Strike Up the Fun: Inside Tik Tok’s Pinball Tournament

Hey, pinball peeps! Let’s dive into the details of the recent IFPA pinball tournament, Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes, that took place on July 15th. This Group Knockout Tournament kept everyone on their toes, with 6 players battling it out in 8 intense rounds until only the best were left standing. The fair strikes system added a fun twist, keeping the competition fierce but fair.

Tik Tok’s Workshop: A Pinball Paradise

Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, is more than just a venue—it’s a pinball lover’s dream come true. With a stellar lineup of vintage games, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this place gets rave reviews. Imagine stepping into a space where nostalgia meets modern gaming, with great food and drink to keep you fueled for hours of fun. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or honing your arcade skills, Tik Tok’s Workshop has it all.

Monster Bash Madness in Round 2

Round 2 brought the heat with an unforgettable game on Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming. Donovan Haga, a local favorite from Bremerton, showed off his pinball prowess by clinching first place. His state rank of 40th and IFPA rank of 1660 might have hinted at his potential, but his performance truly shone through when he activated the “Monster Bash” mode, where players strive to assemble the band of classic Universal monsters.

Andrew McCann, ranked 15th in the state and 451st in the IFPA, gave Donovan a run for his money, especially during the “Mummy Mayhem” mode, but ultimately settled for second place. Astrid Morrison, though ranked lower, made a valiant effort and secured third place, proving that rankings aren’t everything when it comes to pinball.

Pinball Machines that Stole the Show

With 17 pins to choose from, this tournament was a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. Let’s spotlight a few standout machines that brought excitement to the event:

• Lord of the Rings by Stern (2003): Designed by George Gomez, this machine takes players on an epic journey through Middle-earth. With intricate details and a challenging playfield, it’s no surprise this game is a favorite among pinball wizards. The multi-ball modes and deep rule set kept players on their toes, battling for the highest score.
• Icarus by Recel (1977): A classic from the late ’70s, Icarus combines vintage charm with engaging gameplay. Its unique design and simple yet challenging mechanics provided a nostalgic trip for many, reminding players of the golden age of pinball.
• Grand Prix by Williams (1976): Designed by the legendary Steve Kordek, Grand Prix offers fast-paced action with a racing theme. The spinning targets and loop shots made for an adrenaline-pumping experience, leaving players eager for more.
• Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams (1993): Another gem from Steve Ritchie, this pinball machine captures the essence of the beloved TV series. With its immersive playfield and missions that mirror the show’s episodes, it’s a hit among both Trekkies and pinball aficionados.
• The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (2013): A modern masterpiece, The Wizard of Oz features stunning visuals and a deep, immersive gameplay experience. Designed by Joe Balcer, this machine’s multiple playfields, LED animations, and innovative features like the spinning house and melting witch made it a standout at the tournament.
• AC/DC (Premium) by Stern (2012): Rock out with this electrifying pin designed by Steve Ritchie. Featuring classic hits from the legendary band, this game combines high-energy music with dynamic playfield mechanics, including the iconic cannon and bell shots, creating a headbanging good time.
• Houdini: Master of Mystery by American Pinball (2017): Designed by Joe Balcer, this machine is a nod to the legendary escape artist. Its intricate playfield, combined with challenging shots and magical themes, captivated players and left them marveling at its design.
• Firepower by Williams (1980): Steve Ritchie’s classic, Firepower, brought fast-paced action with its revolutionary features like multi-ball and lane change. This game remains a favorite for its straightforward yet exhilarating gameplay.
• Eight Ball by Bally (1977): A quintessential classic, Eight Ball combines straightforward mechanics with a fun pool theme. Players enjoyed its nostalgic feel and the challenge of hitting all the pool balls on the playfield.

Celebrating the Top Players

The competition was fierce, but in the end, only the top players stood out:

1. Donovan Haga: Bremerton’s own pinball wizard clinched first place. His strategic play and consistent scoring set him apart from the rest.
2. Andrew McCann: Known for his high state and IFPA rankings, Andrew’s experience shone through, earning him a solid second place.
3. Richard Godwin: The tournament organizer showed they could compete with the best, securing third place with a series of impressive games.
4. Conrad Rustad: Despite being one of the top-ranked players in the state, Conrad had to settle for fourth, but his skill was undeniable throughout the tournament.

IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings

Here’s a quick look at the current top players in Washington:

Wrapping Up the Fun

What a night it was at Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 7/15! The atmosphere was electric, the competition was fierce, and the camaraderie was unmatched. A big shoutout to Richard Godwin for organizing this fantastic event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing such an awesome location. Their selection of vintage and modern pinball machines truly made the evening special.

Congratulations to Donovan Haga for taking the top spot with his impressive skills and strategic play. Andrew McCann and Richard Godwin also deserve kudos for their stellar performances, proving once again that rankings and experience matter.

Thanks to everyone who came out to play and support. Your passion for pinball is what makes these tournaments so enjoyable. Stay tuned for more exciting pinball updates and stories!