Inside the Tournament
The air was brisk and the clouds hovered as pinball enthusiasts gathered at Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, Washington, on April 15, 2024. The venue hosted the captivating “Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes” tournament, which saw 13 competitors battle through 10 grueling rounds starting at 6:55 PM. Under the Fair Strikes format, players faced the relentless challenge of accumulating the least number of strikes to survive, with strikes awarded based on their finish in each round. This intense competition lasted over four hours, filled with strategic plays and the clattering echo of pinball machines.
Game of the Night: Monster Bash (Remake)
Round 5 proved pivotal with a standout game on Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming. The match featured Jennifer Bremerton who secured a first-place finish against formidable opponents. Andrew McCann, Conrad Rustad, and Pinky Barney battled fiercely but couldn’t surpass Jennifer’s skillful manipulation of the flippers, highlighting the game’s enchanting design and modern twists on classic pinball play.
Honoring the Champions
The tournament concluded with remarkable displays of skill and determination:
- Donovan Haga from Bremerton showcased his adeptness and strategic depth, finishing first with an impressive track record of 132 IFPA events.
- Conrad Rustad, also from Bremerton, leveraged his vast experience from 248 events to claim a well-earned second place.
- Jessica Barron demonstrated her pinball prowess and consistency, securing third place with experience from 321 IFPA events.
- Sarah Bay rounded out the top four, bringing her considerable experience from 262 events to the forefront of the competition.
Featured Pinball Machines
The event was supported by an eclectic mix of 15 pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the tournament:
- Cyclone by Williams, known for its vibrant artwork and engaging carnival theme, was a fan favorite.
- The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball captivated players with its intricate game mechanics and immersive storytelling.
- Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons provided a quirky and nostalgic play experience with its retro visuals and simplistic charm.
- The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern drew players with its deep rule set and thematic elements tied to the popular series.
- Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball challenged players with its intense, fast-paced gameplay and unique soundtrack.
Venue Vibes
Tik Tok’s Workshop not only hosted the tournament but also offered a vibrant atmosphere that resonated with nostalgia and excitement. Players enjoyed a diverse selection of pinball machines, some harking back to their childhood, and other activities like bowling and classic arcade games like Galaga, making for a fun-filled evening.
A Grateful Farewell
A big thank you goes out to Richard Godwin for organizing such a dynamic event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing a perfect setting for pinball magic. This tournament was a testament to the enduring appeal of pinball, combining fierce competition with communal joy.