Pinball Pulse: Silverball Sunday Showdown Sparks Summer Heat

Spotted: The crème de la crème of the pinball world gathering at Brews Burger Joint for Silverball Sunday on June 2, 2024. With clear skies and a sizzling 99°F outside, 24 players battled it out in this epic showdown. The air conditioning inside? Blissfully cool. The tension? Hotter than a summer fling.

Shark Bait: Round 1 Drama on JAWS

Round 1 had everyone talking. Stern’s JAWS (Pro) from January 2024 was the scene of some serious drama. Mark Farina Jr., our local pinball heartthrob from Gilbert, Arizona, tamed the beast and walked away victorious. Was it his skill or just pure luck? Who cares, it was entertaining as hell. Like watching a shark movie with an extra-large popcorn.

And the Crown Goes To…

The winners of Silverball Sunday? Let’s just say they didn’t disappoint:

  1. Mark Farina Jr. – This Gilbert guy, ranked 2459 in IFPA, has 106 events under his belt. He played it cool and collected, and walked away with the crown. King of pinball? For now, darling.
  2. John Finnegan – From Tucson, with an IFPA rank of 595 and a staggering 521 events. John showed us he’s not just about quantity but quality too, snagging second place.
  3. Mollie Stoltenberg – Mollie’s ranked 1290 and has rocked 204 events. She proved that she’s not to be underestimated, taking a well-deserved third place.
  4. Conrad Betti – Phoenix’s own, ranked 426 with 182 events. He may have landed in fourth, but Conrad’s making waves in the pinball scene.

Pinball Machines: Stars of the Show

Here’s the inside scoop on the pinball machines that had everyone buzzing:

  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (August 2018) – Deadpool’s antics kept everyone laughing and playing. With katanas and chimichanga trucks, what’s not to love?
  • Foo Fighters (Premium/LE) by Stern (March 2023) – Rock and roll, baby. This machine syncs with the band’s greatest hits, making every game a rock concert.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern (July 2023) – Dark, twisted, and oh-so-thrilling. Players faced off against Venom in this gripping machine that’s as addictive as it is challenging.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (September 2021) – Epic battles and city-saving drama. Godzilla never disappoints, and neither did the players who took it on.
  • John Wick (Pro) by Stern (May 2024) – Slick and deadly, just like the man himself. This machine had everyone channeling their inner assassin.

Brews Burger Joint: The Social Hub

Brews Burger Joint, 5055 W Ray Rd #2, Chandler, AZ 85226, was the perfect backdrop for this pinball extravaganza. New owners, a killer selection of over 30 craft beers, and a menu that’s to die for. Cassandra, our delightful server, made sure everyone was well-fed and hydrated. And with pinball tournaments every other Sunday, it’s the new hot spot in town.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Mark Pearson Phoenix 703.09
2 Roland Nadeau 635.54
3 John Shopple Mesa 601.16
4 Jason Barre Mesa 314.29
5 Greg Drewes Mesa 249.69
6 John Magyar Gilbert 242.32
7 Ben Clement Marana 235.81
8 Andrew Roesch 232.84
9 Cody Winant Tempe 226.54
10 Walt Wood Englewood 222.36

Wrap It Up

Mark Farina Jr., you orchestrated a fabulous event, and Brews Burger Joint, you were the perfect host. The JAWS (Pro) match? Simply legendary. Thanks to everyone who came out to play and spectate. Your energy and enthusiasm made the night unforgettable. Stay tuned for more pinball drama, intrigue, and excitement in our next recap. Until then, keep those flippers ready and your secrets close.

PBJ Monthly June ’24: Epic Battles at Pinball Jones

The Showdown Begins

On June 2nd, 2024, under a canopy of overcast skies and a comfortable 79°F, 15 passionate pinball warriors gathered at Pinball Jones for the PBJ Monthly June ’24 tournament. This was no ordinary gathering; it was a Group Knockout Tournament consisting of 11 intense rounds where players were eliminated after receiving 3 strikes. As the clock ticked for 5 and 1/2 hours, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and competitive spirit.

Indiana Jones Adventure: Round 8 Highlights

In Round 8, the action peaked on the legendary Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams. Imagine the players as Indiana Jones themselves, navigating through treacherous paths and ancient ruins. Tai Tran, ranked 2792 in the IFPA, channeled their inner Indy and took the top spot, deftly maneuvering through the challenges. Paul Kardell, our fearless organizer with an IFPA rank of 2074, showcased their skills with precision, landing in second. Elliott Layne, ranked 1618, and Jackson Fry, ranked 1330, battled fiercely but succumbed to the traps and pitfalls, finishing third and fourth respectively.

Applause for the Champions

The tournament concluded with a grand celebration for our top players. Here are the champions who emerged victorious:

  1. Jackson Fry (IFPA rank 1330, 174 events) – A seasoned player, Jackson’s strategic prowess was unmatched.
  2. Elliott Layne (IFPA rank 1618, 126 events) – With a determined spirit, Elliott secured a commendable second place.
  3. Paul Kardell (IFPA rank 2074, 117 events) – Our dedicated organizer proved their mettle by finishing third.
  4. Tai Tran (IFPA rank 2792, 103 events) – Tai’s impressive performance in the spotlight game was a highlight of the event.

Congratulations to all the winners and a heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated. Your passion keeps the pinball spirit alive!

Marvels of the Machine Lineup

Pinball Jones boasted an impressive lineup of 35 machines, each with its unique charm and challenge. Here are a few standout titles:

  • Attack from Mars by Bally (January 1995): A fan favorite, this game combines humor with fast-paced action, challenging players to defend Earth from a Martian invasion.
  • Elvira’s House of Horrors (LE) by Stern (October 2019): Featuring Elvira’s signature wit, this game is a spooky delight with its interactive haunted house and campy horror themes.
  • JAWS (Premium) by Stern (January 2024): One of the newest additions, this machine captures the terror of the classic film with thrilling shots and a dramatic narrative.
  • Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern (March 2023): Rock out with the Foo Fighters as you navigate this high-energy machine, filled with musical missions and iconic band references.
  • Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory by Jersey Jack Pinball (April 2019): A whimsical journey through Wonka’s factory, this game features intricate mechanisms and delightful surprises.

The Heart of the Action: Pinball Jones

Located at 107 Linden St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, Pinball Jones is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The atmosphere is nothing short of amazing, making it a must-visit for anyone with even a passing interest in pinball. A special shout out to the JAWS table, a standout new addition that captivated players with its immersive experience.

For more information, check out their website: Pinball Jones.

IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10 Standings

Here’s the current ranking of the top players in Colorado:

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Walt Wood Englewood 364.06
2 Ryan Altermatt Denver 177.45
3 Justin Hinman Denver 123.33
4 John Quinn Denver 119.31
5 Adam Lefkoff Longmont 110.22
6 Chase Hart Denver 94.21
7 Kevin McCarthy Conifer 81.99
8 Stepan Mazurov Boulder 81.43
9 David Johnson Aurora 78.13
10 Jonathon Robel Golden 74.64

Wrapping Up the Fun

A huge thank you to Paul Kardell for organizing such an amazing event and to Pinball Jones for providing the perfect venue. The game on Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure will be remembered as one of the highlights of the Jones tournament. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps!

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and the high scores climbing!

The 1up Lodo Looney Tunes Launch Party: A Day of Flippers and Finesse

What a night! The 1up Lodo Looney Tunes Launch Party was the place to be on June 2, 2024. With overcast clouds setting a mysterious tone and temperatures hovering at a comfortable 83°F, 18 players gathered for a fierce Group Knockout Tournament. The event stretched a whopping 10 hours, with each round intensifying the competition. Organized by the fabulous Deanna Scalf, this tournament was one for the books.

When Godzilla Stomps: Round 5 Showdown

Picture this: Round 5, the battle on Godzilla (Premium) by Stern. The chaos of kaiju and destruction of cities set the stage for an epic clash. Justin Hinman, Michelle Ebert, and Tim Bruner stepped up to the machine, their fingers ready to tame the beast. It was a nail-biter, but Justin Hinman emerged victorious, channeling the raw power of Godzilla to crush his competition and secure the top spot.

The Victors: Pinball Titans

Let’s hear it for the champions of the night! These players fought valiantly through the rounds, earning their rightful places in the top four:

  1. John Quinn from Denver, IFPA rank 791, with 78 events under his belt. He showed us all what true pinball prowess looks like.
  2. Kevin Pearl, IFPA rank 3064, with an impressive 187 events. His skill and determination were evident in every flip.
  3. Justin Hinman, IFPA rank 1113, a familiar name in the circuit with 231 events. He consistently proved his mettle throughout the night.
  4. Marissa Furman, an unranked warrior who fought her way to the top four, showing that rankings aren’t everything.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured 10 remarkable machines, but a few truly stood out:

  • Rick and Morty (SE) by Spooky Pinball, released in December 2019, captivated players with its bizarre adventures and quirky humor. The custom callouts and dynamic animations were a hit.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, released in September 2021, brought the chaos of monster battles to life with its impressive multi-level playfield and immersive sound effects.
  • The Addams Family by Bally, a classic from January 1992, offered its iconic spooky charm and innovative features like the Thing hand and the electric chair, making it a perennial favorite.

The Venue: A Hidden Gem

Nestled in the heart of Denver, The 1up Arcade Bar – LoDo is a charming little spot that promises a good time. Located at 1925 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202, it’s the perfect place for a date night or a casual hangout. The atmosphere is cozy, and the drinks, like the Pickle Rick and Princess Peach, are must-tries. Check out their website here.

Colorado Pinball Scene: The Top 10 Titans

Here’s a snapshot of the current top 10 players in Colorado’s IFPA standings:

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Walt Wood Englewood 364.06
2 Ryan Altermatt Denver 177.45
3 Justin Hinman Denver 123.33
4 John Quinn Denver 119.31
5 Adam Lefkoff Longmont 110.22
6 Chase Hart Denver 94.21
7 Kevin McCarthy Conifer 81.99
8 Stepan Mazurov Boulder 81.43
9 David Johnson Aurora 78.13
10 Jonathon Robel Golden 74.64

Kudos and Farewell

A massive shoutout to Deanna Scalf for organizing such a phenomenal event. The 1up Arcade Bar – LoDo provided the perfect backdrop for a night of intense pinball action and camaraderie. Don’t miss your chance to catch future tournaments and highlights, and until then, may your flippers be ever ready, and your scores mile-high! Denver’s got the best pinball scene around, so keep an eye out for more action at the iconic spots in the city. Stay tuned!

Pinball Mayhem at Louie’s Tap House

The Stern Army’s “Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly” for June was a smash hit! On June 2nd, 2024, pinball wizards gathered at Louie’s Tap House for a thrilling tournament. With 16 players battling it out over 7 rounds of intense action, the competition was fierce, and the camaraderie was even better.

Weather Report: Perfect Pinball Conditions

Despite the overcast clouds and a mild 71°F temperature, the atmosphere inside Louie’s was electrifying. The energy from the players and spectators made the weather outside an afterthought.

Epic Duel on John Wick

Round 4 of the tournament featured an exhilarating clash on John Wick (Premium) by Stern. The atmosphere was thick with tension as players squared off on this adrenaline-pumping machine. In true John Wick fashion, Glenn Stickels, David Slaymaker, John Walesewicz, and Chuck Jackson battled with laser-like focus and strategic precision. Every flipper flip and bumper hit echoed the intensity of Wick’s legendary fight scenes. Glenn Stickels channeled their inner assassin, executing flawless combos and high-scoring shots to secure first place, leaving the audience in awe of their pinball prowess.

Final Standings: Celebrating the Champions

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to make this event spectacular! Here are the top finishers:

  1. Tom Menge (IFPA rank 434) – With an impressive track record of 302 events, Tom showed why he’s a force to be reckoned with.
  2. John Walesewicz (IFPA rank 1705) – Hailing from Madison, WI, John’s 113 events have honed his skills to perfection.
  3. Chuck Jackson (IFPA rank 1415) – From Illinois, Chuck’s experience from 568 events paid off big time.
  4. Joe Buchanan (IFPA rank 3238) – With just 55 events, Joe’s rise in the ranks is nothing short of meteoric.

Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show

The tournament featured 13 fantastic machines, and here are some standout stars:

Godzilla (Premium) by Stern – Released in September 2021, this game features jaw-dropping visuals and complex gameplay that keeps players on their toes with multiball madness and challenging missions.

Strikes and Spares by Bally – A classic from June 1978, this machine brings back the nostalgic charm of vintage pinball with its straightforward, yet addictive gameplay.

Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming – Released in November 2021, this machine is a wild west shootout, with fast-paced action and beautifully crafted mechanical toys.

Big Game by Stern Electronics – From March 1980, this machine’s wide-body design and unique playfield layout offer a refreshing change of pace, demanding precision and strategy.

Deadpool (Pro) by Stern – Since its August 2018 release, Deadpool has delighted players with its quirky humor, dynamic modes, and engaging playfield that brings the merc with a mouth to life.

Louie’s Tap House: The Perfect Venue

Nestled at 5689 Elevator Rd, Roscoe, IL, Louie’s Tap House was the ideal setting for the tournament. The atmosphere was buzzing, and the food was to die for. The burnt tips and elotes dip were crowd favorites, while the smoke house burger and Cab Pot roast burger left everyone craving more. If you’re ever in the area, Louie’s is a must-visit.

IFPA Illinois Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Andy Bagwell Elgin 199.24
2 Andrew Wilkening Chicago 177.98
3 Chuck Sanderson 122.13
4 Mike Pantoliano Seattle 118.6
5 Jane Verwys Chicago 95.03
6 Logan Henderson Downers Grove 93.15
7 Kevin Kolodziej Arlington Heights 92.31
8 Tyler Hund 86.5
9 Maurice Smith II Lansing 83.27
10 Bob Twichell Oaklawn 83

Wrapping It Up

A huge shoutout to Tom Menge for organizing such a fantastic event and to Louie’s Tap House for being the perfect host. Congratulations to Tom Menge, our overall tournament winner, and to all participants for making this a memorable event. Stay tuned for more pinball action and updates – see you at the next tournament!

The Thrills and Spills of First Sunday Strikeout June!

Greetings, pinball wizards and flipper aficionados! This past weekend, the First Sunday Strikeout June tournament at Benton Parkade/Cafe Piazza was a thrilling spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer pinball magic. With 26 players battling it out over 11 intense rounds, the event was a testament to the enduring appeal and competitive spirit of pinball. Under the clear skies and a comfortable 80°F, our competitors faced the challenge head-on, navigating the Progressive Strikes system until only the finest players remained standing.

The Star Wars Showdown: A Battle in the Galaxy

Round 4 witnessed a stellar match on the Star Wars (Premium) pinball machine by Stern. Set against the backdrop of the epic Star Wars universe, the competition was fierce and thrilling. Anthony Ogden (IFPA rank 12263) emerged victorious, mastering the game’s complex modes and fast-paced action. Petar Strinic from Saint Charles, MO (IFPA rank 1481), fought valiantly to secure second place, followed by Michael LaFrieda (IFPA rank 1149) and Corey Thompson from Missouri (IFPA rank 2831) taking third and fourth, respectively. The immersive experience of battling the dark side added an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

A Round of Applause for the Champions!

A big congratulations to John Miller MO, the overall champion of the First Sunday Strikeout June! Ranked 257th in the IFPA with 356 events under his belt, John showcased his extensive experience and skill. Carleton Plourde, hailing from St. Louis, MO, claimed second place with an impressive IFPA rank of 402 and 98 events. Kendell Holder, another talented player from St. Louis, secured third place with a rank of 543 and participation in 158 events. Scott Morrow, also from St. Louis, rounded out the top four, ranking 2645 with 128 events. Their dedication and achievements in the world of pinball are truly commendable.

Pinball Machine Highlights: A Feast for the Eyes and Fingers

The tournament featured 22 fantastic pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and designs. Here are some highlights:

  • Attack From Mars (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Released in June 2017, This pin brings a hilarious alien invasion theme to life with colorful artwork and dynamic gameplay. Players fend off Martians with features like Martian Multiball, where you shoot down Martians attacking the playfield, and Strobe Multiball, which uses a unique strobe light effect. The game’s interactive playfield, humorous animations, and entertaining video modes make it a perennial favorite for pinball enthusiasts.
  • Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern: Elvira’s latest pinball escapade blends spooky fun with campy humor, capturing her personality perfectly. The game features a detailed haunted house toy with moving parts, a Crypt Multiball mode accessed through the crypt entrance, and hidden shots and pathways for extra points. Voice work by Elvira herself adds charm, while the game’s engaging playfield keeps players coming back for more.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: Released in September 2022, The James Bond 007 pinball machine immerses players in the world of the iconic spy, featuring sleek design and intricate gameplay inspired by the classic films. Players can engage with Bond’s gadgets and missions, face off against villains, and experience thrilling multiball modes based on key movie scenes. The high-quality artwork and thematic elements make it a standout in any collection.
  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: This August 2017 release pinball machine captures the epic space saga’s spirit with a detailed playfield inspired by the original trilogy. The Hyperspace Ramp, TIE Fighter Multiball, and interactive LCD display offer a deeply immersive experience. Players can choose different characters, each with unique missions and bonuses, making every game unique. The combination of fast-paced action and rich theming makes it a must-play.

The Perfect Venue: Café Piazza

Café Piazza proved to be an exceptional location for the tournament. Situated at 1900 Arsenal St, St. Louis, MO 63118, this venue offers a unique atmosphere combining delicious food and an arcade. The BBQ chicken pizza was a standout, and the breakfast sandwich was equally delightful. The friendly bartender and the cool ambiance made it a place worth revisiting. More details can be found on their website here.

IFPA Missouri Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Carleton Plourde St. Louis 198.74
2 John Miller MO St. Louis 180.82
3 Steve Rolsing St. Louis 145.16
4 Brennan Sullivan St. Louis 93.9
5 Adam McKinnie Columbia 85.6
6 Mike Howard St. Louis 84.53
7 Steve Hill MO Kansas City 84.09
8 Dan Sexauer St. Louis 67.95
9 Michael LaFrieda 59.92
10 Chris Ward St. Louis 57.67

Closing Notes

A heartfelt thank you to Dan Sexauer for organizing this fantastic event and to Café Piazza for providing such a wonderful venue. Congratulations once again to John Miller MO for his outstanding performance. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and stories from the world of pinball!