I really don't get why stuff like this is a no no. If that's the rule fine, but why does it have to be? I usually don't coach another player while they are playing because they didn't ask for the help. If they did, I'd help them assuming the rules allowed it. I have also been in tournaments before where I coached my opponent on a game and I ended up losing to that person on said game because of the information I gave them. Not a big deal. If the help wasn't asked for, I get it, but helping someone understand a game if they want the help, I don't care if it's mid ball, I don't see the issue with someone answering their question.

its like you're trying to keep pinball a secret so people don't get better than you.

Now if I'm in a close 7 game matchup with someone and they ask me for help, I might suddenly forget how to play, but I'm not gonna get all pissy if someone blurts out what shot they want to hit next.

If you ever get to the levels of tournaments where a rule like this would actually matter, it's still not needed as all those players literally know every game inside and out.

See I take lots of pride in my play and play a shotload each day to increase my knowledge of every game I play or expect to play. I am a very very competitive person, but I'm also an adult. The best thing above competitive pinball is there there is pretty much no financial reason to do it. It's almost completely for pride.

That being said, I respect the rules too. If that tournament calls for no coaching, fair enough. You won't hear a peep out of me. But if the rules say nothing, or it's not communicated before the tournament starts, and someone I'm playing says, "why is this whirlwind beeping at me after draining out of multiball?" I'm gonna say, "because you can restart it at the left scoop". Or I'll keep my mouth shut (especially if there's a sweet trophy on the line). Haha

This sounds like the most hilarious tournament ever. Haha. I honestly don't care if someone's talking shit in my ear the whole time, doesn't bother me. Actually it happens in my league if you're plying certain people. Haha.

Like I said, I have full respect for the rules of the tournament I'm playing in. if the IFPA states on their website that there is to be no player talk during play, then I completely understand and agree with leagues for enforcing it that award IFPA points. I also think that they should be enforced within reason. I know that's a grey area, but I think the best bet is making sure everyone knows the rules of any competition before it begins.

Says right here that they are recommended. But what I think we can all agree on is that if the rules are clearly stated before any event, there should be no confusion on what is allowed and isn't allowed.

I honestly can just laugh at those people and probably if I was quick enough on the draw, take a video of them and posted on here (really want to start a thread of most hilarious tournament outbursts caught on camera)

You should check out the Cincinnati monthly tournament as its a very friendly atmosphere and most of the players never played competitive pinball before these started up. So if your in the area, don't shy away from it. Lots of group play and plenty of beer flowing.

Fair enough Whysnow but as far as I know, there are only a few requirements to get IFPA points for a tournament, the rest is left up to the TD to make all rules clear. I would wonder why that big money league you spoke of doesn't just register their tournament with the IFPA too and have the best of both worlds.

If I said before the start of each of my tournaments very clearly, "we are laxed on player talk here, as long as you're not helping a player after they plunge the ball and before they drain excessively, it's fair game." I would be stunned if anyone had an issue with it.