Hidden Masters and Monster Bashes: A Night to Remember at Kitsap’s Amazing Race Finals

Overview

It felt like a meeting of a secret society—veiled in mystery and palpable excitement. On September 23, 2023, the clandestine Kitsap’s Amazing Race Finals – September unfolded in an undisclosed location in Washington. Orchestrated by the elusive Richard Godwin, this tournament was pinball’s answer to Fight Club, without the fighting but all the drama.

Monster Bash Madness

In a dimly lit corner, the Monster Bash (Remake) pinball machine stood like an old guardian of pinball lore. Donovan Haga, not to be taken lightly with an IFPA rank of 1573, claimed victory in the first round against Daniel Trobare, Richard Godwin, and the enigmatic Pinky Barney. It was the stuff of legends—or would be if legends were allowed to be told about this secret gathering.

And the Winners Are…

Let’s not beat around the bush. The victors of the night deserve their moment in the dim light:

  • 1st Place: Donovan Haga, from Bremerton, IFPA rank 1573
  • 2nd Place: Pinky Barney, IFPA rank 6726
  • 3rd Place: Richard Godwin, IFPA rank 2257
  • 4th Place: Daniel Trobare, IFPA rank 1825

Congratulations to these masters of the flippers!

Pinball Gallery

The tournament showcased a rich tapestry of pinball history. Among the 13 fascinating machines, five stood out:

We’d love to tell you about the venue, really, but it seems even the organizer Richard Godwin prefers to shroud it in mystery. If you were part of this secret society, you’d know. If not, better luck next time.

IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings

The night’s performances were contextualized beautifully by the IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond625.96
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle533
3Richie TerrySeattle498.18
4Sean IrbySeattle469.73
5Jarrett GaddySeattle446.89
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.46
7Dave StewartCarnation399.99
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.84
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.69
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.28

In conclusion, Kitsap’s Amazing Race Finals was more than just a pinball tournament. It was a whispered legend, an underground sensation. And while the night may have been shrouded in secrecy, the dazzling skills displayed were impossible to hide.

Until the next whispered rendezvous, keep those flippers flipping, and may your pinball dreams be as mysterious and exciting as a hidden location.

Pinball at the Bank 2023: A Tilt of Skill & Strategy

A Day of Flippers and Silver Balls

On a clear sky afternoon with temperatures grazing a comfortable 82°F, pinball enthusiasts congregated at the Bank of Pinball, Terre Haute. The clock struck 3 PM and the Pinball at the Bank 2023 tournament commenced. Tyler Becker, a well-known figure in the pinball community, had organized what turned out to be an almost 3-hour-long adrenaline rush. 23 competitors, 7 rounds, but only 8 would proceed to the finals.

The Thrones’ Decree

It was in Round 4 that the audience was treated to an edge-of-the-seat game on the Game Of Thrones (Pro) by Stern. Derek Vandevier displayed a masterclass, clinching the top spot, while Steve Rolsing, with his IFPA rank of 461, fiercely secured the second.

And the Pinball Maestros Are…

The dazzling array of lights and the rhythmic clinks marked the end of the tournament, revealing the grandmasters of pinball:

  • 1st: Tyler Becker (IFPA rank 301)
  • 2nd: Robert Trail (IFPA rank 4609)
  • 3rd: Mike Howard from St. Louis (IFPA rank 888)
  • 4th: John Miller MO (IFPA rank 164)
  • 5th: Derek Vandevier (IFPA rank 0)
  • 6th: Preston Surdo (IFPA rank 2134)
  • 7th: Steve Rolsing (IFPA rank 461)
  • 8th: Michael LaFrieda, the extraterrestrial enthusiast from Planet Earth (IFPA rank 1293)

Legacy in Machines

16 pinball machines, each with its own history and challenges, graced the venue. Among them, a few stood out:

Venue Vibes

The Bank of Pinball isn’t just about games; it’s about experiences. Whether you’re on a date or with friends, there’s something for everyone. And with the promise of unlimited games for a mere $10 post 8 PM on weekends, it’s a haven for night owls. Word to the wise, the Bank has now relocated across from the Ulta at the main entrance, making it even more accessible!

IFPA Indiana’s Top 10 Pinballers

The state of Indiana boasts some of the best pinball players. Here’s a look at the crème de la crème:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy DillMartinsville378.56
2Joshua FranklinFort Wayne349.34
3Ryan QuinnBluffton347.43
4Preston CurrieFishers225.31
5Austin DeventerFort Wayne207.56
6Scott ElliottColumbia City199.58
7Sydnee DeventerFort Wayne195.63
8Chris FogelFort Wayne178.93
9Mattison OgdenKendallville174.65
10Ryan DonohueIndianapolis171.38

As the sun set on Terre Haute, the pinball realm was abuzz with tales of epic games, close misses, and triumphant victories. Until the next tilt, keep those flippers flipping!

Belles & Chimes Phoenix: Where Pinball Dreams Take Flight

A Desert Afternoon of Flicks, Flips, and Fantastic Pinball

When 20 top-tier pinball players assemble under the scorching Arizona sun, you can expect the competition to get fiery. The “Belles & Chimes Phoenix” tournament, organized by the pinball aficionado Tracy Lindbergh, kicked off at 1:00 PM on September 23, 2023, at an undisclosed Arizona location. For nearly 3 hours, these pinball wizards tested their mettle in a grueling 6-round showdown.

A Blackwater Battle for the Ages

Among the day’s highlights was an intense game in Round 2 featuring “Blackwater 100” by Bally, a table that debuted on March 1, 1988. Olivia Helm, ranked 931st in IFPA standings, took first place, fending off formidable opponents Diane Smith, Krisha Shufran, and Valerie Doucette. This face-off proved that when it comes to pinball, the thrill of the game transcends the machine itself.

The Champions of the Day

  • 🥇 Olivia Helm: Not only dominated “Blackwater 100” but also the tournament, boasting a total of 213 IFPA events under her belt.
  • 🥈 Stephanie Turner: A local from Chandler, AZ, with an IFPA rank of 1063, showcased her skills through consistent gameplay.
  • 🥉 Kathy Lovato: An emerging talent with a penchant for racking up points.
  • 🏅 Tracy Lindbergh: The woman behind the curtain, ranked 491 and the event’s organizer, made it to the top four. That’s multitasking at its finest!

The Tables that Talked

While “Blackwater 100” stole the spotlight, let’s not overlook the other magnificent machines that hosted our gladiators:

  1. Space Shuttle by Williams (1984) – A voyage into space minus the G-force.
  2. Stellar Wars by Williams (1979) – Your ticket to interstellar glory.
  3. Sorcerer by Williams (1985) – Where magic and pinball collide.
  4. Transporter the Rescue by Bally (1989) – A nostalgic trip back to late ’80s pop culture.
  5. Genesis by Gottlieb (1986) – Embark on a creation journey of points and combos.

IFPA Arizona’s Best

Before we wrap up, let’s look at the IFPA’s Arizona Top 10 to see how our competitors measure up:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau672.29
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.59
3John ShoppleMesa570.07
4John MagyarGilbert352.81
5Kevan CarterTempe321.37
6Jason BarreMesa312.26
7Adam HortonPhoenix310.32
8Paul BlancoChandler306.33
9Joey RioSurprise282.01
10Walter donyPhoenix281.39

In the world of pinball, you are only as good as your last game, and for those who played in the Belles & Chimes Phoenix tournament, that last game was exceptional. We can’t wait to reveal the next undisclosed location where pinballs will fly and dreams will either be made or shattered.

Until then, keep flipping!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball! 🌵

Battles and Ball-Saves: The Thrills of Pin-toberfest/Main Event!

Overview

There’s a unique sensation when the clash of pinballs echoes through a venue, a fusion of nostalgia and competition. On September 23, 2023, Englewood’s renowned 1up Greenwood arcade reverberated with that very sensation. Over the course of nearly 6 hours, 61 pinball aficionados faced off in the Pin-toberfest/Main Event!, meticulously organized by the pinball savant, Donavan Stepp.

Game of the Tournament: Deadpool (Pro)

In Round 6, a classic Deadpool (Pro) machine became the theater for a gripping battle. Chad Markham, sporting an impressive IFPA rank of 346, claimed the top spot. He was closely followed by Kevin McCarthy, Aaron Rito, and Emily Unruh. The tension around this game could’ve been sliced with a knife – or a katana.

Meet the Champions

Here are the superheroes of the day, whose pinball prowess made them the talk of Englewood:

  • 1st: Walt Wood (Englewood, CO, IFPA rank 37)
  • 2nd: Nathan Haas (IFPA rank 1439)
  • 3rd: Ryan Altermatt (IFPA rank 477)
  • 4th: Daniel Anderson (Englewood, CO, IFPA rank 1348)

Kudos to these pinball wizards for their masterful control and precision!

Pinball Showcase

Out of the 23 gleaming pinball machines present, several caught our attention:

1up Greenwood: More than Just an Arcade

With classic games like Super Mario and Mortal Kombat alongside a staggering collection of pinball machines, 1up Greenwood offers more than just games—it offers memories. The venue, although a bit snug, sets the perfect stage for a vibrant night out. And let’s not forget their tantalizing drinks to quench the thirst of battling competitors.

IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10 Standings

To give a wider context to the event, let’s take a look at the top 10 players in Colorado:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood506.53
2Ryan AltermattDenver232.92
3Zach McCarthyConifer193.11
4Mark AbbottDenver122.02
5Lewis Ritenour120.7
6Donavan SteppLakewood110.68
7David Johnson COAurora110.54
8Mat BrundageDenver107.26
9Daniel AndersonEnglewood103.76
10Adam LefkoffBoulder95.67

That’s a wrap for the Pin-toberfest/Main Event! Pinball legends were born, and tales of epic comebacks and heartbreaking defeats will be shared until the next battle. We’ll be keeping an eye on these rising stars, and so should you.

Until next time, may your multi-balls be many, and your tilts be few!

The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL Showdown: A Pinball Night to Remember

The Buzz Before the Storm

In the heart of Anaheim, California, 44 pinball enthusiasts gathered on a pleasantly cool evening with overcast skies, just a few degrees shy of 70°F. The reason? The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL pinball tournament. Hosted at the Captain’s Arcade Showroom and organized by CC Castaneda, it was an evening designed for the swift, the skilled, and the pinball-savvy.

Venue Vibes

Captain’s Arcade Showroom was everything a pinballer could hope for. If you haven’t yet visited, check out their website and take my word for it: it’s a slice of arcade heaven. With well-maintained machines and a welcoming manager, it’s a local treasure where the love for pinball is palpable in the air.

Intricacies of the Game

Running for a little over four hours, the tournament was arranged into 5 challenging rounds. In each round, players grouped up to face off against each other across a grand total of 31 pinball machines, battling it out for the most points. In the end, points were tallied and the top players etched their names into the annals of Captain’s Arcade Showroom history.

Godzilla Steals the Show

Round 4 saw an intense game that had spectators and participants alike on the edge of their seats. The game of choice? Godzilla by Sega, released in 1998. Dennis Eichhorn emerged victorious, but not without formidable competition from Sean Irby, Hillary Jacobson, and Scott Macias. When two of the players rank in the top 100, you know you’re in for a masterclass in pinball strategy.

The Glorious Winners

  1. Sean Irby: Ranked 86th but played like he was in the top 10.
  2. Johnny Modica: With a whopping 431 total IFPA events, experience pays off.
  3. David Green CA: Consistency is key for this contender.
  4. Glenn Habas: A player to watch out for in future competitions.

Machine Highlights

The event showcased a variety of pinball machines, each bringing its unique flavor to the tournament. Among them:

  • Galaxy by Stern: A jump into cosmic wonders.
  • Future Spa by Bally: A journey into a futuristic realm.
  • Congo by Williams: Navigate through the jungle, avoiding perils.
  • The Bally Game Show: For those with a penchant for trivia and luck.
  • Godzilla by Sega: The crowd-pleaser, offering destructive fun.

Golden State’s Pinball Elite

The competitive spirit in California is strong, especially if we take a look at the IFPA’s top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale538.95
2Raymond AshbyLos Angeles518.08
3Gabe Da SilveiraOakland462.95
4Scott MaciasGlendora456.81
5Nic SteinDavis418.12
6Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
7Escher Lefkoff411.53
8Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
9Johnny ModicaHacienda Hts401.79
10Leslie Ruckman360.98

The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL tournament was a high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping evening that both casual players and pinball pros will be talking about for a long time. If this event is any indication, the realm of pinball has a bright and competitive future ahead.

Stay tuned for more updates and keep those flippers ready!

An Evening of Flips and Triumphs at District 82’s Flipping Friday Tournament

It was an evening of tantalizing drama and spectacular flipper finesse at District 82 Pinball’s Flipping Friday Tournament on September 22, 2023. As broken clouds hovered outside with a comfortable 74°F temperature, inside the arcade, it was nothing short of electrifying.

Fast Flips, Faster Decisions

The tournament was conducted in 4 rounds with 2 games per round. A total of 27 pinball aficionados competed, earning points based on their finishing positions. With a time limit of just over two and a half hours, players had to be fast with their flippers and faster with their decisions.

The Highlight Reel

In a surprising turn of events, Round 1 on the vintage Star Trek by Bally was a game to remember. Bret Derby from Appleton, WI, left everyone stunned with his IFPA rank of 1524, securing first place in the round. Tom Schmidt, and with a higher IFPA rank of 397, found themselves in fourth place, proving that in the world of pinball, rankings aren’t the end-all.

And the Flippers Go To…

Applause and kudos to the champions who maneuvered their way through the complex mazes and flashing lights:

  1. Danny Bronny – Proving the power of experience, Danny with an IFPA rank of 450 emerged as the champion.
  2. Tom Schmidt – They didn’t let their Round 1 setback keep them down, surging to a second-place finish.
  3. Mark Hershey – His IFPA rank of 3491 didn’t hold him back from seizing third place.
  4. Jim Heidemann – Consistent gameplay ensured Jim a spot in the top four.

Machines that Stole the Show

With a staggering 112 machines on hand, it was tough to choose favorites. Yet, some stood out:

  1. Star Trek by Bally – A classic that can still draw a crowd.
  2. The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern – Because who doesn’t like dodging zombies?
  3. Dolly Parton by Bally – Bringing a bit of country glamour to the arcade.
  4. Last Action Hero by Data East – A 90s nostalgia trip worth taking.
  5. Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally – Another classic that never goes out of style.

The Mecca of Pinball

District 82 isn’t just another arcade; it’s a pinball pilgrimage site. Known for its stunning collection of well-maintained, rare, and popular pinball machines, the venue attracts a wide range of talent—from locals to global pinball celebs.

IFPA Wisconsin Top 10

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.28
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.19
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.63
4Escher Lefkoff1050.04
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.75
6Erik ThorenDe Pere737.83
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.44
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.62
10Jordan Dechaine683.87

As we closed the evening, it was clear that rankings and statistics are just numbers. What really matters is the skill you bring to the flippers and how you adapt in the face of unpredictability. Keep an eye out for our next tournament; who knows, you might be the next pinball wizard to rise through the ranks!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

The Underdog Triumphs: A Night at Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House

Ah, the pinball scene in Roscoe, Illinois—where the tinkle of the chimes meets the cheers of triumph. It was on the 21st of September, a chilly evening with overcast clouds, that the 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House Pinball Tournament unfurled its flippers.

The Stage Was Set

Hosted at Louie’s Tap House on Elevator Rd and coordinated by Tom Menge, the tournament set out to find the best among the 8 pinball wizards in attendance. With a crisp three-and-a-half-hour runtime and six tense rounds, it promised fierce competition.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?—In Round 3!

One game that no one can stop talking about took place on Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball. In a surprising twist, David Slaymaker, a participant with zero IFPA ranking and zero events under his belt, took the game by storm. The more seasoned players like Vinnie Bologna, Tom Menge, and Shane Shadden had to accept defeat in that round. A classic Scooby-Doo mystery—how did the underdog come out on top?

Heck, someone needs to sign this “Slaymaker” up for IFPA; he’s going around winning tournaments like it’s his day job!

The Titans and the Newcomer

The overall winners of the night were as intriguing as the games they conquered:

  1. David Slaymaker – IFPA rank 0: The mysterious newcomer who proved rankings aren’t everything.
  2. Trae Vance – IFPA rank 3201: Experience paid off for Vance, whose performance was anything but average.
  3. Shane Shadden – IFPA rank 5038: Despite losing to Slaymaker, Shane proved why he keeps coming back to the game.
  4. Vinnie Bologna – IFPA rank 6989: Another seasoned player who had to bow to the might of the newcomer but still secured a place in the top four.

Pinball Corner

Louie’s had no shortage of games to offer. The evening featured a robust line-up of 11 pinball machines, including:

Where Food and Pinball Meet

The Louie’s Tap House experience isn’t just about pinball—it’s also about the atmosphere and, of course, the food. I indulged in a savory French dip that was marred only slightly by the odd piece of fat. The homemade chips and coleslaw were delicious add-ons. And let’s not forget the fantastic margaritas!

Top Guns of Illinois

To put the night into perspective, here are the IFPA Illinois Top 10 rankings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.66
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.11
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Ryan McQuaid179.12
5Chuck Sanderson169.23
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago152.87
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn137.55
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.1

This night at Louie’s Tap House was a reminder of the unpredictable, captivating nature of pinball—a night where an underdog could become a champion. Until next month’s showdown, keep those flippers flipping!

The Drama, The Upsets, The Glory: Inside the Thursday Throwdown at Arcade Legacy

Forget Netflix; forget primetime TV. The most gripping drama last week unfolded in a different kind of arena — the Arcade Legacy Sharonville in Cincinnati, Ohio, on the night of September 21, 2023. The clock struck 7:00 PM and thus began the Thursday Throwdown, a pinball showdown that defied rankings, defied odds, and made a lasting impression on everyone present.

A Format Built for Intensity

Organized by the meticulous Erik Wurtenberger, this tourney wasn’t your standard fare. With 7 grueling rounds of head-to-head gameplay in the first stage alone, the atmosphere was akin to a pinball pressure cooker. The intensity did not stop there. The top 8 scorers then progressed to the Finals, which featured two further rounds, each with a trifecta of games.

The Banzai Run Saga

The spotlight for drama was unarguably on Banzai Run by Williams. In the finals, this machine from May 1988 became the backdrop for an epic 103-minute duel that was the longest game of the tournament. With the flippers clicking like clockwork and the scoreboard a constant flurry of digits, Jesse Baker (IFPA rank 374) managed to edge out Joel Bergantino (IFPA rank 806), Stuart Nyswonger (IFPA rank 615), and Chris Hardewig (IFPA rank 2738) for the top spot in the round.

Overall Tournament Winners: The Definitive List

For those who love to cut to the chase, here are your champions:

  1. Joel Bergantino – IFPA Rank 806, Total IFPA Events 80
  2. Stuart Nyswonger – IFPA Rank 615, Total IFPA Events 287
  3. Jesse Baker – IFPA Rank 374, Total IFPA Events 259
  4. Chris Hardewig – IFPA Rank 2738, Total IFPA Events 39
  5. Roy Richey – IFPA Rank 2043, Total IFPA Events 186
  6. Jake Buchanan – IFPA Rank 3475, Total IFPA Events 32
  7. Justin Schnetzer – IFPA Rank 3531, Total IFPA Events 31
  8. Ian Raffenberg – IFPA Rank 17950, Total IFPA Events 1

The Machines of Destiny

Banzai Run wasn’t the only pinball machine in the spotlight. Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, released in 2021, served up excitement with its immersive gameplay, while Doctor Who by Bally offered a nostalgia-inducing challenge. And who could forget The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern? The zombie-apocalyptic world was an adrenaline rush that many players couldn’t get enough of.

The Venue — More Than Just Pinball

Arcade Legacy Sharonville is not just a pinball paradise; it’s an entire universe of arcade enjoyment. What makes it unique is its blend of classic cabinet games, modern rhythm experiences, and yes, an in-house bar to soothe the nerves after a tight game. It’s no wonder that players and spectators alike end up spending their entire evening here, coming for the pinball but staying for the full-bodied entertainment experience.

Ohio’s Who’s Who in Pinball

Let’s put things in context with Ohio’s top 10 pinball wizards:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Aaron Rich583.06
2Gregory KennedyPlain City514.31
3Stephen PrusaCleveland509.91
4Carlos DelaserdaColumbus423.75
5John DelzoppoCleveland364.06
6Andrew LeeCleveland342.56
7Cody WebbWesterville309.22
8Galvin MorganOlmsted Falls300.74
9Jesse BakerCincinnati276.29
10Jack NebraskaColumbus270.15

As the drama of the Thursday Throwdown settles, and as these digital warriors get ready for their next battle, it’s clear that the story is far from over. The question isn’t just who will win the next tournament, but what new legends will be written in this ever-exciting world of competitive pinball.

So, to everyone out there who thinks pinball is just a game, I say this: come down to Arcade Legacy and prepare to have your world rocked.

Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball! 🎮🏆🤘

The Time-Defying Duel at SFPD Fall 2023: A Night Where Every Flipper Counted

At the strike of 7:30 PM on September 20, 2023, the pinball wizards of California convened at Free Gold Watch in San Francisco for a night of electrifying competition. Organized by the San Francisco Pinball Department, the SFPD Fall 2023 #4 tournament had all the makings of a legendary showdown, complete with a game that lasted longer than time itself.

A Timeless Venue

First, let’s talk about the venue. Free Gold Watch has a name that sounds like a secret society for time travelers, and it felt just like that. Imagine walking into a space where every flick of a pinball flipper seems to slow down time. It’s a pinball parlor that doubles as a date spot, ideal for lovebirds who’d rather bond over a high score than a candlelit dinner.

The Longest Game in SFPD History

Black Knight: Sword of Rage, a Stern pinball machine from 2019, was the real star of the evening. As though caught in a time warp, the game extended to a mind-boggling 145 minutes. Now, if you’re a math wizard, you’ll notice that’s longer than the entire tournament (which lasted 139 minutes). How does that happen? Only in the realm of pinball, my friends.

It was Guest Amy Martin, an unranked player, who claimed first place in this never-ending battle, putting seasoned players to shame. Following her were Jose Godinez (IFPA rank 2827), Zac Wollons (IFPA rank 173), and Josh Lehan (IFPA rank 1059).

Pinball Titans & Their Machines

The event featured an impressive array of 62 pinball machines, but a few stood out in particular:

Winners Take It All

The overall winner was none other than Jared Garvey from Berkeley, CA, closely followed by Gabe Da Silveira from Oakland and Andrei Massenkoff from San Francisco. Eric Wagensonner rounded out the top four, proving that the city’s local pinball scene is a force to be reckoned with.

California Dreamin’

Here’s a quick look at the IFPA’s current California Top 10 Standings to give you an idea of the fierce competition:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale538.96
2Raymond AshbyLos Angeles518.08
3Gabe Da SilveiraOakland462.95
4Scott MaciasGlendora456.81
5Nic SteinDavis418.14
6Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
7Escher Lefkoff–411.53
8Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
9Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights401.79
10Leslie Ruckman–360.98

A Night to Remember

In a city known for its eccentricities, the SFPD Fall 2023 #4 pinball tournament did not disappoint. From time-defying games to rookie upsets, this was one for the books.

Keep flipping those flippers and stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Punk Rock Meets Pinball: The Untold Story of Week 12’s Electric Showdown

Picture this: the sun sets over Mesa, Arizona, the desert heat starts to subside, and the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade lights flicker on, signaling the start of an underground revolution. But instead of mosh pits and guitars, the stars of the show are pinball flippers and bumpers. Yes, it’s the Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 12, and if you think pinball can’t rock, well, buddy, you haven’t been to a tournament organized by Matt Trethewey.

The Tournament Where Everyone Was a Rockstar

As the clock hit 6:30 PM, 13 players stepped into the proverbial ring, going head-to-head in 10 frenzied games each. For an electrifying 2 hours and 25 minutes, participants were not just competing against each other but also racing against the clock. It was raw, it was intense, and it was most definitely punk rock.

X-Men Magneto (LE) Takes the Stage

Even in a sea of high-speed, intense games, X-Men Magneto (LE) by Stern stood out, becoming the undisputed fan-favorite with nine games played. The machine had participants hooked with its magnetic features (pun totally intended), challenging them to bring their A-game. Following closely behind was Whirlwind by Williams, with the longest average game duration at around 10 minutes, making it the “Stairway to Heaven” of pinball games for the night.

An Unexpected Win for the Underdog

The winner of the night was none other than Jeff Wegener, who boasts an IFPA ranking of 4163 and has only participated in eight IFPA events. Despite his rookie status, he racked up 5 wins, showing that even in the world of pinball, punk rock’s underdog ethos is alive and well.

A Vibrant Venue with a Twist

If you’re wondering about the venue, let’s just say B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade is a true pinball haven. But it’s not just the games that have people talking; it’s the ales and the atmosphere. With a variety of beers and an open policy on outside food, it’s a venue that offers a complete experience. And if you’re in the mood to mix it up, there’s always downtown Mesa just a flipper’s flick away.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite

Just to set the scene a little more, here’s a snapshot of Arizona’s Pinball Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau671.68
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.17
3John ShoppleMesa569.41
4John MagyarGilbert351.79
5Kevan CarterTempe320.85
6Jason BarreMesa312.19
7Adam HortonPhoenix310.26
8Paul BlancoChandler305.5
9Joey RioSurprise282.01
10Walter donyPhoenix280.57

For all the pinball aficionados out there, it’s worth mentioning that Jim Smith AZ, with an IFPA rank of 455 and 452 total IFPA events, couldn’t break past 4th place. It just goes to show, in the world of punk rock pinball, anything can happen.

In true punk rock fashion, the night was a testament to the spirit of fun, competitiveness, and community that lives in the heart of pinball culture. And if this is how Week 12 went down, just imagine what future weeks hold. So, stay tuned for more updates from the electrifying world of pinball.