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.

Striking Competition at Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes Tournament

Inside the Tournament

The air was brisk and the clouds hovered as pinball enthusiasts gathered at Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, Washington, on April 15, 2024. The venue hosted the captivating “Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes” tournament, which saw 13 competitors battle through 10 grueling rounds starting at 6:55 PM. Under the Fair Strikes format, players faced the relentless challenge of accumulating the least number of strikes to survive, with strikes awarded based on their finish in each round. This intense competition lasted over four hours, filled with strategic plays and the clattering echo of pinball machines.

Game of the Night: Monster Bash (Remake)

Round 5 proved pivotal with a standout game on Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming. The match featured Jennifer Bremerton who secured a first-place finish against formidable opponents. Andrew McCann, Conrad Rustad, and Pinky Barney battled fiercely but couldn’t surpass Jennifer’s skillful manipulation of the flippers, highlighting the game’s enchanting design and modern twists on classic pinball play.

Honoring the Champions

The tournament concluded with remarkable displays of skill and determination:

  1. Donovan Haga from Bremerton showcased his adeptness and strategic depth, finishing first with an impressive track record of 132 IFPA events.
  2. Conrad Rustad, also from Bremerton, leveraged his vast experience from 248 events to claim a well-earned second place.
  3. Jessica Barron demonstrated her pinball prowess and consistency, securing third place with experience from 321 IFPA events.
  4. Sarah Bay rounded out the top four, bringing her considerable experience from 262 events to the forefront of the competition.

Featured Pinball Machines

The event was supported by an eclectic mix of 15 pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the tournament:

  • Cyclone by Williams, known for its vibrant artwork and engaging carnival theme, was a fan favorite.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball captivated players with its intricate game mechanics and immersive storytelling.
  • Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons provided a quirky and nostalgic play experience with its retro visuals and simplistic charm.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern drew players with its deep rule set and thematic elements tied to the popular series.
  • Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball challenged players with its intense, fast-paced gameplay and unique soundtrack.

Venue Vibes

Tik Tok’s Workshop not only hosted the tournament but also offered a vibrant atmosphere that resonated with nostalgia and excitement. Players enjoyed a diverse selection of pinball machines, some harking back to their childhood, and other activities like bowling and classic arcade games like Galaga, making for a fun-filled evening.

A Grateful Farewell

A big thank you goes out to Richard Godwin for organizing such a dynamic event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing a perfect setting for pinball magic. This tournament was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball, combining fierce competition with communal joy.

Pinball Prowess at Player 1 Arcade in Surprise AZ

Overview of the Tournament

On a perfect spring afternoon of April 15, 2024, 35 enthusiastic pinball players converged at Player 1 Arcade in Surprise, Arizona for the fifth tournament of the 2024 Series 3. The event unfolded over five rounds, with each round consisting of a single intense game, lasting a total of about 7 hours and 12 minutes. Jim Smith, the organizer of this popular series, successfully orchestrated another thrilling day of flipper action under clear skies and a pleasant 74°F.

Spotlight on James Bond 007 (Premium)

The grand finale of the tournament featured a riveting session on the James Bond 007 (Premium) machine by Stern, which highlighted the skills of the top competitors. Mark Pearson, with an impressive IFPA rank of 49, managed to secure a first-place finish in this round, outplaying opponents such as Del Kyger, Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix, and Crystal De La O in a nail-biting conclusion to the series.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament showcased exceptional talent and strategic gameplay, culminating in noteworthy victories:

  1. Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ, with a ranking of 4438, demonstrated his rising prowess in the pinball community by clinching the top position.
  2. Mark Pearson, a seasoned player with an IFPA rank of 49, added another runner-up finish to his extensive record of 585 events.
  3. Robert Paluc, relatively new to the tournament scene with just 11 events, made a remarkable third-place finish.
  4. Scott Ping from Arizona, showcasing consistent skills across 33 events, rounded out the top four.

The Machines That Stole the Show

Player 1 Arcade featured a diverse lineup of 12 pinball machines, each with its own charm and challenge:

  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, known for its deep rule set and engaging modes that faithfully represent the beloved franchise.
  • Stranger Things (Pro), also by Stern, drew players with its immersive gameplay and interactive features based on the hit series.
  • Deadpool (LE) offered not just vibrant artwork but also quirky humor and challenging shots, making it a crowd favorite.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams transported players to a world of magic carpets and genies with its rich visuals and compelling story-driven gameplay.
  • Foo Fighters (LE), the newest addition, thrilled fans with its rock theme and exclusive tracks, creating a concert-like experience.

Venue Highlights

Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, is more than just a venue; it’s a community hub where locals gather to unwind. The arcade offers a cozy, not-too-loud atmosphere perfect for both intense gaming and relaxed conversations, enhanced by a friendly owner who adds a personal touch to the experience.

A Special Thanks

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Jim Smith for organizing such a fantastic event and to Player 1 Arcade for providing a welcoming space for pinball enthusiasts. Events like these enrich the pinball community, bringing together players of all skill levels to share in the joy of the game.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the pinball tournaments!

Action and Antics at the Speakeasy Special at DK Arcade

Dive into the Tournament

On a bright afternoon in April, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Terry’s Terrace in Harrison Township, Michigan, for the “Speakeasy Special at DK Arcade.” The event, orchestrated by Joe Wade, featured intense competition with 29 contenders engaging in 5 rounds of pinball. As they racked up points through the preliminary rounds, the top 8 moved on to a ‘grueling’ final showdown that humorously consisted of zero games—talk about a suspenseful way to keep the balls in the air!

Spotlight on Elvira’s House of Horrors

The tournament’s standout game occurred in the third round on Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE) by Stern, a recent favorite among the pinball community. Marco Vendetti clinched first place, demonstrating his prowess alongside Thomas Ruszkiewicz Jr., Philip Salminen, and Dominic Labella, who all showed remarkable skill and strategy in their quest for pinball glory.

Champions of the Day

The tournament concluded with high spirits as the champions took their well-deserved accolades:

  1. Marco Vendetti topped the leaderboard, confirming his reputation with his precise flips and tactical gameplay.
  2. Thomas Ruszkiewicz Jr. followed in second place, bringing a spirited challenge from the heart of Detroit’s Barcade.
  3. Philip Salminen secured third, showing that Midland, MI, has game.
  4. Dominic Labella took fourth place, impressing with his consistency and skill.
  5. Brandon Blake placed fifth, demonstrating growing prowess in the competitive pinball scene.
  6. Isaiah Bingham from Ann Arbor captured sixth place, showing great potential in his gameplay.
  7. Jared August, ranked eleventh worldwide, finished in seventh place with his expert moves.
  8. Ian Montgomery, though unranked, rounded out the top eight, proving his mettle in the competitive field.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament boasted a lineup of 9 pinball machines that ranged from classic to contemporary:

  • Attack from Mars by Bally: An alien invasion theme that keeps players on their toes.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams: Offers a magical carpet ride through Middle Eastern folklore.
  • Monster Bash by Williams: Where players reunite the classic Universal monsters for a rocking concert.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern: A thrilling hunt in Amity Island waters, fresh from its 2024 release.
  • Monopoly by Stern: Turns the classic board game into a pinball strategic battleground.
  • James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Engages players in espionage and action worthy of the iconic spy.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Lets players delve into bounty hunting missions across the Star Wars universe.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: Introduces the antihero’s fierce encounters and dynamic playfield features.

Venue Vibes

Terry’s Terrace provided more than just a venue; it offered a perfect blend of good food, great service, and excellent pinball. From mimosas and ‘man mosas’ to spicy Nashville Hot Chicken sandwiches, the food was as much a hit as the pinball was. The arcade corner, filled with pinball machines and classic games, made for a nostalgic yet vibrant backdrop to the day’s events.

Thanks and Farewells

A big shout-out to Joe Wade for organizing a seamless and spirited tournament and to Terry’s Terrace for their fantastic hospitality and setting, which added to the charm of the day’s events. Their combined efforts created a memorable experience for everyone who attended.

For more pinball tournament tales and updates, keep flipping through this blog!

Dazzling Play at Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout Tournament

Overview of the Knockout Challenge

The Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout pinball tournament took place on a sunny afternoon in Bremerton, Washington. The event, hosted at Tik Tok’s Workshop and skillfully organized by Richard Godwin, was a fast-paced competition running for nearly 3 hours. Fourteen players battled through 12 rounds of intense pinball action under a Group Knockout format, where the stakes grew higher with each strike given for lower finishes in the rounds.

Game of the Day: The Wizard of Oz Face-Off

One of the tournament’s most thrilling games unfolded in Round 3 on The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball. Jessica Barron took the lead with stellar gameplay, followed by Kathleen Rush and Jennifer Bremerton, while Pinky Barney faced a challenging round. This game not only tested their pinball skills but also highlighted their strategic depth under pressure.

Celebrating the Victors

The event concluded with a celebration of remarkable skill and endurance:

  1. Pinky Barney emerged victorious, showcasing great resilience and strategy throughout the tournament.
  2. Kathleen Rush claimed the runner-up spot with consistent performances that reflected her growing expertise.
  3. Jennifer Bremerton displayed formidable skill, earning a well-deserved third place.
  4. Rachel Kahalekulu rounded out the top four, bringing experience and precision to the fore.

Showcase of the Pinball Arena

Participants enjoyed a selection of 12 diverse pinball machines, providing various styles and eras of gameplay:

  • Twister by Sega: Known for its stormy, chaotic gameplay mirroring the movie’s tornado theme.
  • Cyclone by Williams: A classic amusement park-themed game that’s beloved for its whimsical design and fun quotes.
  • Eight Ball by Bally: One of the best-selling pinball machines of all time, offering classic pool hall action.
  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: Rocks players with high-energy music and electrifying play features.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Stands out with its colorful graphics and innovative game mechanics.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Brings back classic monsters with modern technology, enhancing play with updated effects.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern: Engages players with missions and adventures based on the popular TV series.

Venue Vibes and Final Impressions

Tik Tok’s Workshop not only provided the stage for this pinball spectacle but also crafted a welcoming atmosphere that was praised by all attendees. With its combination of vintage games, delightful food, and a friendly staff, the venue made everyone feel like part of a vibrant community.

Grateful Acknowledgments

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Richard Godwin for organizing such an engaging and smoothly run tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for their fantastic hospitality. Their efforts made the Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout a memorable event for everyone involved.

For more stories and updates from the exciting world of pinball tournaments, keep your flippers ready and stay tuned to this blog!

A Clash of Titans at Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals

Setting the Scene at Wormhole

On a pleasantly warm evening of April 13, 2024, with the skies only partially obscured by clouds, the Space City Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals unfolded at Wormhole, located at 2017 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX. As the doors opened at 5:00 PM, enthusiasts and competitors alike stepped into an electrifying atmosphere charged with anticipation and the distinct, animated sounds of pinball machines in active contest.

Strategic Play and Standout Moments

The tournament was tightly formatted with four players competing in three games over a single round lasting nearly four hours. A notable highlight was the intense showdown on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) machine. Alice Young, wielding an impressive IFPA rank of 1822, showcased a blend of sharp reflexes and strategic nudging that outplayed her competitors, including the formidable Tracy Abrahams from Texas and the ever-consistent Elizabeth Dronet from Space City.

Featured Pinball Machines: Blending Art and Mechanics

Among the 19 pinball machines, a few stood out not just for their gameplay but also for their unique designs:

  • Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball, which combines modern technology with classic pinball layout, captivated players with its sophisticated software and engaging missions.
  • Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, the latest from Barrels of Fun, intrigued with its enchanting artwork and complex playfield, bringing the beloved movie to life.
  • James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern offered espionage-themed excitement with gadgets and missions fit for a secret agent.
  • Warlok and Barracora by Williams threw back to the early ’80s with their mystical themes and challenging gameplay, drawing in both nostalgia enthusiasts and new players.

Crowning the Champions

The fierce competition culminated in a dramatic final tally:

  1. Alice Young, triumphing as the tournament champion, showed why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball community, adding this victory to her portfolio of 128 IFPA events.
  2. Tracy Abrahams, who employs a calm, methodical approach to gameplay, secured second place, reflecting their growing prowess over 162 events.
  3. Elizabeth Dronet, a seasoned player with 383 events, demonstrated consistency and skill to claim third place.
  4. Veronica Seymour, despite being relatively new to the scene with only 7 IFPA events, made an admirable showing in fourth place.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As the night wound down, the energy of the competition gently settled into shared stories of narrow misses and spectacular wins. A special thanks goes to Space City Pinball, the organizers who not only put together a seamless event but also fostered a community where camaraderie and competitive spirit thrive together. And to Wormhole, for hosting an unforgettable evening of pinball wizardry.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the dynamic world of pinball!