High Scores and High Spirits at Player 1 Arcade

The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 3 (#6), held on April 22, 2024, saw 29 pinball enthusiasts gather for a spirited competition in Surprise, Arizona. Organized by Jim Smith, the event unfolded over five rounds, with each participant battling it out in a single game per round. Despite the broken clouds and a sweltering 93°F, the arcade buzzed with excitement as players aimed for their best performances within the 2 hour and 54-minute tournament window.

Spotlight on Rush: A High-Velocity Challenge

Round 3 highlighted the Rush (Pro) by Stern, a game that tests both speed and strategy. Mark Pearson, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 49, took the lead in this round, followed closely by Kevin Ehlers and Del Kyger. The competitive gameplay mirrored the energetic soundtrack of Rush, making it a fan favorite for the night.

Pinball Champions of the Night

The tournament showcased some incredible talent, with the final results reflecting the intense competition:

  1. Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix – With an IFPA rank of 1421, Lee Ann showed outstanding skill and consistency, topping the leaderboard after participating in 222 events.
  2. Jeremy Reiman from Peoria, AZ – Despite being relatively new to the circuit with only 25 IFPA events, Jeremy’s impressive play earned him a solid second place.
  3. Mark Pearson – Already highlighted in the game spotlight, Mark added another top finish to his record, underscoring his elite status in the pinball community.
  4. Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ – Joel’s performance was notable, securing a commendable fourth place from a competitive field.

Featured Machines of the Tournament

Player One Arcade was packed with 16 pinball machines, each offering unique themes and challenges:

  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, celebrated for its immersive gameplay that pulls players into the epic space saga with missions and characters from the beloved series.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams, transports players to a world of magic carpets and genies with its rich visuals and captivating storytelling mechanics.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern, combines elegance and espionage, offering missions that mirror the thrilling adventures of the iconic spy.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern, brings to life the humor and drama of the superhero team with vibrant art and engaging missions.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern, not only featured in a spotlight game but also admired for its fast-paced playfield and rocking soundtrack that enhances the pinball experience.

The Heart of Surprise’s Gaming Scene: Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road, UNIT 60, has quickly become a local favorite, overshadowing even well-known entertainment venues like Dave and Busters. With its excellent selection of craft beers, friendly atmosphere, and a diverse array of pinball and classic arcade games, it’s no wonder families and gamers alike prefer this spot for a fun outing.

Closing With Thanks

A big thank you to Jim Smith for organizing another successful event in the Player 1 Arcade series, and to Player 1 Arcade for continuing to be an excellent host and a pivotal part of the local gaming community. Keep those flippers ready, and stay tuned for more pinball action from across the United States!

Thrilling Tides at the JAWS Launch Party

On April 21, 2024, the pinball enthusiasts of San Diego gathered at Dyno Bar for the electrifying JAWS Launch Party. Organized by Mark Schulz, this Group Knockout Tournament pitted 23 players against each other across 8 intense rounds. Using the Fair Strikes system, competitors were eliminated upon receiving 5 strikes, making every round critical. The clouds may have been broken above, but the focus inside was unyielding as the players battled amidst a cool 65°F.

Epic Showdown on JAWS (Pro)

The tournament’s grand finale unfolded on the freshly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern, drawing a crowd eager to see this new machine in action. In a gripping conclusion to Round 8, Derek Price emerged victorious, demonstrating why he holds an impressive IFPA rank of 64. Mark Maleko Schulz, also from San Diego, showcased his home turf advantage, securing a commendable second place.

Celebrating the Champions

As the flippers stilled, the tournament’s top contenders were lauded for their pinball prowess:

  1. Derek Price – A seasoned competitor with 406 IFPA events under his belt, Derek’s strategic gameplay and quick reflexes earned him the champion’s title.
  2. Mark Maleko Schulz – With an IFPA rank of 460 and 333 events, Mark’s deep knowledge of the game was on full display, earning him a well-fought second place.
  3. Mike Calcagno – Despite being a relative newcomer with only 34 events, Mike’s remarkable third-place finish proves his rising talent in the pinball world.
  4. Brian Heath – A testament to perseverance, Brian clinched fourth place, adding to his growing experience of 135 events.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was adorned with a stellar lineup of 11 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure:

  • James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern, celebrated for its sleek design and intricate missions that encapsulate the espionage and excitement of the Bond series.
  • Indianapolis 500 by Bally, a fast-paced table that captures the thrill of one of America’s most famous races with high-speed gameplay and challenging loops.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern, offers an adventurous escape to Isla Nublar, where players navigate through dinosaur encounters and terrain obstacles.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern, draws players into the Marvel universe with its vibrant graphics and engaging storyline that mirrors Venom’s dynamic character.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern, the star of the show, brings to life the suspense and danger of the iconic shark hunt with innovative gameplay and a chilling soundtrack.

Dynamic Dyno Bar: The Heart of San Diego’s Pinball Scene

Located at 3367 India Street, Dyno Bar is not just a venue; it’s a cultural hub for adult gamers. This 21+ establishment is renowned for its cool atmosphere and exclusive array of pinball machines and indie arcade games, making it a prime destination for nightlife and entertainment in San Diego.

A Round of Applause

Heartfelt thanks go to Mark Schulz for his impeccable organization of the JAWS Launch Party and to Dyno Bar for providing a perfect setting for this pinball extravaganza. As we continue to explore the vibrant pinball scenes across the nation, stay tuned for more thrilling updates and tales from the silver ball’s journey across America!

Thrills at the Dangerzone Arcade Jaws Launch Party

On April 21, 2024, Dangerzone Arcade in Gilbert, Arizona, became the epicenter of pinball excitement with the Dangerzone Arcade Jaws Launch Party. Organized by Jordan Lamoreaux, the tournament attracted 21 fierce competitors who faced off in a Group Knockout format across 11 heart-pounding rounds. As the Arizona sun blazed at 91°F under clear skies, players aimed to avoid accumulating three strikes to stay in the game, adding an extra layer of challenge and strategy.

Star Wars Showdown: A Round to Remember

One of the tournament’s highlights was the intense battle that unfolded in Round 5 on the “Star Wars (Premium Comic Art)” machine by Stern. Brad Vogus from Phoenix took the lead, followed by Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ, with Greg Mohs and John Finnegan closely trailing. This round was not just a test of skill but also a dramatic display of strategy and precision under pressure.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

As the dust settled, the top performers emerged victorious, each demonstrating their pinball prowess:

  1. Greg Mohs – Surprising many with his strategic play, Greg clinched the first place with an IFPA rank of 835, showing growth across his 103 tournament participations.
  2. Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ – A veteran in the arena, Jason used his extensive experience from 432 IFPA events to secure a solid second place with his rank of 228.
  3. John Finnegan from Tucson – Known for his consistency, John leveraged his experience from 511 events to take third place with a rank of 538.
  4. Mark Pearson – Despite being the highest-ranked player at 49, Mark faced tough competition and finished fourth, proving that every game is a new challenge.

Pinball Gallery: Machines of Legend and Lore

The venue showcased an impressive lineup of 17 pinball machines, each offering unique gameplay experiences. Notable among them were:

  • Star Wars (Premium Comic Art) by Stern, a visual treat with its vibrant comic artwork and immersive gameplay that brings the iconic saga to life.
  • Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium) by Stern, which captivates players with its rock-themed playfield and energetic soundtrack.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (LE) by Stern, a game that combines deep strategy with Marvel superhero adventures, making it a hit among fans.
  • Venom (LE) by Stern, newly released and already a favorite for its dynamic features and the beloved anti-hero’s storyline.
  • Alien (Remake LE) by Pinball Brothers, offering intense gameplay with a theme that resonates with sci-fi enthusiasts.

A Gamer’s Haven: Dangerzone Arcade

Dangerzone Arcade, located at 614 E Germann Rd in Gilbert, AZ, is celebrated as one of the best places in Arizona to indulge in pinball and indie arcade games. The venue is a paradise for gamers, providing a vast array of multiplayer games, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere perfect for friends and family to gather and enjoy some competitive fun.

Closing With Gratitude

A special thank you to Jordan Lamoreaux for organizing this memorable tournament and to Dangerzone Arcade for hosting an event that went beyond just gaming—it was a celebration of the pinball community. Keep your flippers ready, and stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!

Pinsomniacs Pinball Showdown @ Tepey’s Taps & Tacos

On April 21, 2024, Tepey’s Taps & Tacos hosted the electrifying Pinsomniacs Pinball tournament. This event, curated by Nick Byrd and featured on the Pinsomniacs’ website, drew a focused group of 22 pinball enthusiasts. Competitors battled through 11 rigorous rounds, each playing one game per round. The stakes were high as only the top four scorers advanced to the nail-biting finals, consisting of three additional rounds. All the action unfolded over nearly five hours, beneath the partly cloudy skies of Jacksonville, with temperatures hovering around a warm 80°F.

Avengers Assemble for a Fierce Battle

A notable highlight was the third round, which featured the “Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro)” by Stern. This game, released in September 2020, became the arena for an intense clash. Imre Szollosi led the pack, followed by Tank Koscinski, with Stacey Stafford and Shannon Stafford in close pursuit. The competitive spirit was palpable as each player leveraged their skills to vie for the top spot.

Triumph at Tepey’s

The tournament culminated with outstanding performances from the top competitors:

  1. Shannon Stafford – With an impressive IFPA rank of 133 and a veteran of 295 events, Shannon showcased top-tier skills to claim victory.
  2. Imre Szollosi – Ranked 2583, Imre’s performance across 45 IFPA events has shown a sharp ascent in competitive pinball, securing a well-earned second place.
  3. Stacey Stafford from Orange Park, Florida – Holding rank 1589 and participating in 219 events, Stacey demonstrated resilience and strategic finesse to finish third.
  4. Tank Koscinski – Despite being one of the lower-ranked players at 6732, Tank’s tenacity shone through, proving his potential in his 35th tournament.

A Gallery of Pinball Greats

The venue was decked with 11 unique pinball machines, each adding a different flavor to the tournament. Highlights included:

  • Venom (Premium) by Stern, released in 2023, captivated players with its dynamic design and engaging features that bring the iconic comic book character to life.
  • Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun, also from 2023, offered a magical quest through the Goblin King’s maze with intricate gameplay and detailed art.
  • Elvis by Stern, a classic from 2004, rocked the venue with its nostalgic music and engaging playfield, paying homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
  • The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern, from 2014, thrilled players with its post-apocalyptic theme and intense survival-based gameplay.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern, drew crowds with its superhero antics and complex missions that mirrored the epic tales from the Marvel Universe.

Vibrant Vibes at Tepeyolot Cerveceria

Tepeyolot Cerveceria, more than just a venue, provided a festive backdrop with its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. The pinball area, featuring a mix of classic and new machines, was a hit among guests. The spot offered great value with games priced at $1.00 each or $2.00 for three, except for the special Labyrinth pinball. The food, particularly the tacos and seasoned chips, received rave reviews, making it clear that Tepeyolot Cerveceria is a favorite for both dining and gaming.

A Successful Flip

Thanks to Nick Byrd for orchestrating this fantastic pinball event and to Tepeyolot Cerveceria for hosting us with exceptional service and ambiance. This tournament was a showcase of both pinball mastery and community spirit. Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the dynamic world of pinball across the nation!

Epic Showdown at 1up Colfax Mackinnon Tournament

The 1up Colfax Mackinnon pinball tournament, held on April 21, 2024, at the 1UP Arcade Bar – Colfax in Denver, was a thrilling marathon of pinball prowess. Organized by Deanna Scalf, the tournament featured a grueling Group Knockout format with 39 contenders battling through 11 rounds under the Progressive Strikes system. Players faced elimination after accumulating 11 strikes, intensifying the competition as they vied to stay in the game under clear skies and chilly 33°F weather.

Iron Maiden’s Legendary Duel

Highlighting the intense competition was a remarkable battle during Round 9 on the “Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium)” by Stern. Walt Wood, wielding an impressive IFPA rank of 41, emerged victorious in this round, showcasing skill and strategy that left the audience in awe. Griffin Carr, Rob Tompkins, and Chase Hart rounded out the top four, each delivering a fierce challenge.

Champions of the Arena

The final bell tolled, crowning the valiant warriors of this pinball clash:

  1. Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, commanded the tables with precision, leveraging their vast experience across 299 IFPA events to clinch the top spot.
  2. Mat Brundage, showing great resilience and skill, landed in second place with his solid performance across 161 IFPA events.
  3. Griffin Carr, although ranked 3935, surpassed expectations by securing third place, demonstrating that rankings aren’t always indicative of the final outcome.
  4. David Witucki from Colorado, with fewer tournaments under his belt, made a significant impact by finishing fourth.

Machines of Myth and Might

The tournament was stocked with 23 cutting-edge pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the mix. Noteworthy among them were:

  • Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium) by Stern, a fan-favorite for its intricate artwork and engaging soundtrack that complements the band’s iconic music.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern, immerses players in intergalactic battles with its dynamic playfield and beloved characters.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, known for its humorous and interactive gameplay that perfectly captures the antihero’s quirky essence.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, challenges players to save cities and battle kaijus in a beautifully rendered Tokyo landscape.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern, takes players on bounty hunting missions across the galaxy, enriched with detailed missions and storylines from the series.

Retro Gaming at 1up Arcade Bar

The venue, 1up Arcade Bar – Colfax, with its neon lights and energetic atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. Players and spectators enjoyed a mix of nostalgic arcade games and modern pinball machines, complemented by a vibrant selection of drinks from the bar. The environment was lively and welcoming, thanks to the attentive staff and the upbeat background music.

Farewell and Future Flips

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Deanna Scalf for organizing this spectacular event and to the 1UP Arcade Bar – Colfax for hosting. This tournament is just one of many exciting chapters in the ongoing saga of pinball competitions across the nation. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the world of pinball!

Clash of the Titans: SCPL Matchplay Overview

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!

Exciting Rounds at the Belles & Chimes Phoenix Tournament

On April 20, 2024, the Belles & Chimes Phoenix pinball tournament brought together a dynamic group of 22 players for a spirited competition. Organized by Tracy Lindbergh, the event featured six rounds of intense pinball action, each consisting of one game, lasting a total of 2 hours and 44 minutes.

Final Round Thriller on Jurassic Park

The tournament’s standout game occurred in the sixth round on the Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern, released in October 2019. This machine, known for its dynamic playfield and dinosaur-themed challenges, saw Mary Profeta Scardina clinch the first place, closely followed by organizer Tracy Lindbergh, with Terri Boyd and Sandra Garcia also putting up strong performances.

Tournament Champions Shine

The tournament concluded with impressive displays of skill and strategy:

  1. Krisha Shufran from Chandler, AZ, took home the first place with an IFPA rank of 2771, showing remarkable prowess across her 121 tournament appearances.
  2. Cara Eisinger from New River, AZ, demonstrated their growing skill in the pinball community, securing second place with a rank of 3706 over 65 events.
  3. Meghan Bougher from Scottsdale, AZ, earned a well-deserved third place with her consistent play, holding an IFPA rank of 2228 from 61 events.
  4. Tracy Lindbergh, not just the organizer but also a competitor, showcased her extensive experience by finishing fourth, a testament to her 529 tournament participations and a rank of 444.

Highlight Pinball Machines

The competition was supported by a lineup of 11 unique pinball machines, each bringing its own history and challenges to the playfield:

  • Comet by Williams: A classic amusement park-themed table that offers players a nostalgic multiball experience with engaging ramps and loops.
  • Tri Zone by Williams: An earlier generation machine that challenges players with its straightforward yet strategic gameplay.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: This modern machine captivates players with its interactive dinosaur captures and complex play modes.
  • Diner by Williams: Delivers a lively 1950s diner atmosphere, where players rack up points by serving a series of quirky customers.
  • Star Trek (Pro) by Stern: Engages players in the vast universe of Star Trek with missions based on the iconic series, offering a deep strategic experience.

A Word on the Venue

While the specific location for this event was not disclosed in MatchPlay, the enthusiasm and engagement of the participants made it a memorable gathering. We look forward to revealing more about the venue in future posts.

Appreciation for Organization

A special thank you to Tracy Lindbergh for organizing a smoothly run tournament and to all the participants who made the event a success despite the undisclosed location. The Belles & Chimes Phoenix community continues to thrive, bringing exciting pinball action to players and fans alike. Stay tuned for more updates from the pinball world!

A Rainy Day Battle at Locavore Beer Works April Pinball Tournament

Despite the chill and moderate rain on April 20, 2024, the Locavore Beer Works April Pinball Tournament heated up with enthusiastic competitors and fans. With 37 players engaged in four initial rounds and an intense final showdown among the top 8, the event spanned over three hours of strategic gameplay, masterfully organized by Jason Smith in Littleton, Colorado.

Godzilla Takes Center Stage in the Finals

The finals saw an epic battle on the Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, released in September 2021. Known for its dynamic gameplay and immersive city-smashing features, Godzilla hosted the longest game of the tournament, lasting a staggering 146 minutes. Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, emerged victorious, followed by Donavan Stepp, Justin Hinman, and Rob Tompkins in a nail-biting session that highlighted the day.

Honoring the Top Competitors

The tournament concluded with remarkable achievements from the finalists:

  1. Walt Wood, with an IFPA rank of 41 and 299 events under its belt, dominated the tournament with precise skill and strategic prowess.
  2. Donavan Stepp, ranked 59th and a veteran of 591 IFPA events, showcased his seasoned capabilities in securing second place.
  3. Justin Hinman, holding the 1106th rank, performed impressively to finish third among a tough lineup, across 220 events.
  4. Rob Tompkins, from Golden, CO, with a rank of 2676, showed great determination and skill to place fourth.

The tournament also recognized the valiant efforts of Nate Johnson, Stan Dessens, Dan Gutchess, and Thomas Dessens, who rounded out the top eight with commendable performances.

Featured Machines at the Tournament

The competition featured 10 notable pinball machines, each bringing a unique flavor to the play:

  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: Delivers an intergalactic adventure with deep rule sets and iconic characters.
  • Venom (Premium) by Stern: Engages players with its slick design and action-packed gameplay featuring Marvel’s antihero.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: Offers a vibrant playfield with missions and music straight out of the beloved movie franchise.
  • Rush (Premium) by Stern: Rocks the pinball world with its soundtrack and concert-themed playfield, celebrating the legendary band.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming: Captures the essence of the classic film with unique storytelling elements and cinematic gameplay.

Venue Highlights: Locavore Beer Works

Locavore Beer Works not only served as an excellent host but also provided a perfect backdrop with its spacious craft brewery atmosphere. Patrons enjoyed a selection of beers, slushy seltzers, and the convenience of tasty BBQ from next door, enhancing the tournament experience in a dog-friendly setting.

Closing Thanks

Special thanks to Jason Smith for orchestrating a smooth and engaging tournament, and to Locavore Beer Works for providing a fantastic venue. The pinball community appreciates the dedication and hospitality that make these events a success. Stay tuned for more thrilling pinball action from across the United States!

A Night Under the Stars at Pins & Pirates League

The sixth event of Season 3 of the Pins & Pirates League was held on a clear evening of April 19, 2024, at Captain’s Arcade Showroom. Organized by CC Castaneda, this tournament attracted 18 players who competed in 1 round of 5 games each, totaling approximately 2 and a half hours of intense gameplay.

Spotlight on Stranger Things (Pro)

The standout game of the tournament was on Stern’s Stranger Things (Pro), which was released in December 2019. The game drew considerable attention due to its immersive theme and dynamic playfield. Rob Luzio triumphed in this round, followed by Alan Cardenas and Tom Shelley from Orange County, CA.

Tournament Champions

The tournament culminated with top performances from seasoned players:

  1. Dennis Eichhorn, demonstrating his prowess with an IFPA rank of 275, led the pack after participating in 229 IFPA events.
  2. Fran Irwin, from Southern California, ranked 522nd, showed his seasoned skills in his 201st IFPA event.
  3. Michael Kostolnik brought his A-game, securing the third spot with a rank of 1186 across 111 IFPA events.
  4. Kane Mejia also made notable strides, placing fourth with an IFPA rank of 696 in just his 57th event.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an array of 49 pinball machines, each with its own unique appeal:

  • James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern: Released in September 2022, this machine offers intricate gadgets and missions that encapsulate the espionage and thrill of the James Bond series.
  • JAWS (Premium/LE) by Stern: One of the newest machines, released in January 2024, it plunges players into the suspenseful waters of Amity Island with shark attack features and a gripping soundtrack.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern: This machine brings superheroes to life with complex missions and multiball events that reflect the epic battles of the Marvel Universe.
  • The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern: Released in October 2014, it challenges players to survive in a post-apocalyptic world with zombie-themed playfields and immersive storytelling.
  • Jurassic Park (LE) by Stern: This game, launched in September 2019, captivates players with dinosaur chases and rescue missions, delivering a prehistoric adventure with each flip.

Captain’s Arcade Showroom: More Than Just a Venue

Located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue in Anaheim, CA, Captain’s Arcade Showroom not only hosted the tournament but also provided excellent service to patrons purchasing their first pinball machines. The venue’s commitment to customer satisfaction and its vibrant atmosphere make it a beloved spot in the community.

Appreciation and Anticipation

A heartfelt thank you to CC Castaneda for orchestrating a fantastic tournament and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing an ideal setting for pinball enthusiasts. The pinball community remains vibrant thanks to such well-managed events. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball!

Thrills at the Pins & Pirates League Season 3, Episode 6

On a clear evening of April 19, 2024, the Pins & Pirates League hosted its sixth tournament of the third season at Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim, California. With 18 competitors playing five games each over a single round, the event spanned approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes of intense pinball action, meticulously organized by CC Castaneda.

Standout Performance on Stranger Things (Pro)

The evening’s highlight came during the first round on the Stranger Things (Pro) pinball machine by Stern, released in December 2019. This machine, known for its immersive playfield and engaging multi-ball sequences themed around the popular TV series, saw Rob Luzio take the lead, followed by Alan Cardenas and Tom Shelley from Orange County, CA, showcasing their skills amidst stiff competition.

Champions of the Night

The tournament concluded with impressive victories from seasoned players:

  1. Dennis Eichhorn, demonstrating formidable skill and strategic mastery, claimed the top spot with an IFPA rank of 281 and participation in 232 events.
  2. Fran Irwin, from Southern California, ranked 530th, used his extensive experience from 203 events to secure second place.
  3. Michael Kostolnik took third place with a rank of 1186, having competed in 114 IFPA events, showing consistent performance.
  4. Kane Mejia finished fourth, his IFPA rank of 696 and participation in 57 events evidencing his growing prowess in the field.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue boasted an eclectic mix of 49 pinball machines, including:

  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: A fan favorite for its engaging missions and vibrant visuals inspired by the Marvel film series, released in November 2017.
  • Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: This 2023 release captures the essence of the iconic rock band with integrated music tracks and concert-themed playfield elements.
  • Sinbad by Gottlieb: A classic from 1978, this machine is beloved for its straightforward yet challenging gameplay, offering a nostalgic dive into pinball history.
  • JAWS (Premium/LE) by Stern: The newest addition from January 2024, it features intense shark attack modes and oceanic adventures, thrilling players with its innovative design.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming: Released in March 2023, this machine brings Quentin Tarantino’s cinematic masterpiece to life with unique storytelling and character-focused missions.

A Hidden Gem in Anaheim

Captain’s Arcade Showroom, located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, proved to be a perfect venue for the tournament, offering both new and classic pinball machines in an atmosphere that resonates with nostalgia and modern flair. Described as a hidden gem, the venue is a haven for both veteran players and newcomers to the pinball scene.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Special thanks to CC Castaneda for organizing such a well-run event and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing a top-tier venue that enhances the competitive pinball experience. The community looks forward to more thrilling competitions and continued coverage from the exciting world of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates!