In a tournament packed with top-notch competition and thrilling gameplay, the D82 Tilt’n Tuesday on August 27th, 2024, lived up to its reputation. With 60 pinball wizards gathered at District 82 Pinball, the air was charged with anticipation as players faced off in four intense rounds of play. The clock may have ticked for nearly three hours, but the action never slowed as each participant brought their A-game to the table, making for an evening of unforgettable pinball action.
The Pinball Playground: District 82
District 82 Pinball Arcade, located in De Pere, Wisconsin, is a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. Situated at 800 O Keefe Road, this arcade is more than just a location—it’s a testament to the love and dedication of its owner, Erik Thoren. With a staggering lineup of 110 meticulously maintained machines, District 82 has become a beloved destination for players from all over. The atmosphere is electric, with every flip and tilt resonating in a space that feels both welcoming and competitive. It’s no wonder that players are willing to fly across the country to experience what District 82 has to offer, and this recent tournament only added to the arcade’s storied legacy.
Battle Beneath the Waves: Seawitch Steals the Show
Round 1 saw a standout match on Stern Electronics’ Seawitch, a pinball classic from 1980 that brought its underwater theme to life with thrilling gameplay. As the players squared off, it was clear that Seawitch would demand precision and skill. Mike Weyenberg, hailing from Manitowoc, WI, dove into the depths of this nautical adventure and emerged victorious, navigating the treacherous seas with the agility of a seasoned mariner. Tom Graf, with an air of mystery as always, took second, closely followed by Eric Strangeway and Erik Rentmeester, both of whom fought valiantly but ultimately couldn’t match Weyenberg’s mastery of the machine. The tale of this undersea battle will surely be retold by those who witnessed it, as each player sought to tame the waves and claim victory beneath the waves.
Pinball Marvels: A Glimpse at the Lineup
District 82’s extensive lineup provided a mix of old favorites and modern classics that kept players on their toes.
Alien Poker by Williams, designed by the legendary Barry Oursler, transported players to a galaxy where a poker game between alien creatures determined their fate. This game’s unique theme and challenging gameplay made it a favorite among those looking to test their skills.
Hotdoggin’, a 1979 Bally release, brought the thrill of the slopes to the pinball arena. With its dynamic artwork and fast-paced gameplay, it was a hit with those who love a bit of adrenaline with their pinball.
Six Million Dollar Man, another Bally classic from 1977, had players channeling their inner bionic powers to rack up high scores. The machine’s retro charm and iconic theme music created an immersive experience that kept the action lively.
Meanwhile, Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern offered a more contemporary challenge. This 2018 release, inspired by the legendary heavy metal band, demanded precision and strategy, rewarding those who could keep up with its relentless pace.
These are just a few highlights from a lineup that demonstrated why District 82 is a premier destination for pinball fans. Each machine offered a unique experience, ensuring that no two games felt the same.
Crowned Champions: The Top of the Heap
In a field full of talent, it was Neil Graf who stood above the rest, securing the top spot with a performance that cemented his reputation as one of Wisconsin’s finest. With a state ranking of 5th and an impressive 27th in the IFPA rankings, Graf’s victory was a testament to his skill and experience in the competitive pinball scene.
Nathan Zalewski, who finished second, continued to prove his consistency as a top-tier player. Despite the fierce competition, Zalewski’s skill and determination shone through, solidifying his place among Wisconsin’s best.
David Daluga, coming in third, demonstrated that persistence and experience are key. With over 300 IFPA events under his belt, Daluga’s extensive tournament history was evident in his strategic play.
Rounding out the top four was Erik Rentmeester, who once again showed why he’s a player to watch. With his state ranking of 15th, Rentmeester’s strong finish is a clear indicator that he’s always a threat in any tournament.
Wisconsin IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 725.96 |
| 2 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 619.76 |
| 3 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 590.3 |
| 4 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 560.95 |
| 5 | Neil Graf | Appleton | 549.54 |
| 6 | Nathan Zalewski | Stevens Point | 500.19 |
| 7 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 484.06 |
| 8 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 469.03 |
| 9 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 414.5 |
| 10 | Carlos Delaserda | Columbus | 409.89 |
Stay Tuned for More Action
As the final scores were tallied and the machines were powered down, it was clear that the D82 Tilt’n Tuesday delivered everything a pinball enthusiast could hope for. Hats off to Erik Thoren for organizing yet another stellar event, and to District 82 for providing the perfect playground for these pinball battles. To everyone who came out and competed, thank you for making this tournament a resounding success. Keep your eyes on the horizon, because with games like Seawitch making waves, there’s always another thrilling match just around the corner.
For more details about upcoming tournaments and all things pinball, be sure to visit District 82’s website here. See you at the next one!