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!

Battle of the Pinball Wizards: EinStein’s Matchplay Competition²

The latest showdown at EinStein’s Pub and Arcade was nothing short of electrifying. On June 23, 2024, twenty pinball aficionados gathered for the EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition². The event, organized by Space City Pinball, saw intense competition over seven rounds, culminating in a thrilling finals where the top eight battled it out in two rounds of three games each. Despite the light rain and the sweltering heat that felt like 103°F, the pinball spirits were high, and the competition fierce.

A Gem of a Pub

EinStein’s Pub & Arcade, located at 16733 West Airport Blvd. ste. 290, Richmond, Texas 77407, was the perfect setting for this epic tournament. The arcade is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for pinball lovers of all ages. With a plethora of pinball machines, delicious burgers, and an abundance of TVs, it’s no wonder the reviews rave about the place being a paradise for both kids and adults. Check out more about this awesome spot here.

Epic Showdown on JAWS (LE)

The highlight of the finals was undoubtedly the marathon match on JAWS (LE), Stern’s January 2024 release. This game, inspired by the iconic shark thriller, saw players Chris Low, Chris Geist, Mike Flanagan, and Grayson Turner locked in a grueling 99-minute duel. The tension was palpable as each player skillfully navigated the perilous waters of Amity Island, dodging the great white shark to rack up points. In the end, Chris Low emerged victorious, showcasing his prowess and nerve under pressure.

Star Machines on Display

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 16 machines, each with its unique flair and challenges. James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern, with its sleek spy-themed design, kept players on their toes. Theatre of Magic by Bally captivated with its enchanting illusions and magical tricks. JAWS (LE) brought the thrill of shark-infested waters right to the flippers. Toy Story 4 (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball delighted with its nostalgic adventure, while Monster Bash (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming resurrected the classic monster-movie chaos. Other standouts included Godzilla (LE), Cactus Canyon (Remake LE), and the ever-popular Medieval Madness (Remake Royal Edition).

Champions Crowned

A hearty congratulations to all the winners who showcased their exceptional pinball skills. Chris Geist, with an impressive IFPA rank of 866 and 335 total events, clinched the top spot. Grayson Turner, from Spring, TX, secured second place with a rank of 1496 in 115 events. Chris Low, ranked 2356 with 144 events, and Mike Flanagan, from Houston, TX, ranked 1166 with 106 events, rounded out the top four. Special mention to Troy Saenz, Matt Quantz, Conner Hughes, and Kyle Hanna for their remarkable performances.

Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Garrett Shahan Denton 603.18
2 Jack Revnew The Woodlands 392.3
3 Wesley Johnson College Station 324.24
4 Clark McCoy Denton 260.73
5 Lee Balusek Conroe 254.96
6 Colin MacAlpine Austin 251.96
7 Gilbert Herrera San Antonio 234.35
8 Ken Kemp Collinsville 225.35
9 Keith Shahan Abilene 222
10 Ray Ford Austin 216.62

Wrapping Up

The EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition² was a testament to the thriving pinball community and the exceptional talent within it. Hats off to Space City Pinball for organizing such a fantastic event and to EinStein’s Pub and Arcade for hosting it in their stellar venue. Congratulations to Chris Geist, our overall tournament champion! Stay tuned for more pinball news and follow-ups. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!