In the heart of Bremerton, under the gray canopy of overcast clouds, the pinball machines at Tik Tok’s Workshop came alive. The chill of 55°F didn’t dampen the spirits as players gathered for the “Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 10/02” tournament on October 2nd, 2023.
Battling Under Pressure
Starting at 7:00 PM, the tournament saw 8 passionate players battling each other through 9 grueling rounds. The Fair Strikes system meant players were treading on thin ice; every game mattered, every shot counted. Organized by the keen-eyed Richard Godwin, enthusiasts could also catch updates on the tournament’s Facebook page.
The Demolition Man Showdown
One round that had everyone’s heart racing was Round 3 on Demolition Man, a classic from 1994. Sarah Bay showcased her skills, clinching the first spot, closely followed by Jessica Barron. Newbie Colleen Godwin didn’t hold back either, proving her mettle against Rachel Kahalekulu.
Champions of the Night
As the dust settled, it was Donovan Haga from Bremerton who stood tall, followed by Todd Rosser, who despite having no IFPA ranking, surprised many with his raw talent. Sarah Bay and Jessica Barron, both seasoned players, took the third and fourth spots respectively.
Machines of Yesteryears and Today
The venue boasted 13 pinball machines, drawing players into the world of pinball, spanning decades. Legends of Wrestlemania and Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons, both from 2015, offered a modern touch. At the same time, classics like Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Sharpshooter, and Demolition Man transported players back in time.
Steampunk and Pinball: A Perfect Match
A visit to Tik Tok’s Workshop is an experience in itself. With its unique steampunk vibe and an owner with immense knowledge of pinball, it’s more than just an arcade. The meticulously maintained machines and the owner’s dedication to the game make it a haven for pinball lovers.
Washington’s Pinball Elite
Here’s a look at the top pinball maestros in Washington:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 636.3 |
| 2 | Lonnie Langford | Seattle | 540.38 |
| 3 | Richie Terry | Seattle | 498.12 |
| 4 | Sean Irby | Seattle | 469.67 |
| 5 | Jarrett Gaddy | Seattle | 464.78 |
| 6 | David Chernicoff | Seattle | 436.46 |
| 7 | Dave Stewart | Carnation | 399.95 |
| 8 | Neal Joslyn | Bremerton | 364.7 |
| 9 | Raymond Davidson | Elk Grove Village | 364.68 |
| 10 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 325.09 |
With the echo of pinballs and the sound of flippers fading away, the night at Tik Tok’s Workshop came to an end. For many, it was just another evening. For the pinball community in Washington, it was a night of competition, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of the game.
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