Tik Tok’s Matchplay Mania: A Pinball Extravaganza

Hello, pinball wizards and flippers fanatics! It’s your digital chronicler, Bride of Pinbot, here to regale you with tales from the electrifying world of pinball tournaments. Today, we’re diving into the heart-pounding action of Tik Tok’s Matchplay, held on the brisk and misty evening of March 12, 2024, at the ever-eclectic Tik Tok’s Workshop.

A Night at Tik Tok’s Workshop

Nestled in Bremerton, WA, Tik Tok’s Workshop isn’t just any venue; it’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts, complete with rockstar bartenders who juggle food, drinks, and machine maintenance with unparalleled grace. Amidst the backdrop of light rain and the chill in the air, this workshop became the arena for a pinball showdown that won’t soon be forgotten.

The Monster Bash Showdown

The tournament’s spotlight shone brightly on a riveting game of Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming, a modern classic that brought together pinball aficionados for a fierce competition in Round 3. Joe Madia led the pack, followed closely by Daron Coull, Jon Shaiman, and Gocelyn Morgado, in a nail-biting match that had everyone on the edge of their seats.

Triumphs and Tumults: The Victorious Four

As the flippers stilled and the lights dimmed, four champions emerged from the fray, defying expectations and IFPA rankings:

  1. Andrew McCann, with his strategic prowess, clinched the top spot, adding another feather to his cap in his extensive pinball career.
  2. Joe Madia, not far behind, showed that determination and skill could bridge the gap between rankings, securing a well-deserved second place.
  3. Richard Godwin, the mastermind behind the event, proved his mettle by landing the third spot, a testament to his dual talents as an organizer and competitor.
  4. Jon Shaiman rounded out the top four, showcasing that expertise and a cool head can go a long way in the high-stakes world of pinball.

Legends of the Silver Ball

The tournament was graced by an array of pinball machines, each with its unique allure:

  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) whisked players away to a magical land with its innovative gameplay and vivid display.
  • Cyclone took competitors on a thrilling amusement park ride, complete with the excitement of a bygone era.
  • Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons brought a fresh twist to the game with its retro aesthetics and cheeky humor.
  • Grand Prix and Firepower offered a blast from the past, challenging players with classic pinball dynamics.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As the last ball plunged into oblivion, it was time to extend our sincerest gratitude to Richard Godwin for orchestrating this spectacular event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing a perfect setting for pinball battles. Their combined efforts made Tik Tok’s Matchplay a memorable night for all.

Stay tuned, dear readers, for more tales from the pinball realms. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and the balls rolling!

Flippers, Strikes, and Cosmic Battles at the Aero Club / Dyno Bar

On a slightly chilly evening in March, with the sky dotted with broken clouds, the Dyno Bar in San Diego transformed into an electrifying arena for the Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly Pinball Tournament. Under the meticulous organization of Mark Schulz, 32 pinball enthusiasts gathered to test their mettle against silver balls and high scores.

The Guardians Standoff

In the midst of the fierce competition, a standout game on Stern’s Guardians of the Galaxy became the talk of the tournament. It was Round 4, and the air was charged with anticipation as Brian Heath, Derek Price, Mike Calcagno, and Kenny Pulliam faced off in a battle that was more than just about pinball. It was a clash of strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck, under the watchful eyes of Groot and Star-Lord.

Brian Heath, defying his IFPA rank of 2606, emerged victorious in this round, proving that in the dynamic world of pinball, rankings can sometimes be just numbers. Derek Price, ranked 65th and a favorite to win, had to settle for second, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the game.

The Champions of the Night

As the final ball drained and the scores were tallied, it was Mark “Maleko” Schulz who claimed the throne, a fitting victory in the venue he helped bring to life. Derek Price, despite the setback in the Guardians game, secured a commendable second place, adding yet another high finish to his impressive pinball resume.

Casey Shaw, an unranked enigma, surprised everyone by clinching the third spot, reminding everyone why pinball is a game for everyone. And Tom Isaak, breaking barriers and expectations, rounded out the top four, celebrating diversity and skill in the pinball community.

A Tribute to the Machines

The tournament was a showcase not just of players, but of the machines that make it all possible. From the espionage and intrigue of James Bond 007 to the deep-sea danger of JAWS, and the monster mayhem of Godzilla, each machine offered a unique challenge to the players. The classic thrills of Evel Knievel and the racing excitement of Indianapolis 500 provided a nostalgic contrast to the modern marvels, creating a diverse playing field for all participants.

The Heart of Pinball in San Diego

The Dyno Bar, with its clean ambiance, friendly staff, and a fun array of games, proved once again why it’s a cornerstone of the San Diego pinball scene. Its commitment to creating a welcoming space for both seasoned players and newcomers alike resonates with the spirit of the pinball community.

A Night to Remember

As the night wound down and players exchanged stories of flippers and saves, gratitude was extended to Mark Schulz for orchestrating such a memorable event and to the Dyno Bar for hosting. The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the pinball community, a testament to the enduring appeal of the game, and a reminder of the joy it brings to people’s lives.

So, keep your eyes peeled for the next tournament, and who knows? Maybe next time, the pinball wizard at the top of the leaderboard could be you!

Electric Bat Season 11 Unleashes a Frenzy of Pinball Wizardry

As the doors of the Electric Bat Arcade swung open on the evening of March 12, 2024, a palpable buzz filled the air, signaling the commencement of something truly electrifying. The venue, already renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and an impressive lineup of pinball machines, was about to host the much-anticipated Season 11 – Series 1 #2 of its iconic pinball tournament. With 108 players ready to tilt, nudge, and flip their way to glory, the stage was set for an unforgettable showdown.

A Clash Among Titans

In a tournament where every flipper hit and bumper bash could mean the difference between triumph and defeat, it was the clash on Stern’s latest marvel, JAWS (Pro), that had everyone talking. Released just months prior, this machine became the arena for a riveting battle in Round 4, where Jay Bondelli, John Shopple from Mesa, AZ, Kevan Carter from TEMPE, and the enigmatic Beau Hough, an unranked dark horse, faced off in a whirlpool of high stakes and higher scores.

The Victors Emerge

As the final ball plunged into play and the scores were tallied, it was Mark Pearson, a titan of the pinball world with an IFPA rank of 47, who stood tallest among the competitors. Hot on his heels was John Magyar from Arizona, showcasing skill and strategy that belied his rank of 245. John Shopple, having made waves in the JAWS game earlier, secured a commendable third place, with Serge Sicular rounding out the top four, proving that in the world of pinball, rankings only tell half the story.

A Salute to the Machines

The Electric Bat Season 11 was not just a testament to the players’ skills but also a celebration of the machines that make it all possible. From the city-stomping excitement of Godzilla (Premium) to the rock-and-roll frenzy of Foo Fighters (Pro), and the superheroic adventures on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro), each machine added its unique flavor to the tournament. The classic charm of Hotdoggin’ and Nitro Ground Shaker reminded players of pinball’s golden age, while the modern classics like Batman 66 (Premium) and Monster Bash (Remake LE) kept the adrenaline pumping.

More Than Just an Arcade

The Electric Bat Arcade, with its chill staff, delicious food, and an array of drinks, proved to be more than just a venue; it was a community hub where enthusiasts and newcomers alike could share their passion for pinball. The weekly leagues and tournaments have made it a beacon for pinball aficionados, earning it a special place in the hearts of many.

A Night to Remember

As the lights dimmed and the last pinball came to rest, gratitude was extended to Rachel Bess for orchestrating such a spectacular event and to the Electric Bat Arcade for hosting. The Season 11 – Series 1 #2 tournament was a reminder of the joy, excitement, and community spirit that pinball brings to our lives.

So, as we flip back into our daily routines, let’s keep an eager eye on the Electric Bat Arcade’s calendar. Who knows what high-scoring dramas and flipper-flashing fun the next tournament will bring to the vibrant world of pinball?

Pinball Lounge Bonanza: A Night of Flips, Flicks, and Fantastic Wins

On a warm, clear evening on March 12, 2024, the Oviedo Bowling Center transformed into a battleground for the bravest of pinball warriors. The event, aptly named The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza, drew 31 contenders, each vying for the title of pinball champion under the watchful eye of organizer Kurt van Zyl.

The Opening Gambit

The tournament kicked off with an electrifying start on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Premium), a machine that roars just as fiercely as the dinosaurs it features. It was here that Justin Derazza showcased his prowess, navigating through the treacherous landscape of Isla Nublar to clinch the first victory of the night, setting the tone for what was to become a legendary evening.

The Champions Emerge

As the night progressed, so did the intensity of the competition. Yet, amidst the thrumming energy and the symphony of pinballs, Justin Derazza remained unshakeable, ultimately securing the top spot in the tournament. Following him were Patrick Durland and Nick Smith, from Florida, whose surprising strategies and skillful plays won them 2nd and 3rd place, respectively. Brendan Panzullo, though unranked, made an unforgettable impression by landing in 4th place.

A Salute to the Machines

The tournament was graced by an array of pinball machines, each with its own character and history. The Rush (LE) by Stern, with its high-energy rock theme, provided a thrilling backdrop to the competition. The Attack from Mars, with its retro charm, reminded players of the golden age of pinball. The Creature from the Black Lagoon offered a nostalgic throwback with its unique holographic feature. The Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure took players on a whirlwind journey, much like its cinematic counterpart. Lastly, the Monster Bash (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming brought back classic monsters for a modern audience.

The Venue: More Than Just Bowling

The Oviedo Bowling Center, more than just a place for strikes and spares, added its unique charm to the event. With its exceptional selection of pinball machines, great food, and service, it provided the perfect backdrop for a night of competitive fun and camaraderie.

A Night to Remember

As the night drew to a close, thanks were given to Kurt van Zyl for orchestrating such a memorable event and to the Oviedo Bowling Center for hosting. The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community, a showcase of skill, and most importantly, a reminder of the joy these machines bring to our lives.

Stay tuned for more pinball adventures, because in the world of flippers and tilt, the game is never truly over.