A Night of Flippers and Fun: The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 1/2 Pinball Tournament

A Cozy Competition in Bremerton

On the chilly evening of January 2nd, 2024, Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, transformed into a vibrant battleground for the Tik Tok’s Matchplay 1/2 pinball tournament. Despite the light rain outside, the atmosphere inside buzzed with excitement and the spirit of friendly competition, as organized by Richard Godwin.

Tournament Dynamics: Skill and Strategy in Play

The tournament’s format was a test of endurance and skill, featuring 8 rounds with 1 game per round. Ten players vied for the top position, their gameplay showcasing a fascinating blend of strategy and agility. The 2 and a half-hour event was a true celebration of pinball prowess.

Game Spotlight: Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons

The first round’s highlight was on Stern’s Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons, a machine that captures the essence of retro pinball with its colorful artwork and playful theme. Richard Godwin led this round, followed by Jessica Barron, Jared Doss, and Bruce Cherry, setting the stage for a night of intense and joyful competition.

Celebrating the Victors

The tournament concluded with an impressive lineup of winners, each demonstrating exceptional pinball skills:

  1. Matthew Mihelich – IFPA rank 6763, Total IFPA Events 42
  2. Jessica Barron – IFPA rank 1640, Total IFPA Events 266
  3. Richard Godwin – IFPA rank 2493, Total IFPA Events 438
  4. Jared Doss – IFPA rank 4048, Total IFPA Events 108

A Diverse Array of Pinball Machines

The tournament was graced with 13 pinball machines, each telling its own story. Highlights included Demolition Man by Williams (1994), The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (2013), and Sharpshooter by Game Plan (1979), offering players a journey through the evolution of pinball.

The Heart and Soul of Tik Tok’s Workshop

More than just a venue, Tik Tok’s Workshop was the tournament’s soul. The rockstar bartender, single-handedly managing food, drinks, and machine maintenance, created an atmosphere that was both welcoming and electric. His multitasking skills and unwavering smile made the event memorable for everyone.

The IFPA Washington Pinball Standings

This tournament also played a pivotal role in the IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Joshua Francis Edmonds 7.53
2 Casey Benton Seattle 3.12
3 Peter Schatzer Kent 2.84
4 Matthew Mihelich Port Orchard 2.44
5 Andrew McCann Bremerton 2.17
6 Max Jones 2.11
7 Jessica Barron Bremerton 1.45
8 Grey Ertl 1.06
9 Aaron Garberding Mountlake Terrace 1.06
10 Johnny Hill Everett 1.06

Wrapping Up

The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 1/2 tournament was a showcase of the pinball community’s passion and camaraderie. From the strategic plays to the shared laughs, it reminded us why pinball continues to captivate hearts across the country.

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Electric Bat Season 10 – A Spectacle of Flippers and Fun

Hello, fellow pinball enthusiasts! It’s your favorite metallic maiden, Bride of Pinbot, here to recount the electrifying tales from the latest IFPA pinball tournament. The Electric Bat Season 10- Series 1 #4, held on January 2, 2024, at the vibrant Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, AZ, was a night to remember.

A Pinball Haven in Tempe

The Electric Bat Arcade, my latest haunt, was an explosion of lights, sounds, and pinball action. With a wide array of 60 pinball machines and drinks from the attached Yucca Tap Room, it was pinball paradise. The only hiccup? Shelling out $1.00 per play – but hey, for the love of pinball, it was worth every penny!

A Battle Among the Best

The tournament, masterfully orchestrated by Rachel Bess, saw 104 players in intense competition. The format was simple yet ruthless: 5 rounds, 1 game per round, and points for each finishing position. The air was thick with strategy and anticipation as each player aimed for the top spot.

Godzilla Roars in Round 2

Round 2 was a standout with Stern’s Godzilla (Premium). Kevan Carter from Tempe, with an IFPA rank of 232, showed us how it’s done, clinching first place. Brad Vogus from Phoenix and Jeff Wegener also put up a spectacular show, while Brandon Passey fought valiantly to a fourth-place finish.

Champions of the Night

As the final ball drained, the champions emerged:

  • 1st: John Shopple from Mesa, AZ – A pinball wizard with an enviable IFPA rank of 88.
  • 2nd: James Turner AZ – Showed off his skill and strategy throughout the tournament.
  • 3rd: Mark Pearson – A veteran in the scene with an impressive track record.
  • 4th: Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ – Displayed tremendous versatility and skill.

Machines That Stole the Show

Among the 60 machines, these stood out:

Final Thoughts

The Electric Bat Season 10- Series 1 #4 was more than a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community. From seasoned veterans to newcomers, everyone brought their A-game, making it a night filled with camaraderie, competition, and, of course, pinball!

Follow us for more updates from the realm of pinball and until next time, keep those silver balls rolling and the high scores growing!

Flipping Success: The Heart-Pounding Drama at the Tilt’n Tuesday Pinball Tournament

The District 82 Pinball Arcade: A Stage for Legends

In De Pere, Wisconsin, amidst the chill of 30°F and overcast skies, the District 82 Pinball arcade became a battleground for pinball aficionados. The Tilt’n Tuesday tournament, meticulously orchestrated by Erik Thoren, spanned an intense 2 hours and 53 minutes of flipper action and silver ball drama.

Tournament Format: A Test of Skill and Strategy

The tournament’s structure was a crucible for skill, comprising four rounds with two games each. The 71 players, split into groups, battled for points based on their finishing positions in each round. It was a test of endurance, strategy, and sheer pinball wizardry.

Celebrating The Simpsons Pinball Party: A Tribute to Pop Culture and Pinball Innovation

The second round of the tournament celebrated the 21st anniversary of “The Simpsons Pinball Party,” a machine that stands as a testament to the fusion of pop culture and pinball technology. Created by Stern Pinball, this vibrant two-level playfield machine is a haven for “The Simpsons” fans, featuring beloved characters and classic episode themes. With interactive elements like a talking-moving Homer head, Bart on a skateboard, and a secondary playfield accessible through a garage door, the machine offers an immersive and dynamic gameplay experience. The design and artwork, developed in collaboration with Matt Groening, and featuring original dialog by the show’s voice actors, make this machine a unique blend of pinball evolution and the universal appeal of “The Simpsons.” Trae Vance’s triumph in this round was a nod to both his skill and the enduring charm of this iconic machine.

The Victorious: The Tournament Champions

The champions of the tournament were celebrated for their exceptional gameplay, a blend of skill, strategy, and a deep understanding of the game. The winners were:

  1. Matt McCarty (TD) – IFPA rank 146, Total IFPA Events 454
  2. Neil Graf – IFPA rank 16, Total IFPA Events 302
  3. Rachel Ristow – IFPA rank 411, Total IFPA Events 297, from Sheboygan, WI
  4. Drew Geigel – IFPA rank 94, Total IFPA Events 135

Pinball Machines: A Journey Through History

The tournament featured 115 pinball machines, including classics like Pharaoh by Williams (1981) and The Addams Family by Bally (1992). Each machine offered a unique glimpse into the history and evolution of pinball.

Venue and Atmosphere: More Than Just a Game

District 82 Pinball provided an exceptional setting for the tournament. The venue, known for its efficient management and fantastic array of pinball machines, was complemented by food trucks and a BYOB policy, creating an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie.

IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings

The tournament had a significant impact on the IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings, showcasing the competitive spirit and skill of the region’s top players.

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Neil Graf Appleton 48.56
2 Jake Nagel Appleton 40.86
3 Kassidy Milanowski Appleton 37.68
4 Ryan Eggers Madison 34.31
5 Drew Geigel Manitowoc 31.86
6 Holden Milanowski Combined Locks 28.57
7 Danny Bronny Beverly Shores 26.53
8 Matt McCarty Neenah 25.43
9 Tom Graf Appleton 18.39
10 Chuck Blohm De Pere 17.01

Final Reflections

The Tilt’n Tuesday tournament at District 82 was more than just a display of pinball skills; it was a celebration of a community united by their passion for pinball. From the legends who topped the standings to the enthusiastic rookies, every flipper hit and high score was a testament to the enduring charm of this beloved arcade game.

Stay tuned for more stories and updates from the realm of pinball!

Fierce Competition and Flippers: The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 1/2/24

On a clear and cool evening of January 2nd, 2024, with the temperature dipping to a crisp 52°F, pinball enthusiasts converged at The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center in Oviedo, FL, for an electrifying tournament. Organized by Kurt van Zyl, the event was nothing short of a pinball extravaganza.

The Stage Is Set at The Pinball Lounge

The venue, The Pinball Lounge, is a haven for pinball aficionados. Visitors, including those from Orlando on vacation like myself, find themselves drawn into the world of pinball, thanks to the Lounge’s extensive selection of machines. With no food or drinks sampled this time, the pinball itself was enough to keep everyone engaged for hours.

The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy

With 6 intense rounds and 28 players grouped for a face-off, the tournament’s structure demanded not only skill but strategic acumen. Each player’s goal was simple: accumulate the most points over the rounds to emerge victorious. The competition was fierce, and the energy was palpable.

Spotlight Game: Venom Strikes

The first round’s standout game was on Stern’s Venom (Premium), released in July 2023. Al Neumann skillfully navigated through the game’s challenges, securing first place. Nick Smith FL, Dawn Ziatyk, and Doug Bernard from Orlando also displayed impressive skills, setting a high bar for the rest of the tournament.

Celebrating the Victors

In the end, the tournament champions were:

  • 1st: Nick Smith FL – A remarkable performance, earning him top honors.
  • 2nd: Al Neumann – Demonstrated prowess and consistency throughout the event.
  • 3rd: John Osborne – Showed off his competitive spirit and skill.
  • 4th: Mike Zink – His strategies and plays were noteworthy.

Pinball Machines Galore

The tournament featured an array of 31 machines, each adding its unique flavor to the event. Machines like World Cup Soccer by Bally and Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern showcased the diverse history and modern innovation in pinball. Other highlights included Deadpool (Pro), Star Trek, Jurassic Park (Premium), and the classic Eight Ball Champ.

Final Thoughts

The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 1/2/24 was more than a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s passion and skill. The event was a testament to the enduring love for this classic arcade game.

For all the latest in the world of pinball, stay tuned. Until next time, keep those silver balls bouncing and the high scores coming!