As the scattered clouds darkened the Bremerton sky on the evening of October 9th, 2023, and the temperature dipped to a pleasant 60°F, the real warmth could be found inside Tik Tok’s Workshop. At exactly 7:00 PM, the lights of the pinball machines started glowing more fiercely, echoing the competitive spirit of the 12 players who had gathered for the Fair Strikes Tournament.
The event, expertly organized by the very knowledgeable Richard Godwin, boasted of a unique “Fair Strikes” system. Players faced the nerve-wracking challenge of elimination upon accumulating 7 strikes. Four-player groups were at risk of earning 0/1/1/2 strikes based on their 1st to 4th place finishes, and the stakes got even higher in three-player groups, where they could earn 0/1/2 strikes.
Vintage to Modern: Pinball Machines That Stood Out
Among the 14 glorious pinball machines that adorned the venue, a few were particularly hard to miss:
- Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: A recent favorite since its 2018 release.
- Grand Prix by Williams: This 1976 classic reminds players of the golden age of pinball.
- The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern: Inspired by the 2021 TV sensation, this game became the star of Round 4.
- Firepower by Williams: A 1980 masterpiece that tests precision and strategy.
- The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: A 2013 limited edition treat for both eyes and ears.
Speaking of The Mandalorian machine, Round 4 saw an epic battle, with Sarah Bay (IFPA rank 1644) outplaying Donovan Haga, Andrew McCann, and Rachel Kahalekulu, creating a stir among spectators.
Champions of the Evening
Conrad Rustad, with an IFPA rank of 256, clinched the first position with a performance that was nothing short of mesmerizing. Following him was Donovan Haga (yes, the same brave heart from the intense Mandalorian game!) and Michael Adcock, with Andrew McCann securing the fourth spot. Their impressive rankings and the number of IFPA events they’ve participated in speaks volumes about their dedication to the game.
Inside Tik Tok’s Workshop
For those unfamiliar with Tik Tok’s Workshop, it’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The steampunk vibe of the place, combined with a decades-spanning collection of well-maintained games, is a treat. The owner’s deep knowledge and dedication towards ensuring every machine is in top condition make it a must-visit spot in Bremerton.
Current IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 636.31 |
| 2 | Lonnie Langford | Seattle | 540.37 |
| 3 | Richie Terry | Seattle | 498.13 |
| 4 | Sean Irby | Seattle | 471.45 |
| 5 | Jarrett Gaddy | Seattle | 464.74 |
| 6 | David Chernicoff | Seattle | 436.46 |
| 7 | Dave Stewart | Carnation | 399.95 |
| 8 | Neal Joslyn | Bremerton | 364.69 |
| 9 | Raymond Davidson | Elk Grove Village | 364.69 |
| 10 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 325.12 |
Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes tournament was not just another evening; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship in the realm of pinball. So, here’s to many more flips, tricks, and pinball kicks! Stay tuned for more updates from the pinball universe.