Pins, Points, and One Incredible Bartender at Tik Tok’s Pinball Party

September 5th, 2023. The skies were overcast with a touch of chill at 65°F. But inside Tik Tok’s Workshop at 1216 Sylvan Way, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/5 pinball tournament was about to kick off, promising an evening of intensity, nostalgia, and a touch of wizardry.

Flipping Through The Atmosphere

Bremerton, WA became the playground for pinball enthusiasts as they gathered for the competition organized by Richard Godwin. However, while the competitors were making a ruckus with their flipper skills, the star of the venue had to be the rockstar bartender. Handling food, mixed drinks, servicing machines – all with the kind of multi-tasking skills you’d think were reserved for an octopus. This cool, bearded guy stole hearts and applause, proving that sometimes, the unsung heroes lie outside the competition.

Spotlight on the Sixth

The most exhilarating match had to be in Round 6. Williams’ Demolition Man, a throwback from 1994, became the battlefield for some intense pinball action. Pinky Barney, despite her rank of 6627, stunned the crowd with a victory. Close on her heels was Jessica Barron, proving that rankings are just numbers when you’re in the zone.

A Stellar Lineup

From the fruit-filled antics of Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons to the apocalyptic rushes of Terminator 2: Judgment Day, the array of pinball machines was a delight for both players and spectators. Machines like Icarus, Firepower, and Monster Bash (Remake) only added to the vintage charm and challenged the skills of the players.

And The Ball Drops On…

While every player brought their A-game, Jessica Barron emerged as the queen of the arcade, securing the top spot. A special shoutout to Richard Godwin, who not only organized the event but also nailed the second place! Pinky Barney’s performance was a surprise treat, coming in third.

Washington’s Pinball Prodigies

Here are the IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings to keep you on your toes:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Lonnie LangfordSeattle479.12
2Jarrett GaddySeattle427.92
3Germain MariolleRedmond427.18
4David ChernicoffSeattle417.6
5Richie TerrySeattle375.65
6Sean IrbySeattle360.93
7Dave StewartCarnation350.98
8Neal JoslynBremerton339.8
9Jaran JonesSeattle291.31
10Alex Singleterry284.17

With a night that had drama, nostalgia, and unexpected heroes, Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/5 pinball tournament will be one for the books. Until next time, keep those balls rolling and flippers flipping. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next pinball sensation!

Hot Times and Hotter Plays at Electric Bat’s Pinball Showdown

In a world where video games have increasingly gone digital, the allure of the silver ball bouncing around in a well-lit box, replete with sound effects and bonuses, is undying. This was vividly apparent at the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #5 pinball tournament. Held on September 05, 2023, at the legendary Electric Bat Arcade, this competition witnessed drama, unexpected turns, and the legacy of a pinball machine that many hold dear.

Desert Heats and Dracula Beats

In an evening that sizzled at a scorching 98°F, clear skies couldn’t have been more misleading. Inside Electric Bat, a chill of suspense hung in the air. The fifth round played host to a formidable game on the Bram Stoker’s Dracula machine, a classic from Williams crafted in 1993. Henry Hanshaw, ranked 646 by the IFPA, pulled an upset, securing the top spot, leaving behind higher-ranked opponents in his wake. A true testament to the unpredictable magic of pinball!

Who Emerged as the Pinball Wizards?

First and foremost, a bow of respect to Roland Nadeau. Holding the top rank in Arizona with 267 IFPA events under his belt, he lived up to his reputation by clinching the top spot. Not far behind were the likes of Walter Dony, Jard Cassell, and Jay Bondelli. Each brought their unique flair, strategy, and game to the table, making the competition all the more enthralling.

A Machine for Every Player

What is a pinball tournament without a glorious lineup of machines? From the political intrigue of Game Of Thrones (Pro) to the prehistoric adventures in Jurassic Park, and not forgetting the heart-pumping action of Terminator 2: Judgment Day – the machines were as much the stars of the show. Recent additions like James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) only added to the mix, ensuring players had a blend of nostalgia and new challenges.

A Venue Like No Other

One step into the Electric Bat Arcade, and you’re transported. Was this an arcade or a dive bar? The incredible bartenders, food, and functional games made it a haven for both the casual visitor and the hardcore pinball enthusiast. The unexpected surprise? Unique rhythm games from Japan – try playing those after a couple of drinks!

Top Dogs of Arizona

Here’s a look at the crème de la crème of Arizona’s pinball wizards:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.86
2Mark PearsonPhoenix535.9
3John ShoppleMesa520.11
4John MagyarGilbert316.35
5Paul BlancoChandler304.32
6Kevan CarterTempe295.87
7Jason BarreMesa292.35
8Joey RioSurprise282.01
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.82
10Andrew Roesch255.21

Electric Bat’s recent tournament stands as a beacon, illuminating the timeless allure of pinball. As the neon lights dimmed and the buzz of the evening faded into the desert night, one thing was clear – in the world of pinball, legends can be born anytime, anywhere.

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!