Tik Tok’s Matchplay: A Pinball Extravaganza Amid Karaoke Classics!

Greetings, pinball wizards and weekend warriors alike! Let’s journey together through a night of clinks, clangs, and of course, some sing-alongs. We’re diving into the Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/12 pinball tournament, held on a notably chilly evening at Bremerton’s very own Tik Tok’s Workshop.

A Jamboree of Joy

The event kicked off precisely at 7 PM and extended its magical grip over us for almost 9 and a half hours. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re absorbed in a mesmerizing game. Though if you are here on a weekend, Karaoke could be echoing in the background, perhaps motivating some players and…distracting others? (or, truth be told, waiting for that Dirty and Dry cocktail – patience is a virtue on a busy Saturday night!).

Let the Games Begin!

With eight gripping rounds, each player was given a shot at glory with every game. The scoring method was straightforward: outplay your fellow pinballers in your group and climb the ladder. And speaking of games, a standout performance in Round 1 on Monster Bash (Remake) deserves a special mention. Organizer Richard Godwin didn’t just organize; he showcased his prowess by clinching the top spot, with Rachel Kahalekulu, Brandon Saludares, and Caleb Stickley hot on his trail.

Machine Mania

The machines, with their bright lights and enthralling designs, deserve their own applause. The aforementioned Monster Bash (Remake) was an audience favorite, and other notable pinball machines included the vintage Icarus, Sharpshooter, and the action-packed Terminator 2: Judgment Day. And let’s not forget the quirky Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons. Yes, that’s a real pinball game!

Rising to the Challenge

When the silver ball settled and scores were tallied, it was Richard Godwin who emerged as the reigning champion. Followed by Caleb Stickley, Brandon Saludares, and Rachel Kahalekulu – all of whom showcased grit, strategy, and of course, impeccable hand-eye coordination.

Local Pinball Standouts

Just a quick side-note for those of you keeping score at home. Here’s the cream of the crop when it comes to Washington’s pinball elite:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond626.48
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle533.12
3Richie TerrySeattle498.6
4Sean IrbySeattle470.06
5Jarrett GaddySeattle444.55
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.53
7Dave StewartCarnation387.32
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village365.81
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.77
10Zach McCarthyConifer326.43

To conclude, as we cherish these memories of skillful plays, quirky pinball names, and melodious (or perhaps not-so-melodious) karaoke, remember: there’s always another game, another shot, another chance to play and slay.

Catch you next time for more updates from the thrilling realm of pinball! Until then, keep those flippers flippin’!

Electric Excitement at the Electric Bat Season 8!

On a balmy evening in Tempe, Arizona, with broken clouds and the mercury nudging 93°F, pinball enthusiasts flocked to the Electric Bat Arcade, an unsuspecting gem amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. It was time for the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #6 pinball tournament, a monumental clash of flippers, balls, and lights.

Dive Into the Arcade Vibe!

For many, Electric Bat Arcade might seem a tad bit confusing at first. It doesn’t scream ‘arcade’ from the entrance, and yet when you dive in, it’s a veritable oasis of nostalgia and excitement. With amazing bartenders, delectable food and drink, and a pinball collection to die for (literally every game in working condition!), the venue is a haven for aficionados and newbies alike. Those Japanese rhythm games though? A hilarious challenge after a few drinks!

From Meteor to Godzilla – Pinball Machines that Steal the Show

With a staggering 57 pinball machines, selecting a few favorites is a Herculean task. Yet, some stand out due to their legacy and charm:

  1. Demolition Man: Taking us back to 1994, it’s Williams at its best.
  2. Terminator 2: Judgment Day: A plunge into 1991 with action-packed sequences.
  3. Diner: A 1990 classic that makes you yearn for simpler times.
  4. Godzilla (Premium): The youngest of the lot from 2021, it’s monstrous fun!
  5. Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast: With its 2018 release, it’s as legendary as the band itself.

The Godzilla Showdown

Speaking of Godzilla, the Round 4 face-off on this machine was nothing short of epic. Up-and-comer Cody Winant defied expectations by beating seasoned player Adam Horton, leaving the crowd in awe. Krisha Shufran and Cale Bess Hernandez gave commendable performances, but it was Cody who roared that round!

Pinball Wizards of the Tournament

At the end of the electrifying showdown, Mark Lindbergh clinched the top spot with Mark Pearson not far behind. Roland Nadeau and Greg Drewes rounded off the top four with their stunning gameplay.

The Best in Arizona

Arizona’s love for pinball isn’t new. Check out the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.88
2John ShoppleMesa546.74
3Mark PearsonPhoenix535.9
4John MagyarGilbert337.66
5Paul BlancoChandler304.33
6Jason BarreMesa300.35
7kevan carterTempe295.89
8Joey RioSurprise282
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.99
10Andrew Roesch255.2

Pinball, for many, isn’t just a game. It’s a passion, an obsession, a dance of fingers and flippers. The Electric Bat Season 8 was not just a tournament, but a celebration of this love. Stay tuned, pinball wizards, for there’s much more to come from the luminous realm of pinball!

Tilt’n Tuesday Triumphs: Pinball Wizards Gather at District 82!

Ahoy, pinball enthusiasts! Let’s rewind to September 12, 2023. The air was crisp, and with just a few clouds hovering above, the atmosphere at District 82 Pinball was electric. Fans from across Wisconsin (and some from beyond) gathered to witness the spectacular Tilt’n Tuesday pinball tournament.

The Stage Was Set

Located in the heart of De Pere, District 82’s massive collection of 113 pinball machines were primed for the tournament. Organized by the renowned Erik Thoren, the tournament drew 67 players, all vying for the coveted top spot. The tournament went on for a thrilling 8 hours, but who’s counting when you’re immersed in a pinball galaxy?

Game On!

One of the many highlights of the evening was the intense face-off in Round 4 on Eight Ball Champ by Bally. This classic from 1985 saw Steve Fabry demonstrating why he’s a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Shawn McDonald, Brian Leuthner, and Kel McBrair made sure to keep him on his toes. The action was intense, and the flippers never rested.

A Salute to the Champions

When the dust settled and the last ball drained, Nathan Zalewski emerged as the reigning champ, followed closely by Drew Geigel, Michael Reiman, and the man of the hour, Erik Thoren himself. Kudos to these pinball warriors for their stellar gameplay.

Pinball Spotlight

From the vast array of pinball machines, some notable ones were:

More Than Just Pinball

As any regular will tell you, District 82 isn’t just a pinball arcade, it’s an experience. The ambiance is a solid 5-star, blending nostalgia with state-of-the-art setups. And while the games are all set for Tournament Play, it’s all part of the adrenaline-packed experience.

But here’s the catch: Intermediate players, you’ll notice the challenge levels are amped up with extreme table tilts and conservative settings. As the old adage goes, “It ain’t easy being a pinball wizard.”

Wisconsin’s Best

For those keeping score at home, here’s the latest IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.33
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.21
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.64
4Escher Lefkoff1050.04
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.81
6Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.44
7Zach McCarthyConifer737.26
8Erik ThorenDe Pere732.12
9David DalugaMilwaukee691.23
10Jordan Dechaine683.87

Final Thoughts

A massive shoutout to all participants and attendees. Pinball, at its heart, is a game of skill, strategy, and sometimes a smidgen of luck. And in Wisconsin, the passion for pinball burns brighter than ever. Until next time, keep those flippers flippin’ and stay tuned for more pinball updates!

Pinballs and Java Jolts: The Belles & Chimes SATX Showdown

It’s not every day you find a venue that melds the buzzing energy of pinball with the aromatic allure of freshly roasted coffee. But on September 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM, that’s precisely what was brewing at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters in San Antonio, Texas.

Coffee, Machines, and a Little Competitive Spirit

Over the course of approximately 2.5 hours, 14 passionate pinball players faced off, darting between 46 pinball machines, each round fueled by the café’s exquisite coffee. Organized by the dynamic Christina Cheeseman, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #1 pinball tournament had the perfect blend of competition and camaraderie.

A Joker’s Wild Throwback

The highlight reel moment? Round 2’s game on the vintage Joker Poker machine by Gottlieb, a throwback from January 1978. Alice Young, with an impressive IFPA rank of 2385, outperformed the competition, leaving Kelsea Gass and Valli Irvine in her wake. Joker Poker might be a game from yesteryears, but it proved that in the world of pinball, old is indeed gold!

Top Players and Timeless Machines

By the end of the evening, the cream of the crop emerged. Alice Young clinched the top spot, followed closely by Melody Zisman and Hope Love. Valli Irvine, hailing from Austin, TX, also made her mark by securing the 4th position.

The venue was replete with machines ranging from classics to new-age marvels. “Centaur” by Bally, “Evel Knievel” by Bally, “Champion Pub” by Bally, and “James Bond 007 (Pro)” by Stern were just a few that stood out. Whether players fancied the heroics of James Bond or the raw thrill of No Fear: Dangerous Sports, there was a game for every taste.

More Than Just a Coffee Shop

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters isn’t your typical caffeine haunt. The ambiance screams innovation, from the transparent process flavor experimentation to the symphony of coffee beans teasing your curiosity. The real icing on the cake? An astounding collection of pinball machines, striking a balance between the inner child and the mature coffee connoisseur in every visitor. It’s a crescendo of flavors, sights, and sounds – a future trendsetter in the realm of coffee shops.

Texas’s Top Pinballers

The Lone Star State’s pinball scene is nothing short of electric. Here’s a glimpse of Texas’s pinball prowess:

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

In a world where pinball and premium coffee collide, the Belles & Chimes SATX tournament was more than just a competition. It was an experience, an aromatic journey filled with flashing lights, clinking flippers, and the soft murmur of excited conversations.

Stay flipping fantastic, and catch you at the next update from the radiant realm of pinball!

The Pinball Lounge – An Evening of Flashbacks and Fierceness!

With a backdrop of clear skies and the Florida humidity making 86°F feel like a scorching 98°F, pinball aficionados descended upon The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo, Florida. The clock marked 7 PM, and over the next 3 and a half hours, the deafening dings, lights, and competitive roars filled the air.

Embryon Extravaganza!

The real action crescendoed during Round 5 on the vintage Embryon by Bally, dating back to 1981. Garrett Smoke, despite his IFPA rank of 3417, defied all expectations by landing the top spot. Hot on his heels was the seasoned John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida, followed by Justin Derazza and Nick Smith. As the ball rolled, plunged, and ricocheted, it wasn’t just a game. It was history meeting the present, both in terms of the players and the machine.

A Gallery of Gaming Greatness

The Lounge boasted 30 pinball machines, an impressive repertoire for the aficionado and the amateur alike. While each had its own charm, a few deserved a special mention:

  • Cyclone by Williams: Taking players on a ride since 1988.
  • Funhouse by Williams: Known for Rudy, the talking dummy head – don’t be startled!
  • Guardians of the Galaxy (Premium) by Stern: A star-studded space saga dating back to 2017.
  • Paragon by Bally: With a beastly allure since 1978.
  • Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: All the mysterious happenings of Hawkins town, right from 2019.

The Conquerors of The Lounge

While every player put forth a spirited fight, the leaderboard had its champions. Garrett Smoke smoked the competition, followed closely by Justin Derazza, and John Moschella. John Osborne rounded off the top four with some spectacular gameplay, despite his comparatively higher IFPA rank.

The Lounge Experience

For those unfamiliar with The Pinball Lounge’s allure, it’s not just about the games. A visitor’s testament speaks volumes: “Visiting Orlando and chanced upon this haven. Skipped the drinks, but the massive selection of pinball kept us engrossed for hours. A must-visit for every pinball enthusiast.”

Florida’s Flipper Fanatics

Let’s have a peek at where Florida’s finest pinball players stand:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park321.21
2Eric StoneFort Myers305.25
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale262.96
4Sebastian Bobbio236.21
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg195.15
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace142.14
8David Miller FLTampa133.26
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary109.63
10John MoschellaWinter Springs108.87

With another tournament wrapped up, the world of pinball continues its eternal dance of lights, sounds, and silver balls. For fans, newbies, and everyone in between, stay flipped on for more updates from this enthralling realm!

OC Belles & Chimes: When The Pinball Queens Rolled!

Ladies and gentlemen, especially those of you who can recognize the sheer beauty of a shiny silver ball gliding seamlessly through a colorful, buzzing machine, let’s talk pinball! Specifically, the OC Belles & Chimes Season 12 – #7 pinball tournament that had us glued to our seats for an estimated 9 riveting hours.

The Setting

First things first, a slight brag about the weather: the overcast clouds made it a cool 79°F outside – the perfect weather to be indoors and challenge some pinball high scores. Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim opened its doors to sixteen pinball aficionados ready to battle it out. With 60 machines on standby, every corner of this venue screamed ‘retro vibes’.

A Game to Remember

While there were many standout moments, the spotlight inevitably landed on The Godfather (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball. Now, what makes this more interesting? Well, this machine was just recently released in March! And our competitors sure did make Don Corleone proud. Lisa Buhrmester took the lead, showing why she deserves her IFPA rank of 2842. Anita Dominqu, Amber Macias, and Lily Baker followed closely. Lily, with an IFPA rank of 0, proved that everyone starts somewhere!

The Queens of Pinball

When the last ball dropped and scores were tallied, the queens of the evening were:

  1. Lisa Buhrmester – our star from the Godfather game and a veteran of 90 IFPA events.
  2. Laura Stoddard – another Californian powerhouse.
  3. Hillary Jacobson – With over 200 IFPA events under her belt, she was a formidable contender.
  4. Ally Vides – She might be relatively new to the scene, but her performance spoke volumes.

A Pinball Paradise

In terms of pinball machines, we had the classic charm of Roller Disco and Lost World. There were new kids on the block like Galactic Tank Force (Deluxe) and Foo Fighters (Premium and Pro). And oh! Speaking of great pinballs- Jack•Bot by Williams, a little birdie (okay, it’s me) wants to cheekily mention that we might be related. Don’t believe me? Just check our last names. 😉

Playing at Captain’s

If you haven’t been to Captain’s Arcade Showroom, you’re missing out! A haven for pinball lovers, every machine beckons with the promise of a great game. And did I mention the management? Super welcoming!

Golden State’s Pinball Leaders

To keep things in perspective, let’s glance over IFPA California’s Top 10 Pinball Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale530.15
2raymond ashbyLos Angeles518.06
3Gabe Da SilveiraOakland462.95
4Scott MaciasGlendora439.46
5Nic SteinDavis418.14
6Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.04
7Escher Lefkoff411.53
8Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
9Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights362.92
10Leslie Ruckman361

So there you have it – a night of flippers, tilt warnings, and unmatched enthusiasm. Until next time, may your ball never drain and your score always soar! This is Bride of Pinbot signing off, and remember, pinball is life!

Mysteries, Galaxies, and Epic Showdowns: Pinball Magic in the Arizona Desert!

As the sun began to dip on September 11, 2023, at 6:30 PM, a select group of pinball enthusiasts were drawn to an undisclosed location somewhere in the heart of Arizona. The reason? To partake in the Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3A #5 pinball tournament, a clandestine contest of skill, strategy, and a dash of luck.

Under the Arizona Sky: Where?

Organized by the mysterious Jim Smith, the exact venue remains unknown to the general populace. Perhaps it was a secret underground lair, a cactus grove, or even atop a mesa. One thing’s for sure: next time, we’re hoping Jim updates MatchPlay with the location, so we’re not left in suspense!

The Arcade Lineup: Old Meets New

The machines present at the tournament were a mix of classics and new kids on the block:

  • Black Pyramid by Bally: A throwback to 1984, where the pyramids, pharaohs, and ancient deities ruled.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: Space adventure and superhero drama combined in this 2017 release, also the spotlight of the tourney’s Round 5.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: A relatively new game from 2022, filled with espionage and adrenaline-pumping chases.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: An electric ride with one of the world’s most iconic rock bands, from 2020.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Last but not least, the giant monster unleashed in 2021!

Guardians of the Round 5 Universe

In the standout game of Round 5, it was all about navigating the vastness of the universe on the Guardians of the Galaxy machine. Ryland Knapp took the lead, followed by Kevin Ehlers, and then the event’s very own organizer, Jim Smith AZ from Phoenix. Robert Paluc completed the top four.

Desert Kings and Queens of Pinball

A huge shout-out to the tournament’s pinball prodigies:

  1. Joey Rio: Surprising the crowds with his stellar gameplay, earning the top spot.
  2. Mark Pearson: With an experience of 527 IFPA events, he showed why he’s among the best.
  3. Mary Profeta Scardina: Precision and finesse got her to third place.
  4. Kevin Ehlers: After his performance in Round 5, he cemented his place in the top four.

Arizona’s Best Pinball Virtuosos

Behold, the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10:

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

Until We Flip Again

With the balls resting and the lights dimming, another exciting chapter of pinball in Arizona came to a close. Wherever the next hidden location may be, we’re eager to be part of the magic once again.

Keep those fingers nimble and eyes peeled for more pinball news and updates!

The Clash of Pinball Titans at Free Play Dallas

Deep in the heart of Texas, amidst broken clouds and warm, yet comfortable temperatures, 18 pinball aficionados converged at Free Play Dallas on September 11, 2023. An evening which became a testament to dexterity, strategy, and the pure, unadulterated love of pinball.

Setting The Stage

It was 7 PM sharp when the players, organized by Chris Delp, put on their game faces. The atmospheric vibe, reminiscent of arcade glory days, was ideal for some old-school competition. The venue, equipped with an incredible array of 77 pinball machines, was a haven for lovers of the game.

But it wasn’t just fun and games – the stakes were high. Only the top eight players would move on to the finals, where two nail-biting rounds awaited them.

The Game of The Night

Amidst the whirl of flippers and flash of lights, the semifinals stood out for one game on Rush (Pro) by Stern. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX, may have an IFPA rank of 4208, but he proved that rank isn’t everything, finishing ahead of several higher-ranked competitors. However, Garrett Shahan, with a towering rank of 125, secured the top spot, asserting his prowess.

The Conquerors of The Night

When the final ball had settled, the leaderboard shone with these names:

  1. Clark McCoy from Denton, TX: A force to reckon with.
  2. Greg Gibson from Plano, TX: A dark horse that took many by surprise.
  3. Garrett Shahan: No stranger to the pinball elite.
  4. Randy Nelson from Roanoke, TX: A testament to the spirit of the game.
  5. Chris Delp from North Texas: The organizer, proving he can play as well as he can host.

…and the list went on, featuring players from all over Texas who brought their A-game.

Machines That Made History

While every machine at the venue had its charm, a few stood out for their legacy and gameplay experience:

The Venue: A Blast from The Past

Free Play Dallas is a treasure trove for retro game enthusiasts. However, a word to the wise – while the games transport you to a fantastical world, the pizzas bring you back to reality with their not-so-generous size and price. The pro-tip? Come for the games, stay for the drinks, but maybe dine elsewhere.

The Elite of Texas Pinball

While the night celebrated the champions, it’s worth mentioning Texas’s Top 10 Pinball Maestros:

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

To The Future and Beyond

As the evening came to an end, the buzz of excitement, competition, and camaraderie lingered in the air. Stay tuned to the realm of pinball for more such nights of thrilling gameplay and dramatic showdowns!

Pinball Showdown: Stern Army-Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly – A Tale of Titans

Ah, the age-old dance of silver balls and flashing lights, where skill meets chance, and competitors are just one flip away from victory or defeat. This September, the heart of Illinois echoed with the clink and clatter of pinball, bringing players and enthusiasts to the iconic Louie’s Tap House in Roscoe. As the sun beamed down from a clear sky, setting the perfect 80°F atmosphere, pinball warriors geared up for a showdown like no other.

Setting the Stage: Louie’s Tap House

Before we delve into the gripping action, let’s set the scene. Louie’s Tap House isn’t just a haven for pinball aficionados; it’s also a delight for the palate. One can’t help but be tempted by the mouth-watering French dip or get refreshed with a margarita that resonates with the very soul. With the ambiance of high-top seating, a plethora of TV screens, and options for outdoor seating or a secluded room away from the bar’s bustle, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a while. Maybe even challenge someone to a game or two.

Epic Duel on the Big Game

Round 1 kicked off with a match of legends on the ‘Big Game‘ by Stern. This wasn’t just any game; it was an endurance test, stretching an impressive 137 minutes! The lead protagonist, Tom Menge (IFPA rank 505) and an avid pinball enthusiast from the Rockford IL area, David Slaymaker (IFPA rank 2399), put on a show that kept everyone at the edge of their seats. But in the end, Tom emerged victorious, with David trailing close behind. Vinnie Bologna and Emily Anderson, with their impressive gameplay, secured the 3rd and 4th spots respectively.

Titans of the Tournament

Tom Menge’s victory in Round 1 was no fluke. He continued his dominating streak and clinched the top position overall. David Slaymaker was not far behind, taking the 2nd spot, followed by Vinnie Bologna and Emily Anderson. Their ranks might vary, but their shared passion for pinball was evident.

Pinball Pantheon

With 11 machines available, players had their pick of challenges. Noteworthy mentions include the monstrous ‘Godzilla (Premium)‘ and the adrenaline-pumping ‘Venom (Pro)‘. Those seeking nostalgia could flip their way through ‘Space Invaders‘ or the memorable ‘Big Game‘. And for music aficionados, the ‘Foo Fighters (Premium)‘ offered a rhythmic escapade.

Illinois Pinball Royalty

It would be remiss not to mention the top pinball players gracing the Illinois scene:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.67
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.11
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Ryan McQuaid179.12
5Chuck Sanderson169.23
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago151.11
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn137.55
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.09

The air was thick with competition and camaraderie, creating memories that will be cherished by participants and spectators alike.

So, here’s to another chapter in the ever-evolving story of pinball. Until next time, keep those flippers flippin’, and never let the ball slip between them! Cheers to the world of pinball and its glorious unpredictability!

Of Silver Balls and Sumptuous Bites: A Day at Louie’s Tap House

In the gentle embrace of a few clouds and a soothing 80°F temperature, Roscoe, Illinois, wasn’t just about the weather on September 10, 2023. Inside Louie’s Tap House, the real storm was raging. The Stern Army-Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly- September Tournament was in full swing. Over 10 hours of intense pinball action, thrills, and some epic rivalries.

Louie’s: More Than Just A Tap House

Louie’s Tap House is an interesting amalgamation of craft beers, a culinary delight, and, of course, pinball. If you had apprehensions about the pricing, let the Buffalo chicken macaroni, and cheese with a side of cheese curds quell them. While your taste buds dance in glee, your fingers can get busy with a stunning array of pinball machines. A paradise for both gourmets and gamers.

The Longest Game: A Saga on ‘Big Game’

The day’s spotlight was stolen by a 137-minute-long game on Big Game by Stern, a gem from 1980. It’s the kind of game duration that could be mistaken for a full-length movie. But no, this was Tom Menge, David Slaymaker, Vinnie Bologna, and Emily Anderson engrossed in a timeless pinball duel.

The Fabulous Machines of the Day

While Big Game had its epic, other pinball machines were no less the stars. The venomous charm of Venom (Pro) by Stern, the spooky yet delightful Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball, the debonair charisma of James Bond 007 (Premium), and the rock anthems blaring from Foo Fighters (Premium) kept players and spectators alike enthralled.

Champions of The Day

Tom Menge, the organizer, was not only great behind the scenes but also in front of the pinball machine. He secured first place, showing his prowess in both organization and gameplay. Followed by David Slaymaker from Rockford, Vinnie Bologna, and Emily Anderson from Peosta – they all showcased exceptional skills, reminding everyone why they were in the finals.

Illinois’s Pinball Titans

The cream of the crop in Illinois’s pinball arena currently stands as:

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 LeckyChicago151.11
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn137.55
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.1

So, the next time you find yourself in Roscoe, and you yearn for an amalgamation of craft beer, sumptuous bites, and pinball, you know where to go. Until next time, keep flipping and stay tuned for more pinball updates!