In the heart of Roscoe, IL, Louie’s Tap House became the arena for the latest Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays pinball tournament on February 22, 2024. Under a clear sky with the temperature a crisp 50°F, pinball enthusiasts gathered for an evening of flipper-flipping action organized by the dedicated Tom Menge.
Tournament Dynamics
The tournament unfolded over 3 intense rounds, with each round consisting of 2 games where 18 competitors battled it out in groups. Points were awarded based on their finishing positions, leading to a high-stakes final round for the top 4 players, featuring 4 games to determine the ultimate champion. The event, lasting a little over 3 hours, was a testament to the skill and endurance of all involved.
Highlight Match: A Marathon on Venom
A standout moment came during Round 1 on the Venom (Premium) by Stern, where a single game stretched to an epic 65 minutes. The players, Greg Pitner, Nick Naruz, David Slaymaker, and Shane Shadden, showcased exceptional skill and tenacity, turning the game into a memorable marathon session.
Champions of the Night
Emerging victorious from this pinball gauntlet were:
- Nick Naruz – Claiming the top spot with a combination of strategic play and quick reflexes, Nick demonstrated why he’s a rising star in the pinball world.
- David Slaymaker – Hailing from Rockford, IL, David’s consistent performance across rounds secured him a well-deserved second place.
- Greg Pitner – With vast experience evidenced by his participation in 417 IFPA events, Greg’s third-place finish added another highlight to his pinball career.
- Shane Shadden – Shane, from Winnebago, IL, brought their A-game to the tournament, rounding out the top four with their dynamic playstyle.
The Pinball Lineup
The Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House tournament showcased a curated selection of pinball machines, each offering a unique challenge and theme to the players. Here’s a closer look at some standout machines from the event:
- Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming: This machine brought the Wild West to life with its vibrant graphics and engaging gameplay. Players found themselves in the midst of cowboy adventures, dueling with outlaws and saving the town, making it a crowd favorite for its immersive experience and playful storyline.
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern: The newest addition to the lineup, JAWS captured the essence of the suspenseful movie with its shark-infested waters. The game’s intense missions and the ever-present threat of the great white added a thrilling dimension to the tournament, keeping players on their toes.
- James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: Offering espionage and intrigue, this machine tasked players with completing secret missions and using gadgets fit for a spy. The James Bond theme added an air of sophistication and excitement, with players feeling like part of Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
- Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern: Delving into the supernatural, this machine was a hit for fans of the series and pinball enthusiasts alike. The interactive elements, including battling the Demogorgon and unlocking secret modes, made for a compelling and unpredictable gameplay experience.
- Elton John by Jersey Jack Pinball: A tribute to the iconic musician, this machine dazzled with its colorful playfield and Elton John’s hits playing in the background. The game offered a blend of musical joy and pinball challenge, appealing to a wide range of players.
Venue Vibes
Louie’s Tap House, with its cozy ambiance and delicious offerings like the much-raved-about French dip and margaritas, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament. The pinball machines were nestled in a separate room, creating an immersive environment for players and spectators alike.
Appreciation and Anticipation
A special thank you to Tom Menge for organizing an unforgettable night of pinball and to Louie’s Tap House for hosting the event. The Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House tournament was a showcase of the thriving pinball community and the timeless appeal of the game.
Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the vibrant world of pinball, where the next flip could lead to the next big win!