Tik Tok’s Matchplay Showdown: A Night of High Stakes and Spinning Balls

A Bremerton Brawl

As the scattered clouds blanketed the Bremerton sky and the temperature hovered around a cozy 56°F, the ambient sounds of flippers, bells, and buzzers filled the air. Tik Tok’s Workshop, located at 1216 Sylvan Way, became a battleground for pinball enthusiasts on September 26, 2023. Hosted by the eminent Richard Godwin, the tournament saw 4 players locking horns over 8 intense rounds, each eager to prove their mettle.

A Decade of Wizardry

Round 4 stole the spotlight when players faced off on ‘The Wizard of Oz (LE)‘ by Jersey Jack Pinball, a machine celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. The results were nothing short of thrilling:

  1. Rachel Kahalekulu (IFPA rank 3075)
  2. Richard Godwin (IFPA rank 2257)
  3. Jared Doss (IFPA rank 3881)
  4. Anna Francolini (IFPA rank 6920)

Celebrating the Champions

This tournament showcased the essence of competition and camaraderie. Richard Godwin, besides being an excellent organizer, emerged as the top player, proving his prowess in both administration and action. Kudos to all the participants for making the event unforgettable. The final leaderboard was set, and the victors emerged:

  • 1st Place: Richard Godwin (IFPA rank 2257)
  • 2nd Place: Jared Doss (IFPA rank 3881)
  • 3rd Place: Anna Francolini (IFPA rank 6920)
  • 4th Place: Rachel Kahalekulu (IFPA rank 3075)

Machines of Legend

Among the 13 machines that participated, a few became the talk of the tournament:

  • Icarus by Recel (1977): This ancient marvel reminded players of the era when pinball was taking flight.
  • Grand Prix by Williams (1976): A machine that brings back the golden era of racing combined with the thrills of pinball.
  • Cyclone by Williams (1988): A classic favorite, invoking memories of fairgrounds and roller coasters.
  • Demolition Man by Williams (1994): Based on the cult classic film, this machine provided a futuristic pinball experience.
  • Sharpshooter by Game Plan (1979): A true test of aim and skill, taking players back to the wild west.
  • Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams (1991): A machine that never fails to entertain, with its sci-fi theme and challenging gameplay.
  • Legends of Wrestlemania by Stern (2015): A homage to the wrestling legends, offering a slam-dunk experience.
  • Firepower by Williams (1980): Its rapid gameplay and electronic sounds made it a stand-out for many enthusiasts.
  • Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons by Stern (2015): With its unique design and retro feel, this machine was a refreshing change for many players.

These machines not only tested the skills of the participants but also transported them back in time, each with its own story and charm.

Atmospheric Ambience

The venue, Tik Tok’s Workshop, was nothing short of remarkable. Their website offers a glimpse, but it’s the live experience that counts. The one-man army of a bartender ensured everyone felt right at home. From dishing out sumptuous meals to mixing drinks and even servicing machines, he did it all, becoming the unsung hero of the night.

Top Guns of Washington

As we wrap up, let’s take a moment to recognize the top 10 pinball masters of Washington:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond625.88
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle532.98
3Richie TerrySeattle498.13
4Sean IrbySeattle469.68
5Jarrett GaddySeattle446.87
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.45
7Dave StewartCarnation399.95
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.73
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.68
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.15

The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/26 might be over, but the tales of tilt, flippers, and high scores will echo for days to come. Until the next pinball adventure, keep those fingers nimble and spirits high!

Pinball, Passion, and a Fresh Cup of Joe: A Tale from San Antonio

On a balmy evening, with the thermometer nudging 93°F, the distinct chimes and electronic bleeps of pinball machines filled the spacious confines of What’s Brewing? in San Antonio. This wasn’t any ordinary pinball evening; this was the much-anticipated “Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #2.”

Tournament Insights

Taking place precisely at 6:30 PM on September 26, 2023, this fiesta of flippers and silver balls witnessed a nail-biting competition, lasting just shy of 3 hours. Organized by the passionate pinball aficionado, Christina Cheeseman, 19 fervent players faced off over 5 grueling rounds, competing two games per round, all in the pursuit of pinball glory.

An atmosphere of friendly rivalry pervaded the air, with players sharing both tips and banter between rounds. The competition was tight, with the top 8 players then progressing to the Finals – a 2 round showdown with 3 games in each round.

In the Limelight: Game of the Tournament

While each game had its moments, a special mention must be given to a dramatic showdown in Round 2. The game: Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, a recent classic from 2018. Christina Cheeseman, our organizer, showed her mettle by securing first place in this game, but not without fierce competition from Jovanna Barrientez, Cinthia Guadiana, and Lori Love.

Pinball Wizards of the Evening

As the last ball plunged down the table and the scores were tallied, the top contenders emerged:

  1. Alice Young – A maestro with an IFPA rank of 2385, and a veteran of 82 IFPA events.
  2. Don Dura – Close on Alice’s tail with an IFPA rank of 1310.
  3. Brian Fults from Longville, LA, a spirited competitor with a respectable IFPA rank of 1461.
  4. Elizabeth Dronet from Space City, and several others, showcased their skills, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.

Machines of Majesty

Though all pinball machines at the venue were fantastic, some that captured the heart and imagination included:

  • Funhouse by Williams, a true vintage classic from 1990.
  • Firepower by Williams, lighting up the scene since 1980.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming, a relatively fresh face from 2021.
  • Twilight Zone by Bally, a game that has taken players to another dimension since 1993.
  • … and many more, each telling its unique tale of design, gameplay, and history.

Venue Vibes

But it wasn’t all about pinball. What’s Brewing? offers more than just arcade games. As described on their website, it’s a coffee lover’s paradise. The scent of freshly brewed coffee perfectly complemented the electrifying atmosphere of the tournament. And with beans from burlap sacks being weighed and brewed in the background, it truly provided a unique, multisensory experience.

Top Players in the Lone Star State

A look at Texas’s cream of the crop:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.14
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.72
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.55
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.08
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.24
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio212.67
10Kevin RodriguezDenton210.54

Pinball may be an age-old game, but in the heart of Texas, it’s very much alive and thumping. With venues like What’s Brewing? and tournaments like Belles & Chimes, the silver ball continues to mesmerize. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a coffee connoisseur, there’s always something brewing in San Antonio. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball!

Thunder, Lightning, and Pinballs: A Night to Remember at The Pinball Lounge

On the evening of September 26, 2023, amidst a dramatic Florida thunderstorm with temperatures rising to a steamy 84°F, enthusiasts gathered for a showdown of flippers and silver balls at The Pinball Lounge’s “Bonanza 9-26-23”. Located within the heart of Oviedo Bowling Center, The Pinball Lounge provided the perfect shelter from the weather’s theatrics and the ideal stage for some pinball magic.

The Dance of the Silver Ball

The night was orchestrated by Kurt van Zyl and was divided into six tense rounds, with each round featuring one game. Seventeen top-notch players, from various corners of Florida, vied for the title. As the rounds unfolded, strategies were revealed, rivalries intensified, and the leaderboard kept everyone guessing.

Deadpool Dominance

Round 6 witnessed a stellar performance on the “Deadpool (Pro)” by Stern. John Moschella, hailing from Winter Springs, FL, clinched the top spot, showing his prowess despite his rank of 1118. But he was closely trailed by Doug Bernard from Orlando and John Osborne. Brayden DeRazza from Lake Mary, FL also showcased his skills, ensuring his name was not forgotten that evening.

Pinball Royalty

The night concluded with some clear champions:

  1. Doug Bernard – This Orlando native topped the charts, reminding everyone of his mastery.
  2. John Moschella – He might have been second on the list, but his gameplay resonated with flair and finesse.
  3. Justin Derazza – Consistently great throughout.
  4. Brayden DeRazza – Proving that Lake Mary, FL, has some serious pinball talent.

Spotlight on Machines

The Pinball Lounge’s vast collection of 37 machines ensured that players had a diverse range of games to test their skills. Some of the crowd favorites included:

The Lounge Experience

For those unfamiliar with The Pinball Lounge, it’s more than just a venue with pinball machines. It’s a vibrant community spot where novices can feel at ease and professionals can feel challenged. With all-you-can-play nights, themed events, and a fantastic atmosphere, it’s no wonder pinball fans flock here. Plus, who can resist the delightful combo of pinball, food, and adult beverages?

Florida’s Finest Flippers

A glance at the top pinball players in Florida:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.54
2Eric StoneFort Myers304.72
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale271.69
4Sebastian Bobbio265.88
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.73
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace146.87
8David Miller FLTampa140.89
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.7
10John MoschellaWinter Springs126.82

As the thunderstorm raged outside, inside The Pinball Lounge, another storm was brewing. But by night’s end, players left with memories of thrilling victories, narrow defeats, and the promise of more pinball adventures to come. Stay plugged in for more pinball updates, because the silver ball saga never truly ends!

District 82’s Dynamic Duel: Tilt’n Tuesday’s Highlighting Mata Hari

On a day where the clouds decided to make an appearance, with a comfortable temperature of 67°F, pinball enthusiasts from all over gathered at District 82 Pinball Arcade on September 26th, 2023. Starting at 6:00 PM, the tournament, meticulously organized by Erik Thoren, ran for an exhilarating 2 hours and 50 minutes.

A Tilt Back in Time

One of the standout games of the evening was a throwback to yesteryears. Celebrating its anniversary, the Mata Hari by Bally, a game that has it’s project date listed as September 26, 1977, had players battling fiercely in Round 3.

“Mata Hari” captures the enigma of its namesake, the exotic dancer and accused spy from the early 20th century, Margaretha Zelle. The game design, with elements like flippers, pop bumpers, drop targets, and a kick-out hole, takes players on a journey through the world of espionage, mystery, and dance. And while its gameplay offers a delightful throwback, the art by Dave Christensen, encapsulating the allure and intrigue of its central character, provides the perfect backdrop for fierce competition.

Back to the action, the Round 3 battle on “Mata Hari” was intense. Gerald Morrison, boasting a commendable International Flipper Pinball Association (IFPA) rank of 508, navigated the game’s challenges with finesse, securing a well-deserved first place. It was a thrilling display of skill and strategy, with Bob Brisk hot on his heels. Shawn McDonald and Tony Trofka also showcased their expertise, rounding out the top spots and making this round a highlight of the evening.

For many, this game served as a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding players of the deep-rooted history and evolution of pinball. “Mata Hari” proved yet again that classics never fade; they just get better with age.

Masters of the Machine

The evening culminated in the crowning of the ultimate pinball wizards:

  1. Nathan Zalewski with an IFPA rank of 271 showcased his skills and triumphed over the competition.
  2. Mike Schlumpf from Green Bay followed closely with a seasoned experience of 274 events under their belt.
  3. Tom Graf from the enigmatic PARTS UNKNOWN secured the third spot with an impressive 505 events experience.
  4. Tom Schmidt from Neenah, Wisconsin rounded out the top four.

The Arcade’s Arsenal

District 82’s impressive collection of 114 pinball machines was at full display. Players found themselves navigating through:

District 82 – The Mecca for Pinball Lovers

Located on O Keefe Road, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a gem for those in love with the game. Operating primarily from September to May, it offers various tournaments throughout the week, making it the go-to destination for pinball aficionados. The vast collection, well-maintained machines, and the friendly atmosphere make it a haven for both novices and pros.

The Sultans of Wisconsin Pinball

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.3
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.19
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.63
4Escher Lefkoff1050.03
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.75
6Erik ThorenDe Pere741.02
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.44
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.75
10Jordan Dechaine683.86

As the flippers came to rest and the pinballs lay dormant, players left District 82 with smiles, stories, and scores to remember. The realm of pinball in Wisconsin is alive and well, and we can’t wait for the next flip-tastic event. Keep those flippers ready!

Electric Excitement at the Electric Bat Season 9 Pinball Tournament!

The searing heat of Arizona’s sun might have been unrelenting, but inside the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, a different kind of heat was generating – the competitive fire of 107 pinball enthusiasts. On September 26, 2023, these players clashed flippers in a fierce battle that lasted almost 11 hours.

An Epic Venue

The Electric Bat Arcade, a vintage gamer’s paradise, once again hosted a major pinball showdown. With a range of games from Tekken to Dolly Parton’s 1978 classic pinball, the arcade is every gamer’s wonderland. Not just limited to games, the attached bar and accessible restrooms ensure you can take strategic breaks between matches. And if you’re driving in? Ample parking ensures you won’t be circling the block.

The Game that had everyone Talking

Round 4 was a nail-biter as players faced off on Godzilla (Premium), Stern’s 2021 hit. Notably, Mark Pearson (with an impressive IFPA rank of 34) claimed the top spot in that round, beating out competitors with far lower rankings. It’s these underdog moments, where lesser-known players challenge the veterans, that make the sport so unpredictable and thrilling.

Crowning the Champions

At the end of a day filled with flippers, flashing lights, and frenzied excitement, the top spots were claimed by:

  1. Peter Schatzer – Proving that you don’t always need the lowest IFPA rank to come out on top.
  2. John Shopple – A local hero, making Mesa proud.
  3. Henry Hanshaw – A testament to consistency and skill.
  4. Roland Nadeau – Further cementing his position as one of Arizona’s top players.

Machines that Made a Mark

With 62 machines to choose from, players had a variety of eras and styles at their fingertips. Some of the standout tables included classics like Sorcerer, Creature from the Black Lagoon, and WHO dunnit. The newest addition, Scooby-Doo (CE), released earlier this year by Spooky Pinball, added a touch of modern flair to the vintage lineup.

State of the State

Here’s the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings as of now:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland NadeauPhoenix672.27
2Mark PearsonPhoenix589.29
3John ShoppleMesa570.05
4John MagyarGilbert352.79
5Adam HortonPhoenix331.45
6Kevan CarterTempe321.36
7Jason BarreMesa312.26
8Joey RioSurprise309.24
9Paul BlancoChandler306.33
10Walter donyPhoenix281.38

From retro arcades to modern machines, the Electric Bat Season 9 Series 1 #2 pinball tournament showcased the diverse and passionate world of pinball enthusiasts. The excitement doesn’t end here, though. As every pinball player knows, there’s always another game, another challenge, another high score to chase.

Till next time, keep those flippers flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the electrifying world of pinball!