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:
- Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons by Stern: A quirky machine with a throwback feel to simpler times.
- Firepower by Williams: A classic from 1980 that still packs a punch.
- Hot Wheels by American Pinball: The star of Round 4, combining nostalgia with high-octane gameplay.
- Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: A modern take on a beloved classic.
- The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern: A journey to a galaxy far, far away, right from the heart of Bremerton.
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:
- Fady Selim: Dominated the night with consistent high scores.
- Jared Doss: A close second, displaying great skill and focus.
- Rachel Kahalekulu: Proved to be a formidable contender, securing the third place.
- 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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