D82 Tilt’n Tuesday July 30th Side Tournament Finals: A Night of Pinball Action!

Salutations, pinball champs! We had a fantastic time at the D82 Tilt’n Tuesday July 30th Side Tournament Finals. This high-energy event, held at the renowned District 82 Pinball Arcade, was packed with competitive spirit and thrilling gameplay. Let’s dive into the highlights and give a special shout-out to the tournament’s top players.

A Night at District 82: Where Pinball Dreams Come True

Nestled in De Pere, Wisconsin, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a haven for pinball aficionados. The arcade boasts a vast collection of meticulously maintained machines, each offering a unique experience. It’s no wonder players from across the country flock here, drawn by the top-notch equipment and the welcoming vibe. The arcade’s dedication to maintaining pristine conditions for every game truly makes it a standout location for tournaments.

Game Spotlight: Volley by Gottlieb

In Round 4, players faced off on the classic Volley machine by Gottlieb, released in August 1976. Known for its fast-paced gameplay, Volley challenges players with its unique “Drop Target Bank” feature. This game requires precision, as clearing all drop targets lights up the extra ball and increases the bonus multiplier. Peter Goeben, a local talent, showed impressive skill, securing the top spot in this round. Their strategic play and quick reflexes were a delight to watch.

A Closer Look at the Pinball Lineup

The tournament featured a diverse selection of 14 pinball machines, each offering its own challenges and thrills. Here’s a quick review of five standout games:

• Jokerz! (Williams, 1988): This game offers an engaging upper playfield and a thrilling card theme. The dual-level design and the “Joker Poker” feature keep players on their toes.
• Mystic (Bally, 1979): Known for its mesmerizing spinning disc, Mystic’s mystical theme and challenging gameplay make it a favorite among players.
• Gorgar (Williams, 1979): As the first talking pinball machine, Gorgar’s voice and heartbeat sound effects add an extra layer of excitement. The game’s demonic theme and challenging shots make it a must-play.
• Magic (Stern Electronics, 1979): With its captivating artwork and unique layout, Magic combines a smooth flow with tricky shot paths, providing a balanced challenge for all skill levels.
• Disco Fever (Williams, 1978): Featuring a groovy disco theme, this machine stands out with its unique curved flippers and rhythmic gameplay. The flashy lights and catchy tunes make every game a party.

Celebrating the Champions

Let’s raise our flippers for the tournament’s top performers! Jesse Carpenter clinched the first place with a stellar performance, especially on the final game, Disco Fever. Ranked 62nd in the state and 1053rd in the IFPA, Jesse’s 245 event history showcases their consistent talent.

Peter Goeben, from De Pere, WI, took second place. Their solid gameplay throughout the night earned them this well-deserved spot. With a state rank of 40 and an IFPA rank of 711, Peter’s 333 events reflect their experience and skill.

In third place, we have Jeff Kowalchuk, ranked 71st in the state and 1478th in the IFPA. Jeff’s sharp skills and strategic play were evident as they navigated the challenging lineup.

Holden Milanowski rounded out the top four, demonstrating strong play and securing their position as a top contender. With a state rank of 23 and an IFPA rank of 492, Holden’s impressive track record speaks for itself.

Wisconsin IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Night

A huge thank you to Erik Thoren, the organizer of this amazing event, and the incredible team at District 82 Pinball for hosting us. Congratulations to Jesse Carpenter for their outstanding victory! We’re excited to see what the next tournament brings. Stay tuned for more thrilling pinball updates and stories!