The Battle Begins: D82 Flippin’ Friday
The D82 Flippin’ Friday June 7th Qualify was nothing short of a pinball wizard’s dream. With 17 players vying for the top spot in a 4-round, 2-game-per-round format, the evening was packed with thrilling action and skillful play. The tournament kicked off at 6:00 PM and lasted approximately 2 and a half hours, giving each round a sense of urgency and excitement. Hosted at District 82 Pinball by the ever-dedicated Erik Thoren, the event was set against a backdrop of scattered clouds and a pleasant 72°F temperature—perfect pinball weather.
District 82: The Ultimate Pinball Paradise
Nestled in De Pere, WI, District 82 Pinball Arcade is the go-to sanctuary for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 800 O’Keefe Road, this arcade boasts over 100 impeccably maintained pinball machines, making it a haven for both casual players and serious competitors. Open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from September to May, District 82 also hosts various tournaments throughout the week. With a flat fee for unlimited play, it’s a fantastic spot for groups and families to enjoy. While soda and water are available, players are welcome to bring their own drinks. Whether you’re there for a private party or just some solo play, District 82 offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that keeps pinball magic alive.
Mystical Matchup: Round 2 on Mystic
Round 2 of the tournament featured an unforgettable game on Bally’s Mystic, released in August 1979. As the eerie lights and sounds of Mystic enveloped the players, Craig Sengstock emerged victorious, using his precise flipper skills to outmaneuver his opponents. Erik Thoren, the tournament director, gave a stellar performance, but Craig’s mastery of the bumpers and drop targets sealed his first-place finish. Gerald Morrison and Eddie Smith put up a tough fight, showcasing their strategic prowess, but ultimately, Craig’s enchanting gameplay on Mystic was unrivaled.
Pinball Machine Reviews: The Stars of the Show
District 82 featured an impressive lineup of 113 pinball machines. Here’s a closer look at five standout games:
The Six Million Dollar Man by Bally (1977)
This classic machine captures the thrill of the iconic TV show with vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay. Players love the challenging drop targets and the unique six-player capability, making it a hit for group play.
Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern (2014)
Rock out with Metallica! This machine combines the band’s electrifying music with fast-paced pinball action. The intricate playfield features, such as the Snake Jaw and the Fuel Stand-Up Targets, make it a favorite among modern pinball enthusiasts.
Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics (1980)
A journey into space awaits with Flight 2000. This game is renowned for its complex multi-ball play and the mesmerizing sounds of space travel. The futuristic design and intricate ramp system keep players on their toes.
Twilight Zone by Bally (1993)
Step into another dimension with Twilight Zone. This machine is packed with innovative features like the gumball machine, the Powerball, and the Clock. Its deep rule set and engaging theme make it a timeless favorite.
Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams (1993)
Relive the adventures of Indiana Jones with this action-packed game. Featuring memorable scenes from the movies, this machine’s Path of Adventure and Well of Souls add exciting challenges that keep players coming back for more.
Top Pinball Wizards: Celebrating the Winners
The tournament saw fierce competition, but in the end, these players emerged victorious:
- Matt McCarty: IFPA rank 199, with 515 events under his belt. Matt’s precision and strategic prowess earned him the top spot.
- Craig Sengstock: IFPA rank 1292, with 290 events. Craig’s standout performance in Round 2 helped secure his second-place finish.
- Eddie Smith: IFPA rank 1658, with 184 events. Eddie’s consistent play and focus paid off, landing him in third place.
- Erik Thoren: IFPA rank 75, with 427 events. The dedicated organizer showed his skills on the machines, rounding out the top four.
Wisconsin’s Finest: IFPA Top 10 Standings
Here’s a look at the top players in Wisconsin according to the IFPA:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 587.62 |
| 2 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 461.86 |
| 3 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 435.34 |
| 4 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 434.31 |
| 5 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 408.28 |
| 6 | Matt McCarty | Neenah | 373.06 |
| 7 | Jason Zahler | 372.99 | |
| 8 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 368.69 |
| 9 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 322.73 |
| 10 | Erik Rentmeester | Green Bay | 321.35 |
Wrapping Up the Wizardry
Kudos to Erik Thoren and the fantastic team at District 82 for organizing such an exhilarating event. Their dedication to keeping the pinball spirit alive is truly commendable. Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights—stay tuned, and keep flipping those flippers in De Pere, the city that’s truly a pinballer’s paradise!