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!

The scorching Texan heat at 101°F wasn’t the only thing setting Austin on fire on September 24th, 2023. By 3:00 PM, with rain cooling down the fervor outdoors, inside Epic Fun, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The Bat City Epic Fun Monthly pinball tournament was unfolding, and it was indeed Epic.

The Round Robin Rumble

Dick Curtis, the grandmaster of the event, had the venue buzzing with the energy of a true unsupported round-robin. With 102 players battling on 12 pinball machines simultaneously, the sheer logistics of the event were dizzying. After what must have been a marathon session of 20 hours and 37 minutes, the top four emerged, ready to enter the finals with four rounds of fierce pinball competition.

Dirty Harry’s Dominance

The 1995 Williams classic, Dirty Harry, was the undoubted darling of the event with a whopping 19 games played on it. As the flippers clacked and bells rang, players navigated the crime-filled streets of San Francisco, channeling Clint Eastwood with every shot.

Mandalorian Magic in the Finals

However, the most talked-about game was during the finals on The Mandalorian (Pro). This modern marvel by Stern from 2021 became the backdrop of an intense face-off. Colin MacAlpine, with an IFPA rank of just 24, showcased his expertise and secured first place, leaving Jason Newman, Jonathon Morales, and John Walter in his wake.

The Clash of Titans

• 1st – Colin MacAlpine, demonstrating why he’s ranked 24 in the IFPA, clinched the top spot.
• 2nd – Jonathon Morales, not far behind in skills and passion, secured the second position.
• 3rd – John Walter, a rising star in the pinball world.
• 4th – Jason Newman, proving that every game, every flip, and every point counts in a tournament of this scale.

The Pinball Pantheon

The venue featured a bevy of 16 pinball machines, with some real legends in the mix:

• The Addams Family by Bally, a hauntingly fun experience.
• Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure, which took players on a thrilling archeological quest.
• Batman by Data East, for the superhero enthusiasts.
• Godzilla (Pro) and Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern – the recent sensations.
• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) – an epic battle to save the universe.
• Cirqus Voltaire by Bally, a visual spectacle.
• Street Fighter II, reminiscent of the classic arcade game.

And of course, The Mandalorian (Pro), which undoubtedly stole the show.

Where Fun Meets Epic

The venue, Epic Fun, lived up to its name. More than just pinball, it’s a wonderland of games and entertainment. Bowling, bumper cars, arcade games – the possibilities were endless. With its top-notch maintenance, friendly staff, and family-friendly ambiance, it’s no wonder this venue has become a weekly retreat for many Austin locals.

The Lone Star State’s Pinball Leaders

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	501.13
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.74
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	327.55
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	227.22
9	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	212.66
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	210.54

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With the Bat City Epic Fun Monthly culminating in such a grand fashion, Austin’s pinball community is already eagerly awaiting the next showdown. As they say in pinball – the ball is wild, and so was this tournament!

On a sweltering Texas afternoon with temperatures touching a blistering 96°F (feeling more like 108°F, if you ask me!), the EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition² pinball tournament added its own brand of heat. Hosted at the spectacular EinStein’s Pub and Arcade in Richmond, this event, organized by the stellar Space City Pinball, brought 23 competitors together for almost 4 hours of intense pinball battles.

The Longest Duel: Turtles in Time!

While all games were epic in their own right, one game took the proverbial cake. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Premium/LE) witnessed a marathon 77-minute game during the Finals. We kid you not. It’s like the Turtles went back in time and we were all there to witness it!

Results for that historic game:

• 🥇 Jim Mueller (IFPA rank 392)
• 🥈 Don Dura (IFPA rank 1310)
• 🥉 Elizabeth Dronet from Space City (IFPA rank 1534)
• 🏅 Brian Fults from Longville, LA (IFPA rank 1461)

Champions of the Day

Amidst the cacophony of clinking balls and triumphant cheers, these players emerged as the ultimate pinball wizards:

1. Jim Mueller: IFPA rank 392, with a whopping 103 IFPA events under his belt.
2. Don Dura: IFPA rank 1310, just one event behind at 104.
3. Brian Fults from Longville, LA: IFPA rank 1461, seasoned with 95 events.
4. Elizabeth Dronet from Space City: IFPA rank 1534, the veteran of the group with 332 events.
5. Chris Geist: IFPA rank 606, another veteran with 297 events.
6. Bill Nebeker: IFPA rank 2519 with a solid 146 events.
7. Chris Low: IFPA rank 1690, crossing the century mark with 101 events.
8. Grayson Turner from Spring, TX: IFPA rank 5243, still making waves with 34 events.

Legacy in Machines

EinStein’s lineup truly was a feast for the eyes, representing a blend of old-school classics and modern-day marvels:

• Iron Man (Vault) by Stern – a metallic spectacle from 2014.
• Guardians of the Galaxy (LE) by Stern – journeying through the galaxy since 2017.
• The Munsters (Premium) by Stern – bringing the monstrous fun from 2019.
• James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern – introducing us to the spy realm in 2022.
• Ghostbusters (Premium) by Stern – who you gonna call since 2016?
• Star Wars (Premium) by Stern – a galactic battle that began in 2017.
• Guns N’ Roses (CE) by Jersey Jack Pinball – rocking since 2020.
• Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball – a golden ticket from 2019.
• Theatre of Magic by Bally – a magical journey that started in 1995.
• … and the list goes on with more electrifying pinball platforms!

Venue Vibes

EinStein’s isn’t just an arcade; it’s an experience. With cheap beers, friendly bartenders (shout-out to Tara, Nick, and Eric!), and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder fans don’t mind the drive from downtown. But remember – bring your quarters, and if you forget, they’ve got you covered with change machines!

Texas Pinball Standings: The Titans

As we wrap up our coverage of the event, here’s a snapshot of the best in Texas pinball:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	501.13
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.72
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	327.54
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.09
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

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From long-lasting games to pulsating face-offs, this tournament had it all. The Texas sun might’ve been hot, but the pinball action? Definitely hotter! Stay tuned to this space for more from the thrilling world of pinball!

In the heart of Texas, specifically at Low’s Sound Lab in Houston, 21 women stood with laser focus, poised to take on the flippers and become pinball goddesses of the Space City. Welcome to the second installment of the “Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level,” an enchanting night of pinball where flair met skill.

When Time Stood Still at Cactus Canyon

In Round 1, the atmosphere reached peak intensity when the players huddled around Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming. The game stretched on for an eye-popping 69 minutes. Imagine the determination and intense concentration that went into each flipper shot! Summer Ellington, a newcomer with an unranked IFPA status, astonished everyone by taking first place. Following her were Miette Dronet, Liz Nebeker, and Elizabeth Dronet, seasoned players who surely felt the heat of the newcomer’s zeal.

The Cream of the Crop

The end of the tournament heralded a new sisterhood of pinball champions:

1. Dawn Hayes – IFPA rank 5250, yet her play defied numbers as she snagged the top spot.
2. Emily Hoffman – From Katy, TX, she showcased why she’s attended 126 IFPA events with a stellar second-place finish.
3. Gina Low – Also from Katy, TX, Gina’s experience in 146 IFPA events shined through as she took third place.
4. Miette Dronet – Her lengthy IFPA history (213 events) paid off as she rounded out the top four.

Pinball Machine Majesty

Low’s Sound Lab was practically a museum of pinball history, featuring 19 exquisite machines, each with its unique allure. Here are some of the highlights:

• Diner by Williams: An old-school charm that still fascinates players to this day.
• Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams: A voyage into space and strategic gameplay.
• Jurassic Park by Data East: This dinosaur-themed wonder tested reflexes as well as nerves.
• The Addams Family by Bally: The quirkiest family in pop culture got the pinball treatment it deserves.
• Fish Tales by Williams: A serene yet cunning machine where angling met pinball.

Mysterious Vibes

We wish we could reveal more about the atmosphere inside Low’s Sound Lab, but for now, it remains an enigma, with Space City Pinball withholding the venue details on MatchPlay. One thing is clear, however: the secretive aura only adds to the allure.

Lone Star Pinball Maestros

To give you an idea of where this tournament fits into the broader picture, here are the latest IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	490
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.72
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	320.84
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.09
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	223.13
9	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	212.23
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	210.55

It’s a wrap for now, but make no mistake: the women of the Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level are already aiming for the next high score. Until then, keep flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the incredible realm of pinball! 🌵🚀

As the last golden rays of a sunlit evening painted Denton, the Free Play Arcade on West Hickory Street brimmed with a unique energy. The temperature outside was a comfortable 89°F, but inside, the competitive heat was palpable.

A Venue Buzzing with Nostalgia

Free Play Arcade – Denton, often recognized for its impressive lineup of classic games, added another feather to its cap by hosting the eagerly-awaited Free Play Denton Pinball Monday. Early attendees, especially families, made the most of the venue, reminiscing old memories with every flip and tilt of the pinball machines. One visitor recounted, “The game choices were top-notch! It felt like a steal for the admission price. Only wish they had air hockey!”

The Game’s Afoot: Tournament Overview

Organized by the ever-enthusiastic Chris Delp, the tournament ran for a tight 3 hours, adopting a structure of 5 qualifying rounds where 26 players hustled in groups. The strategy was simple yet tricky: earn points based on your finishing position in each round. The top 8, having proved their mettle, would then move onto the electrifying finals consisting of 2 rounds. The formula ensured thrill, skill, and a few upsets along the way!

The Machines That Echoed Legends

Among the 77 pinball machines, standouts included Stern’s futuristic ‘Disney TRON: Legacy‘ and the spooky ‘Scared Stiff’ by Bally. Fans of movies and comics found solace in machines like ‘Jurassic Park (Premium)‘, ‘Iron Man (Vault)‘, and ‘Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro)‘. And for those seeking a blast from the past, ‘Vector‘ by Bally, a gem from 1981, provided just that.

The Clash of Titans: Game Spotlight

The finals saw an unforgettable face-off on ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro)‘. Randy Nelson, with an IFPA rank of 3548, surprised everyone by clinching the top spot, narrowly defeating Denton’s very own Kevin Rodriguez.

Champions of the Evening

The tournament crowned Randy Nelson as its champion. Kevin Rodriguez from Denton, Mike Archuleta from Corinth, and the Shahan brothers from Abilene and Denton respectively, rounded off the top 5, with impressive scores and skillful gameplay.

IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	490
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.76
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	320.83
5	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	255.09
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	223.13
9	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	212.23
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	206.92

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As flippers ceased flipping and the neon glow dimmed, one thing was clear: the heart of Texas beats in sync with the pulsating rhythm of pinball. Until the next showdown, keep those scores soaring!

The hum of pinball machines, the twinkling of neon lights, and the adrenaline in the air. No, this isn’t a Las Vegas casino; it’s the LOWer Level #1 pinball tournament organized by Space City Pinball at Low’s Sound Lab in Houston, TX. Here’s a rundown of an unforgettable night of pinball passion!

Setting The Stage

The secrecy of the undisclosed location added a touch of mystique to the evening. With a generous 7+ hour run-time, 16 competitors took to their stations, ready to prove their mettle across 2 rounds and 3 games per round. The stakes? Glory, recognition, and the claim to being Houston’s top pinballer.

Drama on the “Pool Sharks” Table

Every tournament has its crown jewel moment, and this one came in the form of an intense battle on the Pool Sharks machine. Lasting an unbelievable 65 minutes, it had the crowd biting their nails, drinking copious amounts of beverages, and honestly wondering if they should have brought a sleeping bag. In the end, Gina Low emerged triumphant, followed closely by Miette Dronet, Emily Hoffman, and Dawn Freedkin. Kudos to all for enduring!

Machines of the Hour

Speaking of pinball machines, LOWer Level #1 boasted a collection to die for. The classic vibe of Diner met with the high-octane energy of The Getaway: High Speed II. The dark allure of Bram Stoker’s Dracula contrasted with the roaring beasts of Jurassic Park. The newly introduced James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern was another standout, offering a touch of suave sophistication to the mix.

The Triumph of Tactics

The night’s ultimate victors exhibited both skill and strategy. The surprise win came from Liz Nebeker, taking the crown with their strategic gameplay. Following them were Annabeth Dronet, Maritza Chirichigno, and Gina Low. A huge round of applause for their tenacity and unmatched pinball prowess!

Texas Top 10 Pinball Wizards

It wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the maestros of Texas pinball. Here’s a quick peek:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	490
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.76
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	320.83
5	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
6	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	248.59
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	223.13
9	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	211.3
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	206.72

Until the Next Ball Drops

What a night! The LOWer Level #1 pinball tournament was a whirlwind of emotions, strategy, and some downright unbelievable pinball action. To all the competitors, audience, and of course, the iconic pinball machines, we tip our hats to you.

Keep those flippers flipping and see you at the next epic pinball showdown!

It’s not every day you find a venue that melds the buzzing energy of pinball with the aromatic allure of freshly roasted coffee. But on September 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM, that’s precisely what was brewing at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters in San Antonio, Texas.

Coffee, Machines, and a Little Competitive Spirit

Over the course of approximately 2.5 hours, 14 passionate pinball players faced off, darting between 46 pinball machines, each round fueled by the café’s exquisite coffee. Organized by the dynamic Christina Cheeseman, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #1 pinball tournament had the perfect blend of competition and camaraderie.

A Joker’s Wild Throwback

The highlight reel moment? Round 2’s game on the vintage Joker Poker machine by Gottlieb, a throwback from January 1978. Alice Young, with an impressive IFPA rank of 2385, outperformed the competition, leaving Kelsea Gass and Valli Irvine in her wake. Joker Poker might be a game from yesteryears, but it proved that in the world of pinball, old is indeed gold!

Top Players and Timeless Machines

By the end of the evening, the cream of the crop emerged. Alice Young clinched the top spot, followed closely by Melody Zisman and Hope Love. Valli Irvine, hailing from Austin, TX, also made her mark by securing the 4th position.

The venue was replete with machines ranging from classics to new-age marvels. “Centaur” by Bally, “Evel Knievel” by Bally, “Champion Pub” by Bally, and “James Bond 007 (Pro)” by Stern were just a few that stood out. Whether players fancied the heroics of James Bond or the raw thrill of No Fear: Dangerous Sports, there was a game for every taste.

More Than Just a Coffee Shop

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters isn’t your typical caffeine haunt. The ambiance screams innovation, from the transparent process flavor experimentation to the symphony of coffee beans teasing your curiosity. The real icing on the cake? An astounding collection of pinball machines, striking a balance between the inner child and the mature coffee connoisseur in every visitor. It’s a crescendo of flavors, sights, and sounds – a future trendsetter in the realm of coffee shops.

Texas’s Top Pinballers

The Lone Star State’s pinball scene is nothing short of electric. Here’s a glimpse of Texas’s pinball prowess:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	490
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	442.76
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.48
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	320.83
5	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
6	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	248.59
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	246.12
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	223.13
9	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	211.3
10	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	206.72

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In a world where pinball and premium coffee collide, the Belles & Chimes SATX tournament was more than just a competition. It was an experience, an aromatic journey filled with flashing lights, clinking flippers, and the soft murmur of excited conversations.

Stay flipping fantastic, and catch you at the next update from the radiant realm of pinball!