A Night at Tik Tok’s Matchplay 12/5 Pinball Tournament

On a chilly, rain-sprinkled evening of December 05, 2023, pinball wizards and casual players alike flocked to Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, for the Tik Tok’s Matchplay 12/5 tournament. Organized by Richard Godwin, this event turned out to be more than just a competition; it was a celebration of pinball culture in a vibrant, if not slightly busy, atmosphere.

Tik Tok’s Workshop: A Pinball Haven with a Twist

Located at 1216 Sylvan Way, Tik Tok’s Workshop isn’t your average pinball venue. With karaoke echoing in the background and a bustling crowd, the air was thick with excitement and the occasional off-key rendition of classic hits. The drink menu, boasting an array of fun options including the intriguing pudding shots, was a highlight. Though getting a drink took a bit longer due to the crowd, the Dirty and Dry was worth the wait.

The Tournament: A Battle of Flippers and Wits

As the clock struck 7:00 PM, the tournament kicked off. Seven players, each with their eyes on the prize, battled through 8 rounds of intense pinball action. With only one game per round, every flipper action and bumper hit counted.

Showstoppers Among the Machines

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 14 pinball machines, each with its own charm:

Round 4 Spotlight: Hot Wheels High Stakes

The standout game of the tournament took place on the Hot Wheels machine. Fady Selim clinched the top spot, followed by Rachel Kahalekulu, Colleen Godwin, and Jenine Dowden, showcasing that strategy, timing, and perhaps a bit of luck are key in the world of competitive pinball.

Celebrating the Champions

In the end, the tournament celebrated the skillful gameplay of its winners:

  1. Fady Selim: Dominated the night with consistent high scores.
  2. Jared Doss: A close second, displaying great skill and focus.
  3. Rachel Kahalekulu: Proved to be a formidable contender, securing the third place.
  4. Richard Godwin: The organizer himself, showing he’s as good at playing as he is at organizing.

A Night to Remember

As the last ball drained and the scores were tallied, Tik Tok’s Matchplay 12/5 pinball tournament concluded, leaving players and spectators alike in high spirits. Whether it was for the love of pinball, the unique drinks, or the karaoke, Tik Tok’s Workshop provided an unforgettable Saturday night experience.

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Electric Energy and Pinball Wizardry: Electric Bat Season 9 Series 2 #6

As the last rays of the sun dipped below the horizon in Tempe, Arizona, and a pleasant 68°F evening unfolded under a sky dotted with a few clouds, the Electric Bat Arcade on Southern Ave brimmed with excitement. The Season 9 Series 2 #6 pinball tournament, orchestrated by the talented Rachel Bess, wasn’t just another event; it was a vibrant celebration of pinball’s past and present.

The Electric Bat Arcade: A Mecca for Pinball Lovers

The Electric Bat Arcade, with its harmonious blend of retro and modern pinball machines, offered an ideal stage for this tournament. With its convenient parking, easy access through the Yucca Tap Room, and well-stocked bar, it provided a seamless experience for the players and spectators alike. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, as pinball enthusiasts gathered for an evening of skillful play and camaraderie.

Celebrating Paragon: A Pinball Classic

A special focus of the tournament was the celebration of the anniversary of Bally’s Paragon, a machine that has captivated players since its project kicked off on December 05, 1978. As the first wide-body machine from Bally, Paragon introduced innovative features like in-line drop targets and a distinctive artwork by Paul Faris, which included personal elements like depictions of himself and his wife. The European export models with only two bottom flippers added an interesting variation to the game. Paragon’s presence at the tournament brought a wave of nostalgia, especially during Round 1, where players relished the challenge of this classic game.

Round 1: A Tribute to Paragon

Round 1 saw Joe Soares taking the lead on Paragon, followed by Alex Morris, Brian Pinney, and Jard Cassell from Arizona, USA. The game was a testament to Paragon’s enduring appeal and the players’ ability to adapt to its unique playfield and challenges.

The Champions of the Tournament

The tournament culminated with a display of exceptional skill and strategic gameplay by the top players:

  1. Mark Pearson – Demonstrating top-notch skill and consistency.
  2. Andrew Roesch – A close second, showcasing impressive gameplay.
  3. Chui Aguilar (from Phoenix, AZ) – Claimed the third spot with a strong performance.
  4. Mark Lindbergh (from Chandler, AZ) – Rounded out the top four with his adept play.

A Diverse Array of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 60 pinball machines, ranging from classics to modern hits. Machines like Joker Poker by Gottlieb, Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern, and Godzilla (Premium) by Stern not only tested the players’ skills but also added a vibrant energy to the tournament.

A Night of Pinball Magic

As the tournament drew to a close, the Electric Bat Arcade stood as a beacon for the pinball community — a place where the nostalgia of yesteryears and the excitement of today’s technology coalesce. It was more than a competition; it was a celebration of the timeless allure of pinball and the community that cherishes it.

For more stories from the exciting world of pinball and updates on upcoming events, keep your flippers ready and eyes on this blog!

The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 12/5/23

Under a clear Floridian sky with a gentle 61°F breeze, The Pinball Lounge at the Oviedo Bowling Center became the epicenter of pinball excitement on December 5th, 2023. The Bonanza 12/5/23 tournament, meticulously organized by Kurt van Zyl, was not just a test of skill but a celebration of pinball’s rich history and vibrant community.

The Pinball Lounge: A Hub for Pinball Enthusiasts

Visitors to The Pinball Lounge, nestled at 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, FL, find themselves immersed in a pinball wonderland. With an extensive selection of machines and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a haven for both die-hard pinball fans and curious newcomers. The absence of food or drink trials didn’t detract from the experience, as the vast array of pinball machines more than compensated, offering hours of entertainment.

Celebrating the Legacy of Paragon

A special highlight of the tournament was the celebration of Paragon by Bally’s anniversary. Paragon’s project started on December 5, 1978, and has stood the test of time, enchanting players for over four decades with its intricate artwork and challenging gameplay. This classic machine, known for its captivating backglass and playfield design, encapsulates the golden era of pinball. The Paragon game in Round 4 was a riveting display of skill and strategy. Garrett Smoke emerged victorious, followed by Dawn Ziatyk, John Osborne, and Doug Bernard from Orlando, each player bringing their best to this classic machine. It was a round filled with cheers, high-fives, and a shared appreciation for Paragon’s enduring charm.

The Champions of the Evening

The tournament concluded with a showcase of exceptional skill and strategic gameplay:

  1. Dawn Ziatyk – A triumphant display of pinball mastery led to her well-deserved victory.
  2. Garrett Smoke – Consistent and focused, earning a respectable second place.
  3. Al Neumann – Showed impressive prowess to secure the third position.
  4. Justin Derazza – Finished strong, rounding out the top four with a commendable performance.

A Selection of Pinball Legends

The tournament featured 28 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure. Machines like Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern, Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, Venom (Premium) by Stern, and Rush (LE) by Stern not only challenged the players but also added to the diverse tapestry of the evening’s entertainment.

An Evening to Remember

As the final scores were tallied and players exchanged stories and laughs, The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 12/5/23 tournament left everyone with a sense of fulfillment and camaraderie. It was a night that celebrated not just the winners but the entire pinball community, and the timeless joy that these machines bring to our lives.

For more stories from the captivating world of pinball and updates on upcoming tournaments, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on this blog!