On a chilly Sunday afternoon with overcast clouds setting the mood, pinball enthusiasts flocked to Louie’s Tap House in Roscoe, Illinois. The mercury barely touched 36°F, but inside, the atmosphere was heating up for the Stern Army- Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly- December pinball tournament.
The Venue: A Pinball Haven
Louie’s Tap House, with its distinct setup, offered the perfect environment for a pinball showdown. Separated from the lively bar area, the tournament took place in a tranquil room, ensuring focus and concentration for the players. For those seeking a more social experience, the bar area, adorned with high-top seating and multiple TV screens, provided ample entertainment.
The Face-Off on the Flippers
The tournament, meticulously organized by Tom Menge (Event Details), consisted of 7 intense rounds, with 15 players battling it out over a single game per round. The competition was fierce, but camaraderie remained the day’s true champion.
Spotlight on Godzilla
A particularly riveting game unfolded in Round 2 on the ‘Godzilla (Premium) by Stern’, a modern classic known for its demanding playfield and strategic depth. David Slaymaker from Rockford IL emerged victorious, followed closely by Courtenay Bowman, Glenn Stickels, and Jason Clancy, in a nail-biting finish.
The Masters of the Machines
The ultimate victors of the day, based on consistent performance across rounds, were:
- Josh Hanford, showcasing remarkable skill and strategy.
- Tom Knorst, from Chicago, a blend of experience and agility.
- David Slaymaker, again making a mark with his second mention.
- Joe Buchanan, from Machesney Park, rounding out the top four with his impressive gameplay.
Tournament Machines of Note:
Out of the 11 pinball machines gracing the tournament, a few stood out:
- ‘Deadpool (Pro) by Stern’, a fan favorite for its humor and engaging gameplay.
- ‘James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern’, a recent addition offering high-stakes espionage action.
- ‘Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball’, a fresh release bringing childhood nostalgia to the fore.
- ‘Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern’, blending rock and pinball in an electrifying manner.
- ‘Venom (Premium) by Stern’, the latest entry, adding a new level of thrill to the tournament.
Final Thoughts
The Stern Army- Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly- December tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit and passion. As the flippers rested and the scores tallied, participants and spectators alike shared stories, strategies, and laughs, reminding everyone why pinball remains a beloved pastime.
Stay tuned for more tales and triumphs from the realm of pinball, where skill, strategy, and a bit of luck come together in the most exhilarating way!