at the end of a fiercely competitive evening, the champions emerged:

1. Jesse Baker – A pinball maestro with an IFPA rank of 405.
2. Roy Richey – Who punched well above his IFPA rank of 2071.
3. Stuart Nyswonger – Fresh from his semi-final victory, securing third place.
4. George Cavalaris – A consistent player with an IFPA rank of 2911.
5. Evan Crouch – Cincinnati’s very own, representing with an IFPA rank of 6536.
6. John Holliday – With an impressive showing despite his rank of 5461.
7. Shawn Kenter – Not just a semi-finalist, but seventh place overall.
8. Sam McConnell – Rounding out the top eight with his skillful gameplay.

Pinball Machines That Stood Out

Several machines were the star attractions of the night:

• James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: A 2022 release taking players on a spy adventure.
• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: A journey into the Upside Down.
• Grand Prix by Williams: A classic from 1976.
• Barracora by Williams: Taking players back to 1981.
• Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern: A light-cycle filled joyride.
• The Addams Family by Bally: A quirky fun ride from 1992.
• Medieval Madness (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Storming the castle since 2016.
• Doctor Who by Bally: A time-travel adventure from 1992.
• Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: Released in 2023, a rocking experience.

The Best of Ohio Pinball

The cream of the crop in Ohio’s pinball scene:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Aaron RIch		587.63
2	Gregory Kennedy	Plain City	515.95
3	Stephen Prusa	Cleveland	511.83
4	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	424.33
5	John Delzoppo	Cleveland	364.06
6	Andrew Lee	Cleveland	343.81
7	Cody Webb	Westerville	309.65
8	Galvin Morgan	Olmsted Falls	301.32
9	Jesse Baker	Cincinnati	277.88
10	Jack Nebraska	Columbus	271.44

Till the flippers flip again, and the silver ball bounces back, stay tuned for more pulse-pounding updates from the world of pinball!

Forget Netflix; forget primetime TV. The most gripping drama last week unfolded in a different kind of arena — the Arcade Legacy Sharonville in Cincinnati, Ohio, on the night of September 21, 2023. The clock struck 7:00 PM and thus began the Thursday Throwdown, a pinball showdown that defied rankings, defied odds, and made a lasting impression on everyone present.

A Format Built for Intensity

Organized by the meticulous Erik Wurtenberger, this tourney wasn’t your standard fare. With 7 grueling rounds of head-to-head gameplay in the first stage alone, the atmosphere was akin to a pinball pressure cooker. The intensity did not stop there. The top 8 scorers then progressed to the Finals, which featured two further rounds, each with a trifecta of games.

The Banzai Run Saga

The spotlight for drama was unarguably on Banzai Run by Williams. In the finals, this machine from May 1988 became the backdrop for an epic 103-minute duel that was the longest game of the tournament. With the flippers clicking like clockwork and the scoreboard a constant flurry of digits, Jesse Baker (IFPA rank 374) managed to edge out Joel Bergantino (IFPA rank 806), Stuart Nyswonger (IFPA rank 615), and Chris Hardewig (IFPA rank 2738) for the top spot in the round.

Overall Tournament Winners: The Definitive List

For those who love to cut to the chase, here are your champions:

1. Joel Bergantino – IFPA Rank 806, Total IFPA Events 80
2. Stuart Nyswonger – IFPA Rank 615, Total IFPA Events 287
3. Jesse Baker – IFPA Rank 374, Total IFPA Events 259
4. Chris Hardewig – IFPA Rank 2738, Total IFPA Events 39
5. Roy Richey – IFPA Rank 2043, Total IFPA Events 186
6. Jake Buchanan – IFPA Rank 3475, Total IFPA Events 32
7. Justin Schnetzer – IFPA Rank 3531, Total IFPA Events 31
8. Ian Raffenberg – IFPA Rank 17950, Total IFPA Events 1

The Machines of Destiny

Banzai Run wasn’t the only pinball machine in the spotlight. Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, released in 2021, served up excitement with its immersive gameplay, while Doctor Who by Bally offered a nostalgia-inducing challenge. And who could forget The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern? The zombie-apocalyptic world was an adrenaline rush that many players couldn’t get enough of.

The Venue — More Than Just Pinball

Arcade Legacy Sharonville is not just a pinball paradise; it’s an entire universe of arcade enjoyment. What makes it unique is its blend of classic cabinet games, modern rhythm experiences, and yes, an in-house bar to soothe the nerves after a tight game. It’s no wonder that players and spectators alike end up spending their entire evening here, coming for the pinball but staying for the full-bodied entertainment experience.

Ohio’s Who’s Who in Pinball

Let’s put things in context with Ohio’s top 10 pinball wizards:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Aaron Rich		583.06
2	Gregory Kennedy	Plain City	514.31
3	Stephen Prusa	Cleveland	509.91
4	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	423.75
5	John Delzoppo	Cleveland	364.06
6	Andrew Lee	Cleveland	342.56
7	Cody Webb	Westerville	309.22
8	Galvin Morgan	Olmsted Falls	300.74
9	Jesse Baker	Cincinnati	276.29
10	Jack Nebraska	Columbus	270.15

As the drama of the Thursday Throwdown settles, and as these digital warriors get ready for their next battle, it’s clear that the story is far from over. The question isn’t just who will win the next tournament, but what new legends will be written in this ever-exciting world of competitive pinball.

So, to everyone out there who thinks pinball is just a game, I say this: come down to Arcade Legacy and prepare to have your world rocked.

Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball! 🎮🏆🤘

Under a clear evening sky with temperatures hovering at a pleasant 72°F, Arcade Legacy Sharonville came alive. This wasn’t just another Thursday night. It was the Thursday Throwdown on September 14, 2023, where metal balls soared, flippers flipped, and legends were made.

Welcome to Arcade Legacy Sharonville

Nestled at 2241 Crowne Point Dr, Cincinnati, the venue was a haven for pinball aficionados. And for the uninitiated, here’s a quick glimpse: think of a relaxed lounge, chilled cocktails, and beer from the tap. Throw in a staff radiating warmth and a sprinkle of retro vibe. If the digital domain ever got too consuming, this would be your detox center. And tonight? The tournament was an added cherry on the top.

On The Tournament Trail

Organized by the astute Erik Wurtenberger, the tournament commenced at 7 PM. Players battled through 7 initial rounds, after which the top 8 moved onto the nail-biting Finals. With a game setup spanning classics like Harlem Globetrotters On Tour and Funhouse, to modern legends like Venom (Pro) and The Beatles, the evening promised – and delivered – electrifying showdowns.

That Sixty-Six Minute Saga

In what could be best described as a mini-epic, the semifinals saw a relentless duel on Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro). Clocking in at an astounding 66 minutes, the game had spectators at the edge of their seats (or, well, barstools). Jesse Baker triumphed, with Doug Kuykendoll, Trnon Lewis (pronoun: they), and Dalva Ireland trailing.

The Champions Rise

As the flippers stilled and scores settled, here were the evening’s pinball wizards:

1. Doug Kuykendoll: Surprising all, especially with an IFPA rank of 2401.
2. Jesse Baker: The semi-final victor who’s no stranger to the game.
3. Justin Schnetzer: A quiet storm rising through the ranks.
4. John Holliday: Proving that every day could indeed be a holiday with the right gameplay. … (And the list went on till the commendable 8th place holder, Dalva Ireland.)

Ohio’s Elite Pinball Players

A special shoutout to Ohio’s finest pinball maestros:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Aaron RIch		555.03
2	Stephen Prusa	Cleveland	443.5
3	Gregory Kennedy	Plain City	385.1
4	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	385.05
5	John Delzoppo	Cleveland	364.06
6	Andrew Lee	Cleveland	299.52
7	Jesse Baker	Cincinnati	276.29
8	Galvin Morgan	Olmsted Falls	272.15
9	Cody Webb	Westerville	253.02
10	Rod Lawrence	Cleveland	229.41

As The Night Ends…

While the Thursday Throwdown might have wrapped up, the legacy of that evening will be recounted for weeks to come. If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, Arcade Legacy Sharonville promises a good time.

So, till the flippers flip again, keep those reflexes sharp and stay tuned for more pinball adventures!

As summer started winding down on a beautifully clear day with temperatures at 71°F, Cleveland’s Superelectric Pinball Parlour at 6500 Detroit Ave was just heating up. On August 27th, 2023, 20 pinball wizards, both seasoned and fresh-faced, descended upon the venue for the Superelectric Pinball Battle.

Atmosphere on the Tilt

Cleveland’s best-kept secret, Superelectric Pinball Parlor, isn’t just any pinball joint. With its tantalizing concoctions like the apricot-infused bourbon called Bull Durham and the economical $6 all-you-can-play pinball, the venue is an absolute treasure. Whether you’re a pinball league pro or simply looking for a retro night out, Superelectric has you covered. Also, if you’re on a quirky date night in Cleveland, this place can’t be missed. With both modern and vintage pinball machines, it’s a joyride through time.

A Game of Legacy and Legacies

One of the many highlights was the thrilling face-off on Stern’s Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast during the Semifinals. Aaron Rich (IFPA rank 80) claimed the top spot, closely followed by Terrence Carl, Kyle Shepard, and Bill Taylor. It’s worth noting that the game itself, released in April 2018, is inspired by the band’s legacy, much like the players are creating their own with every flip and score.

Pinball Wizards and their Machines

And speaking of machines, let’s chat about a personal favorite of mine: Bride of Pinbot by Williams. Oh, did I mention? I’m the Bride of Pinbot! Okay, not really, but let’s just say if I had a pinball alter ego, she’d be it!

Other crowd-pullers included the Game Of Thrones (Pro), a nod to the television behemoth, and Jurassic Park (Pro), where players dodged virtual velociraptors and T-Rexes with every ball. The newly released Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern from 2023 also drew a considerable crowd, especially with its rock anthem infused gameplay.

Who Tilted To The Top?

John Delzoppo, the man behind this fantastic event, proved that organizers can be champions too by claiming the first spot. Following him was the impressive Bill Taylor, JD Chips, and Aaron Rich. A special mention goes out to JD Chips, a relatively new player with just 25 IFPA events under his belt, yet managing to secure the third spot. The top 8 showcased a delightful mix of experienced veterans and passionate newcomers.

IFPA’s Ohio Top 10: Pinball Pros

As the dust settled post-battle, let’s glance at Ohio’s top pinball prodigies:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Aaron RIch		555.06
2	Stephen Prusa	Cleveland	443.51
3	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	385.07
4	Gregory Kennedy	Plain City	365.78
5	John Delzoppo	Cleveland	364.11
6	Andrew Lee	Cleveland	299.56
7	Jesse Baker	Cincinnati	276.08
8	Galvin Morgan	Olmsted Falls	272.17
9	Cody Webb	Westerville	253.03
10	Rod Lawrence	Cleveland	229.42

The Superelectric Pinball Battle of August 2023 showcased talent, strategy, and the undeniable charm of pinball. Until the flippers meet again, keep those high scores coming and stay tuned for more pinball updates!

In the heart of Ohio, where craft beer often flows as freely as the Ohio River, Heart State Brewing opened its doors on August 18, 2023, for a rendezvous of flippers, lights, and spectacular gameplay. Welcome to the Heart State August Tournament, an event that was as refreshing as the beers served at the venue.

A Tournament Brewed to Perfection

Crafted meticulously by organizer John Geiger, the tournament sported four tantalizing rounds with a single game per round. A group of 39 pinball wizards, each on a mission to be the ultimate champion, formed clusters of four to engage in pinball duels. Points were at stake, reputations were on the line, and at the end of the evening, only one could take the crown.

The Guardians’ Ultimate Challenge

Amidst the clang of metal and the flickering lights, one game stood out: a showdown on the “Guardians of the Galaxy” machine by Stern. Our hero, Brian Weisberg (IFPA rank 3054), displayed an uncanny knack for channeling Star-Lord’s charisma into his gameplay, taking first place. He was closely followed by J. Keith Jackson, Steve Szczepaniak, and Robert Bush—a motley crew of pinball aficionados that added a unique flair to Round 4.

The Unranked Underdog

While Tim Malloy took the tournament’s crown with an IFPA rank of 2540, the underdog story of the night was Mitchell Banks. Without an IFPA rank and appearing in zero IFPA events prior to this one, Mitchell snagged second place. To the pinball world, let it be known: Someone get this guy signed up for IFPA, stat!

Pinball and Pints: The Perfect Pair

With a lineup of 13 pinball machines that ranged from the suave “James Bond 007 (Pro)” to the raw intensity of “Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast,” the venue was a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. The selection of pinballs at Heart State was like its beer menu—each one offering a unique flavor yet universally delightful.

Heart State: The Heart of the Action

If you’re a fan of good beer and great company, Heart State Brewing is your go-to place. The owner’s inspiring story, the work he does with his dog rescue charity, and an array of brews that have no parallel—it all comes together to create an atmosphere where both beer lovers and pinball fans can find their nirvana.

Top Pinball Maestros in Ohio

To tip our hats to Ohio’s pinball elites, here’s the Top 10:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Aaron Rich		554.91	20	21
2	Stephen Prusa	Cleveland	402.66	20	23
3	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	364.55	20	7
4	John Delzoppo	Cleveland	355.27	20	8
5	Andrew Lee	Cleveland	299.48	20	5
6	Gregory Kennedy	Plain City	293	20	9
7	Jesse Baker	Cincinnati	276.04	20	22
8	Cody Webb	Westerville	242.82	20	5
9	Galvin Morgan	Olmsted Falls	238.97	20	6
10	Rod Lawrence	Cleveland	207.13	20	6

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So, whether you’re a pinball pro or just a casual flipper, one thing is certain: Heart State Brewing is where you want to be for a night of unstoppable fun and action. Until the next tournament, keep those flippers flipping and those brews pouring!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!