July 16th, 2024, marked another epic installment of the D82 Tilt’n Tuesday tournament. Hosted at the ever-impressive District 82 Pinball Arcade, this event drew 72 skilled players for a night of intense pinball action. The tournament featured four rounds, each consisting of two games, making for a thrilling 3-hour and 15-minute showdown.
District 82 Pinball: A Pinball Enthusiast’s Paradise
Located at 800 O Keefe Road in De Pere, Wisconsin, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a dream come true for pinball lovers. The arcade is renowned for its impeccably maintained machines and the palpable passion of its owner, Erik Thoren. Visitors from across the country rave about the top-notch condition of the machines and the warm hospitality they receive. Whether you’re a local or flying in from afar, District 82 guarantees an unforgettable pinball experience. Check out their website for more info: district82.com.
Hot Hand Heats Up Round 4
In Round 4, the spotlight was on Stern Electronics’ Hot Hand, released in June 1979. This game, with its unique spinning disc feature and captivating gameplay, witnessed some intense competition. David Daluga clinched first place, showcasing his formidable skills and ranking as 18th in the state and 94th in the IFPA. Erik Thoren, the tournament director, took second, proving his prowess on his home turf. Tom Graf and Eric Strangeway, both top-ranked players, finished third and fourth, respectively. The action on Hot Hand was nothing short of electrifying, reflecting the players’ rankings and the high stakes of the tournament.
Pinball Machines That Stood Out
With 113 machines to choose from, several pinballs made a lasting impression:
- Hi-Deal by Bally (October 1975): This electro-mechanical gem challenges players with its fast-paced gameplay and beautiful design. Hi-Deal’s intricate playfield and dynamic scoring opportunities keep players on their toes, offering a nostalgic throwback to the classic era of pinball.
- WWF Royal Rumble by Data East (May 1994): A fan favorite that brings the excitement of professional wrestling to the pinball arena. With its vibrant artwork and engaging modes, WWF Royal Rumble offers players a multi-ball frenzy, capturing the spirit of the WWF era.
- South Park by Sega (February 1999): Based on the popular TV show, this machine delights players with its humorous sound bites and character animations. The game features multiple modes and a variety of challenges, making it a fun and entertaining choice for all skill levels.
- Paragon by Bally (June 1979): Known for its stunning fantasy artwork and complex playfield layout, Paragon demands precision and strategy. Players navigate through challenging shots and intricate targets, all while enjoying the game’s mythical theme.
- Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern (April 2018): A modern masterpiece, this machine combines epic music with deep gameplay. Featuring ramps, targets, and multi-ball modes, Iron Maiden keeps players engaged with its fast-paced action and immersive experience.
- Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics (January 1980): A space-themed adventure with unique multi-ball mechanics. Flight 2000 captivates players with its challenging sequences and futuristic design, offering a thrilling journey through the cosmos.
- Monster Bash (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming (October 2018): Bringing together the Universal Monsters in a fun and feature-packed machine. With enhanced audio and updated visuals, Monster Bash offers a perfect blend of classic and modern pinball elements.
- Jokerz! by Williams (January 1988): This casino-themed machine combines humor and excitement. Jokerz! features innovative gameplay mechanics and a lively soundtrack, making each game a delightful experience.
- Six Million Dollar Man by Bally (August 1977): Celebrated for its iconic theme and innovative playfield design. This machine offers a nostalgic trip back to the 1970s, with exciting challenges and memorable gameplay.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament was full of surprises and upsets, with players outperforming expectations and proving that in pinball, anything can happen. The final showdown on Stern Electronics’ Memory Lane was a nail-biter, with players battling it out for the top spots. Here’s how the tournament wrapped up:
David Daluga emerged victorious, showcasing his formidable skills throughout the tournament. Despite being ranked 18th in the state and 94th in the IFPA, David’s consistent performance and strategic gameplay led him to a well-deserved first-place finish. His triumph over higher-ranked competitors was a testament to his dedication and prowess in the pinball arena.
In second place, Drew Geigel from Manitowoc put on an impressive display of skill and determination. Ranked 14th in the state and 151st in the IFPA, Drew’s journey to the runner-up spot was marked by steady progress and clutch performances in crucial moments. His ability to rise to the occasion against tough competition was remarkable.
Tom Graf, the top-ranked player in the state, finished in third place. Known for his dominance in Wisconsin’s pinball scene, Tom’s performance was strong, but he faced stiff competition from David and Drew. Despite being the favorite, Tom’s finish showed that even the best can encounter challenges, highlighting the unpredictable nature of pinball tournaments.
Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh rounded out the top four. Ranked 8th in the state and 195th in the IFPA, Eric’s journey to the finals was commendable. His ability to compete at a high level against some of the state’s best players demonstrated his skill and resilience. Eric’s performance was a pleasant surprise, solidifying his reputation as a formidable contender.
IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 595.54 |
| 2 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 514.34 |
| 3 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 504.03 |
| 4 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 454.75 |
| 5 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 434.31 |
| 6 | Matt McCarty | Neenah | 377.28 |
| 7 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 376.23 |
| 8 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 373.45 |
| 9 | Jason Zahler | 372.99 | |
| 10 | Neil Graf | Appleton | 340.21 |
Wrapping Up
The D82 Tilt’n Tuesday tournament was an exhilarating event, showcasing the incredible talent and competitive spirit of the pinball community. With 72 players battling it out over four rounds, the tournament was a testament to the skill and dedication of its participants. The final game on Memory Lane provided a dramatic conclusion, with David Daluga securing a hard-fought victory. Drew Geigel and Tom Graf also delivered outstanding performances, while Eric Strangeway’s impressive showing added to the excitement. Kudos to Erik Thoren for organizing such a stellar event and to District 82 Pinball for providing a phenomenal location. Thanks to all the players who came out and gave it their all, especially in the memorable game on Hot Hand. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and tournament recaps! For more details on upcoming events, visit District 82 Pinball.