On a clear evening with the temperature reading a comfortable 83°F, the pinball enthusiasts of Chicago had their game faces on. It was the Season 5 #2 of the Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League, taking place at the much-acclaimed Logan Arcade. Organized by none other than Mike Pantoliano, the event saw 40 players, some local favorites and others rising stars, all vying for the title of the evening’s pinball champion.
White Water Rages!
There’s always that one game in a tournament that etches itself into the annals of pinball history, and this evening was no exception. On the classic “White Water” by Williams, the balls rolled, jumped, and danced for an astonishing 1 hour, 21 minutes. Bob Twichell from Oaklawn, IL, emerged victorious from this marathon, but every participant, including William Cooper, Kevin Kolodziej, and Lucas Welsh, gave spectators a game to remember.
The Pantheon of Pinball Champions
The air was thick with competition, and when the flippers stopped, and the scores tallied, it was Mike Pantoliano, the organizer himself, who stood tallest. Following him were Andrew Wilkening, Bob Twichell, and Madeleine Benz, who showcased skills, strategies, and a touch of pinball magic to secure their spots.
Machines of Glory
From Stern’s recent “James Bond 007 (Premium)” to the beloved “Theatre of Magic” by Bally, Logan Arcade was a dazzling array of pinball machines, each with its legacy and lure. Personal favorites? The thrilling “Game of Thrones (Premium)” and the ever-spooky “Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium).” The beeps, buzzes, and illuminations from these machines were like a siren call, drawing both players and spectators into their grasp.
Logan Arcade: The Mecca of Pinball in Chicago
Ah, Logan Arcade. With its fantastic selection of pinball machines and competitive pricing, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite amongst enthusiasts. As one visitor aptly put, “Amazing selection of pinball, good prices. Will definitely be back next time I’m in Chicago.” If you’re a pinball aficionado or a newbie looking to dive into this world, Logan Arcade’s doors are always open.
The Best of Illinois
The IFPA Illinois Top 10 Standings were as follows:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Andy Bagwell | Elgin | 352.67 |
| 2 | Raymond Davidson | Elk Grove Village | 222.12 |
| 3 | John Miller MO | St. Louis | 184.42 |
| 4 | Chuck Sanderson | 169.23 | |
| 5 | Ryan McQuaid | 163.06 | |
| 6 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 160.65 |
| 7 | Alex Lecky | Chicago | 151.11 |
| 8 | Stephen Chappell | Ferguson | 143.42 |
| 9 | Bob Twichell | Oaklawn | 135.69 |
| 10 | Mike Pantoliano | Seattle | 130.1 |
With the evening drawing to a close, the lights dimming, and the echoes of the pinballs fading away, one thing remained evident: Chicago’s pinball scene is alive, thriving, and filled with talent. Here’s to more flippin’ fun in the future! Stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!