A Day and Night of Pinball Prowess: The 1up Colfax Post Dory Hill Thrill Pinball Tournament

The flashing lights, the excited shouts, and the unmistakable sounds of flippers and bells filled the air on September 17th at 1UP COLFAX in Denver, CO. Yes, it was a pinball paradise as the Post Dory Hill Thrill tournament took center stage for nearly 14 hours of intense competition. Organized by the charismatic Deanna Scalf, the event used a Progressive Strikes system, ensuring even the most seasoned players were on their toes. With the thermostat outside showing a brisk 58°F, the temperature inside was, metaphorically speaking, red-hot.

A Galaxy Not So Far Away

As the players battled it out, the pinball machine that stole the show was Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern. In a nail-biting Round 11 showdown, Walt Wood and Donavan Stepp, both IFPA top 100 players, duked it out. Walt Wood from Englewood showed why he’s ranked 37th in the IFPA by taking first place. Donavan Stepp, however, didn’t make it easy for him, displaying a kind of mastery that has earned him an 85th IFPA ranking. Shawn Savageau and Stepan Mazurov, though not top 100, put up a spirited fight.

Pinball Royalty

Let’s shine a light on the overall tournament winners:

  1. Walt Wood – The pinball wizard from Englewood not only showed us his skills but also his stamina, adding yet another win to his extensive record.
  2. Donavan Stepp – Hailing from Lakewood, his performance was nothing short of electrifying.
  3. Shawn Savageau – Representing Denver, Savageau fought valiantly to secure a well-deserved third place.
  4. Stepan Mazurov – Despite the tough competition, this Boulder native held his ground to clinch fourth place.

A Realm of Pinball Machines

The tournament was a connoisseur’s dream with a rich line-up of 22 pinball machines. Here are a few that stole the spotlight:

  • Cirqus Voltaire by Bally: A classic that demands skill and strategy, adding to the tournament’s nostalgic charm.
  • Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball: A quirky and challenging machine that was a hit among fans of the series.
  • The Godfather (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: A newly released machine that already has its share of loyalists.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: A highlight for all Marvel fans and an instant classic despite its recent release.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: With its challenging gameplay, it was as if the machine roared, “Welcome to Jurassic Park.”

In the Heart of the Action

The venue was a significant part of the experience. 1UP COLFAX hosted the tournament amidst a sea of both modern and classic arcade games. Despite a minor hiccup with the bar service, the atmosphere was fantastic. The vintage board games provided a nice break from the pinball action, and let’s be honest—who could resist a quick round of Super Mario Brothers?

State of the Game

The tournament also shook up the IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10 Standings. Walt Wood still reigns supreme, but Donavan Stepp’s performance is sure to boost his rank.

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood506.53
2Ryan AltermattDenver232.91
3Zach McCarthyConifer193.11
4Mark AbbottDenver122.02
5Lewis Ritenour120.7
6Donavan SteppLakewood110.69
7David Johnson COAurora110.53
8Mat BrundageDenver107.26
9Daniel AndersonEnglewood103.76
10Adam LefkoffBoulder95.67

As the flippers rest and the neon lights dim, we can only wait in anticipation for the next pinball extravaganza. Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Grumpy’s Arcade Classic Battle: Pinball Wizards Converge in Mystery!

When passion for pinball meets mystery, you get the Grumpy’s Arcade Classic Battle. Organized by the enigmatic Kevin Curtis and hosted at an undisclosed location, this pinball tournament had fans buzzing with excitement and curiosity.

Mysterious Beginnings: The Venue

Stepping into the undisclosed location was akin to being teleported to a pinball lover’s paradise. The dimmed ambiance, the flashing lights of pinball machines, and the electric energy in the room were palpable. You wouldn’t find the coordinates of this place on Google Maps, and perhaps that was the allure. The details of the event, however, were very much in the public domain, thanks to the tournament’s official website.

The Face-Offs: Tournament Structure

The event, which spanned a good 3 and a half hours, witnessed 33 pinball enthusiasts going head to head over 8 nail-biting rounds. The stakes were high, and so was the competition. Only the top 8 would get a chance to move onto the Finals, where the intensity was upped with 2 rounds of 3 games each.

Semifinal Showdown: Raven’s Flight

The Semifinals brought nail-biting tension as players took on the Raven by Gottlieb. A legendary machine from 1986, the Raven set the stage for a fierce battle:

  1. Roland Nadeau (Phoenix, AZ) – Holding the fort at the top was none other than the Phoenix marvel, Roland. IFPA Rank: 48.
  2. John Shopple (Mesa, AZ) – From Mesa with a determination to conquer, John wasn’t far behind. IFPA Rank: 111.
  3. Chris Stoltenberg – Chris, with his eyes on the prize, delivered a performance to remember. IFPA Rank: 2418.
  4. Jeff Wegener – Jeff might’ve finished fourth in this round, but his overall performance was nothing short of breathtaking. IFPA Rank: 4136.

Victory Lap: Pinball Titans Emerge

  1. Roland Nadeau of Phoenix didn’t just play; he danced with the machines. Holding an impressive IFPA rank of 48, Roland’s history with 271 IFPA events provided a canvas for his prowess. His win wasn’t just a victory but a masterclass.
  2. The dark horse, Jeff Wegener, shocked and awed! With only 8 IFPA events under his belt and a rank of 4136, he bulldozed his way to the second spot, proving that in pinball, anything is possible.
  3. John Finnegan of Phoenix, a seasoned player with a rank of 547 and 443 IFPA events, secured the third spot. John’s experience was evident in every flip and nudge.
  4. Mark Lindbergh, with an IFPA rank of 434, wasn’t too far behind, showing that his 400 IFPA events worth of experience counted for something. His gameplay was a blend of strategy and spontaneity.
  5. Chris Stoltenberg might hold an IFPA rank of 2418, but his gameplay spoke of skill far beyond those numbers. With 133 IFPA events, he’s seen the highs and lows, and at Grumpy’s, he soared.
  6. Hailing from Mesa, John Shopple carried the pride of his city. Holding an IFPA rank of 111 and having participated in 357 events, John showcased why he’s considered one of the best.
  7. Mark Pearson was a force to be reckoned with. Ranked 34 in IFPA, he had 528 IFPA events echoing his legacy. This pinball giant proved his worth yet again.
  8. Last, but certainly not least, Stephanie Turner from Chandler showcased that it’s not just about the rank (1052 in her case) but the heart you put into the game. With 167 IFPA events experience, her passion shone bright.

Legacy of Machines: The Pinball Collection

The tournament boasted of 31 iconic pinball machines, each with its unique charm. From the country allure of “Dolly Parton” by Bally to the jet-fighter thrills of “F-14 Tomcat” by Williams, there was a machine for every enthusiast. Additionally, fans enjoyed the timeless classic “Pokerino” by Williams, the space-themed “Cybernaut” by Bally, and the rock-inspired “Nugent” by Stern.

The Best in Arizona: IFPA Standings

The best players from Arizona converged for this tournament, and here’s how they rank in the state:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland NadeauPhoenix672.29
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.6
3John ShoppleMesa570.08
4John MagyarGilbert352.83
5Kevan CarterTempe321.39
6Jason BarreMesa312.27
7Adam HortonPhoenix307.65
8Paul BlancoChandler306.34
9Joey RioSurprise282
10Walter donyPhoenix281.41

Closing Thoughts

Grumpy’s Arcade Classic Battle was not just another pinball tournament; it was an experience. A testament to the fact that when you mix a bit of mystery with a lot of passion, you get an unforgettable event. We can’t wait to see where the next undisclosed location will be. Until then, keep flipping, and stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Dolly, Drama, and District 82: A Pinball Adventure in Wisconsin

In the heart of De Pere, Wisconsin, the rhythmic sound of silver balls careening off bumpers is more than just a pastime – it’s an institution. This was never more apparent than on the night of September 15, 2023, at 6:00 PM, when pinball enthusiasts gathered for the Flipping Friday’s Tournament at District 82 Pinball Arcade. With a gentle breeze, broken clouds, and a pleasant temperature of 72°F, it was the perfect setting for a high-octane showdown.

High Stakes on Dolly Parton

While every game at District 82 has its own story, Round 2’s competition on Dolly Parton by Bally, a gem from 1978, was the stuff of legends. In a gripping face-off, Erik Thoren, the maestro from District 82 Pinball itself, took the lead. Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh wasn’t far behind, with Gregory Hein and Joe DeCleene rounding out the top spots. It was a blend of strategy, timing, and perhaps a little bit of that Dolly magic.

Machines of Legacy and Lore

112 pinball machines were at the players’ disposal, ranging from classics to the more contemporary. “Harley Davidson” by Bally took riders on a thrilling road journey, while “Jurassic Park” by Data East promised prehistoric perils. The celestial adventures of “Guardians of the Galaxy” by Stern proved a hit, as did the high-flying antics on “Flight 2000” and the rock rhythms of “Metallica (Pro LED).” Whether it was the thrill of a car chase on “Corvette” or battling super villains on “X-Men Wolverine (LE),” there was never a dull moment.

Masterminds of the Pinball World

In the end, it was Eric Strangeway, with his experience of 400 IFPA events, who claimed the top spot. Close on his heels was Ryan Cappaert, with Erik Thoren, the man behind the magic of District 82, taking the third position.

The victory was sweet, but the thrill of the game and the camaraderie between players was the real prize. As the standings suggest, Wisconsin’s pinball scene is alive and well:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.3
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.2
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.64
4Escher Lefkoff1050.04
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.8
6Erik ThorenDe Pere737.83
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.43
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.78
10Jordan Dechaine683.86

More Than Just a Game

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the tournament was the atmosphere of District 82 itself. Rows upon rows of machines, the glow of neon lights, and the unmistakable hum of electronics in the background. As the venue’s website aptly puts it: “It’s such a great place, tons of pinball machines. Never-ending fun!!”

With a memorable evening behind them, pinball enthusiasts left District 82, but not without the promise of returning soon. After all, in the realm of pinball, every game is a new adventure.

Stay flippin’ fabulous, and until the next update!

Balls, Bells, and Vintage Vibes: The Atomic Age Pinball Showdown!

When you hear “Mesa, AZ”, what comes to mind? Sun, cacti… and pinball? That’s right. The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play pinball tournament turned the dial up to eleven in the heart of Mesa on a scorching September evening. Picture this: the clear sky blazing at 94°F and the Atomic Age Modern standing as an oasis of cool vibes amidst the heat.

Taking a Step Back in Time

From the moment you step into Atomic Age Modern, you’re transported. Located at 140 W Main St, this venue isn’t just an antique store; it’s a treasure trove of the past with its rich variety of clothes, housewares, and, of course, pinball tables. A place where you could try that chic 70s couch and, while you’re at it, beat the high score on a classic pinball machine. The owner? Just the right kind of cool without an ounce of pushiness.

From Sorcery to Speed

The tournament was blessed with a fantastic lineup of machines. Whether you were a fan of Williams’ bewitching Sorcerer or needed the adrenaline rush from The Getaway: High Speed II, there was a table waiting for you. Flight 2000 brought some Stern-style old-school flair, while Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) and Gilligan’s Island offered doses of modern and quirky pinball gameplay.

Rush Hour: The Round 4 Rumble

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the night was during Round 4. The game? Rush (Pro) by Stern. This face-off saw Chris Peseri (rank 5006) soar past Jason Barre, who held a rank of 243! A classic underdog tale right there. But don’t feel too bad for Jason. His overall performance secured him the third place in the tournament standings.

Champions of The Night

Carlos Salcido, with his rank of 3822, managed to outplay everyone and stand tall at the number one spot. Following him was Denise Peseri. Now, with an IFPA rank of 9072, many might’ve underestimated them, but Denise’s plays spoke louder than numbers, securing them the second spot. Jason Barre and Krisha Shufran, both exceptional players, landed the third and fourth spots respectively.

The Best in Arizona

While the evening was centered around pinball, it’s hard to ignore the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.88
2John ShoppleMesa547.33
3Mark PearsonPhoenix535.9
4John MagyarGilbert338.17
5Paul BlancoChandler304.33
6Jason BarreMesa300.73
7Kevan CarterTempe295.89
8Joey RioSurprise282
9Adam HortonPhoenix277.02
10Andrew Roesch255.2

So, the next time someone mentions Mesa, remember the Atomic Age Modern, where the past meets the present, and pinball players battle it out for the future. Until the next update, may your flippers be swift and your balls stay in play.

The Desert Showdown: TUCSON TIMED MATCH PLAY @TISC SEP 2023

On a blazing day with clear skies where the mercury touched 93°F, pinball enthusiasts converged under the roof of the Tucson Indoor Sports Center. Just a shade away from 4 hours, a pulsating drama of flippers, bumpers, and silver balls was about to ensue.

The Legacy of The Lizard: Celebrating Godzilla

Wayne Saeger had meticulously organized the event, making sure the spotlight shone bright on Stern’s Godzilla (Premium), released precisely two years ago on the same date. In Round 5, the giant lizard roared to life, drawing applause and some nail-biting finishes. Marana’s own Ben Clement, with an impressive IFPA rank of 386, clinched the top spot for this round, followed by the promising KEVIN ANDERSON AZ and the maestro organizer himself, Wayne Saeger.

A Throwback in Time: The Machines

While the tournament featured a total of nine machines, let’s talk about some that truly brought back memories:

The Masters of The Game

The leaderboard saw some familiar and new faces. John Finnegan, with an IFPA rank of 565, stood tall with his impeccable gameplay. Wayne Saeger and Mike LaHaie, from Tucson AZ, followed, proving that home advantage isn’t just a myth. Ben Clement, once again from Marana, wrapped up the top four, marking his territory in the Arizona pinball community.

Tucson Indoor Sports Center: More Than Just Pinball

To the uninitiated, this place might seem like a hockey hub, as evidenced by a visitor from San Jose who, with his brother, came for some puck action. The tiles might differ from San Jose, but the fun is universally understood. Shout out to the accommodating staff at TISC!

Arizona’s Best Flippers

The local leaderboard deserves its own spotlight. Here’s a rundown:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau660.87
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.61
3John ShoppleMesa570.08
4John MagyarGilbert352.83
5Kevan CarterTempe321.39
6Jason BarreMesa312.27
7Adam HortonPhoenix307.65
8Paul BlancoChandler306.34
9Joey RioSurprise282
10Walter donyPhoenix281.41

With the sun setting in Tucson and the flipper frenzy dying down, one thing’s for sure: the spirit of pinball is very much alive and well in the heart of Arizona.

Catch you at the next tilt, and remember, in the world of pinball, always keep the ball alive!

Knights, Globetrotters, and Arcade Showdowns: An Epic Pinball Evening in Ohio

Under a clear evening sky with temperatures hovering at a pleasant 72°F, Arcade Legacy Sharonville came alive. This wasn’t just another Thursday night. It was the Thursday Throwdown on September 14, 2023, where metal balls soared, flippers flipped, and legends were made.

Welcome to Arcade Legacy Sharonville

Nestled at 2241 Crowne Point Dr, Cincinnati, the venue was a haven for pinball aficionados. And for the uninitiated, here’s a quick glimpse: think of a relaxed lounge, chilled cocktails, and beer from the tap. Throw in a staff radiating warmth and a sprinkle of retro vibe. If the digital domain ever got too consuming, this would be your detox center. And tonight? The tournament was an added cherry on the top.

On The Tournament Trail

Organized by the astute Erik Wurtenberger, the tournament commenced at 7 PM. Players battled through 7 initial rounds, after which the top 8 moved onto the nail-biting Finals. With a game setup spanning classics like Harlem Globetrotters On Tour and Funhouse, to modern legends like Venom (Pro) and The Beatles, the evening promised – and delivered – electrifying showdowns.

That Sixty-Six Minute Saga

In what could be best described as a mini-epic, the semifinals saw a relentless duel on Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro). Clocking in at an astounding 66 minutes, the game had spectators at the edge of their seats (or, well, barstools). Jesse Baker triumphed, with Doug Kuykendoll, Trnon Lewis (pronoun: they), and Dalva Ireland trailing.

The Champions Rise

As the flippers stilled and scores settled, here were the evening’s pinball wizards:

  1. Doug Kuykendoll: Surprising all, especially with an IFPA rank of 2401.
  2. Jesse Baker: The semi-final victor who’s no stranger to the game.
  3. Justin Schnetzer: A quiet storm rising through the ranks.
  4. John Holliday: Proving that every day could indeed be a holiday with the right gameplay. … (And the list went on till the commendable 8th place holder, Dalva Ireland.)

Ohio’s Elite Pinball Players

A special shoutout to Ohio’s finest pinball maestros:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Aaron RIch555.03
2Stephen PrusaCleveland443.5
3Gregory KennedyPlain City385.1
4Carlos DelaserdaColumbus385.05
5John DelzoppoCleveland364.06
6Andrew LeeCleveland299.52
7Jesse BakerCincinnati276.29
8Galvin MorganOlmsted Falls272.15
9Cody WebbWesterville253.02
10Rod LawrenceCleveland229.41

As The Night Ends…

While the Thursday Throwdown might have wrapped up, the legacy of that evening will be recounted for weeks to come. If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, Arcade Legacy Sharonville promises a good time.

So, till the flippers flip again, keep those reflexes sharp and stay tuned for more pinball adventures!

Pinballs, Rivalries, and One Intense Game of Pool Sharks!

The hum of pinball machines, the twinkling of neon lights, and the adrenaline in the air. No, this isn’t a Las Vegas casino; it’s the LOWer Level #1 pinball tournament organized by Space City Pinball at Low’s Sound Lab in Houston, TX. Here’s a rundown of an unforgettable night of pinball passion!

Setting The Stage

The secrecy of the undisclosed location added a touch of mystique to the evening. With a generous 7+ hour run-time, 16 competitors took to their stations, ready to prove their mettle across 2 rounds and 3 games per round. The stakes? Glory, recognition, and the claim to being Houston’s top pinballer.

Drama on the “Pool Sharks” Table

Every tournament has its crown jewel moment, and this one came in the form of an intense battle on the Pool Sharks machine. Lasting an unbelievable 65 minutes, it had the crowd biting their nails, drinking copious amounts of beverages, and honestly wondering if they should have brought a sleeping bag. In the end, Gina Low emerged triumphant, followed closely by Miette Dronet, Emily Hoffman, and Dawn Freedkin. Kudos to all for enduring!

Machines of the Hour

Speaking of pinball machines, LOWer Level #1 boasted a collection to die for. The classic vibe of Diner met with the high-octane energy of The Getaway: High Speed II. The dark allure of Bram Stoker’s Dracula contrasted with the roaring beasts of Jurassic Park. The newly introduced James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern was another standout, offering a touch of suave sophistication to the mix.

The Triumph of Tactics

The night’s ultimate victors exhibited both skill and strategy. The surprise win came from Liz Nebeker, taking the crown with their strategic gameplay. Following them were Annabeth Dronet, Maritza Chirichigno, and Gina Low. A huge round of applause for their tenacity and unmatched pinball prowess!

Texas Top 10 Pinball Wizards

It wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the maestros of Texas pinball. Here’s a quick peek:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands490
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.76
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station320.83
5Lee BalusekConroe254.5
6Fred RevnewThe Woodlands248.59
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio223.13
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio211.3
10Kevin RodriguezDenton206.72

Until the Next Ball Drops

What a night! The LOWer Level #1 pinball tournament was a whirlwind of emotions, strategy, and some downright unbelievable pinball action. To all the competitors, audience, and of course, the iconic pinball machines, we tip our hats to you.

Keep those flippers flipping and see you at the next epic pinball showdown!

Punk Rock Pinball: Headbangs & Flippers

On September 13, 2023, just as the sun began its descent and the evening turned a balmy 90°F, the heart of Mesa, AZ pulsated with energy. The reason? The electrifying Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 11. An affair where pinballs rolled and punk rock souls soared.

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade: Mesa’s Pinball Palace

Located at 213 W Main St, B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade wasn’t just another location. With tantalizing ales, guest taps, and the freedom to bring your food, the venue became a haven for pinball enthusiasts and punk rock fans. It wasn’t just a tournament; it was a party downtown Mesa style.

An Electrifying Pinball Face-Off

With 9 ardent players, the tournament unfurled a sextuple round robin, with 3 games simultaneously buzzing and blinking. Each player was geared to play 10 nerve-wracking games, making the atmosphere thick with anticipation.

The Battle of Balls and Bells

Amidst the array of 8 classic and contemporary machines, here’s a glimpse at some that stood out:

  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern (2020): Players were taken back to sewers of New York, with this game boasting the longest average game duration of 12 minutes.
  • Whirlwind by Williams (1990): The darling of the evening with 8 games played. There’s nothing like the rush of chasing after those twisters!
  • The Walking Dead (Premium) by Stern (2015): For those with a knack for the undead.
  • Red & Ted’s Road Show by Williams (1994): A journey with the titular duo, this machine was an ode to adventure lovers.
  • Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams (1993): For participants with a bite for classic horror!

Pinball Punk Rockstars

The night crowned some true pinball maestros:

  1. Jim Smith AZ: Rising from the depths of Phoenix, AZ, he claimed the throne with 5 wins and an added twist of a 5-point adjustment.
  2. Nick Goegan: Hailing from Chandler, AZ, he also bagged 5 wins, a phoenix rising in the pinball world.
  3. Geoff Bennett: A newbie in the scene with only 3 IFPA events, yet he stood tall with 5 wins. Watch out for this one!
  4. Mahina Hayashi: With her spirited gameplay, she clinched the fourth spot with 4 wins, marking her third IFPA event.

Arizona’s Pinball Prestige

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

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau660.87
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.61
3John ShoppleMesa570.08
4John MagyarGilbert352.83
5Kevan CarterTempe321.39
6Jason BarreMesa312.27
7Adam HortonPhoenix307.65
8Paul BlancoChandler306.34
9Joey RioSurprise282
10Walter DonyPhoenix281.41

Rolling To The Future

While the echoes of the flippers might have faded, the spirit of Punk Rock Pinball remains eternal. As pinballs ricocheted and points racked up, downtown Mesa once again proved its mettle as a hotspot for pinball aficionados.

Keep those eyes peeled and flippers ready for more updates from the pinball world!

Ball Busters & Bond: A Pinball Night to Remember

The stars aligned on September 13, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the world of pinball, bringing together the crème de la crème of players for a captivating event – The Ball Busters Pinball League – 2023 Season #5 Week 2. Set against a clear sky with the temperature gently caressing at 76°F, Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA became the battleground for an evening of flippers, bumpers, and unadulterated fun!

James Bond and the League of Novices

Round 1 opened with a cinematic twist, setting the stage on the recently released James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern. The game, younger than a year, showcased an unexpected tableau – Ana Dult, Becky Kisling, Linda Slodki, and Kathy Furlong. With each player yet to secure an IFPA rank, it was the wild west, and any novice could emerge as the sharpshooter. The surprise? Ana Dult took the top spot in a fierce bout that kept spectators on their toes.

Machines that Made the Night

While the league had 10 glittering machines, here are five that deserve a spotlight:

Unsung Heroines of the Night

While the James Bond machine saw novices shine, the overall winners were seasoned players.

  1. Kim Smith – Holding an IFPA rank of 4987, her record of 71 IFPA events showcased her seasoned approach.
  2. Terri Morton – With a rank of 2496 and 107 IFPA events under her belt, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
  3. Jennifer Gold – Even with fewer events (25), Jennifer’s gameplay shone bright.
  4. Emilia Choate – IFPA rank 4680 with a whopping 148 IFPA events! Emilia’s flair and skill were palpable.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Powerhouses

Pennsylvania’s pinball prowess isn’t just restricted to this one evening. Here are the state’s top guns:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens180.56
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh152.25
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.78
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.81
5Stephen LeChesterbrook109.02
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia98.16
7Matt GuslerPhiladelphia94.96
8Tony MakowskiLansdale76.73
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72
10Jay Robinson70.23

Pinball Gallery: The Gem of Malvern

For those unfamiliar with Pinball Gallery, it’s not just an arcade – it’s an experience. With a variety that caters to all ages and a pricing system that’s a steal, it’s no wonder a first-timer left with a sentiment, “So many fun games, and lots of great variety! Can’t wait to come back for more!!”

With another exhilarating evening in the annals of pinball history, the Ball Busters Pinball League left attendees and players eagerly awaiting the next. Until then, keep those flippers flippin’ and the silver ball zippin’!

“All Strikes and No Quarters” – The Tale of Colorado Pinball Pub Tournament 9/13

The Longest Night in Colorado Pinball History

It’s a brisk Wednesday evening on September 13, 2023, and something electric is in the air at the Colorado Pinball Pub in Littleton, CO. No, it’s not just the overcast sky or the buzz from the whiskey bar; it’s the unmistakable energy of a Basic Knockout Pinball Tournament, where 20 of Colorado’s finest players have gathered to go head-to-head in a battle for arcade supremacy.

An Epic Showdown on Godzilla (Premium)

Picture this: Round 9, the air gets a little thinner, and it’s Walt Wood IFPA rank 37, versus Marshall Weasel, IFPA rank 1876. The machine? “Godzilla (Premium)” by Stern, a table released just two years prior. Walt Wood executed a masterful strategy, securing first place and cementing their status as a local legend.

The Champions Crowned

  • 🥇 Walt Wood: A force to be reckoned with. A player who’s been to 245 IFPA events and ranked 37 globally.
  • 🥈 Marshall Weasel: Though not as experienced, Marshall’s gameplay in this tourney proves he’s a rising star.
  • 🥉 Kevin McCarthy: A veteran of 429 IFPA events, yet this time he had to settle for bronze.
  • 🏅 Laura Mitchell: A newcomer with a mere three IFPA events under her belt, Laura finished a respectable fourth place.

An Array of Arcade Marvels

The pinball aficionados were treated to a broad selection of machines, from vintage gems to the latest thrillers:

  1. Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: The newest machine on the block and undeniably a crowd-pleaser.
  2. Pirates of the Caribbean by Stern: A trip through treacherous waters.
  3. Iron Maiden by Stern: Taking it back to the ’80s!
  4. Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: An intergalactic showdown.
  5. Medieval Madness by Williams: A fantasy quest featuring jousts and jesters.

Whiskey and Quarters

No quarters were needed at the Colorado Pinball Pub, allowing players to seamlessly transition from one machine to the next. Oh, and the whiskey? Top-notch. Just what you need to get in the zone.

IFPA’s Colorado Top 10

How did our contenders line up in the larger context? Here are the IFPA’s current 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

So what did we learn from this 9-hour, 13-minute pinball extravaganza? That in the world of Colorado pinball, legends are made one flipper at a time.

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