Coffee, Pinballs, and Champion Flips: The Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #7 Tournament

On a mild December evening in San Antonio, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #7 pinball tournament transformed What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters into a vibrant arena of flashing lights and strategic gameplay. Organized by Christina Cheeseman, the tournament was not just a competition; it was a celebration of skill and community.

A Venue That Brews Fun

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, with its fantastic coffee and an impressive array of pinball machines, is a haven for anyone looking to indulge their inner child while satisfying their grown-up taste for quality coffee. The place is an eclectic mix of a coffee enthusiast’s dream and a pinball player’s paradise.

The Tournament Takes Off

With 5 rounds and 2 games per round, 14 players showcased their pinball skills. The competition was intense, with players battling it out for the top spot, their points accumulating round after round under the overcast sky of San Antonio.

Spotlight on ‘Centaur’

The tournament’s highlight was the first round on ‘Centaur‘ by Bally, a classic machine that brought out the best in the players. Cinthia Guadiana took the lead, followed by Christina Cheeseman, Valli Irvine, and Summer Ellington, each demonstrating impressive skills and strategy.

Celebrating the Champions

A big round of applause for Lori Love, who emerged as the champion! Cinthia Guadiana, Alexa Hart, and Tricia Gronnevik also earned their places in the spotlight, showcasing not just their skill at pinball but also the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Machines That Made the Night

Apart from ‘Centaur’, machines like ‘Twilight Zone‘ by Bally and ‘Deadpool (Pro)‘ by Stern added to the tournament’s excitement. ‘World Cup Soccer‘ and ‘Hot Wheels‘ by American Pinball provided a diverse playing experience, highlighting the evolution of pinball machines over the years.

A Toast to Future Flips

As the tournament concluded, What’s Brewing? stood as a testament to the unique charm of combining coffee and pinball. This event was a reminder of the simple joys that bring us together, whether it’s over a cup of coffee or a game of pinball.

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball, and remember, there’s always room for one more game!

A Night of Flippers and Fun: The Free Play Dallas Pinball Monday Recap

Greetings, pinball enthusiasts! The Free Play Dallas Pinball Monday, held on a cool December evening in Texas, was a vivid display of skill, strategy, and a touch of pinball magic. Let’s flip through the highlights of this thrilling event.

Setting the Scene

Free Play Dallas, our host for the evening, provided the perfect mix of nostalgia and contemporary charm. Half their collection might be niche, but the other half, including some of the machines featured in our tournament, were nothing short of captivating. The atmosphere was electric – a blend of concentration, excitement, and the unmistakable sound of pinball machines in full swing.

The Tournament Unfolds

Organized by Chris Delp, the tournament saw 12 players locked in a fierce competition across 9 rounds. Each round was a battle of wits and reflexes, with players vying for the top spot. The air was crisp outside, but inside, the heat of competition kept everyone warm.

Spotlight on ‘Cactus Canyon’

The standout game of the night was Round 1 on ‘Cactus Canyon (Remake Special)‘ by Chicago Gaming. The results were a testament to the skill and strategy of the players, with Garrett Shahan clinching the first place, followed by Mel Pond, Chris Delp, and Savannah Archuleta in a nail-biting finish.

Celebrating the Champions

A big congratulations to Garrett Shahan for his masterful win! Kudos also to Randy Nelson, Boss Hernandez, and Mike Archuleta for their impressive performances. Each player brought their unique style to the table, making the tournament an unforgettable experience.

Machines That Stole the Show

Apart from ‘Cactus Canyon‘, machines like ‘Venom (Pro)‘ and ‘The Mandalorian (Pro)‘ by Stern added to the high-octane atmosphere. ‘James Bond 007 (Pro)‘ and ‘The Addams Family‘ offered a mix of modern thrills and classic charm, keeping the players and spectators on their toes.

More Than Just Pinball

Free Play Dallas proved to be a venue where memories were made. Whether you were there for the pinball, a casual drink, or to dive into their selection of arcade games, the experience was undeniably fun. It’s a place that promises more good times and I, for one, can’t wait to go back.

Until Next Time

The Free Play Dallas Pinball Monday was a celebration of the spirit of pinball – a blend of friendly competition, nostalgia, and a shared love for the game. Stay tuned for more tales from the realm of pinball and remember, keep those flippers ready!

A Night of Mystery and Flippers: The Blizzy Bog Pinball Tournament

Hello, pinball enthusiasts! It’s your roving reporter from the world of bumpers and silver balls, here with an exclusive on the enigmatic Blizzy Bog Pinball Tournament, which wrapped up on December 7, 2023.

Tournament Overview

In a secretive location somewhere in Texas, organized by the elusive Ray Ford, twelve pinball wizards convened for an 8-hour-long showdown. The tournament, shrouded in as much mystery as its undisclosed venue, consisted of 5 intense rounds, where players vied for the top spot by earning points based on their performance in each game.

Game Spotlight: Jack•Bot Showdown

The highlight of the night was Round 5 on “Jack•Bot” by Williams, a classic from 1995. The game unfolded like a dramatic opera, with Keb Gallows clinching the first place, followed by Ray Ford from Austin, Texas. Jonathon Morales and Sven Johnson, also from Austin, TX, rounded out the top four in a gripping battle of wits and reflexes.

Celebrating the Winners

Keb Gallows emerged as the enigmatic champion of the night, followed closely by Hanson Keuler. Ray Ford, bringing his Texan flair, secured the third spot while Sven Johnson claimed the fourth. Each player displayed a masterful blend of strategy and skill, carving their names into the Blizzy Bog lore.

Pinball Machine Highlights

The tournament boasted an impressive array of 17 pinball machines, including:

  • Tales from the Crypt” by Data East (1993): A spooky favorite that tested players’ nerves and skill.
  • The Walking Dead (Pro)” by Stern (2014): A thrilling game that brought the popular TV series to life.
  • Indianapolis 500” by Bally (1995): A high-speed adventure on the playfield.
  • Metallica (Premium)” by Stern (2013): Rocked the tournament with its electrifying soundtrack and gameplay.
  • Goldeneye” by Sega (1996): Delivered covert missions and action-packed sequences.

Venue and Atmosphere

The air of mystery surrounding the event’s location only added to the tournament’s intrigue. What we do know is that it was somewhere in Texas, a state known for its love of larger-than-life experiences. The hidden nature of the venue lent an air of exclusivity and excitement, making the tournament a much-talked-about event in pinball circles.

Conclusion

The Blizzy Bog Pinball Tournament was not just a competition; it was an experience wrapped in secrecy and filled with the thrill of the game. As the night ended, players and the few privileged spectators left with memories of a unique pinball adventure, the details of which are destined to become the stuff of legend.

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The Epic Fun Monday Pinball Showdown: A Night of Flippers and Fun

Hello, pinball enthusiasts! It’s your favorite mechanical muse, Bride of Pinbot, here to bring you the latest scoop from the pinball world. Let’s dive into the riveting details of the recent Epic Fun Monday Pinball Tournament!

Tournament Overview

On November 27, 2023, at an undisclosed location masterminded by Ray Ford, pinball wizards gathered for a 7-hour, 30-minute flipper fest. Players went head-to-head in 10 games, with 4 players competing in each round. The tension was palpable as each player fought for the top spot, aiming to amass the most points by the end of the night.

Pinball Spotlight

The night’s stars were undoubtedly Stern’s “Deadpool (Premium)” and “Foo Fighters (Premium).” Deadpool, released in August 2018, became the crowd favorite with three games played. Meanwhile, Foo Fighters, a more recent release from March 2023, boasted the longest average game duration of around 14 minutes, offering a mix of strategy and endurance to the players.

Celebrating the Champions

The competition was fierce, with a remarkable tie in wins among the top players. Keb Gallows emerged as the tournament winner, claiming victory with 5 wins. Hot on his heels were Ray Ford from Austin, Texas, Martin Lippens from Oak Hill, and Tim Froehlich from Austin, each also securing 5 wins. Their gameplay was nothing short of spectacular, demonstrating skill, strategy, and a deep love for the game.

Pinball Machine Highlights

Of the 10 pinball machines that graced the tournament, here are a few standouts:

  • Dirty Harry” by Williams (1995): This machine brought a touch of Hollywood action to the tournament.
  • The Addams Family” by Bally (1992): A beloved classic that never fails to entertain.
  • Twilight Zone” by Bally (1993): A surreal adventure that challenges even the most seasoned players.
  • Rush (Premium)” by Stern (2022): A high-energy game that kept the adrenaline pumping.
  • Cirqus Voltaire” by Bally (1997): Known for its vibrant playfield and whimsical theme.

Venue and Atmosphere

Ray Ford, if you’re reading this, we’re all eager to know where this pinball paradise is located! Next time, do let us in on the secret so we can share the excitement with our readers.

Conclusion

The Epic Fun Monday Pinball Tournament was a night to remember, filled with the clinking of pinballs, the buzz of excited chatter, and the glow of neon lights. It was a testament to the enduring charm of pinball and the passionate community that surrounds it.

Stay tuned, dear readers, and subscribe for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball!

BA Night of Pinball and Coffee: Belles & Chimes SATX – Lit Mas Melee #1

In the heart of San Antonio, Texas, under a sky dotted with scattered clouds and a pleasant 69°F, “What’s Brewing?” Coffee Roasters transformed into a vibrant pinball arena. The Belles & Chimes SATX – Lit Mas Melee #1, organized by Christina Cheeseman, brought together pinball enthusiasts for an evening that was as much about the love of the game as it was about community and caffeine.

The Venue: A Blend of Coffee and Pinball

“What’s Brewing?” is not your ordinary coffee shop. With its in-house coffee roasting visible through a window and a selection of delightful treats like vanilla lattes and croissants, it provided the perfect laid-back atmosphere for a pinball tournament. The array of pinball machines added to the fun, eclectic vibe, creating an environment where coffee connoisseurs and pinball pros could mingle and enjoy the evening.

Tournament Dynamics

The tournament featured 11 players, who battled through 5 rounds with 2 games per round. The competition was fierce but friendly, with players earning points based on their finishing positions. The top 4 players progressed to the final round, which consisted of 3 games, ramping up the excitement and challenge.

Game Spotlight: Taxi by Williams

A highlight of the tournament was an intense 64-minute game on Taxi, a Williams classic from 1988, during the first round. Kristen Saunders emerged victorious in this marathon match, with Tricia Gronnevik and Hope Love following closely. Lori Love also put up a commendable fight, showcasing the depth of skill among the competitors.

Celebrating the Winners

Lori Love took home the first prize, demonstrating exceptional skill and strategy. Kristen Saunders secured the second spot, with Hope Love and Tricia Gronnevik rounding out the top four. The camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by all participants were as commendable as their pinball prowess.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament boasted an impressive collection of 48 pinball machines, including:

  • Medieval Madness by Williams (1997): A timeless favorite known for its engaging theme and gameplay.
  • The Addams Family by Bally (1992): A machine that perfectly captures the quirky charm of the beloved franchise.
  • Funhouse by Williams (1990): A classic that combines challenging gameplay with a unique and whimsical design.
  • Indianapolis 500 by Bally (1995): A high-speed adventure that thrills with its racing theme.
  • Black Hole by Gottlieb (1981): An older gem that still captivates with its deep space theme and intricate playfield.

Conclusion

The Belles & Chimes SATX – Lit Mas Melee #1 at “What’s Brewing?” was more than a pinball tournament; it was a celebration of community, skill, and the simple pleasures of a good coffee and an engaging game of pinball. As the night wound down, participants left with the warm glow of competition, friendship, and perhaps a little caffeine buzz.

Bookmark us for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Pinball Mastery at Free Play Dallas: A Rainy Night of High Scores and High Spirits

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:

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!

Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday (11/6/23): A Night of Flippers, Fun, and Fierce Competition

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:

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!

Guardians, Galaxies, and Girl Power: A Night of Pinball Prowess in the Heart of Texas

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:

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:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands508.92
2Garrett ShahanDenton446.86
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station331.66
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands256.06
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi254.11
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio228.33
9Jim MuellerHouston222.32
10Kevin RodriguezDenton219.13

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!

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

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

The Perfect Brew: Coffee & Pinball

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

A Twist in the Pinball Tale

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

The Crowned Chimes of the Evening

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

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

The Texan Titans of Pinball

The best in the Lone Star state as of now:

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

Until the Next Flip

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

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

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

The Venue:

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

The Heart of the Action:

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

Game of the Night:

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

Tournament Titans:

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

A Machine Legacy:

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

The Lone Star Pinball Legends:

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

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