On a chilly evening in Chicago, with overcast clouds painting the skies and temperatures dipping to 51°F, Logan Arcade at 2410 W Fullerton Ave hummed with life. Here, the city’s elite pinball players converged for the ‘Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League Season 5 #4’ tournament, organized by Mike Pantoliano.
The Venue:
For those unfamiliar with Logan Arcade, it is an emblem of nostalgia and present-day passion. Hosting an array of pinball machines that encompass the classics and the contemporaries, it is every pinball enthusiast’s dream. The venue promises an amazing selection, and reasonable prices to boot. Many, like myself, leave with a note to self: “Definitely returning when next in Chicago.” Learn more about their offerings at Logan Arcade.
In the Game Spotlight:
Of the night’s pulsating matches, one stood out not just for its competitiveness but for its sheer duration. A game on ‘Robocop‘ by Data East, which lasted almost as long as the Robocop movie itself. Clocking in at 80 minutes, players Andrew Wilkening, Kevin Kolodziej, Natalie Nonos, and Alex Lecky battled fiercely, with Andrew emerging victorious.
Tournament Machines of Note:
Out of the 25 pinball machines present:
- ‘Taxi by Williams’ took many on a nostalgic trip to the ’80s.
- ‘Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming’ and ‘Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern’, both released in 2023, showcased how the game has evolved over the years.
- ‘Doctor Who by Bally’ and ‘The Addams Family by Bally’ are classics that need no introduction.
- ‘Robocop by Data East’, given its starring role in the night’s proceedings, had its legacy further cemented.
The Night’s Winners:
Mike Pantoliano, the event’s organizer, showed everyone how it’s done by clinching the top spot. Following him were Rachel Karlic, Emily Sweeney, and Jane Verwys, showcasing the talent and skill that Chicago’s pinball scene possesses.
Illinois’ Best Pinballers:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Andy Bagwell | Elgin | 370.86 |
| 2 | Raymond Davidson | Elk Grove Village | 222.12 |
| 3 | John Miller MO | St. Louis | 198.85 |
| 4 | Ryan McQuaid | 191.17 | |
| 5 | Chuck Sanderson | 180.45 | |
| 6 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 163.42 |
| 7 | Alex Lecky | Chicago | 162.84 |
| 8 | Stephen Chappell | Ferguson | 154.64 |
| 9 | Bob Twichell | Oaklawn | 140.41 |
| 10 | Andrew Wilkening | Chicago | 139.23 |
While the night celebrated individual skill, it also showcased the tight-knit and passionate community of pinball enthusiasts in Chicago. As the games ended and players dispersed, one thing was clear: The realm of pinball is alive and thriving, and we can’t wait to bring you more updates from this electrifying world!