Tik Tok’s Matchplay 8/13/24 – Anna’s Birthday Special! was an electrifying evening of pinball action that had players on the edge of their seats. With 13 competitors, 8 intense rounds, and a whole lot of passion, this event was a true celebration of the pinball spirit. Taking place on a cool evening with overcast skies, the tournament ran for just under three hours, packed with twists, turns, and a few surprising upsets.
Tik Tok’s Workshop: A Haven for Pinball Enthusiasts
Located at 1216 Sylvan Way in Bremerton, WA, Tik Tok’s Workshop is more than just a gaming location—it’s a beloved local hangout. This spot is known for its top-notch selection of vintage pinball machines, warm and welcoming staff, and a community that’s as vibrant as the games themselves. With five-star reviews praising everything from the games to the great food and drink options, it’s no wonder players flock to Tik Tok’s for tournaments like this one. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or just reliving your Galaga glory days, this workshop has something for everyone.
Round 8 Showdown: Rockin’ with AC/DC
The spotlight of the night shone brightest in Round 8, where the players faced off on Stern’s AC/DC (Premium Vault Edition). This game, released in July 2017, had everyone fired up, especially as the action reached the “Hell Ain’t a Bad Place to Be” mode. Donovan Haga, ranked 43rd in the state, rocked his way to first place, skillfully navigating the intense gameplay with ease. His opponents, Mason Forsyth, Erin Camacho, and Jennifer Bremerton, gave it their all, but Donovan’s experience and strategic play on AC/DC’s ramp shots and multiball mechanics secured his top spot in this round.
The Machines That Made the Magic Happen
The tournament’s lineup featured a variety of standout machines, each with its own unique charm. Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams, released in July 1991, brought the classic battle between man and machine to life with its fast-paced gameplay and iconic soundtrack. Circus by Zaccaria, dating back to April 1977, offered a whimsical throwback to the golden age of pinball with its vibrant artwork and tricky ball paths. Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons by Stern, a more recent addition from April 2015, combined a playful theme with challenging gameplay, making it a fan favorite. The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern, one of the latest machines, dazzled players with its sleek design and engaging missions that kept everyone on their toes.
The Final Four: A Clash on Devil’s Dare
As the dust settled, it was Daron Coull who emerged victorious, demonstrating their pinball prowess on Gottlieb’s Devil’s Dare. The final game, known for its risk-reward strategy and unique drop target banks, was a true test of skill. Daron’s ability to navigate the tricky outlanes and rack up points in the Double Trouble mode gave them the edge needed to claim the tournament win. Donovan Haga, coming off a strong Round 8 performance, took second place, while Astrid Morrison and Chris Wilkes rounded out the top four with impressive finishes of their own.
- Daron Coull (State Rank: 94th, IFPA Rank: 3314)
- Donovan Haga (State Rank: 43rd, IFPA Rank: 1688)
- Astrid Morrison (State Rank: 195th, IFPA Rank: 4229)
- Chris Wilkes (State Rank: 234th, IFPA Rank: 6408)
Washington IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lonnie Langford | Seattle | 700.88 |
| 2 | Conrad Rustad | Bremerton | 489.69 |
| 3 | Leslie Ruckman | Seattle | 479.87 |
| 4 | John Robinson WA | Bothell | 476.5 |
| 5 | Richie Terry | Seattle | 463.53 |
| 6 | Jarrett Gaddy | Seattle | 457.96 |
| 7 | Dave Stewart | Carnation | 444.15 |
| 8 | Jaran Jones | Seattle | 399.13 |
| 9 | Joshua Francis | Edmonds | 388.25 |
| 10 | Jon Salzman | Seattle | 378.41 |
Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Night
As the tournament drew to a close, it was clear that Tik Tok’s Matchplay had been a smashing success. Huge thanks go out to Richard Godwin for organizing the event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for hosting such an amazing evening of pinball action. Congratulations to Daron Coull for their stellar performance, and a big Happy Birthday shoutout to Anna—this one’s for you! We can’t wait to see what the next tournament has in store. Stay tuned for more thrilling pinball updates!