Flippers and Fun at Electric Bat Pinball Tournament

The Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, AZ, was buzzing with activity on the evening of April 23, 2024, as it played host to the Electric Bat Season 11 – Series 2 #2 tournament. Organized by Rachel Bess, this event drew a crowd of 100 pinball enthusiasts eager to test their skills over five intense rounds. With clear skies and temperatures reaching 92°F, the arcade provided a cool oasis of spirited competition.

Highlight Reel: Avengers Infinity Quest Showdown

The spotlight shone brightly in Round 4 with a fierce competition on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern. Mike McClure from Glendale, AZ, skillfully navigated the game to secure first place, followed by Walter Dony from Phoenix. The game also saw strong performances from Katie Mae and Dakota Jeane, making it one of the night’s most memorable matches.

Champions of the Arcade

As the final ball plunged, the tournament winners were celebrated for their outstanding gameplay:

  1. Gavin Bowman from Phoenix – Demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy, clinching first place with an IFPA rank of 969.
  2. John Shopple from Mesa, AZ – Leveraged his extensive experience from 399 IFPA events to secure a solid second place with a notable IFPA rank of 88.
  3. Paul Blanco – Showed great prowess and consistency throughout the tournament, finishing third with an IFPA rank of 300.
  4. Keegan Crandall – Displayed commendable skill and determination, rounding out the top four with an IFPA rank of 956.

Legendary Pinball Lineup

The Electric Bat Arcade featured an impressive array of 68 pinball machines for the tournament, including:

  • Whirlwind by Williams, known for its stormy gameplay mechanics that challenge even the most seasoned players.
  • Scared Stiff by Bally, a fan favorite for its horror-themed antics and engaging multiball events.
  • Attack From Mars (Remake) by Chicago Gaming, which brings classic alien invasion excitement with modern enhancements.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern, offers players high-energy rock and roll pinball action, complete with band-themed missions.
  • Joker Poker by Gottlieb, a throwback to classic pinball with a card game twist that requires both skill and strategy.

Electric Vibes at Electric Bat Arcade

Located at 29 W. Southern Ave, the Electric Bat Arcade isn’t just a place to play pinball; it’s a venue where the community comes together to enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and a plethora of perfectly maintained arcade and pinball machines. The unique rhythm games from Japan and a welcoming bar staff ensure a fantastic experience for both regulars and newcomers.

A Big Thanks to the Heart of the Event

Special thanks go out to Rachel Bess for organizing such a dynamic and engaging event, and to the Electric Bat Arcade for providing a stellar venue that keeps the pinball community coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, the Electric Bat promises an experience worth returning for.

Stay tuned for more action-packed updates from the world of pinball as we continue to follow the silver ball wherever it rolls!

Striking Out at Tik Tok’s Pinball Tournament

On April 22, 2024, Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, hosted the exhilarating “Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 4/22” pinball tournament. Richard Godwin masterfully organized this intense Group Knockout competition, featuring 11 skilled players vying for supremacy across 9 grueling rounds. With the Fair Strikes system in play, the competition remained fierce as players dodged elimination by accumulating strikes under a clear 56°F night sky.

The Mandalorian: A Galactic Battle

The tournament’s second round spotlighted The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern, where Donovan Haga from Bremerton showcased his skills by clinching first place. He was closely followed by Conrad Rustad, Nick Schademann, and Gocelyn Morgado, who all displayed commendable prowess on this challenging machine themed after the beloved Star Wars series.

Tournament Triumphs

As the final flippers stilled, the top competitors were hailed for their exceptional performances:

  1. Conrad Rustad from Bremerton, WA, demonstrated his elite skills and strategic depth, which have been honed over 251 IFPA events, earning him the first place with an IFPA rank of 168.
  2. Nick Schademann from Albuquerque showed that dedication and experience could significantly impact performance, securing second place with his 377 IFPA rank.
  3. Donovan Haga, another Bremerton local, proved his mettle by finishing third, an impressive feat given his ranking of 1882.
  4. Richard Godwin, not just the organizer but also a formidable player, rounded out the top four, showcasing their versatility and passion for pinball.

Pinball Playground: Machines of Distinction

Tik Tok’s Workshop featured an impressive lineup of 14 pinball machines, each offering a unique flair:

  • Firepower by Williams is known for its fast-paced play and was a pioneering force in introducing multi-ball play, thrilling players since 1980.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern, a recent addition, challenges players with missions and adventures mirroring the hit TV series, complete with stunning visuals and immersive sound effects.
  • Sharpshooter by Game Plan offers a nostalgic throwback to the late 70s with its sharpshooting targets and classic pinball action.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball stands out with its technologically advanced features and rich, colorful playfield that brings the iconic movie to life.
  • Cyclone by Williams captures the fun of an amusement park with its whimsical design and engaging gameplay, a favorite since 1988.

A Hub of Fun and Games: Tik Tok’s Workshop

Located at 1216 Sylvan Way, Tik Tok’s Workshop isn’t just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub. Known for its casual, entertaining events like naughty bingo and its excellent selection of drinks, the workshop offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere complemented by a fantastic array of pinball and arcade games.

Closing With Appreciation

Heartfelt thanks to Richard Godwin for organizing such a thrilling pinball tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for continuously providing a fantastic venue for the pinball community in Bremerton. Keep your eyes on this spot for more pin-tastic events and updates from the world of pinball!

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!

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 Stellar Night at Match Play at Next Level

The Match Play at Next Level tournament took place on a pleasantly clear evening of April 19, 2024, at the Next Level Pinball Museum in Hillsboro, Oregon. With 25 competitors in attendance, the event unfolded over three rounds, each consisting of two games, culminating in a total duration of approximately 2 and a half hours.

High Stakes on Johnny Mnemonic

The tournament kicked off with a highlight match on the Johnny Mnemonic pinball machine by Williams, a classic from January 1995. Billy Brown III showcased his skills by securing first place in this round, followed by Mitch McAffee, who impressively competed despite being unranked, with Gregorio Sicard Jr and Bill Brown also performing admirably.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament saw remarkable performances from the top contenders:

  1. Bill Volckening from Portland, Oregon, ranked 2870th, demonstrated great skill and consistency over his 352 IFPA events, earning him the top spot.
  2. Vincent Sperrazza, from Bremerton with an impressive rank of 247, brought his extensive experience from 415 IFPA events to secure second place.
  3. Billy Brown III, ranked 753rd, used his competitive edge from 187 IFPA events to claim the third position.
  4. Joseph Rembecki, impressively made it to fourth place, a notable achievement for an unranked player.

Spotlight on Notable Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an exciting array of 87 pinball machines, including:

  • Barb Wire by Gottlieb: Known for its action-packed theme based on the movie, this machine challenges players with its dynamic playfield and unique multi-ball features.
  • The Addams Family by Bally: One of the most popular pinball machines ever, it offers players a blend of whimsy and challenge with its iconic mansion that activates various modes.
  • Heavy Metal by Stern: This machine, released in June 2020, draws players in with its rock music themes and innovative soundtracks coupled with engaging gameplay mechanics.
  • Johnny Mnemonic by Williams: The machine that shined in the tournament, famous for its fast-paced action and intricate cybernetic hand gadget that tests player reflexes and strategy.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams: Captivates players with its rich visuals and storytelling elements, where adventurers seek to rescue the Sultan’s daughter, adding layers of depth and intrigue to gameplay.

Next Level Pinball Museum: A Haven for Pinball Lovers

The Next Level Pinball Museum, located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR, is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub for pinball enthusiasts. Decorated with an eye for detail and maintained to the highest standards, the museum offers a fantastic array of pinball machines, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Appreciation for a Memorable Evening

A heartfelt thanks to Next Level Pinball for organizing such a smooth and engaging tournament and to the staff at Next Level Pinball Museum for maintaining a welcoming and immaculate environment. As the pinball scene continues to thrive, we look forward to bringing more news and stories from the exciting world of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates!

Rolling Into Action: Ball Busters Pinball League Recap

Overview of the Competition

The Pinball Gallery in Malvern, Pennsylvania, hosted an electrifying evening of pinball on April 17, 2024, for the fifth week of Season 2 in the Ball Busters Pinball League. Eighteen players faced off across five rounds, each round featuring one game, totaling approximately 2 hours of playtime. The misty weather with a cool 60°F provided a fitting backdrop for the intense competition, meticulously organized by Bill Disney.

Game of the Night: Pulp Fiction Showcase

In the fourth round, players gathered around the Pulp Fiction (SE) machine by Chicago Gaming, a recent hit in the pinball world. This machine, known for its cinematic theme and engaging playfield, hosted a standout game that saw Emilia Choate taking the top spot, followed closely by Stephanie Savy from Media, PA, and Deanne Ross, who showed impressive skill despite her lack of a ranking.

Celebrating the Champions

As the final flippers stilled, the leaders of the tournament emerged:

  1. Jennifer Gold from PA, notably unranked in IFPA but with 28 events to her name, skillfully clinched first place, demonstrating that rankings aren’t everything in the world of pinball.
  2. Lisa Kavanagh, also unranked but quickly making her mark with only 3 events, secured a surprising yet well-deserved second place.
  3. Tessa Morton, with a solid IFPA rank of 1479, brought her experience from 113 events to bear, landing in third place.
  4. Kathy Furlong, another unranked competitor, showed that newcomers could still shake up the leaderboard by finishing fourth.

Featured Pinball Machines

The Pinball Gallery boasted an impressive array of 67 machines, including:

  • The Addams Family by Bally, a favorite for its challenging features and iconic theme.
  • Guns N’ Roses (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball, thrilled players with its rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack and innovative playfield.
  • Aztec by Williams and Star Trek by Bally took players on a nostalgic trip with their classic designs and gameplay.
  • Joker Poker by Gottlieb, with its strategic card game-inspired play, provided a unique challenge.

Venue Vibes

Located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, the Pinball Gallery proved once again to be a top-notch venue for pinball enthusiasts. The site’s welcoming atmosphere and broad selection of games make it a community staple, with many attendees planning return visits to dive deeper into the extensive collection.

Appreciations and Next Steps

A heartfelt thank you to Bill Disney for organizing such a smooth and enjoyable tournament, and to the Pinball Gallery for providing a fantastic venue. These gatherings not only challenge the players but also foster a thriving community spirit among pinball fans.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the Ball Busters Pinball League and other pinball events across the United States!

Navigating the Flippers: Tik Tok’s Pinball Tournament Recap

Overview of Tik Tok’s Matchplay

On a cool April evening, Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, Washington, became the arena for the intense Tik Tok’s Matchplay 4/16/24 tournament. This event drew seven dedicated pinball enthusiasts who competed through 8 rounds of single-game matches. The tournament started at 7:00 PM and spanned approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, under a clear sky with temperatures dipping to 51°F.

Standout Game: Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Round 6 on Stern’s Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons. This game, known for its retro design and cheeky theme, was a crowd-pleaser. Rachel Kahalekulu topped the round, showcasing her skills against the organizer and player Richard Godwin, Bruce Cherry, and Matthew Mihelich, making for an exciting and competitive matchup.

Tournament Champions

The fierce competition led to some remarkable performances, with the top spots claimed by:

  1. Daron Coull, who demonstrated strategic mastery and steady hands throughout the tournament, leading them to victory with an IFPA rank of 3772.
  2. Richard Godwin, not only organized a great event but also proved their mettle by securing second place, utilizing their extensive experience from 479 tournaments.
  3. Matthew Mihelich displayed significant improvement and competitive spirit, landing a respectable third place.
  4. Rachel Kahalekulu, despite her intense play in the spotlighted game, rounded out the top four with notable skill and determination.

Featured Pinball Machines

Tik Tok’s Workshop hosted an impressive lineup of 12 pinball machines that ranged from classic to modern, each with unique features to challenge the players:

Venue Highlights

Tik Tok’s Workshop, located at 1216 Sylvan Way, is more than just a pinball venue; it’s a community hub known for its lively atmosphere and engaging events like Wednesday night naughty bingo. The venue boasts a fantastic selection of pinball machines and offers great drinks, complemented by the excellent service of its staff.

Appreciation and Looking Forward

A special thanks to Richard Godwin for organizing another successful pinball tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for continuously providing a fantastic venue for pinball enthusiasts. Events like these highlight the passion and excitement of the pinball community.

High Scores and High Spirits at Electric Bat

Tournament Action Unleashed

On the evening of April 16, 2024, the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona, buzzed with excitement as it hosted the inaugural event of Season 11, Series 2. With clear skies overhead and temperatures at a comfortable 83°F, 108 pinball enthusiasts dove into a series of 5 competitive rounds, each round featuring a single game and lasting about 3 hours. Orchestrated by the renowned organizer Rachel Bess, the tournament was a showcase of skill, strategy, and community spirit.

Game Highlight: Elvira’s House of Horrors Showdown

Round 2 of the tournament spotlighted Stern’s Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium), captivating attendees with its thrilling gameplay and eerie ambiance. Ty Bull, showcasing exceptional skill, secured a victory in this high-stakes round, closely followed by Stephanie Turner from Chandler, AZ. Paul Blanco and newcomer Nick Haney also made impressive showings, making this game a tournament highlight.

Champions of the Arcade

The tournament concluded with a celebration of the top performers who distinguished themselves with their outstanding gameplay:

  1. Cody Winant demonstrated strategic mastery and clinched the top position, reinforcing his status with an IFPA rank of 528.
  2. Stephanie Turner, bringing vast experience from over 200 tournaments, navigated the field expertly to secure a commendable second place.
  3. Greg Drewes displayed consistent skill throughout the evening, earning a well-deserved third place with his strategic gameplay.
  4. Mark Pearson, despite the stiff competition, utilized his extensive experience to secure the fourth spot.

Pinball Showcase

Electric Bat Arcade’s impressive collection of 67 pinball machines was more than just a backdrop for the tournament; it was a key player in the event’s success:

Electric Atmosphere at Electric Bat

The Electric Bat Arcade, located at 29 W. Southern Ave, Tempe, not only provided a stage for this spectacular pinball showdown but also contributed to the vibrant community vibe. The arcade, known for its eclectic mix of classic and modern machines, along with its adjacency to the Yucca Tap Room, made it the perfect venue for an evening full of excitement and entertainment.

Gratitude and Anticipation

A heartfelt thank you to Rachel Bess for orchestrating such a memorable event and to the Electric Bat Arcade for being an exemplary host. The dedication of the organizers and the welcoming atmosphere of the venue ensure that each tournament is not just a competition, but a celebration of the pinball community.

Stay tuned to our blog for more thrilling updates from the pinball tournaments across the United States!

High Scores and High Spirits at MFPinball Spring Season

Overview of the Competition

On the evening of April 15, 2024, Lynn’s Arcade in Seaside, California, played host to the MFPinball Spring Season #2. The tournament attracted 41 pinball wizards who competed across 5 rounds, each participant playing one game per round. The competition lasted over 2 and a half hours and was characterized by strategic plays and a dash of luck under a slightly cloudy sky with temperatures around 53°F.

Highlight Match: Pabst Can Crusher Faceoff

In Round 2, the Pabst Can Crusher machine by Stern became the center of attention. This unique pinball game, celebrating the iconic American beer brand, saw Nate King taking the top spot followed closely by John Tracey, Tyler Heath, and Andreina Ramirez. The game not only tested their flipper skills but also their ability to handle the pressure of the tournament spotlight.

Champions of the Night

As the final ball plunged, the top players emerged victorious, their rankings reflecting their prowess and experience in the pinball community:

  1. Matthew Talley from Seaside, California, with an impressive IFPA rank of 362 and 159 events under their belt, clinched the first position, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency.
  2. John Tracey, a seasoned player from Salinas with an IFPA rank of 240 and 156 events, demonstrated his strategic acumen to secure second place.
  3. Christian Gainsley from San Francisco, despite being relatively new to the tournament scene with only 19 events, performed remarkably well to take third place.
  4. Nate King, known for his competitive spirit, rounded out the top four, proving his mettle among a field of seasoned competitors.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue was equipped with an impressive lineup of 37 pinball machines, providing both classic and modern challenges:

  • Abra Ca Dabra by Gottlieb, a classic from the mid-70s, enchanted players with its nostalgic charm and tricky gameplay.
  • Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern and Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming brought modern sensibilities to the arcade with their recent releases, featuring band-themed playfields and movie-based narratives.
  • Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball and JAWS (Pro) by Stern were crowd favorites, offering thematic depth and innovative game mechanics that captivated players.
  • Demolition Man by Williams, known for its futuristic theme and interactive gameplay features, continued to draw competitive players looking for a complex challenge.

Venue and Atmosphere

Lynn’s Arcade, located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, not only provided a competitive arena but also a welcoming environment perfect for social gatherings. With its diverse array of pinball machines and a cozy setting for enjoying a beer or cider, it’s an ideal spot for a casual outing or a playful date night. The unlimited play deal offered adds even more value for enthusiasts and families alike.

Acknowledgements

A huge thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing another successful chapter of the MFPinball Spring Season and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting this fantastic event. Your efforts continue to bring the pinball community together and create memorable experiences for all who attend.