On a chilly December evening, with overcast skies and a temperature of 41°F, pinball aficionados gathered at District 82 Pinball for the much-anticipated Flippin’ Friday Tournament. Held on December 22, 2023, and expertly organized by Erik Thoren, this event wasn’t just about flipping pinballs but also about community, skill, and, of course, a little friendly competition.
District 82: A Pinball Paradise
District 82 Pinball, formerly known as TitleTown Pinball, has become a beloved haven for pinball enthusiasts of all levels. With an array of over 115 machines ranging from vintage classics to modern marvels, choosing where to start was the evening’s toughest decision. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with the buzz of machines and the chatter of an engaging community.
The Tournament: A Battle of Skill and Strategy
The tournament featured 4 rounds of intense competition, with each of the 29 players battling it out over 2 games per round. Points were awarded based on finishing positions in each round, culminating in a fierce race for the top spot.
Spotlight on Robo-War
One of the tournament’s highlights was a gripping Round 2 face-off on Gottlieb’s Robo-War, a classic from 1988. Danny Bronny clinched the first place, followed by Tom Graf from the enigmatic PARTS UNKNOWN, Bret Paluch, and Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh, WI.
Celebrating the Victors
After a flurry of flippers and strategic plays, the tournament crowned its champions:
- Matt McCarty: Emerged as the top player with consistent and skillful gameplay.
- Tom Graf: Hailing from the mysterious PARTS UNKNOWN, he secured a commendable second place.
- Adam VanDynHoven: Representing Appleton, WI, Adam claimed the third spot with deft skill.
- Eddie Smith: Rounded up the top four with his impressive pinball prowess.
Pinball Highlights from the Arena
Among the 115 machines, these stood out as fan favorites:
- Monopoly by Stern: A trip down the boardwalk with every ball.
- Star Trek (Premium) by Stern: Boldly going where no pinball has gone before.
- Twilight Zone by Bally: A journey into a dimension of sight, sound, and mind.
- Last Action Hero by Data East: Action-packed gameplay worthy of any hero.
- Robo-War by Gottlieb: The star of Round 2, blending retro charm with competitive thrill.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. With helpful staff, a welcoming community, and well-maintained machines, it’s a pinball player’s dream come true. The added perks of free bottled water, affordable snacks, and the freedom to come and go with a wristband make it a perfect spot to spend a day. As the night came to a close, players left with stories to tell and new scores to beat. District 82 once again proved itself as not just a venue for pinball, but a cornerstone of the community. Whether you’re mastering the “DoccyWho” high-score strategy or just dropping in for some casual play, District 82 Pinball is the place to be.
Stay tuned for more flippin’ fantastic updates from the world of pinball!