An Evening of Pinball Magic in Arlington

On a mild January night, Free Play Arlington was abuzz with the sounds of pinballs and the excitement of enthusiasts. The Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday tournament, organized by Chris Delp, brought together 28 competitors for a thrilling 3-hour showdown on January 8, 2024, under a sky of scattered clouds at 53°F.

The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy

Competitors faced off in 6 intense rounds, each round consisting of a single game where precision and strategy were key. The top 8 players then advanced to the finals, a nail-biting culmination of the evening’s pinball prowess.

Finals Showdown: Deadpool (Pro) Takes Center Stage

The tournament’s climax unfolded on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro). This game was not just a test of skill but also an electrifying entertainment experience, showcasing the best of modern pinball. Garrett Shahan emerged as the victor, with Rick Miller, Mike Archuleta, and Randy Nelson following closely.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament’s winners demonstrated exceptional skill and a deep understanding of the game:

1. Garrett Shahan – IFPA rank 131
2. Rick Miller – IFPA rank 555
3. Mike Archuleta from Corinth, TX – IFPA rank 1832
4. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX – IFPA rank 1882

A Lineup of Legendary Machines

With 18 pinball machines on hand, players enjoyed a diverse range of games, from Stern’s recent Rush (Pro) and Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) to classics like Bally’s Attack from Mars. Each machine offered its unique challenges and joys, contributing to an unforgettable tournament experience.

The Vibrant Venue: Free Play Arlington

Free Play Arlington, renowned for its fantastic collection of games, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament. Players reveled in the nostalgia of rediscovering old favorites and exploring new challenges, making the venue more than just an arcade, but a treasure trove of pinball history.

Stay tuned for more exciting tales from the world of pinball!

As the holiday season drew to a close, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Lit Mas Melee #4 pinball tournament added a final dash of festive excitement. Hosted at What’s Brewing? in San Antonio, Texas, on a clear December evening, the event, organized by Christina Cheeseman, was a delightful mix of pinball action, coffee aromas, and friendly competition.

What’s Brewing?: A Unique Blend of Coffee and Pinball

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters is not just a coffee shop; it’s an experience. With its quirky combination of high-quality coffee and nostalgic pinball machines, it’s like stepping into Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, if he were a pinball enthusiast. The unique concept, delightful coconut mocha, and ample parking make it a must-visit spot in San Antonio.

The Tournament: A Showdown of Skill and Strategy

With 5 rounds, each featuring 2 games, the tournament saw 13 players in a spirited battle for pinball glory. The competition was fierce, with players accumulating points in each round, leading to an intense final where the top 4 players faced off.

Round 1: A Thrilling Game on James Bond 007

The tournament kicked off with a standout game on James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern, a recent favorite among pinball enthusiasts. Lori Love, Lauren Drullinger, Rebecca Salam, and Julia Mendez navigated the spy-themed challenges of the game, setting the tone for the rest of the evening.

Celebrating the Victorious Players

A hearty congratulations to Lauren Drullinger for emerging as the tournament champion! Lori Love, Rebecca Salam, and Julia Mendez also demonstrated remarkable skill and strategy, earning their well-deserved spots in the top rankings.

Machines That Captured the Spirit

The tournament featured a remarkable lineup of pinball machines. Baywatch by Sega and Medieval Madness by Williams offered a throwback to classic pinball. Ghostbusters (Pro) and Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming added modern thrills, while Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast and Star Wars (Pro) by Stern brought in a rock and sci-fi edge.

A Perfect Blend of Festivity and Pinball

The Lit Mas Melee #4 Tournament was more than a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit, especially among women players. Amidst the holiday cheer, the event was a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that pinball brings.

A New Year of Pinball Adventures Ahead

As participants left What’s Brewing?, they took with them memories of a fantastic evening and a renewed enthusiasm for the game. This tournament might just have been the perfect way to bid farewell to the holiday season and welcome the new year with flippers ready.

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball, where every game is a story waiting to be told and every coffee break an opportunity for a new high score.

On a clear December evening in Denton, Texas, with temperatures dipping to a crisp 52°F, the Free Play Denton Pinball Monday tournament came alive. Held on December 18, 2023, at Free Play Arcade – Denton, this event, meticulously organized by Chris Delp, drew a crowd of enthusiastic pinball players and fans alike.

The Venue: A Hub of Excitement and Entertainment

Free Play Arcade – Denton, located at 101 West Hickory Street, is more than just an arcade. It’s a vibrant community spot where kindness and camaraderie reign supreme. Despite a small hiccup with unsupervised children, the venue’s atmosphere was buzzing with excitement, offering discounts for students and military personnel and ensuring a rotation around the games for all.

High Stakes on James Bond 007 (Pro)

The highlight of the tournament was the final showdown on Stern’s James Bond 007 (Pro), released in September 2022. Austin Kemp triumphed in this high-tension game, closely followed by Garrett Shahan, with Ken Kemp and Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, rounding out the top four.

Champions of the Night

The event saw some stellar gameplay from its participants, with the top contenders exhibiting exceptional pinball skills:

• 1st Place: Austin Kemp, showcasing remarkable precision and strategy.
• 2nd Place: Garrett Shahan, a close contender with impressive plays.
• 3rd Place: Ken Kemp, demonstrating consistent performance.
• 4th Place: Clark McCoy, known for their tactical approach.

A Diverse Lineup of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured a total of 14 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition. Notable among them were:

• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern and The Mandalorian (Premium), offering modern pinball experiences.
• Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern, merging classic rock with pinball action.
• Black Knight by Williams, a throwback to the classic era of pinball.
• Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming, a beloved game reimagined.

Wrapping Up a Memorable Evening

As the Free Play Denton Pinball Monday tournament concluded, players and spectators left with memories of an evening filled with joy, competition, and the unifying spirit of pinball. The event was a perfect blend of nostalgia, modern gameplay, and community spirit.

Stay tuned and follow us for more exhilarating updates from the world of pinball!

On a clear December evening in Austin, Texas, Epic Fun transformed into a pinball paradise for the Bat City Epic Fun Monthly December 2023 Tournament. Organized by Dick Curtis, this event was not just a test of skill but a celebration of pinball in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

A Family Fun Center Turned Pinball Arena

Epic Fun, known for its clean facilities and super friendly staff, offered a vibrant backdrop for the tournament. With activities ranging from bowling to bumper cars, the venue provided entertainment for all ages, making it the perfect setting for a pinball showdown.

The Tournament in Full Swing

With an ambitious setup of 14 games for each of the 102 players, the tournament adopted an innovative round-robin format. Three games were played simultaneously, creating an energetic and slightly chaotic atmosphere that added to the excitement.

Guardians of the Galaxy: The Longest Battles

‘Stern’s Guardians of the Galaxy‘, known for its engaging gameplay, had the longest average game duration of around 15 minutes. This machine not only tested the players’ skills but also their endurance and strategy under pressure.

Celebrating the Pinball Masters

Congratulations to Colin MacAlpine for clinching the top spot with 6 wins! The close competition saw Brad Holliday, Keb Gallows, and Mandy Power also performing exceptionally well, each securing their victories with 7 wins in a field of intense competition.

Standout Machines of the Tournament

The tournament featured a range of pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the event. ‘Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro)‘ and ‘Foo Fighters (Pro)‘ by Stern brought modern challenges, while classics like ‘Street Fighter II‘ by Gottlieb and ‘Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure‘ by Williams offered a nostalgic trip. ‘Theatre of Magic‘ and ‘Cirqus Voltaire‘ by Bally were crowd favorites, showcasing the magic of pinball.

A Community Comes Together

The Bat City Epic Fun Monthly December 2023 Tournament was more than a competition; it was a vibrant gathering of pinball enthusiasts of all ages. The event highlighted the growing community around pinball and its ability to bring people together for fun and friendly competition.

Wrapping Up a Night of Epic Fun

As the night drew to a close, participants left with memories of a fantastic evening filled with laughter, cheers, and the thrilling sound of pinballs. Epic Fun, with its variety of activities and welcoming atmosphere, solidified its place as a weekly destination for fun-seekers and pinball enthusiasts alike.

Stay tuned for more stories from the exciting world of pinball, and remember, the next high score is always within reach!

In a land of flippers and silver balls agleam,
Where the sound of pinball is a player’s dream,
There came a tournament, festive and bright,
‘Have Yourself A Classic Little Christmas II’, a delightful sight.

Christina Cheeseman, the organizer so keen,
Set up a tournament, the likes never seen.
An undisclosed location, mysterious and grand,
Where eight players came to compete, hand in hand.

‘Twas the 17th of December, a fine winter’s day,
With pinball machines lined up in a magical array.
‘The Getaway‘, ‘Joker Poker‘, each a pinball star,
‘Space Station‘, ‘Firepower‘, known both near and far.

With ‘Flash Gordon’ and ‘Fireball‘, the excitement did mount,
And ‘Taxi‘ and ‘Surfer‘, each game did count.
‘Grand Prix‘ also, with its races so bold,
In this winter pinball land, stories to be told.

Round One on ‘Fish Tales‘, a Williams’ delight,
Robert Byers, Wesley Johnson, played with all their might.
Scot Love and Amanda Fincher, from Austin so fair,
Gave their best in the game, with style and flair.

But the champion of champions, with gameplay so fine,
Was Ray Ford from Austin, at the finish line.
Collier Whitefield and Wesley Johnson, in places next,
With Robert Byers in fourth, completing the text.

Five hours and forty-five minutes, the tournament did run,
With laughter, cheers, and pinball fun.
In this winter pinball wonderland, festive and bright,
Each flipper and bumper lit up the night.

So here’s to the players, the games, and the cheer,
Of this wondrous pinball tournament we hold so dear.
Until next time, when the silver balls fly,
Keep flipping and winning, under the winter sky.

---

Stay tuned for more pinball tales, where dreams are made and high scores prevail!

Greetings to all pinball enthusiasts! Let’s dive into the captivating world of flippers, bumpers, and high scores as we recount the exhilarating SCPL: Monthly Matchplay Tournament held on December 16, 2023, at The Game Preserve.

Tournament Overview

Organized by Space City Pinball, this gripping tournament began at 4:00 PM under a clear sky with a pleasant temperature of 61°F. Held at the ever-entertaining Game Preserve, the tournament saw 18 pinball wizards in an over 3-hour showdown. They competed in 7 rounds, with each round featuring one game where players racked up points based on their finishing positions. The top 8 scorers advanced to the final face-off, which included 2 rounds with 3 games each.

Game Spotlight: Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast

The semifinals were highlighted by a marathon game on Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern, a modern classic released in April 2018. The game, lasting an astonishing 135 minutes, saw Cree Luzskia taking the lead, followed by Cameron Reed TX, Nicholas Gustafson from Spring, Texas, and Grayson Turner, also from Spring, TX. This intense match showcased strategic depth, endurance, and the sheer thrill of competitive pinball.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament culminated with Cameron Reed TX emerging victorious, demonstrating remarkable skill and consistency. Gary Turner claimed the second spot, while Ben Whittington and Grayson Turner secured third and fourth places, respectively. Their performances were a testament to their mastery over the machines and the competitive spirit of the tournament.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was graced by a variety of 19 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor. Highlights include:

• Back to the Future by Data East (1990): A nostalgic trip that combined beloved movie themes with engaging gameplay.
• Elvira and the Party Monsters by Bally (1989): A quirky and fun machine that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams (1993): Known for its dark theme and immersive experience.
• The Simpsons by Data East (1990): A family favorite that brings the iconic TV show to life.
• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021): A modern addition that thrilled players with its monstrous theme and action-packed gameplay.

Venue and Atmosphere

The Game Preserve, known for its solid entertainment options and family-friendly atmosphere, was the perfect venue for this pinball showdown. With its clean facilities, party rental space, and ample outside parking, it provided a welcoming environment for players and spectators alike.

Conclusion

The SCPL: Monthly Matchplay at The Game Preserve was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the community, the skill, and the joy of pinball. As the night concluded, players and fans left with memories of thrilling matches, the clinks and clacks of pinballs, and the anticipation of the next great tournament.

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

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!

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!

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.

Stay tuned and subscribe to this blog for more tantalizing tales from the realm of pinball!

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!