The latest IFPA pinball tournament, the D82 Flippin’ Friday June 14th Qualify, was a smashing success! With a format of four rounds and two games per round, 26 players faced off in a thrilling competition. The action kicked off at 6:00 PM and wrapped up in just under three hours. With a clear sky and a comfortable 74°F, it was the perfect evening for some high-stakes pinball.
The Pinball Paradise: District 82
District 82 Pinball Arcade in De Pere, WI, is an absolute gem. Having made the trip for the second time, I can confidently say this place is worth every mile. The owner, Erik Thoren, runs a tight ship, ensuring that each machine is in top-notch condition. The atmosphere is popping, and it’s clear why so many players flock here for tournaments. If you haven’t visited yet, put it on your pinball bucket list!
Rocking the Rush: Round 2 Highlights
Round 2 saw a standout match on the Rush (Pro) by Stern, a game that echoes the legendary Canadian rock band’s themes of time travel and musical prowess. Nathan Zalewski dominated the game, maneuvering through the intricate ramps and hitting the multiball with perfect precision. Jordan Cappaert, despite a valiant effort, couldn’t match Nathan’s rhythm, while Tom Graf and Mike Hanson brought up the rear in this musical pinball showdown. The game’s complex layout and dynamic features truly tested the players’ skills and brought out some spectacular pinball wizardry.
Pinball Machines Spotlight: The Fantastic Five
- The Getaway: High Speed II – Released by Williams in February 1992, this machine is a high-octane chase with flashing lights and thrilling speeds. The Supercharger feature, a loop that accelerates the ball, adds an exhilarating twist to the gameplay.
- Monopoly – Stern’s September 2001 release captures the essence of the classic board game. The rotating flipper in the center and the ability to build houses and hotels bring a unique strategy element to the table.
- Iron Man (Vault) – From January 2014, this Stern release is a test of reflexes with its fast-paced playfield. The Whiplash and War Machine magnets provide unexpected challenges, keeping players on their toes.
- Lectronamo – A vintage Stern Electronics machine from January 1978, Lectronamo features an electric theme with vibrant artwork. Its classic design and straightforward gameplay are a nostalgic trip for pinball purists.
- Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast – Released in April 2018, this Stern game is a visual and auditory treat. The game’s intricate playfield and multiple modes based on the band’s songs make it a favorite among metalheads and pinball enthusiasts alike.
Celebrating the Champions
Congratulations to the top players of the D82 Flippin’ Friday tournament! Tom Graf, ranked 113th with a staggering 578 IFPA events under his belt, claimed the top spot. Not only did he win the tournament, but he also holds the #1 spot in Wisconsin’s pinball rankings with 595.54 Wppr points. Nathan Zalewski, with 94 events, secured second place, showcasing his growing prowess. Mike Carlson from Sobieski, WI, finished third in just his tenth event, while Eddie Smith rounded out the top four with an impressive 187 events. These players demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, making the tournament a thrilling experience for all.
Wisconsin’s Pinball Aces
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 595.54 |
| 2 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 476.35 |
| 3 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 435.69 |
| 4 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 434.31 |
| 5 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 431.38 |
| 6 | Matt McCarty | Neenah | 377.29 |
| 7 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 373.46 |
| 8 | Jason Zahler | 372.99 | |
| 9 | Erik Rentmeester | Green Bay | 323.81 |
| 10 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 322.81 |
Wrapping It Up
A huge shoutout to Erik Thoren for organizing such a fantastic event at the stellar District 82 Pinball Arcade. Welcome to the new faces like Mike Hanson, who joined the ranks of the pinball community. We look forward to seeing more from you in future tournaments. As always, don’t miss out on the next round of pinball excitement. Stay tuned and keep flipping!