On the balmy evening of August 23, 2023, the air at Madison’s renowned I/O Arcade Bar was filled with the pings, dings, and whirls that only dedicated pinball wizards could conjure. Located at 924 Williamson Street, this esteemed venue played host to the Finals for Stern Army 2023 Monthly Pinball Tournament, a vibrant gathering of top-tier talent organized by the esteemed Michael Williams.

I/O Arcade: A Gamer’s Paradise

One step into the I/O Arcade Bar and the vibrant atmosphere engulfs you. The bar boasts a plethora of games and an enviable selection of beers, ensuring that both your gaming and gustatory needs are satisfied. Opting for quarters instead of tokens, the arcade gives a nod to nostalgia, while its exclusive adults-only policy promises an evening free from pint-sized interruptions. Whether you’re reminiscing with the Simpsons arcade game, scoring high on ski ball, or diving deep into the world of pinball, I/O Arcade caters to every gamer’s whim.

The Rivalry of the Ryans

The highlight of the tournament was undoubtedly the intense face-off during Round 3 on the freshly minted Scooby-Doo (CE) machine by Spooky Pinball. Ryan Eggers, ranked 764, demonstrated exemplary skill by beating out Ryan Spindler, who boasts a commendable IFPA rank of 168. While Spindler ultimately secured the overall championship, this round showcased that in the thrilling realm of pinball, anything’s possible!

A Pinballer’s Dream

This tournament was a showcase of some of the finest machines the pinball world has to offer. From the imaginative world of Toy Story 4 by Jersey Jack Pinball to the heart-pounding action of Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, players were treated to a vast array of challenges and themes. Not to forget the classic allure of Creature from the Black Lagoon or the contemporary twists of Foo Fighters (Pro), every machine had its own tales of triumphs and heartbreaks.

Wisconsin’s Best Flippers

Here’s a look at the IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings:

As the evening concluded, the lights dimmed, and the flippers rested. But the echoes of the night’s exhilaration, rivalry, and the magic of the silver ball lingered on. Until the next clash of the pinball titans, keep those flippers ready and your eyes on the prize. The world of pinball awaits your next move!

Ah, the familiar sounds of flippers, bells, and that anticipatory tension as the ball is set into play. The pinball community congregated on August 23rd for the PCMC-GB Tournament, an event meticulously organized by Erik Thoren. But the real story wasn’t just about the expert flips or near misses. It was about the rise of the underdogs.

The Game That Spoke Volumes

Round 5 had attendees perched at the edges of their seats. The Nascar machine by Stern, a gem from 2005, was the stage of a dramatic showdown. Among the contenders, Rob Hatszegi, Sam Rusch, and Jonathon Zahn – all unranked by IFPA – showed that rankings can sometimes just be numbers. Rob clinching the top spot was a testament to raw talent and dedication.

The Unexpected Champions

The trend of surprises didn’t stop at just one game. By the end of the tournament, it was clear that the day belonged to those who’ve been hidden in the shadows. Donna Shallow, who’s never graced an IFPA event before, emerged as the top player of the day. Will Parker, Gary Manske, and Eric Jensen followed suit, proving that sometimes, the biggest talents are the most underrated.

A Journey Through Time With Pinballs

While the players were the main attraction, the pinball machines held their ground, offering a diverse range of experiences:

• From the web-slinging fun of Spider-Man by Stern (2007)
• To the creepy charisma of The Addams Family by Bally (1992)
• The prehistoric thrill of Jurassic Park by Data East (1993)
• The cosmic allure of Star Trek (Premium) by Stern (2013)
• And the retro charm of Stars by Stern from way back in 1978.

Each machine brought its history, its legacy, and its unique challenge.

Venue Vibes

And speaking of history, Erik, buddy, where did this tournament magic happen? It’s a mystery we’d love to solve. Next time, drop a hint on MatchPlay, so we can rave about it!

The Pinball Titans

For those seeking inspiration, here’s a look at the top giants in the Wisconsin pinball realm:

To all the pinball enthusiasts, whether you’re a seasoned pro, an up-and-coming star, or someone just getting to know the beauty of the game, remember: rankings are but numbers, and every game is a new chance to shine. Stay flippin’, and catch you at the next pinball showdown!