Three Strike Tuesday Brings the Heat

On July 2, 2024, 18 pinball wizards descended upon The Game Preserve for the Three Strike – XXX Tuesday tournament. This thrilling Group Knockout event had players battling through 11 intense rounds, striving to avoid the dreaded three strikes. With a clear sky and a scorching temperature of 96°F (feeling more like 109°F), the competition was as heated as the weather outside.

Stepping Back in Time at The Game Preserve

Located at 473 Sawdust Road, Spring, Texas, The Game Preserve is a nostalgic paradise for pinball enthusiasts. Stepping into this arcade feels like a trip back in time, surrounded by classic games that bring out the inner child in everyone. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff’s enthusiasm makes the experience even better. It’s a place where you can play your favorite games for hours without breaking the bank.

Monster Mayhem on Godzilla (Pro)

Round 4 brought an epic clash on Stern’s Godzilla (Pro). Amidst the chaos and destruction that only Godzilla can bring, Marcus Toth emerged victorious, mastering the game’s complex ramps and multi-ball modes. Grayson Turner from Spring, TX, fought valiantly, securing second place. Maritza Chirichigno from Houston, TX, showed impressive skill, while Ben Whittington rounded out the group. The battle was a true highlight of the night, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of competitive pinball.

Iconic Machines Lighting Up the Night

The tournament featured 20 incredible pinball machines, each with its unique charm and challenges. Highlights included:

  • Lost World by Bally (1978): A prehistoric adventure that challenges players with its captivating artwork and dynamic gameplay.
  • Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016): Packed with spooktacular features, this machine is a fan favorite for its ghost-catching excitement.
  • The Party Zone by Bally (1991): A vibrant, party-themed machine that never fails to entertain with its quirky design.
  • Jack•Bot by Williams (1995): A sci-fi themed machine that combines elements of its predecessors, making for a thrilling pinball experience.
  • World Cup Soccer by Bally (1994): Bringing the excitement of the World Cup to pinball, this machine is a goal-scoring delight.
  • Cyclone by Williams (1988): A rollercoaster of fun, this machine’s amusement park theme is both nostalgic and engaging.
  • Twilight Zone by Bally (1993): Enter the dimension of imagination with one of the most iconic and complex pinball machines ever created.
  • Paragon by Bally (1979): Known for its beautiful backglass art and challenging gameplay, this machine is a classic favorite.

Saluting the Champions

Congratulations to our top finishers! Grayson Turner from Spring, TX, claimed the top spot, showing why he’s ranked 28th in the state. Hunter Reed from Conroe, TX, demonstrated his prowess, earning second place with a state rank of 19th. Cree Luzskia’s third-place finish reflected his strong performance in the 61st state ranking, while Ben Whittington, ranked 20th, showcased his extensive experience with 458 total IFPA events. A big round of applause to all our champions!

IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Garrett Shahan Denton 663.22
2 Jack Revnew The Woodlands 428.56
3 Wesley Johnson College Station 328.64
4 Clark McCoy Denton 315.16
5 Gilbert Herrera San Antonio 272.99
6 Ray Ford Austin 262.31
7 Lee Balusek Conroe 254.95
8 Colin MacAlpine Austin 251.96
9 Keith Shahan Abilene 248.21
10 Ken Kemp Collinsville 237.39

Wrapping Up a Fantastic Tournament

A huge thanks to Space City Pinball for organizing this fantastic event and to The Game Preserve for providing an awesome location. The tournament was a smashing success, with thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. Special shoutout to the epic showdown on Godzilla (Pro), which will be talked about for weeks to come. Thanks to everyone who came out to play, and stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps!

Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday: A Night to Remember

Where the Magic Happens

Free Play Arlington is the ultimate destination for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 400 East South Street, Arlington, TX, this arcade is a haven for both casual gamers and hardcore pinball wizards. With an entrance fee that promises you more bang for your buck, Free Play Arlington boasts an impressive collection of classic and modern arcade games. From Guitar Hero and NBA Jam to an array of pinball machines that cater to all tastes, the games here are meticulously maintained, ensuring an optimal gaming experience. And let’s not forget the bar – while the food might be a tad pricey, it’s worth every penny. Check out their website for more details: Free Play Arlington.

Tournament Overview

The Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday held on July 1, 2024, was a spectacle of skill and strategy. With 36 players battling it out in 5 rounds of intense pinball action, the top 8 players advanced to the finals. The event, organized by Chris Delp, spanned 2 hours and 30 minutes, filled with nail-biting moments and spectacular comebacks. Under the clear skies and a sweltering 97°F, the tournament was a perfect summer showdown. For more details about the event, visit here.

Epic Showdown on Avengers: Infinity Quest

The semifinals saw an electrifying match on the Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) pinball machine. This game, themed around the epic Marvel saga, set the stage for an intense battle. Garrett Shahan, ranked 1st in the state and 98th in the IFPA, demonstrated unparalleled mastery, outmaneuvering Greg Gibson from Plano, TX, Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, and Daniel Martin. Garrett’s precise shots and strategic use of the game’s multiball feature led him to victory, mirroring the triumphs of the Avengers themselves.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured 23 stellar pinball machines. Here are a few highlights:

  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Released in May 2021, this game immerses players in the Star Wars universe, featuring missions and battles that capture the essence of the hit TV series.
  • Star Wars (Pro) by Stern: This June 2017 release takes players on a journey through the original trilogy, with iconic characters and memorable scenes.
  • Attack from Mars by Bally: A classic from January 1995, known for its humor and engaging gameplay as players defend Earth from a Martian invasion.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern: The newest addition from January 2024, this game brings the suspense of the iconic film to life, challenging players with thrilling objectives.
  • Metallica (Pro) by Stern: Released in April 2013, this machine is a must-play for fans of the legendary band, featuring their greatest hits and electrifying modes.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: Since September 2021, players have been battling the king of monsters in this action-packed game.

The Champions of the Night

The finals culminated in a dramatic showdown on Cyclone, manufactured by Williams. Here’s how the top players ranked:

  1. Steven McMullin from Stephenville, TX, claimed the top spot. With a state rank of 34th and an IFPA rank of 1365, Steven’s consistent performance and strategic prowess secured his victory.
  2. Clark McCoy from Denton, TX, finished in second place. His impressive state rank of 4th and IFPA rank of 449 highlight his dedication and skill in the pinball arena.
  3. Brian Krivonak from Corpus Christi, TX, took third place. Ranked 12th in the state and 288th in the IFPA, Brian’s experience and precision were evident throughout the tournament.
  4. Daniel Martin, with a state rank of 39th and an IFPA rank of 1095, rounded out the top four, showcasing his competitive spirit.

IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Garrett Shahan Denton 663.23
2 Jack Revnew The Woodlands 428.56
3 Wesley Johnson College Station 328.64
4 Clark McCoy Denton 315.16
5 Gilbert Herrera San Antonio 272.99
6 Ray Ford Austin 262.31
7 Lee Balusek Conroe 254.95
8 Colin MacAlpine Austin 251.96
9 Keith Shahan Abilene 248.21
10 Ken Kemp Collinsville 237.39

Wrapping Up

The Free Play Arlington Pinball Monday was a night to remember, filled with spectacular plays and memorable moments. Congratulations to Steven McMullin for his outstanding victory. If you’re ever in Arlington, make sure to visit Free Play Arlington for an unforgettable arcade experience. Stay tuned for more pinball news and updates on past events!