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!

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!

Epic Pinball Showdown: D82 Saturday Night Classics Tournament Recap

On June 1, 2024, the D82 Saturday Night Classics Tournament electrified the pinball community, bringing together 73 skilled players for an evening of intense competition. Hosted at the legendary District 82 Pinball and orchestrated by Erik Thoren, the event’s format featured five rounds of three games each, with the top 24 players advancing to the finals. Spanning 4 hours and 13 minutes, the tournament was a non-stop thrill ride from start to finish.

Rock On! Celebrating KISS by Bally

In celebration of the anniversary of KISS by Bally, released in June 1979, the iconic pinball machine headlined the first round. Just like a rock concert, the match was filled with high energy and fierce competition. Ethan Strangeway, with an IFPA rank of 2647, rocked his way to first place. Buck Bauer, ranked 7024, came in second, followed by Gerald Morrison at 415 and Jesse Carpenter at 947. It was a thrilling start to the tournament, reminiscent of a KISS concert’s electrifying atmosphere.

Champions’ Circle: Meet the Winners

A huge round of applause to the champions of this exhilarating tournament! Their skills and dedication were truly on display:

  1. Kassidy Milanowski (IFPA rank 133, Total IFPA Events 253)
  2. Danny Bronny (IFPA rank 325, Total IFPA Events 148)
  3. Gerald Morrison (IFPA rank 415, Total IFPA Events 245)
  4. Erik Rentmeester (IFPA rank 168, Total IFPA Events 279)
  5. Chuck Blohm (De Pere, WI, IFPA rank 781, Total IFPA Events 355)
  6. Tom Schmidt (Neenah, WI, IFPA rank 438, Total IFPA Events 131)
  7. Sean Jurewicz (IFPA rank 3251, Total IFPA Events 69)
  8. Ethan Strangeway (IFPA rank 2647, Total IFPA Events 34)

Kassidy Milanowski’s victory was a testament to her incredible expertise and consistency.

Marvelous Machines: Pinball Highlights

District 82 Pinball is home to an impressive collection of 44 machines. Here are five standout games from the tournament:

  • Magic by Stern Electronics (January 1979): Known for its vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay, Magic is a perennial favorite.
  • Seawitch by Stern Electronics (May 1980): This game’s fast pace and challenging shots make it a thrilling experience.
  • Paragon by Bally (June 1979): A classic with a unique wide-body design, Paragon demands precision and skill.
  • Eight Ball Deluxe (LE) by Bally (October 1982): Renowned for its classic pool-themed design and smooth playfield, it remains a tournament staple.
  • Xenon by Bally (November 1980): With its futuristic theme and hypnotic sounds, Xenon captivates players with both style and substance.

The Magic of District 82 Pinball

Situated at 800 O Keefe Road, De Pere, WI, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a gem in the pinball world. My second visit confirmed its special status. Erik Thoren’s dedication to running top-notch tournaments and maintaining the machines is unparalleled. The atmosphere is vibrant, welcoming, and a true haven for pinball enthusiasts. No wonder I keep flying across the country to play here!

Wisconsin’s Pinball Powerhouses: Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Tom Graf Appleton 554.36
2 Erik Thoren De Pere 461.83
3 Steven Bowden Palatine 434.3
4 Danny Bronny Beverly Shores 407.48
5 Kassidy Milanowski Appleton 385.83
6 Jason Zahler 372.99
7 Matt McCarty Neenah 364.8
8 Eric Strangeway Oshkosh 359.47
9 Mike Weyenberg Manitowoc 317.07
10 Erik Rentmeester Green Bay 305.94

Wrapping Up

A huge thank you to Erik Thoren and the fantastic team at District 82 Pinball Arcade for hosting such an extraordinary event. De Pere, with its charming historic downtown and scenic views of the Fox River, always makes for a memorable visit. Until next time, remember to keep those flippers flipping and aim for the high score!

For more information and upcoming events, visit District 82 Pinball. Keep flipping those flippers, and see you at the next tournament!

Wedlock is Lit: Cinthia and Collier are Getting Hitched!

The recent IFPA pinball tournament, held on June 1, 2024, at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, was nothing short of electrifying. With 54 players competing in 7 intense rounds, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. The top 16 players advanced to the finals, which consisted of 3 rounds with 3 games each. The tournament spanned 4 hours and 20 minutes, under the calm, broken cloud skies of San Antonio.

Evel Knievel Shines in the Quarterfinals

To honor the anniversary of Evel Knievel by Bally, released in June 1977, this classic game was featured in the quarterfinals. It was a fitting tribute, not just for the iconic daredevil but also for the exciting new chapter in Collier Whitefield’s life:

  • 1st: Collier Whitefield (San Antonio, TX), IFPA rank 506
  • 2nd: Doug White, IFPA rank 7634
  • 3rd: David Bailey, IFPA rank 7145
  • 4th: Jeffrey Whitefield (San Antonio, TX), IFPA rank 7549

Collier Whitefield’s top performance paid homage to this iconic pinball machine, celebrating its legacy with skill and finesse. What made this moment even more special was Collier’s engagement to Cinthia, which added a layer of joy and celebration to the tournament. The crowd’s cheers were not just for his pinball prowess but also for his upcoming nuptials. Congratulations, Collier and Cinthia, on your engagement!.

Hail to the Champions

The tournament culminated in a nail-biting final round, where skill and strategy collided. Huge congratulations to our champions::

  • 1st Place: Alice Young, IFPA rank 1808, with an impressive record of 141 IFPA events. Alice’s consistent performance and dedication to the sport are truly commendable.
  • 2nd Place: Nikolas Poklitar from Austin, TX, IFPA rank 1913, with 126 IFPA events. His strategic gameplay and sharp reflexes earned him a well-deserved second place.
  • 3rd Place: Keb Gallows, IFPA rank 2859, participating in 78 IFPA events. Keb’s rise in the ranks highlights his growing prowess in pinball.
  • 4th Place: Trey Keng from San Antonio, TX, IFPA rank 1280, with 196 IFPA events. Trey’s extensive experience and tactical approach secured him a spot in the top four.
  • 5th Place: Doug White, IFPA rank 7634, with 25 IFPA events. Doug’s determination and competitive spirit shone brightly.
  • 6th Place: John Moore, IFPA rank 2848, participating in 80 IFPA events. John’s strategic skills and passion for pinball were on full display.
  • 7th Place: Ray Ford from Austin, TX, IFPA rank 561, with 321 IFPA events. Ray’s veteran status and expertise were evident throughout the tournament.
  • 8th Place: Collier Whitefield from San Antonio, TX, IFPA rank 506, with 112 IFPA events. Collier’s exceptional skill and dedication were truly inspiring.

Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show

The tournament wasn’t just about competition – it was a celebration of pinball itself! A diverse selection of 54 pinball machines, each with its own unique story and challenges awaited the players. From the classic underwater world of Atlantis to the electrifying rock and roll energy of KISS, the machines offered something for everyone.

  • Atlantis by Gottlieb (January 1975): Known for its intricate underwater theme and challenging gameplay, Atlantis remains a favorite among pinball enthusiasts.
  • KISS (LE) by Stern (July 2015): This machine captures the energy of the legendary rock band KISS, featuring their music and dynamic visual effects.
  • The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992): A timeless classic, The Addams Family pinball machine is loved for its engaging playfield and humorous elements.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming (November 2021): This modern remake retains the charm of the original while adding advanced features and enhanced playability.
  • Attack from Mars by Bally (January 1995): Renowned for its exciting alien invasion theme and interactive elements, this game remains a crowd-pleaser.

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters: The Perfect Venue

Located at 138 West Rhapsody Drive, San Antonio, TX, What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters provided the ideal backdrop for this tournament. This unique venue combines a coffee shop, roastery, and pinball arcade, creating an unmatched vibe. The service was fantastic, with passionate employees and high-quality coffee. Their latte with honey, the Sami, was a highlight, and the freshness of their roasted beans was unparalleled. This venue’s welcoming atmosphere made it a perfect choice for both pinball players and coffee enthusiasts.

Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Garrett Shahan Denton 484.53
2 Jack Revnew The Woodlands 340.9
3 Clark McCoy Denton 241.24
4 Colin MacAlpine Austin 238.32
5 Wesley Johnson College Station 221.15
6 Lee Balusek Conroe 202.01
7 Ken Kemp Collinsville 193.4
8 Keith Shahan Abilene 183.5
9 Ray Ford Austin 169.91
10 Eric Stone Fort Myers 166.27

Closing Notes

A big thank you to Christina Cheeseman for organizing this fantastic event and to What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for hosting it. Congratulations once again to all the winners, and a special toast to Collier and Cinthia as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their lives together. May their love story continue to be as thrilling and full of twists as a classic pinball game!

To celebrate their engagement, here’s a haiku:

Joyful union blooms,
Flippers flip, hearts intertwine,
Wedlock lights aglow.

The Ultimate Showdown: Pinsomniacs Pinball Golden Ticket to Pinburgh GMP 24

In the vibrant world of pinball, the Pinsomniacs Pinball Golden Ticket to Pinburgh GMP 24 was an electrifying event that kept enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. Held at Tepey’s Taps & Tacos on June 1, 2024, this tournament brought together 48 top-notch players for an intense 12 rounds of thrilling gameplay. The top 8 players advanced to the finals, battling it out in two rounds of three games each. Let’s dive into the highlights of this exhilarating competition!

A Twisting Tale of Triumph in Twilight Zone

The spotlight of the tournament shone brightly on the Twilight Zone pinball machine, a classic by Bally from May 1993. In the semifinals, this game saw an epic match that lasted a staggering 62 minutes. The game’s theme of crossing dimensions and the unknown mirrored the tension and unpredictability of the match. Players navigated through the intricate playfield, facing challenges akin to stepping into another dimension, with every flip and tilt deciding their fate.

The Crowned Champions

A hearty congratulations to the top players who made it to the finals and showcased their exceptional skills:

  1. Shannon Stafford clinched the top spot with an IFPA rank of 148 and an impressive 303 events under their belt. Shannon’s skill and persistence were truly commendable.
  2. Tristan Stafford secured second place, ranked 978th with 145 events, displaying remarkable prowess and determination.
  3. Sebastian Bobbio from North Miami Beach, ranked 363rd with 273 events, took third place, demonstrating great skill and resilience.
  4. David Miller from Tampa Bay, ranked 1396th with 233 events, secured fourth place, showcasing strategic gameplay and dedication.
  5. Vince Gelormine from Fort Lauderdale, ranked 433rd with 202 events, took fifth place with his solid performance.
  6. Tank Koscinski, ranked 5660th with 39 events, showed significant improvement and potential by finishing sixth.
  7. Glenn Scharf from St. Johns, Florida, ranked 1885th with 57 events, earned seventh place with his consistent gameplay.
  8. Andrew Robishaw from Valrico, Florida, ranked 3495th with 70 events, rounded out the top eight, displaying promising talent.

Marvelous Machines of the Tournament

The tournament featured 18 incredible pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and excitement. Here are some highlights:

  • The Shadow by Bally (November 1994): Known for its intricate ramps and hidden sanctum, this game demands precision and strategy.
  • Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019): With its captivating theme and immersive gameplay, it transported players into the world of Hawkins and the Upside Down.
  • Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally (August 1978): This classic machine brought nostalgic charm with its fast-paced, action-packed gameplay.
  • Twilight Zone by Bally (May 1993): A complex machine with multiple playfields and challenging modes, it truly tests a player’s skills and endurance.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): Bringing Quentin Tarantino’s iconic movie to life, this machine offered a unique blend of cinematic storytelling and pinball action.

The Vibrant Venue: Tepey’s Taps & Tacos

Tepey’s Taps & Tacos, located at 2130 Kings Ave, Jacksonville, FL, provided a lively and welcoming atmosphere for the tournament. The food was fantastic, with their refreshing salsa and a special mention for the single chorizo taco gifted by Joe, who was exceptionally helpful and friendly. The venue’s brews were a hit, adding to the overall enjoyment of the event.

IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Shannon Stafford Orange Park 188.13
2 Eric Stone Fort Myers 171.3
3 Adam Gray Temple Terrace 168.11
4 Dan Coyle St. Petersburg 115.21
5 Vince Gelormine Fort Lauderdale 104
6 Sebastian Bobbio 100.33
7 Joel Cohen Miami 85.8
8 David Miller FL Tampa 82.2
9 Tristan Stafford Orange Park 82
10 Garrett Smoke Orlando 69.69

Closing Reflections

A huge thank you to Nick Byrd, the organizer of this phenomenal event, and to Tepey’s Taps & Tacos for hosting us. Congratulations once again to Shannon Stafford for their outstanding victory. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of pinball tournaments. Until next time, keep flipping those flippers!