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:
- Matthew Mihelich – IFPA rank 6763, Total IFPA Events 42
- Jessica Barron – IFPA rank 1640, Total IFPA Events 266
- Richard Godwin – IFPA rank 2493, Total IFPA Events 438
- 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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