The D82 Flippin’ Friday event on April 19, 2024, at District 82 Pinball, brought together 35 avid pinball players for a spirited tournament. Hosted in the cool and overcast setting of De Pere, Wisconsin, by Erik Thoren, the competition spanned four rounds, each round comprising two games and lasting nearly three hours in total.
Intense Battles on Pool Sharks in Round 4
The fourth round featured an intense match on the vintage Pool Sharks pinball machine by Bally, dating back to 1990. Bret Derby led the pack with his exceptional skills, closely followed by tournament director Erik Thoren, with Danny Bronny and Josh Grube also showing strong performances.
Honoring the Tournament’s Standout Players
The tournament recognized the top competitors for their exceptional gameplay:
- Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh, WI, demonstrated strategic finesse, securing first place with his extensive experience in 455 IFPA events.
- Erik Thoren, both an organizer and a competitor from De Pere, WI, used his deep knowledge of pinball to earn the second spot in his 417th IFPA competition.
- Tom Graf, a veteran of the pinball circuit with 563 IFPA events to his name, claimed third place.
- Adam VanDynHoven from Appleton, WI, impressed with his determination, rounding out the top four.
Featured Machines: A Closer Look at the Legends
The tournament showcased a rich variety of 116 pinball machines, with each providing a unique gameplay experience:
- Iron Man (Vault) by Stern: Known for its high-energy gameplay, this machine challenges players to battle iconic villains from the Iron Man universe, featuring rapid-fire multiball events and a challenging layout that rewards sharpshooting.
- The Sopranos by Stern: This machine immerses players in the gritty world of Tony Soprano with missions that mimic the TV show’s plots, offering complex multiball modes and interactive mafia-related targets that enhance the storytelling element.
- Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern: Released in 2023, this machine captures the essence of the band with its dynamic sound system playing iconic tracks, and includes features like band-themed playfield art and concert-style lighting effects that engage players in the rock and roll spirit.
- Theatre of Magic by Bally: Appeals to players with its visually stunning magical motifs and tricks. As players navigate the game, they trigger illusions and magic tricks that not only dazzle but also strategically advance gameplay through hidden compartments and rotating playfield elements.
- WWF Royal Rumble by Data East: This wrestling-themed machine features iconic wrestlers and offers a tag-team gameplay style, complete with body-slam multiballs and a Royal Rumble match that pits players against a cascade of wrestling challenges.
District 82 Pinball: A Hub for Pinball Enthusiasts
Located at 800 O Keefe Road, De Pere, WI, District 82 Pinball Arcade proved to be an excellent venue, with machines in pristine condition and an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm. The care taken in maintaining each pinball machine and the warm welcome given to out-of-town guests like us from New York highlighted the arcade’s commitment to quality and community.
Closing Thanks
A heartfelt thank you to Erik Thoren for orchestrating such a well-organized event and to District 82 Pinball for providing the perfect setting for this pinball adventure. The pinball community continues to thrive through these gatherings, and we look forward to bringing more news and updates from the exciting world of pinball competitions. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates!