Knockouts and Comebacks: Highlights from D82 Tilt’n Tuesday Finals

Pinballers, this was no ordinary Tuesday night! The D82 Tilt’n Tuesday August 27th Side Tournament Finals 2 had us all on the edge of our seats. Held at the renowned District 82 Pinball Arcade, eight players battled it out in a Group Knockout Tournament over 10 intense rounds. The stakes? Getting knocked out after three strikes! The format was unforgiving—no mercy for the third and fourth place finishers in four-player groups, who received two strikes. The clock struck 9:00 PM, and for the next two hours, the pins were clanging, lights were flashing, and the competition was fierce.

The Scene at District 82 Pinball Arcade

District 82 Pinball Arcade in De Pere, WI, is a must-visit for any pinball enthusiast. Situated at 800 O Keefe Road, this arcade is a true reflection of passion for the game. Every machine is meticulously maintained, showing the care and dedication of owner Erik Thoren. The setup here ensures that every game feels just right, making it a favorite spot for both seasoned players and newcomers. If you’re looking for a place where pinball is treated with the reverence it deserves, District 82 is the place to be. You can find more about them at District 82’s website, but nothing beats experiencing it in person.

Revving Up on Harley Davidson: Game Spotlight

Round 1 kicked off with an epic showdown on Harley Davidson by Bally, a pin that roared onto the scene in February 1991. This game was more than just a warm-up; it set the tone for the rest of the tournament. Gerald Morrison, who’s no stranger to high stakes, came out on top with a smooth ride, navigating the ramps and loops like a pro. Tim Petitjean and Trae Vance weren’t far behind, but it was Gerald’s skillful use of the multiball feature that gave him the edge. As the other players revved their engines, Gerald cruised to victory, leaving the competition in the dust. The roar of the Harley may have echoed through the arcade, but it was Gerald’s precise shots that made the crowd take notice.

The Pinball Lineup: A Throwback to the Classics

District 82 didn’t just serve up any old games—they brought out the classics. The tournament featured 13 pins that brought a mix of nostalgia and challenge to the players. Let’s dive a little deeper into three of these stand-out machines:

• Mystic (Bally, 1979):
  Designed by Greg Kmiec, Mystic is a fascinating blend of strategy and luck that has captivated players since its release. The playfield is adorned with hypnotic artwork by Christian Marche, transporting players into a mystical realm where they must master the spinner and drop targets to rack up points. The real magic of Mystic lies in its unique bonus multiplier system, where players can score big by hitting the right sequence of targets. This game’s reputation for being both challenging and rewarding made it a favorite during the tournament, as players tried to summon their inner pinball wizard to conquer its tricky playfield.
• Silverball Mania (Bally, 1978):
  Another machine from Greg Kmiec, Silverball Mania is a tribute to the golden age of pinball, with its dazzling mirror backglass and neon-themed artwork by Kevin O’Connor. The game’s layout is straightforward but demands precision, making it a true test of skill. Players found themselves battling against the clock, trying to activate the “horseshoe” loop for maximum points while keeping the ball in play. The game’s simplicity is deceptive—those who underestimate it often find themselves caught off guard by its fast-paced action. Silverball Mania is all about flow and rhythm, rewarding players who can maintain control amidst the chaos.
• Barracora (Williams, 1981):
  Barracora is a hidden gem in the pinball world, often overlooked but cherished by those who know its secrets. The underwater theme is beautifully executed, with artwork that draws players into the depths of a dangerous ocean. The gameplay is equally immersive, featuring a unique two-ball multiball and a playfield that requires both finesse and daring. Players during the tournament had to navigate the tricky left-side targets while managing the multiball—a challenge that separates the casual players from the true pinball sharks. Barracora’s allure lies in its combination of strategy and fast reflexes, making it a thrilling choice for competitors who dared to take it on.

With machines like these, it’s no wonder the tournament was a thrill from start to finish.

Hats Off to the Tournament Champs

After a series of nail-biting rounds, it all came down to Robo-War, a pin by Gottlieb that’s all about tactical strikes and defensive maneuvers. Michael Reiman, who’s been a regular on the tournament circuit with 257 events under his belt, showed off his experience, navigating the game’s tricky shots and snatching the victory from his competitors. His steady hand and cool head earned him the top spot in a field that was anything but easy.

Ethan Strangeway, a relatively newer face with only 42 events to his name, put up an impressive fight, proving that he’s got the potential to climb the ranks quickly. His second-place finish was a testament to his growing skill and determination.

Trae Vance, hailing from Madison, kept the pressure on throughout the night. With 165 events behind him, his consistent play was on full display, securing him a well-deserved third place. Tim Petitjean, another seasoned competitor with 217 events, rounded out the top four, showing that persistence and experience are key in making it to the final rounds.

Wisconsin IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Let’s take a quick look at the current top 10 IFPA pinball players in Wisconsin:

Final Thoughts

What a night! The D82 Tilt’n Tuesday August 27th Side Tournament Finals 2 was one for the books, with top-notch players, legendary machines, and a location that can’t be beat. Huge thanks to Erik Thoren for organizing such an epic event at District 82. And, of course, a big congratulations to Michael Reiman for taking home the win.

Stay tuned for more pinball action and follow-ups from District 82—there’s always something exciting in the works!