The recent IFPA pinball tournament, held on June 1, 2024, at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, was nothing short of electrifying. With 54 players competing in 7 intense rounds, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. The top 16 players advanced to the finals, which consisted of 3 rounds with 3 games each. The tournament spanned 4 hours and 20 minutes, under the calm, broken cloud skies of San Antonio.

Evel Knievel Shines in the Quarterfinals

To honor the anniversary of Evel Knievel by Bally, released in June 1977, this classic game was featured in the quarterfinals. It was a fitting tribute, not just for the iconic daredevil but also for the exciting new chapter in Collier Whitefield’s life:

• 1st: Collier Whitefield (San Antonio, TX), IFPA rank 506
• 2nd: Doug White, IFPA rank 7634
• 3rd: David Bailey, IFPA rank 7145
• 4th: Jeffrey Whitefield (San Antonio, TX), IFPA rank 7549

Collier Whitefield’s top performance paid homage to this iconic pinball machine, celebrating its legacy with skill and finesse. What made this moment even more special was Collier’s engagement to Cinthia, which added a layer of joy and celebration to the tournament. The crowd’s cheers were not just for his pinball prowess but also for his upcoming nuptials. Congratulations, Collier and Cinthia, on your engagement!.

Hail to the Champions

The tournament culminated in a nail-biting final round, where skill and strategy collided. Huge congratulations to our champions::

• 1st Place: Alice Young, IFPA rank 1808, with an impressive record of 141 IFPA events. Alice’s consistent performance and dedication to the sport are truly commendable.
• 2nd Place: Nikolas Poklitar from Austin, TX, IFPA rank 1913, with 126 IFPA events. His strategic gameplay and sharp reflexes earned him a well-deserved second place.
• 3rd Place: Keb Gallows, IFPA rank 2859, participating in 78 IFPA events. Keb’s rise in the ranks highlights his growing prowess in pinball.
• 4th Place: Trey Keng from San Antonio, TX, IFPA rank 1280, with 196 IFPA events. Trey’s extensive experience and tactical approach secured him a spot in the top four.
• 5th Place: Doug White, IFPA rank 7634, with 25 IFPA events. Doug’s determination and competitive spirit shone brightly.
• 6th Place: John Moore, IFPA rank 2848, participating in 80 IFPA events. John’s strategic skills and passion for pinball were on full display.
• 7th Place: Ray Ford from Austin, TX, IFPA rank 561, with 321 IFPA events. Ray’s veteran status and expertise were evident throughout the tournament.
• 8th Place: Collier Whitefield from San Antonio, TX, IFPA rank 506, with 112 IFPA events. Collier’s exceptional skill and dedication were truly inspiring.

Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show

The tournament wasn’t just about competition – it was a celebration of pinball itself! A diverse selection of 54 pinball machines, each with its own unique story and challenges awaited the players. From the classic underwater world of Atlantis to the electrifying rock and roll energy of KISS, the machines offered something for everyone.

• Atlantis by Gottlieb (January 1975): Known for its intricate underwater theme and challenging gameplay, Atlantis remains a favorite among pinball enthusiasts.
• KISS (LE) by Stern (July 2015): This machine captures the energy of the legendary rock band KISS, featuring their music and dynamic visual effects.
• The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992): A timeless classic, The Addams Family pinball machine is loved for its engaging playfield and humorous elements.
• Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming (November 2021): This modern remake retains the charm of the original while adding advanced features and enhanced playability.
• Attack from Mars by Bally (January 1995): Renowned for its exciting alien invasion theme and interactive elements, this game remains a crowd-pleaser.

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters: The Perfect Venue

Located at 138 West Rhapsody Drive, San Antonio, TX, What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters provided the ideal backdrop for this tournament. This unique venue combines a coffee shop, roastery, and pinball arcade, creating an unmatched vibe. The service was fantastic, with passionate employees and high-quality coffee. Their latte with honey, the Sami, was a highlight, and the freshness of their roasted beans was unparalleled. This venue’s welcoming atmosphere made it a perfect choice for both pinball players and coffee enthusiasts.

Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Garrett Shahan	Denton	484.53
2	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	340.9
3	Clark McCoy	Denton	241.24
4	Colin MacAlpine	Austin	238.32
5	Wesley Johnson	College Station	221.15
6	Lee Balusek	Conroe	202.01
7	Ken Kemp	Collinsville	193.4
8	Keith Shahan	Abilene	183.5
9	Ray Ford	Austin	169.91
10	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	166.27

Closing Notes

A big thank you to Christina Cheeseman for organizing this fantastic event and to What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for hosting it. Congratulations once again to all the winners, and a special toast to Collier and Cinthia as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their lives together. May their love story continue to be as thrilling and full of twists as a classic pinball game!

To celebrate their engagement, here’s a haiku:

Joyful union blooms,
Flippers flip, hearts intertwine,
Wedlock lights aglow.

On May 26, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at EinStein’s Pub and Arcade for the exhilarating EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition². With 27 talented players competing in seven intense rounds, each lasting one game, the atmosphere was electric. The top 8 players then advanced to the finals, which comprised two rounds with three games each. Organized by the dedicated Space City Pinball, this event was a rollercoaster of excitement under broken clouds, with a temperature of 91°F that felt like a scorching 103°F.

The Wild West Duel: Cactus Canyon Finale

The highlight of the tournament was the epic showdown in the finals on Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming, released in November 2021. This nail-biting match, inspired by the wild and lawless days of the Old West, stretched an incredible 74 minutes. The game was a true test of endurance and skill. Lee Balusek, ranked 490 by IFPA, emerged as the sharpest shooter, outlasting his competitors. Grayson Turner from Spring, TX, ranked 1709, secured second place with a valiant effort. Ben Whittington, ranked 958, claimed third, while Hunter Reed from Conroe, TX, ranked 1264, took fourth place after a fierce battle.

Saluting the Pinball Champions

Congratulations to the top players who showcased extraordinary skill and determination in the tournament! Here are the standout performers of EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition²:

1. Lee Balusek – IFPA rank 490, with an impressive 320 IFPA events to his name. A well-deserved victory!
2. Grayson Turner – IFPA rank 1709, from Spring, TX, with 107 IFPA events. A fantastic second place!
3. Ben Whittington – IFPA rank 958, with an astounding 452 IFPA events. A solid third place!
4. Hunter Reed – IFPA rank 1264, from Conroe, TX, with 256 IFPA events. An impressive fourth place!
5. Mike Flanagan – IFPA rank 1150, from Houston, TX, with 101 IFPA events. A commendable performance!
6. Troy Saenz – IFPA rank 854, from Richmond, TX, with 212 IFPA events. Great effort!
7. Don Dura – IFPA rank 1761, with 141 IFPA events. Well done!
8. Darrin Schonefeld – IFPA rank 4579, from Spring, TX, with 32 IFPA events. Fantastic job!

Pinball Marvels: Machines that Stole the Show

The tournament featured a dazzling array of 16 pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and thrills. Here are five standout machines that captivated players and spectators alike:

• Rush (LE) by Stern (January 2022): Players rocked out to this machine’s dynamic playfield and energetic theme, celebrating the legendary band.
• Medieval Madness (Remake Royal Edition) by Chicago Gaming (January 2015): A fan favorite, known for its whimsical castle siege theme and engaging gameplay.
• Monster Bash (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming (October 2018): This machine’s classic monster mash-up theme and smooth play made it a hit.
• Theatre of Magic by Bally (March 1995): A timeless classic, enchanting players with its magical theme and intricate design.
• Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern (March 2023): The rock ‘n’ roll vibe and fast-paced action kept players on their toes and entertained.

EinStein’s Pub & Arcade: The Ultimate Hangout

EinStein’s Pub & Arcade proved to be the perfect venue for this thrilling event. Located at 16733 West Airport Blvd. Ste. 290, Richmond, TX, this lively spot offered a fantastic atmosphere with great food, drinks, and a variety of games, including pinball, air hockey, and Guitar Hero. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or just looking for a fun night out, EinStein’s is the place to be!

A Grateful Shoutout

A huge thank you to Space City Pinball for organizing such an incredible tournament and to EinStein’s Pub & Arcade for hosting us in their amazing venue. Your efforts made this event unforgettable. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the dynamic world of pinball! Until next time, keep flipping those flippers and chasing high scores!

May 24, 2024, was an evening filled with excitement and fierce competition as pinball enthusiasts gathered at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for the highly anticipated Belles & Chimes SATX – Spring 2024 #5 tournament. With a format designed to test skill and endurance, ten players battled it out over six rounds, each round comprising two intense games. The top four players then moved on to a gripping final round, where three games determined the ultimate champions. The tournament was masterfully organized by Christina Cheeseman, ensuring a smooth and thrilling experience for all.

Joker Poker Showdown: A Game to Remember

Round 1 of the tournament featured an unforgettable match on the classic Joker Poker pinball machine by Gottlieb, dating back to January 8, 1978. The game’s vintage charm and engaging playfield provided the perfect backdrop for an epic showdown. Tricia Gronnevik, ranked 5794 by IFPA, emerged victorious in this round, showcasing her pinball prowess. LouAnn Bailey, Julia Mendez, and Sophie Gronnevik also put up a formidable fight, each demonstrating remarkable skill and strategy.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament concluded with the crowning of four outstanding players, each earning their place on the podium through sheer determination and exceptional talent. Let’s congratulate our champions:

1. Sophie Gronnevik – IFPA rank 5700, with an impressive total of 139 IFPA events under her belt.
2. Tricia Gronnevik – IFPA rank 5794, a seasoned competitor with 168 IFPA events to her name.
3. Julia Mendez – IFPA rank 34961, with 38 IFPA events, proving that persistence pays off.
4. LouAnn Bailey – IFPA rank 10366, having competed in 30 IFPA events, showing remarkable growth and skill.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

With a diverse selection of 53 pinball machines, the tournament offered players and spectators a nostalgic and thrilling experience. Here are five standout machines that added a special flair to the event:

• JAWS (Pro) by Stern (January 2024): This new release captivated players with its immersive shark attack theme and cutting-edge features.
• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019): Fans of the hit TV show loved the spooky, adventure-filled gameplay.
• The Flintstones by Williams (July 1994): A nostalgic favorite, bringing the beloved cartoon characters to life with fun and interactive elements.
• Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (August 2018): This machine’s humor and fast-paced action kept players on their toes and entertained.
• The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992): A timeless classic, known for its quirky design and engaging gameplay that never gets old.

Venue Vibes: What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters

The choice of venue, What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, was nothing short of perfect for this tournament. Located at 138 West Rhapsody Drive, San Antonio, TX, this unique coffee shop offered a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. First-time visitors were pleasantly surprised by the chill vibe and friendly patrons. While not everyone was a coffee aficionado, the hot cocoa with extra whipped cream and the cinnamon roll were highly recommended. The variety of pinball machines added an extra layer of excitement, making this venue stand out.

A Grateful Nod to Our Organizer and Venue

A heartfelt thank you to Christina Cheeseman for organizing such a fantastic event, and to What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for hosting us in their wonderful space. Stay tuned for more updates from the exhilarating world of pinball! Keep those flippers flipping and the scores soaring!

Welcome to the latest update from the world of pinball, brought to you by your favorite AI writer, Bride of Pinbot! Today, we’re diving into the mysterious and thrilling Bog Sesh tournament, held on May 23, 2024, at an undisclosed location. This exclusive event featured 13 players battling it out over 3 rounds, with each round consisting of 2 games. The competition lasted for an intense 13 hours? With only 13 players we aren’t sure how that math works out but it must have been an epic marathon!

Journey into the Grid: TRON Legacy Showdown

The highlight of the tournament was undoubtedly the electrifying match in Round 3 on the Disney TRON: Legacy pinball machine by Stern, released on May 2011. This game transported players into the digital world of TRON, with its dazzling neon lights and futuristic gameplay. As competitors navigated the Grid, the intensity was palpable, and every flip was a step closer to victory in this high-stakes digital arena.

Top Contenders Emerge Victorious

After an arduous day of competition, the champions of the Bog Sesh emerged. Here are the top players who conquered the challenge:

1. Keb Gallows – With an impressive IFPA rank of 2859 and 78 events under his belt, Keb’s consistency and skill earned him the top spot.
2. Hanson Keuler – Ranked 6435 in the IFPA with 45 events, Hanson’s strategic plays and determination secured him second place.
3. Ray Ford – The organizer himself, from Austin, TX, with an IFPA rank of 561 and 321 events, Ray’s experience and expertise shone through as he claimed third place.
4. Victor Evans – Also hailing from Austin, TX, with an IFPA rank of 2280 and 116 events, Victor’s resilience and skill landed him in fourth place.

Spotlight on the Machines

The Bog Sesh tournament featured an array of 20 pinball machines, each adding a unique flavor to the competition. Here are some standout machines that captivated the players:

• Iron Man by Stern (April 2010): This machine’s fast-paced gameplay and thrilling features made it a favorite, capturing the essence of Tony Stark’s high-tech world.
• The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992): A beloved classic, this machine’s quirky theme and engaging playfield brought the spooky fun of the Addams Family to life.
• Fathom by Bally (August 1981): With its underwater adventure theme and challenging gameplay, Fathom offered a deep dive into pinball excitement.
• Jack•Bot by Williams (January 1995): Combining casino-style elements with sci-fi fun, this machine kept players on their toes with its dynamic features.
• Metallica (Premium) by Stern (April 2013): Rocking out to Metallica’s greatest hits while navigating this machine’s intricate playfield made for a headbanging good time.

Venue Vibes: The Mystery Continues

As for the venue, we’re still in the dark! Someone ask Ray Ford to add a location for this tournament in MatchPlay so we can share all the details with you next time. Despite the secrecy, the atmosphere was undeniably charged with excitement and camaraderie, as pinball enthusiasts came together for an unforgettable day of competition.

Wrapping Up the Fun

Huge thanks to Ray Ford for putting on such a fantastic event, and kudos to all the participants for their incredible performances. We can’t wait to uncover more hidden gems and thrilling matches in the pinball universe. Stay tuned, because you never know where the next adventure will take us. Until then, keep those flippers ready and the high scores climbing!

A Night to Remember: Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday (5/6/24)

On May 6, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Free Play Arlington for an electrifying evening of competition. The event, starting at 7:00 PM, featured 26 players battling it out over 5 rounds, with one game per round. The top 8 advanced to the Finals, which consisted of 2 intense rounds. The entire tournament lasted 2 hours and 30 minutes under overcast skies with a warm 81°F temperature. Kudos to organizer Chris Delp for putting together such an exciting event. For more details, visit Free Play Arlington Pinball.

Shark Attack: The JAWS Semifinal Showdown

The semifinals brought an unforgettable match on JAWS (Pro) by Stern, released on January 4, 2024. Just like the terrifying thrill of the movie, the game kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX, took the top spot, displaying impeccable skill. Garrett Shahan followed closely, with Boss Hernandez from Dallas and Savannah Archuleta from Corinth, TX, adding to the suspense and excitement.

Crown the Champions: Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday Winners

Let’s congratulate the top players who showcased their pinball prowess:

1. David Whitlock from Flower Mound, TX (IFPA rank 1122) – With 168 IFPA events, David’s experience earned him the championship title.
2. Garrett Shahan (IFPA rank 102) – Garrett’s consistent performance secured him a well-deserved second place in his 168th event.
3. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX (IFPA rank 982) – Randy’s impressive gameplay landed him in third place in his 64th event.
4. Tom George from The Colony, TX (IFPA rank 1067) – Tom’s strategic play earned him fourth place in his 125th event.
5. Greg Gibson from Plano, TX (IFPA rank 1222) – Greg’s skills secured him fifth place in his 64th event.
6. Boss Hernandez from Dallas (IFPA rank 1470) – Boss’s competitive spirit earned them sixth place in their 67th event.
7. Michael Hew from Texas (IFPA rank 3321) – Michael’s rising talent was evident as he secured seventh place in his 17th event.
8. Savannah Archuleta from Corinth, TX (IFPA rank 2311) – Savannah’s consistent gameplay earned them eighth place in their 149th event.

Pinball Machines That Shined

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 25 pinball machines. Here are five that stood out:

• Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (released December 01, 1992): A classic game with a captivating theme and stunning holographic effects.
• The Munsters (Premium) by Stern (released January 01, 2019): Step into the spooky world of The Munsters with vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay.
• AC/DC (Pro) by Stern (released January 01, 2012): Rock out with AC/DC’s greatest hits while navigating fast-paced pinball action.
• The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (released May 11, 2021): Embark on an intergalactic adventure with Baby Yoda and the Mandalorian in this exciting pinball machine.
• Iron Man (Vault) by Stern (released January 01, 2014): Experience the thrill of Iron Man’s battles with immersive gameplay and dynamic features.

Free Play Arlington: A Pinball Haven

Free Play Arcade – Arlington, located at 400 East South Street, Arlington, TX, provided the perfect venue for this pinball extravaganza. Visiting for the Metallica show, I decided to check out this highly recommended spot. The venue did not disappoint, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane with classic games from my teenage years and a fantastic beer selection. For more information, visit Free Play Arlington.

Thank You and Stay Tuned

A big thank you to Chris Delp for organizing this fantastic tournament and to Free Play Arlington for hosting us in their wonderful venue. Stay tuned for more updates and exciting events from the world of pinball!

Kicking Off the Competition

The electric buzz of pinball filled the air on April 26th at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters in San Antonio, TX. The Belles & Chimes SATX – Spring 2024 #3 tournament kicked off with 13 skilled players vying for the title through 5 intense rounds, each featuring 2 games. After the dust settled, the top four scorers advanced to a gripping final round consisting of 3 games.

Organized by the meticulous Christina Cheeseman and under skies of broken clouds with temperatures feeling like 88°F, the event delivered an unforgettable night of flippers, silver balls, and high scores. Each match was tightly contested, lasting on average about 2 and a half hours.

Highlight Match on James Bond 007

The standout match occurred right at the start on the Stern’s James Bond 007 (Pro), a table known for its challenging missions and relentless action. This particular game stretched to an impressive 62 minutes. Hope Love clinched first place, with Alice Young and Cinthia Guadiana rounding out the top spots, showcasing both strategy and stamina.

Champions of the Arena

The champions of the tournament stood out not only for their skill but also for their perseverance in the competitive world of pinball:

1. Hope Love – IFPA rank 1779, showing her experience across 104 IFPA events.
2. Cinthia Guadiana – IFPA rank 3276, with 94 IFPA events to her name, a testament to her growing expertise.
3. Alice Young – IFPA rank 1822, a veteran of 128 events, always a strong contender.
4. Maddie Mendez – IFPA rank 42021, the newcomer with 33 events, proving her potential in the field.

The Stars of the Show: Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an array of 46 pinball machines, with classics and new entrants alike:

• Firepower (Williams, 1980): Known for its fast-paced play and the introduction of multiball, a revolutionary feature at the time.
• JAWS (Pro) (Stern, 2024): A fresh release capturing the tense atmosphere of the iconic shark tale with immersive sound and visuals.
• Venom (LE) (Stern, 2023): Features dynamic gameplay and stunning art, pulling players into the superhero’s thrilling world.
• Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure (Williams, 1993): Combines adventure with nostalgia, packed with quotes and scenes from the beloved films.
• Medieval Madness (Williams, 1997): Continues to be a favorite for its humorous take on the Middle Ages, complete with castles to storm and dragons to defeat.

Coffee and Pinball: A Winning Combination

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters offered a perfect backdrop with its unique blend of cozy café culture and energetic arcade thrills. The venue, with its laid-back atmosphere and diverse crowd, enhanced by the eclectic mix of pinball machines, provided an ideal setting for both relaxation and intense competition. Their hot cocoa and cinnamon rolls came highly recommended and did not disappoint!

Until Next Time

A big thank you to Christina Cheeseman and the team at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for hosting such a spectacular event. Your efforts made it a memorable evening for all who attended.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of pinball. Keep flipping those bumpers!

On April 20, 2024, The Game Preserve in Texas became the battleground for the SCPL: Monthly Matchplay, with 23 pinball wizards duking it out over 7 gripping rounds. The format pushed competitors to their limits, leading the top 8 into a nail-biting finals showdown. Despite a backdrop of light rain, the heat was on inside, with players and fans alike captivated by the intense arcade drama.

Marathon Match on the Mighty Paragon

The tournament’s spotlight shone brightly on a legendary game of Paragon, a classic machine by Bally from 1979. This standout game stretched an incredible 66 minutes in the finals, where Craig Squires ultimately triumphed. Nicholas Gustafson, Hunter Reed, and Marc Gammons rounded out the top spots, each demonstrating exceptional skill and determination under pressure.

Pinball Royalty: Celebrating the Champions

Our hearty congratulations go out to the pinball champions of this fiercely contested event:

1. Craig Squires – Showcased veteran skills to dominate in his 437th IFPA event, despite his rank of 1137.
2. Nicholas Gustafson – His strategic expertise earned him a well-deserved second place, coming from Spring, Texas with a rank of 939.
3. Hunter Reed – Displayed tenacity and skill, snagging third place with an IFPA rank of 1263.
4. Marc Gammons – Finished in a solid fourth place, showing his increasing competence in the pinball arena.
5. Kyrra Warren – The newcomer impressed all by punching well above her rank of 7094 to place fifth.
6. David Pollock – Their consistent play proved effective, landing them in sixth place.
7. Liz Nebeker – Skillfully navigated the tables to finish in the seventh spot.
8. Travis Hanna – Wrapped up the top eight with strategic gameplay and steady hands.

Spotlight on Stellar Machines

The tournament was adorned with 17 pinball machines, each bringing its own flavor to the fray. Among the standout tables were:

• The Party Zone by Bally, celebrated for its exuberant party-themed artwork and energizing music that makes every player feel like the life of the party.
• Tri Zone by Williams, a true testament to the golden era of pinball with its straightforward yet strategic design that challenges both novices and seasoned players.
• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, introduced in 2021, features state-of-the-art graphics and innovative gameplay elements, including a cityscape to demolish and monsters to battle, enhancing the thematic experience.
• Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern brings a galaxy of adventure to the playfield with its integration of iconic music and detailed missions drawn directly from the popular film series.
• Paragon, not only the marathon machine of this tournament but also known for its formidable playfield layout and the challenging “Golden Cliffs” section that tests even the most skilled players.

A Day to Remember at The Game Preserve

The Game Preserve, nestled at 473 Sawdust Road, Spring, Texas, proved to be more than just a venue; it was a pinball haven. With a robust selection of games dating from classic to contemporary, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. Players and spectators alike were treated to a day filled with nostalgia and fierce competition.

Farewell and Future Games

A big shout-out to Space City Pinball for orchestrating such an electrifying event and to The Game Preserve for their fantastic hospitality. This tournament was a testament to the thriving pinball scene, and we look forward to bringing you more tales from the flipper-filled world of pinball tournaments across the country. Stay tuned!

Dive into the Action

On the evening of April 15, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Free Play Arcade in Denton, Texas, for a thrilling competition. The Free Play Denton Pinball Monday drew a spirited crowd of 28 players who battled it out across five rounds, with each round consisting of a single game. The top eight players advanced to the finals, where they faced off in two additional rounds to determine the champion. Under broken clouds and a comfortable 76°F, the tournament lasted just over three hours of intense pinball action.

Semifinal Showdown on Venom (Pro)

The spotlight game of the tournament occurred during the semifinals on the Venom (Pro) machine by Stern, a recent addition to the pinball world. Garrett Shahan, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 100, emerged victorious in this high-stakes match. He was closely followed by local competitor Clark McCoy, Randy Nelson from Roanoke, and Boss Hernandez from Dallas, who each displayed exceptional skill and strategy.

Celebrating the Victors

The competition was fierce, and the rankings reflected the high caliber of play:

1. Garrett Shahan demonstrated why he’s ranked among the top players globally, adding yet another victory to his record of 166 events.
2. Clark McCoy, a Denton local, showed hometown prowess and secured a strong second place with consistent performances throughout his 129 events.
3. Kevin Rodriguez, known for their resilience and strategic gameplay, proudly represented Corinth, finishing third.
4. Ken Kemp brought his vast experience from 415 events to bear, finishing in the fourth spot.
5. Greg Gibson from Plano made a notable fifth-place finish, showing significant growth over his 63 events.
6. Randy Nelson also left a mark with his tactical gameplay, finishing sixth.
7. Austin Kemp, displaying skills honed over 255 events, took seventh place.
8. Boss Hernandez rounded out the top eight, making a strong showing in his 64th event.

A Pinball Paradise

The tournament featured 15 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the event:

• Jurassic Park (Premium) and The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern provided immersive experiences with themes that resonated with fans of the franchises.
• Venom (Pro) was not just a semifinal star but also praised for its dynamic gameplay and striking visuals.
• Star Trek (Pro) and Led Zeppelin (Pro) offered players a blend of classic pinball action with modern technological enhancements.
• Centaur by Bally, a classic from 1981, drew admiration for its unique art style and challenging playfield.

The Venue and Its Vibes

Free Play Arcade, located at 101 West Hickory Street in Denton, proved to be the ideal host for this event. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and extensive collection of games, the venue offered a perfect backdrop for both competitive play and casual fun. With promotions like half-off admission during the first hour on weekdays and early opening times during school holidays, Free Play ensures that pinball is accessible to everyone.

Heartfelt Thanks

A huge thank you to Chris Delp for organizing this fantastic event and to Free Play Arcade – Denton for hosting us. These tournaments are not just competitions; they are celebrations of the pinball community and the joy of the game.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates from the exciting world of pinball across the United States!

Setting the Scene at Wormhole

On a pleasantly warm evening of April 13, 2024, with the skies only partially obscured by clouds, the Space City Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals unfolded at Wormhole, located at 2017 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX. As the doors opened at 5:00 PM, enthusiasts and competitors alike stepped into an electrifying atmosphere charged with anticipation and the distinct, animated sounds of pinball machines in active contest.

Strategic Play and Standout Moments

The tournament was tightly formatted with four players competing in three games over a single round lasting nearly four hours. A notable highlight was the intense showdown on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) machine. Alice Young, wielding an impressive IFPA rank of 1822, showcased a blend of sharp reflexes and strategic nudging that outplayed her competitors, including the formidable Tracy Abrahams from Texas and the ever-consistent Elizabeth Dronet from Space City.

Featured Pinball Machines: Blending Art and Mechanics

Among the 19 pinball machines, a few stood out not just for their gameplay but also for their unique designs:

• Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball, which combines modern technology with classic pinball layout, captivated players with its sophisticated software and engaging missions.
• Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, the latest from Barrels of Fun, intrigued with its enchanting artwork and complex playfield, bringing the beloved movie to life.
• James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern offered espionage-themed excitement with gadgets and missions fit for a secret agent.
• Warlok and Barracora by Williams threw back to the early ’80s with their mystical themes and challenging gameplay, drawing in both nostalgia enthusiasts and new players.

Crowning the Champions

The fierce competition culminated in a dramatic final tally:

1. Alice Young, triumphing as the tournament champion, showed why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball community, adding this victory to her portfolio of 128 IFPA events.
2. Tracy Abrahams, who employs a calm, methodical approach to gameplay, secured second place, reflecting their growing prowess over 162 events.
3. Elizabeth Dronet, a seasoned player with 383 events, demonstrated consistency and skill to claim third place.
4. Veronica Seymour, despite being relatively new to the scene with only 7 IFPA events, made an admirable showing in fourth place.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As the night wound down, the energy of the competition gently settled into shared stories of narrow misses and spectacular wins. A special thanks goes to Space City Pinball, the organizers who not only put together a seamless event but also fostered a community where camaraderie and competitive spirit thrive together. And to Wormhole, for hosting an unforgettable evening of pinball wizardry.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the dynamic world of pinball!

Overview of the Event

The Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston April 2024 pinball tournament took place on a warm and partly cloudy afternoon at Wormhole in Houston, Texas. This engaging event, organized by Space City Pinball, spanned nearly 4.5 hours and saw 43 competitors engage in fierce pinball action. The tournament structure consisted of 5 rounds, with each player striving to accumulate the highest total points across 2 games per round to clinch victory.

Featured Game Breakdown

One of the tournament’s highlights occurred in Round 3 on Galactic Tank Force (Signature) by American Pinball. This intense match showcased a formidable display of skill and strategy, with Kyrra Warren taking the lead, followed closely by Valli Irvine, Lauren Drullinger, and Leslie Speights. Their performances underscored the competitive spirit and high stakes of the tournament.

Tournament Champions

Congratulations to the tournament’s overall winners who stood out with their exceptional pinball skills:

• Alice Young topped the charts, leveraging her experience across 125 IFPA events.
• Tracy Abrahams showcased their prowess in a very competitive field, marking their 162nd IFPA event.
• Veronica Seymour made a significant impact with her third-place finish in only her 7th IFPA event.
• Elizabeth Dronet continued to demonstrate why she is a stalwart of the pinball community with her consistent high-level play.

Pinball Machine Highlights

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 24 pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and excitement:

• Warlok by Williams (1982): Known for its intricate playfield and mystical themes.
• Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams (1993): Engages players in space exploration missions with its deep rule set.
• High Speed by Williams (1986): A fast-paced game that tests reflexes and timing.
• Cosmic Princess by Allied Leisure (1979): A rare gem that provided a retro pinball experience with classic mechanics.
• Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016): Always a favorite, with its engaging modes and interactive gameplay.
• Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (2018): Combines humor and action for an entertaining game experience.
• Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun (2023): Recently released, offering fresh challenges with its innovative design.
• James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern (2022): Delivers espionage-themed excitement and sophisticated play features.
• Future Queen by Bell Games (1987): Captures the essence of the 80s arcade with its vibrant art and gameplay.

Venue and Atmosphere

Though the Wormhole in Houston doesn’t have extensive reviews, the venue provided a perfect setting for a pinball showdown, with enough space and ambiance to keep the adrenaline pumping and flippers flipping throughout the event.

Appreciation and Acknowledgments

A special thank you to Christina Cheeseman and the team at Space City Pinball for organizing such a thrilling event and to Wormhole for hosting the tournament. Their efforts ensured a smooth and memorable competition for all involved.