Welcome to the Frenzy: Tik Tok’s Matchplay Tournament Highlights

Greetings, pin enthusiasts! Your digital storyteller, Bride of Pinbot, is here to recount the excitement from the bustling arena of Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA.

Quick Hits: Tournament Fast Facts

Curated with precision by the ever-capable Richard Godwin, this quick-paced tournament saw 9 competitors clash over 8 rounds, each keen to rack up the highest points through strategic play and sharp reflexes.

Spotlight Duel: The Mandalorian Standoff

In the heat of the competition, Round 4 emerged as a pivotal battle with players locking horns over Stern’s The Mandalorian. It was here that Jared Doss emerged victorious, setting the tone for an intense showdown.

Victors of the Arena: Celebrating the Champions

The battle was fierce, but the champions emerged with glory:

  1. Rachel Kahalekulu – Demonstrating unmatched skill across 536 IFPA events.
  2. Chris Wilkes from Bainbridge Island – Fast becoming a notable figure in the pinball scene.
  3. Anna Francolini – Consistency was key in her impressive showing over 124 events.
  4. Bruce Cherry from SILVERDALE – Showed great improvement and strategy throughout the tournament.

The Machines of Destiny: Pinball Lineup

Tik Tok’s Workshop featured a stellar lineup of 12 machines, each bringing its own flavor to the fray. Highlights included:

Venue Vibes: More than Just Pinball

Beyond the flippers and flashing lights, Tik Tok’s Workshop is brought to life by a rockstar bartender who ensures every guest is part of the family—mixing drinks, flipping burgers, and keeping the games in prime condition.

Special Thanks: Shoutouts and Sign-offs

Huge appreciation goes to Richard Godwin for orchestrating such a thrilling event and to the dynamic Tik Tok’s Workshop for hosting us. The synergy between organization and venue hospitality made this a memorable night for all involved.

Keep the balls rolling and the spirits high until we meet again in the next tourney. Remember, the game is just the beginning of the journey!

Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024

A Night of Flippers and Strikes in San Diego

The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024 pinball tournament, nestled in the heart of San Diego at the vibrant Dyno Bar, was a spectacle of skill and strategy. Over the course of 3 hours and 30 minutes, 23 pinball enthusiasts engaged in a thrilling Group Knockout Tournament, masterfully put together by Mark Schulz. The clear San Diego sky set a perfect backdrop for an evening filled with excitement and friendly competition.

An Epic Start on Deadpool

The tournament kicked off with an electrifying match on the Deadpool (Pro) machine. Kenny Pulliam’s victory in this initial round set a high standard and showcased the intense level of competition that would define the evening. This match was not just a highlight of skill but also of the camaraderie that makes pinball tournaments so special.

Celebrating the Pinball Masters

As the final pinball came to rest, the winners emerged, each demonstrating exceptional skill and passion for pinball:

  1. Mark Maleko Schulz, embodying the spirit of San Diego pinball, clinched the top position, further solidifying his reputation in the pinball community.
  2. Tom Isaak, with their remarkable strategy and consistent plays, secured a well-deserved second place.
  3. Kenny Pulliam, fresh from his round one victory, maintained his momentum to claim the third spot on the podium.
  4. Brian Heath, with steady hands and a strategic mind, rounded out the top four, showcasing the depth of talent present at the tournament.

The Machines That Made the Night

The Dyno Bar was home to an impressive lineup of 11 pinball machines for the tournament, each bringing its own unique challenge and charm:

  • JAWS (Pro): The newest addition to the lineup, its immersive gameplay and shark-themed challenges captivated the players.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy: Offered a cosmic adventure with its dynamic gameplay and beloved characters from the Marvel universe.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro): Took players on a prehistoric journey, combining intense action with innovative pinball mechanics.
  • Godzilla (Pro): Unleashed monstrous fun, with its towering challenges and city-stomping excitement.
  • Deadpool (Pro): Delivered action-packed rounds with its witty banter and engaging missions.

A Hub of Pinball Enthusiasm

The Dyno Bar, with its clean, welcoming environment and enthusiastic staff, provided the perfect setting for this pinball gathering. It’s not just a venue but a cornerstone of the local gaming community, offering a space where both seasoned players and newcomers can share their love for the game.

Gratitude and Cheers

As the night wound down, heartfelt thanks went to Mark Schulz for orchestrating such a seamless and engaging tournament, and to the Dyno Bar for hosting us amidst their fantastic games and ambiance. The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024 was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit, skill, and passion. Here’s to many more evenings of pinball wizardry and camaraderie!

Eclectic Nights at the Electric Bat Season 11

A Pinball Extravaganza in Tempe

The Electric Bat Season 11- Series 1 #6 tournament brought the vibrant pinball community together under the clear skies of Tempe, Arizona. With an impressive turnout of 108 enthusiasts, the Electric Bat Arcade was buzzing with excitement and competition. Over nearly 3 hours, players went head-to-head in 5 rounds of intense pinball action, all meticulously organized by Rachel Bess.

A Jaw-Dropping Round on JAWS

The tournament’s pinnacle was undoubtedly the fourth round on the newly released JAWS (Pro) machine, pitting top Arizona players against each other. Roland Nadeau’s first-place finish was a highlight, showcasing the high level of competition and skill present at the event.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

The tournament culminated in a thrilling finale, with the top players rising above the fierce competition:

  1. Kevan Carter, from TEMPE, clinched the top spot, demonstrating exceptional skill and strategic finesse across the tournament.
  2. Roland Nadeau, a formidable competitor from Phoenix, secured a well-deserved second place, adding to his impressive record of 299 IFPA events.
  3. Andrew Roesch landed in third place, showcasing his competitive prowess and deep understanding of pinball dynamics.
  4. Cody Winant rounded out the top four, proving his mettle among a field of seasoned players.

A Showcase of Pinball Wizardry

The Electric Bat Arcade played host to an array of 65 pinball machines, each with its unique design and theme:

  • Twilight Zone: This machine takes players on a surreal journey into the iconic TV series, with its complex playfield and unique upper playfield.
  • Firepower: A classic from Williams, it’s known for introducing multi-ball play and lane change mechanics, revolutionizing pinball gameplay.
  • Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro): Stern’s modern take on the legendary Black Knight series, it challenges players with its intense gameplay and captivating medieval theme.
  • Ghostbusters (Pro): Based on the beloved film, this machine immerses players in a ghost-hunting adventure filled with interactive features and nostalgic soundtracks.
  • Terminator 2: Judgment Day: This action-packed machine brings the thrill of the movie to the pinball world, complete with Arnold Schwarzenegger’s voiceovers and fast-paced gameplay.

A Gem in the Heart of Tempe

The Electric Bat Arcade, with its welcoming staff, delicious food, and inviting atmosphere, has become a cornerstone of the local pinball and gaming community. Its commitment to fostering a friendly and competitive environment makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to dive into the world of pinball.

A Round of Applause

As the flippers rest and the lights dim, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rachel Bess for organizing such a spectacular tournament and to the Electric Bat Arcade for hosting an unforgettable night of pinball magic. The Electric Bat Season 11- Series 1 #6 was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the enduring charm of pinball. Here’s to many more flips, scores, and cheers in the future!

Max Match Play Madness at Pinball Gallery

A Night to Remember in Malvern

The Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament – 4/9/2024 unfolded under the clear skies of Malvern, Pennsylvania, bringing together 35 pinball enthusiasts for a night of intense competition. Over the course of 2 hours and 30 minutes, players battled it out across 10 games each, with the top 16 advancing to a nail-biting final. Organized by the ever-dedicated Bill Disney, this Max Match Play tournament became a memorable event for all who attended.

Semifinals Showdown on Foo Fighters

The tournament reached a fever pitch during the semifinals on the Foo Fighters (Premium) machine. Tony Lastowka’s victory in this round was a highlight, showcasing not only his skill but also the strategic depth and excitement that pinball can offer. This game was a standout moment, epitomizing the competitive spirit of the event.

Triumphs and Trophies

The final showdown revealed the prowess and dedication of the players. Let’s shine a spotlight on the champions who stood out in this gripping tournament:

  1. Sam Fowler emerged as the tournament champion, securing 4 wins. With an IFPA rank of 6294 and only 7 total IFPA events under his belt, Sam’s victory was both impressive and inspiring.
  2. Nathaniel Gibson, hailing from Royersford, PA, clinched the second spot with 6 wins, after a crucial 5-point adjustment. His extensive experience, reflected in his 549 total IFPA events, played a key role in his outstanding performance.
  3. Tony Lastowka took home the third-place trophy with 4 wins. Known for his strategic gameplay and ranked 998 in the IFPA, Tony proved his mettle once again in this tournament.
  4. Dennis DeLong finished strong in fourth place, notching 5 wins. His competitive spirit and skill were on full display, solidifying his rank of 3920 in the IFPA.
  5. Anne Gibson, representing Southeast PA, showcased her pinball prowess by securing fifth place with 5 wins. Her dedication to the game is evident in her participation in 241 total IFPA events.
  6. Don Werth landed in sixth place with 5 wins. With an IFPA rank of 3372 and 16 total events, Don’s performance was a testament to his growing expertise in the pinball arena.
  7. Guy Merrill achieved seventh place with an impressive 6 wins. His experience, reflected in 190 total IFPA events, shone through in his gameplay.
  8. Tony Makowski rounded out the top eight with 5 wins. Ranked 712 in the IFPA, Tony’s skill and strategy were evident throughout the tournament.

Each of these champions, through their skill and passion for pinball, contributed to an unforgettable night of competition and camaraderie.

The Pinball Pantheon

The tournament was blessed with a lineup of 65 machines, providing a diverse battlefield for competitors. Notable among these were the classic Excalibur and Mars God of War, the modern marvels like Stranger Things (Pro) and KISS (Premium), and the latest addition, Pulp Fiction (SE), each adding its own flavor to the mix.

A Haven for Pinball Enthusiasts

Pinball Gallery not only hosted this spectacular event but also proved to be a perfect venue for pinball lovers and newcomers alike. With its vast collection of well-maintained machines and the inviting atmosphere, it’s a haven where the joys of pinball can be discovered and cherished.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As we reflect on this thrilling event, a special thanks goes out to Bill Disney for orchestrating a seamless and engaging tournament, and to the Pinball Gallery for providing a stellar venue that perfectly complemented the spirit of the competition. The Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament – 4/9/2024 was more than just a game; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the tight-knit pinball community. Here’s to many more evenings where the silver ball reigns supreme!