On September 1st, 2023, as the clear sky shimmered at a comfortable 72°F, Fraser, MI turned into a pinball paradise. The Free Play Pinball Arcade at 34830 Utica Rd. buzzed with excitement. With 35 participants and countless enthusiasts, the Free Play Sep 1 tournament was all set to unroll. Joe Wade, the genius behind this showdown, ensured a blend of nostalgia and competition.
A Nostalgic Venue with a Modern Twist
Free Play Pinball Arcade isn’t just a gaming arena. It’s a trip down memory lane, packed with the bells and whistles of the 80s. One visitor recounted bringing their daughter along to share a piece of their own childhood. “She really enjoyed playing the pinball machine for the first time,” they said, eyes gleaming with nostalgia. With friendly staff and a convivial crowd, it felt less like a competition and more like a gathering of old friends.
Pinball Machines – The Stars of the Show
Among the 28 pinball machines, some stood out, not just for their gameplay but for their legacy. Rush (Pro) by Stern, the newest in the lineup, contrasted starkly with Rolling Stones by Bally, which wafted in memories from 1979. Guardians of the Galaxy and Disney TRON: Legacy brought in a touch of modern cinematic charm, while Whirlwind by Williams took players back to the start of the 90s. The diverse range made sure everyone had a favorite corner.
Avengers Assembled and So Did The Players!
One cannot talk about this tournament without mentioning the thrilling game on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern in Round 4. Celebrating its 3rd anniversary, Jenny Herzenstiel, a Michigander ranked 4983, showed that sometimes, home advantage does play a part, claiming the top spot. Luke Daniels and Chelsea Robinette, both unranked, showcased impressive skills, proving that in the world of pinball, surprises are the norm.
And the Pinball Wizard Is…
While many showed promise, the crown went to the deserving tyrus eagle, with an impressive IFPA rank of 336. Jeff Catenacci from Roseville clinched the second spot, while Dean Sondey and Gary Herzenstiel wrapped up the third and fourth, respectively.
Michigan’s Pinball Mavericks
Peek into the IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rodney Minch | Grand Rapids | 433.98 |
| 2 | Sterling Mitoska | Brooklyn | 427.34 |
| 3 | Rick Knopik | Evansville | 376.76 |
| 4 | Matthew Stacks | Grand Rapids | 296.01 |
| 5 | Dominic Labella | Bay City | 286.65 |
| 6 | Alex Harmon | Spring Lake | 273.61 |
| 7 | Jason Humphrey | Jackson | 240.06 |
| 8 | Sean Burke | Waterford Township | 219.36 |
| 9 | Ethan Magnum | 211.42 | |
| 10 | Philip Salminen | Midland | 208.34 |
From novice players to seasoned pros, the Free Play Sep 1 tournament was a testament to the undying charm of pinball. Keep your flippers ready and your eyes on the ball, because the world of pinball always has another surprise in store!