I have played competitive pinball leagues for about 3 years now. I have been playing pinball since I was in third grade , so let's say 1977ish and an owner for the first time about 4 years now . I LOVE playing pinball . I love the machines , the art, the sounds , the lights the skill it takes to actually understand and master the game . I love the social aspect of getting together , talking pins, what's new , who's getting what and having a few beers along the way . Love It ! But ....
Almost every time I go play competitively , tournaments , league etc , I always seem to say why am I doing this ? Even if I play well or make the "finals" . I get angry with myself for missing the shot or whatever it happens to be,
It just becomes different for some reason and I'm not sure I like it .

Very good points, when I compete I take it seriously and when I choke I get mad at myself and hope my competition does worse. Why ? I don't know . It's just for fun right ?

I must admit that house balls seem to show up a lot more often when the game counts.

Unfortunately I am sometimes. Very similar .
When i am playing golf with people i know and and just playing to play I love it, but as soon as it means something my demeanor completely changes.
Pressure does funny things to people.

My number one rule when it comes to golf and probably applies to pins as well.
No quicker way to loose friends than a friendly wager .