On a drizzly October evening, with the unmistakable sound of pinball machines blending with the patter of raindrops, Fraser, Michigan became the epicenter of the pinball world.
When The Clock Struck 7:30
Free Play – Pinball Arcade, with its neon signs and the nostalgic hum of vintage games, threw its doors open for the Speakeasy Free Play 10-6-2023 pinball tournament. Organized by Joe Wade, this event attracted 30 pinball aficionados who battled it out in 5 grueling rounds.
In the Heart of the Action: Game Spotlight
As the night unfolded, and strategies were tested, round 4 emerged as the most nail-biting of all. Taking place on the newly-released James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern, players engaged in a clandestine war of flippers and flashing lights. Jon Lents, with his keen eye and precise shots, emerged victorious, leaving Jake Piornack, Tim Carpenter MI, and Jeff Gordon in the wake of his pinball prowess.
The Rain-Soaked Champions
As the rain intensified outside, the stakes got higher inside. By the end of the tournament, the leaderboard featured:
- Jake Piornack: The master of maneuvering, stealing the top spot.
- Ryan Jurado from Ann Arbor: A close second, showcasing impeccable strategy.
- Jeremy Bell: The wild card, proving it’s not about how many events you’ve attended, but how well you play.
- Joe Wade: The organizer showing he’s not just good behind the scenes but also at the flippers.
Machines of Legend
Among the pinball machines lighting up the arena, these stood out:
- The Addams Family: Chilling and thrilling, every time.
- James Bond 007 (Pro): The secret weapon of the night.
- Legends of Valhalla (Classic/Deluxe): Where heroes are made.
- Godzilla (Pro): A monstrous delight.
- Hercules: The biggest pinball machine ever!
Where Magic Happened
Free Play Pinball Arcade, with its timeless charm, was more than just a venue. For many, like Vince, it’s a haven of nostalgia and camaraderie. Offering unbeatable value, it’s the kind of place where you enter in the morning and leave only when the night reminds you.
IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sterling Mitoska | Brooklyn | 458.29 |
| 2 | Rodney Minch | Grand Rapids | 450.01 |
| 3 | Rick Knopik | Evansville | 402.07 |
| 4 | Dominic Labella | Bay City | 328.69 |
| 5 | Matthew Stacks | Grand Rapids | 313.85 |
| 6 | Alex Harmon | Spring Lake | 301.12 |
| 7 | Jason Humphrey | Jackson | 276.37 |
| 8 | Ethan Magnum | — | 257.11 |
| 9 | Sean Burke | Waterford Township | 220.49 |
| 10 | Philip Salminen | Midland | 212.94 |
With the rain wrapping up the event like a curtain drop, the night in Fraser proved that passion for pinball shines, come rain or shine. We’ll be back with more from the world of pinball. Until then, keep the balls rolling and the scores soaring!