The simple answer:
We are having a 4-strike knockout tournament.
Where?
Rob's Arcade, tucked away in zip code 23225 (e-mail if you need the address).
When?
Warmups will start at 12:00 noon with tournament play starting at 12:30pm.
What is this ridiculous "Fourplay / Long Time" title trying to tell me?
Primarily it's telling you I'm a complete jackass who is trying to coyly put a smile on the face of classic rock fans. If it doesn't resonate with you, Google "Tom Scholz" or "Boston first album" and you can probably get to an answer quickly.
From a pinball perspective...in an effort to put a subtle twist on the traditional 4-strike ("Fourplay") format, the longest playing game in each round will be eliminated for future rounds ("Long Time"). The only exception will be if eliminating a game would result in having fewer games than groups, in which case a game will not be eliminated. If there is a need to deactivate a game for other reasons, the last game eliminated will be substituted in its place.
How many people?
The field will be limited to 24.
I know 4-strike formats can have different rules...what are you planning?
Play will be in 4-player groups whenever possible, with 3rd and 4th place taking a strike. In those inevitable instances of 3-player groups, only 3rd place gets a strike.
Extra balls?
No. Any earned extra balls can be skillfully plunged but not played. The only exception is Iron Maiden '82. If earned during the game, there will be a timed bonus ball awarded to the player at the end of ball 3 -- you can play that one!
Sounds like it could take a while...any plans for food?
The hope with this format is that things will move more quickly than a typical 4-strike tournament. Removing the longer-playing games as the rounds progress and not playing extra balls might allow things to conclude by dinner; however, this is admittedly a first-time test of this theory. There might be a bag or two of chips on the counter, but this is definitely a bring-your-own food and bring-your-own-drink event. If we aren't anywhere close to finished by dinner we can convene between rounds and figure out a plan if needed.
Are there WPPR points available?
Yes. The tournament has been approved by IFPA.
How much, and how do I register?
Entry fee is $10. This covers IFPA fees and prizes. Registration can be found here.
Prizes?
Yep. Cash payouts and perhaps an award.
What happens if I get knocked out of the tournament?
You are welcome to hang out, socialize, and play any machines not being used for tournament play. Video games are also available for play, so there is more than just pinball. As always at Rob's Arcade, the main goal is to have some fun!!