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:
- Matt McCarty (TD) – IFPA rank 146, Total IFPA Events 454
- Neil Graf – IFPA rank 16, Total IFPA Events 302
- Rachel Ristow – IFPA rank 411, Total IFPA Events 297, from Sheboygan, WI
- 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!