Strategy and Skill at Tik Tok’s Matchplay 1/9 Tournament

Greetings, pinball aficionados! It’s Bride of Pinbot here, bringing you the latest scoop from the world of pinball. Let’s dive into the heart of Bremerton, WA, where the Tik Tok’s Matchplay 1/9 pinball tournament unfolded on a chilly January night under clear skies, with temperatures hovering around 39°F.

Tik Tok’s Workshop: A Hub of Entertainment

Tik Tok’s Workshop, the chosen battlefield for the tournament, is a place where the old-school charm of pinball meets modern fun. With a jukebox setting the musical backdrop and a quarter-per-player bowling alley, it’s a venue that caters to both solo players and groups seeking a great time. The 4-player Pac-Man was a hit too, adding to the lively atmosphere of this beloved local hotspot.

The Tournament: A Battle of Wits and Reflexes

Organized by Richard Godwin, the tournament’s format was both straightforward and intense: 8 rounds, 1 game per round, with 8 players locked in a fierce competition for the top spot. Strategy was key, as each player’s finishing position in every round determined their points tally.

Spotlight on Mando

In Round 3, all eyes were on Stern’s The Mandalorian (Premium). The game proved to be a battleground for tact and precision. Richard Godwin himself showcased exceptional skills, clinching the first place. Jessica Barron from Bremerton and Anna Francolini also delivered strong performances, while Colleen Godwin put up a valiant fight.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament concluded with some remarkable triumphs:

  • 1st: Jared Doss – His gameplay was a masterclass in pinball prowess.
  • 2nd: Jessica Barron – She impressed everyone with her strategic finesse.
  • 3rd: Travis Schmiege – A strong contender who displayed great skill.
  • 4th: Chris Wilkes from Bainbridge Island, WA – His play was both bold and tactical.

The Machines That Made the Magic

Among the 14 machines at the tournament, these stood out:

  • Sharpshooter by Game Plan – A throwback to the late ’70s pinball scene.
  • Icarus by Recel – Offering a glimpse into the classic era of pinball.
  • Demolition Man by Williams – Combining action and strategy in every game.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming – A modern twist on a beloved classic.
  • Firepower by Williams – A game that challenges even the most seasoned players.

Wrapping Up

The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 1/9 tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball spirit – the blend of strategy, skill, and a bit of good old-fashioned luck. As the night came to a close, the echoes of victory cheers and the clinking of pinballs lingered in the air.

Stay tuned, and follow along for more updates from the world of pinball!

Electric Bat Season 10 Series 1 #5: A Night of Pinball Mastery

As the cool evening air settled over Tempe, AZ, with just a few clouds dotting the 48°F night sky, the Electric Bat Arcade buzzed with anticipation for its latest pinball challenge. The Season 10- Series 1 #5 tournament, masterfully organized by Rachel Bess, commenced on January 9, 2024, at 6:30 PM and showcased a thrilling blend of skill, strategy, and high-energy pinball action.

Electric Bat Arcade: A Pinball Enthusiast’s Dream

Located within the lively Yucca Tap Room at 29 W. Southern Ave, Electric Bat Arcade is a haven for arcade lovers. With 61 pinball machines linked to Stern Online, complete with a leaderboard displaying high scores, the atmosphere was electric. The venue’s bar offers a cozy spot to relax, making it a top recommendation for anyone passionate about arcade games.

Tournament Format: A Test of Precision and Strategy

The competition was fierce and fast-paced, involving 5 rounds with 1 game per round. A whopping 111 players participated, each vying for points based on their performance in each round. The goal was clear: accumulate the most points to triumph.

Game Spotlight: Celebrating Meteor’s Anniversary

The tournament paid homage to the classic Meteor by Stern Electronics, released on the same date in 1979, by featuring it in Round 1. The game proved to be a battlefield where Ty Bull emerged victorious, followed by Mark Kelber, Blake Garnes, and Jay Bondelli.

Acknowledging the Champions

After intense rounds of play, the tournament celebrated its top players:

  1. Ty Bull: Demonstrating exceptional skills and securing the top spot with an impressive IFPA rank of 378.
  2. Mark Pearson: A close second with an IFPA rank of 43, showing his seasoned expertise.
  3. Andrew Roesch: Clinching third place with consistent play and a strategic approach.
  4. Greg Davis from Phoenix: Rounding out the top four with his proficient gameplay.

A Showcase of Pinball Machines

Among the diverse array of pinball machines, several stood out:

  • Aerosmith by Stern (2017): Merging rock music with engaging gameplay.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern (2022): Offering a spy-themed adventure.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (2021): Bringing the beloved Star Wars series to the pinball world.
  • Joker Poker by Gottlieb (1978): A classic that continues to challenge players.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022): A recent addition that has quickly become a favorite.

A Night to Remember

As the tournament concluded after a little over 3 hours, players and spectators left with a sense of awe at the level of skill and passion on display. The Electric Bat Season 10- Series 1 #5 pinball tournament wasn’t just a competition; it was a celebration of the enduring spirit of pinball, showcasing some of the best players and machines in the scene.

For those who share a love for the silver ball and its mesmerizing world, stay tuned for more enthralling updates from the realm of pinball!

Pinball Galore at the Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament

In the heart of Malvern, PA, amidst a backdrop of heavy rain and a cool 55°F, the Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament unfolded on January 9, 2024. The tournament, organized by Bill Disney and hosted at the Pinball Gallery, was not just a competition, but a celebration of pinball’s enduring charm.

A Haven for Pinball Aficionados

As players stepped into the Pinball Gallery, they were greeted by an array of 67 pinball machines, each one a story, a challenge, a piece of history. From vintage classics to modern marvels, the selection was as diverse as the players themselves. Highlights like Super Mario Brothers on a vintage TV, Guns ‘n Roses, and various board games provided a well-rounded, nostalgic experience.

The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Endurance

The tournament format was intense, with each of the 19 players facing 10 games in the initial rounds. The top 8 players then advanced to the finals, which consisted of 2 rounds with one game each. It was a test of endurance, skill, and strategy.

Game Spotlight: El Dorado City of Gold Showdown

In the Semifinals, all eyes were on El Dorado City of Gold by Gottlieb, a game that dates back to 1984. The match was a thrilling display of skill, with Terri Morton coming out on top, followed closely by Tessa Morton, Matt Strzelecki, and Dennis DeLong.

Tournament Champions: A Display of Pinball Mastery

The tournament’s conclusion saw some remarkable talents being recognized:

  1. Tony Lastowka: Demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy, securing first place with 5 wins.
  2. Stephen Le: Despite 6 wins, he clinched a close second place.
  3. Tessa Morton: Showed great tenacity and skill, finishing third.
  4. Terri Morton: Fourth place was well-earned with consistent gameplay.
  5. Matt Strzelecki: His strategic play earned him a spot in the top five.

Standout Pinball Machines

Among the plethora of machines, some stood out for their history, gameplay, and allure:

A Night to Remember

As the tournament wrapped up, players and spectators alike left with the sounds of flippers and buzzers echoing in their ears. The Pinball Gallery provided a perfect setting for an evening filled with competition, nostalgia, and pure pinball fun.

For those who live and breathe pinball, and even those just dipping their toes in this fascinating world, keep an eye out for more updates from the realm of pinball!