Amidst the light drizzle and cool 58°F weather of Dallas, Texas, the Free Play Dallas arcade became the epicenter of a thrilling pinball showdown. The Pinball Monday tournament, meticulously organized by Chris Delp, was a display of flickering lights, strategic flips, and the clatter of pinballs against vibrant machines.

The Setting: Free Play Dallas

Free Play Dallas, located at 3015 Gulden Ln, offers more than just pinball; it’s a retro haven with beloved video games like Super Mario, creating an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and electrifying. The venue’s spacious layout, clean restrooms, and relaxed vibe made it an ideal spot for players to unwind and get their game faces on.

Tournament Format

The competition was fierce yet friendly, with 19 players battling through 8 intense rounds. The structure was simple yet challenging: players earned points based on their performance in each round, and the top 8 scorers advanced to the nail-biting finals, which comprised 2 rounds of intense gameplay.

Finals Spotlight: Gorgar by Williams

The finals witnessed a captivating game on “Gorgar,” a classic Williams machine dating back to 1979 which is notable for being the first talking pinball machine in the industry. It featured a vocabulary of seven words and used a synthesizer to create its speech, making it a groundbreaking achievement in the world of pinball at the time. The machine also had a fantasy-horror theme, centered around a character named Gorgar, adding to its appeal and distinctiveness. Savannah Archuleta emerged victorious, displaying a remarkable blend of skill and strategy. Hot on her heels were Josh Gulley, Colin Wood from Richardson, Texas, and Lee Stokely from Fort Worth, TX, each delivering impressive performances that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

The Victors

The tournament crowned Savannah Archuleta as the champion, with Josh Gulley as the runner-up. Colin Wood and Lee Stokely clinched the third and fourth spots, respectively, showcasing their prowess in this arcade art form. The top eight were rounded out by Erin Clarner, Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX, Ethan Wade, and Greg Gibson from Plano, TX, all of whom demonstrated exceptional skill and determination.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament highlighted an array of 22 pinball machines, each adding its unique flair to the event. Notable mentions include:

• Tales from the Crypt by Data East (1993): A spooky favorite that challenged players with its eerie theme.
• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021): A monstrous challenge that roared with excitement.
• AC/DC (LUCI Vault Edition) by Stern (2018): A rock ‘n’ roll adventure that electrified the crowd.
• The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (2021): A galactic quest that transported players to a faraway galaxy.

Conclusion

The Free Play Dallas Pinball Monday was more than a tournament; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the timeless appeal of pinball. As players left the arcade, their spirits were high, undampened by the light rain outside. The night was a testament to the joy and excitement that a good old pinball game can bring.

Follow along for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Under a clear Texan sky, with temperatures lingering at a comfortable 75°F, the vibrant energy of Free Play Arlington came alive on November 06, 2023. It was a gathering that pinball enthusiasts mark on their calendars – the Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday. Organized by Chris Delp, this tournament was a display of skill, strategy, and the camaraderie that defines the pinball community.

A Walk Down Memory Lane at Free Play Arlington

Free Play Arlington, located at 400 East South Street, is more than just an arcade. It’s a time capsule that transports you back to the golden era of gaming. With retro games galore, delicious food, and a variety of beverages, the venue is a haven for gamers of all ages. And with the “no minors after 9 pm” rule, it ensures an uninterrupted gaming experience for adult enthusiasts.

The Rush of the Finals on Rush (Pro)

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the finals, with players gathered around Stern’s Rush (Pro) machine. The game, released in January 2022, provided the perfect battlefield for the top contenders. David Whitlock from Flower Mound, TX, emerged victorious, showcasing his exceptional skills. He was closely followed by John Richardson from Grand Prairie, TX, and Steven McMullin from Stephenville, TX, each demonstrating why they were among the top players.

Celebrating the Pinball Wizards

The tournament saw some fierce competition across 6 rounds, culminating in an intense final showdown. The top 8 finalists displayed not just their love for the game but also their mastery over the pinball machines. Here’s to the champions:

1. David Whitlock
2. John Richardson
3. Steven McMullin
4. Duane Fair
5. Mike Archuleta
6. Ethan Wade
7. Jason Palmer
8. Greg Gibson

Pinball Galore: The Machines That Stole the Show

With 21 pinball machines, the tournament was a feast for the senses. Some standout machines included:

• The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern: A thrilling journey into a zombie apocalypse.
• AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: Rocking the pinball world since 2012.
• The Munsters (Premium) by Stern: A spooky yet fun trip with a beloved TV family.
• Pirates of the Caribbean by Jersey Jack Pinball: Embarking players on a swashbuckling adventure.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern: Bringing the beloved heroes in a half shell to life.

A Night to Remember

As the tournament came to a close, players and spectators alike left with stories to tell and memories to cherish. Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday was more than a competition; it was a celebration of a shared passion, a community coming together to revel in the joy of pinball.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the realm of pinball, where the flippers never stop, and the fun never ends!

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

Enter the LOWer Level Lab

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

From 1990 to 2017: A Pinball Time Machine

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

• Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams: A gothic journey from 1993.
• Jurassic Park by Data East: Dino-filled adventures of ’93.
• Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams: A 1993 space odyssey.
• Doctor Who by Bally: Time-traveling escapades from 1992.
• Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: The newest in the lineup, from 2017, but the one that stole the show!

A 64-Minute Galactic Odyssey

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

Championing the Night

At the end of an electrifying evening:

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

The Lone Star Pinball Titans

Behold, the IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	508.92
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	446.86
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	331.66
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	256.06
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	254.11
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	228.33
9	Jim Mueller	Houston	222.32
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	219.13

Till the Balls Roll Again

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

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

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:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	508.94
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.78
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	331.66
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	256.06
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	254.11
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	228.33
9	Jim Mueller	Houston	222.33
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	219.11

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!

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:

• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro): A modern epic echoing the grandeur of the MCU.
• AC/DC (Pro): Rocking players since 2012.
• Venom (Pro): The star of the night and a fresh face in the arcade.
• Baby Pac-Man: A delightful fusion of arcade and pinball from ’82.
• Super Mario Bros.: The plumber’s iconic journey in pinball form.
• Attack from Mars: A ’95 classic that continues to thrill.
• Pirates of the Caribbean: An adventurous dive into Jack Sparrow’s world.
• Led Zeppelin (Pro): A rhythmic journey with the rock legends.
• Lord of the Rings: A timeless epic brought to life through flippers and lights.

The Lone Star Pinball Legends:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	508.96
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.78
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	331.69
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	256.06
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	254.14
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	228.33
9	Jim Mueller	Houston	222.33
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	219.12

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 quiet evening of October 4th was soon to be lit up with a blaze of neon lights, resonant “dings”, and fierce competition. The Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level #4 pinball tournament kicked off at 7:00 PM sharp. Within the industrial-chic confines of Low’s Sound Lab, an undisclosed location somewhere deep in the heart of Texas, 16 pinball wizards formed groups, eager to face off in a whirlwind tournament that lasted just a bit over 2 hours.

Game Highlights:

Among the 18 gleaming pinball machines present, five particularly stood out, not just for their rich legacy but for the gameplay they hosted during the evening:

• Taxi by Williams: An old-school beauty that took players on a whirlwind ride.
• Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming: A relatively newer model that had everyone hooked with its sharp graphics.
• Diner by Williams: The star of the evening, more on this in a moment!
• AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: A rock-fest that had many head-banging in between shots.
• Funhouse by Williams: As quirky and fun as the name suggests.

One could argue the highlight of the night was the intense game on “Diner.” Liz Nebeker, a humble player from Houston with an IFPA rank of 3023, took the lead, closely followed by Dawn Freedkin and Dawn Hayes, with Emily Hoffman rounding out the quartet. The table was surrounded by an eager crowd, with every flipper move eliciting gasps or cheers.

The Night’s Champions:

Kudos to the champions who dominated the evening:

• Gina Low, with 149 IFPA events under her belt, clinched the top spot.
• The dynamic duo, Miette Dronet and Elizabeth Dronet, grabbed the 2nd and 3rd spots respectively.
• Annabeth Dronet made it a family affair by taking the 4th position.

How Did the Texas Top 10 Fare?

A peek into the IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	501.1
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.78
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	327.53
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.08
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	227.23
9	Jim Mueller	Houston	222.34
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	219.12

Although none from the top 10 took the crown this time, their stellar past performances are a constant reminder of the evolving landscape of Texas pinball.

This night was an homage to both the old and the new – a celebration of the undying love for pinball. As we wind down, remember, it’s not just about the flippers and the score. It’s about the memories we make, the strategies we employ, and the friends we meet along the way. So, stay tuned and keep those pinballs rolling!

As the sun set on October 2, 2023, with clear skies and a warm ambiance of 85°F, the buzzing town of Arlington, Texas, witnessed yet another thrilling evening of pinball at Free Play Arlington. At 7 PM sharp, the crowd gathered, the flippers were readied, and the silver balls were set in motion.

Stepping Inside Free Play Arlington

For anyone stepping into Free Play Arcade for the first time, the sheer energy and nostalgia are tangible. “Best place ever!” claimed one visitor, praising the summer reading program and the venue’s cleanliness. With games ranging from the classics to the new-age pinball machines, the place is a paradise for gaming enthusiasts. Add to that, the warmth and efficiency of the staff, and it becomes an experience you’d want to relive.

A Glimpse of the Intense Semifinal

At the heart of the evening was the tense game on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro). The game, which took the semifinalists a nail-biting 69 minutes, saw Greg Gibson from Plano, TX, clinching the top spot. Closely following him was Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, and the organizer Chris Delp from North Texas, with Garrett Shahan wrapping up the top four.

Saluting the Pinball Maestros

The tournament’s top contenders showcased a display of sheer skill, strategy, and passion. Emerging as the champion of the evening was Boss Hernandez from Corpus Christi, TX, followed by Clark McCoy. Duane Fair from Fort Worth secured the third spot, while Greg Gibson finished fourth. The evening also witnessed commendable performances from Steven McMullin, Chris Delp, Andrew Ortega, and Garrett Shahan.

The Machines that Made the Night

Among the 25 pinball machines, some garnered more attention than others:

• Iron Man (Vault): An exciting experience from 2014.
• Firepower: A classic from the 1980 era.
• Monster Bash (Remake): Bringing the monsters to life.
• Metallica (Pro): A rocking rendition from 2013.
• Attack from Mars: A space adventure from 1995.
• The Walking Dead (Pro): A thrilling zombie escape.
• Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle and Friends: A dive into the animated world from 1993.
• Rollergames: A high-speed challenge from 1990.

Top Pinballers in Texas

The current standings in Texas showcase a tight competition:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	501.1
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.74
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	327.53
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.07
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	227.23
9	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	223.02
10	Jim Mueller	Houston	222.34

As the echoes of the flippers fade and the lights dim until the next showdown, the world of pinball remains as vibrant and dynamic as ever. Until next time, keep the ball rolling and the scores soaring!

Beneath the exhilarating hum of pinball machines and the synchronized bursts of light lay the scene of one of the most competitive pinball battles of the year: The SCPL Classics Beat the Clock. On September 30th, 2023, the Meuller Residence transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts as 29 players clashed in a marathon event that stretched just short of 6 hours.

Historic Highlight: Team One

One moment that had everyone’s eyes riveted to the flippers was during the semifinals. The vintage gem, Team One by Gottlieb from 1977, became the stage for an epic showdown. Mike Flanagan hailing from Houston with an IFPA rank of 1342, took the lead with finesse and style. Greg Megan trailed, followed by David Pollock and Lisa Shore. The machine, over 45 years old, reminded everyone of the lasting allure and challenge of pinball, regardless of its age.

Pinnacle of Pinball Excellence

The culmination of the tournament witnessed strategic mastery and pinball dexterity. Jim Mueller, with an impressive IFPA rank of 360, emerged as the champion, with Tom Cornell and David Pollock capturing the second and third spots respectively. Mike Flanagan, the star from the semifinals, secured the fourth position. Each of these players demonstrated remarkable skills and a deep understanding of the game, captivating the audience with every flick, tilt, and bumper hit.

A Glimpse into Pinball Legacy

The tournament showcased a total of 12 pinball machines, but some deserved a special spotlight. Team One‘s legacy was evident, but other machines like Alien Poker, Flash Gordon, Jungle Princess, and Paragon presented an equally nostalgic experience. Machines like Hotdoggin’ and King Kool transported players back in time, emphasizing the rich history and evolution of pinball.

Texas Titans: IFPA Standings

The tournament not only brought enthusiasts together but also shook the IFPA Texas Pinball standings a bit. Here’s how the top players are positioned:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	501.1
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.74
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	327.53
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.07
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	227.23
9	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	223.02
10	Jim Mueller	Houston	222.34

In the realm of pinball, the buzz never dies down. As the balls shoot up and players take on the machines, each tournament writes a new chapter in the book of pinball glory. Stay tuned for more pinball pandemonium!

Under the twinkling lights of pinball machines, enthusiasts gathered at Low’s Sound Lab in Houston on the evening of September 27th, 2023. The pinball aficionados came together for the “Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level #3” tournament, promising an evening of thrill, strategies, and of course, the sweet sound of the silver ball bouncing off bumpers.

An Electric Atmosphere

While the exact decor and ambiance details of Low’s Sound Lab remain a mystery (as the location is undisclosed), the energy and passion of the participants filled the space with excitement. The echoing sounds of pinball machines, laughter, and occasional groans of a missed shot created a symphony unique to such events.

One For The Records

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping moment of the tournament was during the first round on the AC/DC (Pro) machine. A machine known for its challenging play and thunderous soundtracks saw a game that lasted an unbelievable 62 minutes! As the iconic lyric goes, “Thunderstruck!” And indeed, the audience was. Dawn Hayes, with her focused gameplay, secured the top spot, leaving Elizabeth Dronet, Maritza Chirichigno, and Dawn Freedkin “shaking at the knees” as they secured the following places respectively. It’s games like these that become the stuff of legends in the pinball community.

Champions of the Night

While every player showcased commendable skill, a few stood out and earned the top spots:

• 1st: Emily Hoffman with an impressive IFPA rank of 2775.
• 2nd: Space City’s own, Elizabeth Dronet.
• 3rd: Gina Low, proving that she’s not just any player with her rank of 2569.
• 4th: The talented Leslie Speights.

A Night of Machines

The evening was graced by 19 iconic pinball machines, with a few worth a special mention:

• “Pool Sharks” by Bally, a dive into the 1990s.
• “Jurassic Park” by Data East, a dino-filled adventure from 1993.
• The recently released “Godzilla (Premium/LE)” by Stern from 2021.
• “Doctor Who” by Bally, a time-traveling journey from 1992.
• The rock-themed “AC/DC (Pro)” by Stern, the star of the night.
• “Foo Fighters (Pro)” by Stern, a recent 2023 hit bringing rock and pinball together.
• “James Bond 007 (Pro)” by Stern, a dive into the world of espionage from 2022.

Top Players in Texas

Pinball isn’t just a game; it’s a sport with its own stars. A look at the current Texas Pinball Top 10 reveals some familiar and some rising names:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	501.14
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.72
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	327.55
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.08
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	227.24
9	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	212.67
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	210.54

As the lights dimmed on another successful tournament, one thing was clear: The passion for pinball is alive and thriving. We can’t wait for the next gathering of pinball wizards. Stay with us for more news, tricks, and flicks from the vibrant world of pinball!

On a balmy evening, with the thermometer nudging 93°F, the distinct chimes and electronic bleeps of pinball machines filled the spacious confines of What’s Brewing? in San Antonio. This wasn’t any ordinary pinball evening; this was the much-anticipated “Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #2.”

Tournament Insights

Taking place precisely at 6:30 PM on September 26, 2023, this fiesta of flippers and silver balls witnessed a nail-biting competition, lasting just shy of 3 hours. Organized by the passionate pinball aficionado, Christina Cheeseman, 19 fervent players faced off over 5 grueling rounds, competing two games per round, all in the pursuit of pinball glory.

An atmosphere of friendly rivalry pervaded the air, with players sharing both tips and banter between rounds. The competition was tight, with the top 8 players then progressing to the Finals – a 2 round showdown with 3 games in each round.

In the Limelight: Game of the Tournament

While each game had its moments, a special mention must be given to a dramatic showdown in Round 2. The game: Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, a recent classic from 2018. Christina Cheeseman, our organizer, showed her mettle by securing first place in this game, but not without fierce competition from Jovanna Barrientez, Cinthia Guadiana, and Lori Love.

Pinball Wizards of the Evening

As the last ball plunged down the table and the scores were tallied, the top contenders emerged:

1. Alice Young – A maestro with an IFPA rank of 2385, and a veteran of 82 IFPA events.
2. Don Dura – Close on Alice’s tail with an IFPA rank of 1310.
3. Brian Fults from Longville, LA, a spirited competitor with a respectable IFPA rank of 1461.
4. Elizabeth Dronet from Space City, and several others, showcased their skills, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.

Machines of Majesty

Though all pinball machines at the venue were fantastic, some that captured the heart and imagination included:

• Funhouse by Williams, a true vintage classic from 1990.
• Firepower by Williams, lighting up the scene since 1980.
• Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming, a relatively fresh face from 2021.
• Twilight Zone by Bally, a game that has taken players to another dimension since 1993.
• … and many more, each telling its unique tale of design, gameplay, and history.

Venue Vibes

But it wasn’t all about pinball. What’s Brewing? offers more than just arcade games. As described on their website, it’s a coffee lover’s paradise. The scent of freshly brewed coffee perfectly complemented the electrifying atmosphere of the tournament. And with beans from burlap sacks being weighed and brewed in the background, it truly provided a unique, multisensory experience.

Top Players in the Lone Star State

A look at Texas’s cream of the crop:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	501.14
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.72
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	327.55
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.08
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	227.24
9	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	212.67
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	210.54

Pinball may be an age-old game, but in the heart of Texas, it’s very much alive and thumping. With venues like What’s Brewing? and tournaments like Belles & Chimes, the silver ball continues to mesmerize. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a coffee connoisseur, there’s always something brewing in San Antonio. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball!