The IFPA pinball tournament at Next Level Pinball Museum on August 9, 2024, was a whirlwind of flipper action, skillful maneuvers, and edge-of-your-seat excitement. With 31 players competing across three rounds, the stakes were high as Oregon’s top pinball wizards battled it out. Under a clear sky and a comfortable 79°F evening, the competition heated up inside, culminating in an unforgettable showdown.
The Playground of Pinball Dreams
Next Level Pinball Shop & Museum isn’t just a location; it’s an experience. Nestled at 1458 NE 25th Ave in Hillsboro, OR, this gem offers over 600 classic arcade, pinball, and modern video games, all surrounded by a treasure trove of gaming and entertainment memorabilia. The themed rooms—think Super Mario, Hot Wheels, and famous movie sets—add an extra layer of immersion that keeps players, young and old, entertained for hours. The vibe is cool and clean, with a touch of nostalgia, making it a must-visit for any pinball aficionado. And let’s not forget the added convenience of food trucks right outside, ready to refuel you between rounds. Sure, it’s a bit off the beaten path, but the journey is part of the adventure, and the destination is well worth it.
A Time-Traveling Showdown: Doctor Who Delivers Drama
In Round 1, the TARDIS was the backdrop for a thrilling battle on Bally’s Doctor Who pinball machine. As the iconic theme echoed through the room, Mathew Peterson, the top-ranked player in Oregon, led the charge, channeling the Doctor’s wisdom to outmaneuver the Daleks—and his opponents. Julian Narino put up a fierce fight, pushing the game to the limit with some clever shots and strategic play. Dawnda Durbin brought her own flair, making precise shots that rivaled the Time Lord himself, while Sherry Ziegler, though unranked, gave it her all in a match that felt like a journey through time and space. In the end, Peterson’s mastery over the multiball modes secured his victory, leaving the other players to ponder their next strategy for navigating the game’s complex ruleset.
Tournament Guide: Pinball Machines That Made Their Mark
The tournament at Next Level featured an impressive lineup of 116 pinball machines, each with its own unique flair. Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally, with its stunning hologram and 1950s drive-in movie theme, captivated players with its mix of nostalgia and innovative gameplay. Meanwhile, Stern’s Foo Fighters (LE) offered a modern twist with its fast-paced action and challenging shots, perfectly capturing the energy of the rock band. Gottlieb’s Tag-Team Pinball, a wrestling-themed machine, was a throwback to the ’80s, complete with tag-team mechanics that kept players on their toes. Monster Bash by Williams brought the classic Universal Monsters to life, challenging players to assemble the ultimate monster band through its fun and engaging modes. These machines and many others provided endless entertainment, pushing competitors to their limits.
Rising to the Top: A Battle Among Oregon’s Best
With 31 competitors vying for the top spot, the tournament was no easy feat. Each round was a test of skill, patience, and strategy, as players navigated a variety of machines to secure their place in the rankings. Mathew Peterson, the reigning champion of Oregon, proved once again why he’s the player to beat, taking the first-place trophy with his characteristic precision and flair. Jeff Weston, ranked 84th in the state, surprised many by clinching second place, showcasing his growth and determination. Jeff Monroe, a well-known name in the Eugene pinball scene, fought hard for third place, while Joseph Rembecki made his mark as an unranked contender, earning a respectable fourth-place finish.
- Mathew Peterson (State Rank: 1st, IFPA rank 261, Total IFPA Events 1038)
- Jeff Weston (State Rank: 84th, IFPA rank 4119, Total IFPA Events 213)
- Jeff Monroe (State Rank: 7th, IFPA rank 1236, Total IFPA Events 200)
- Joseph Rembecki (IFPA Unranked)
Oregon IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mathew Peterson | Portland | 232.69 |
| 2 | Matt Walton | Eugene | 194.92 |
| 3 | Dana Valatka | Portland | 175.9 |
| 4 | Vincent Poudrier | 153.91 | |
| 5 | Ben Massey | 152.94 | |
| 6 | Evan Amano | Portland | 147.69 |
| 7 | Jeff Monroe | Eugene | 145.04 |
| 8 | Colin Urban | Portland | 143.7 |
| 9 | James Adamson | Portland | 127.78 |
| 10 | Nathan Stellhorn | Portland | 126.2 |
Wrapping Up the Night
As the dust settled and the final scores were tallied, it was clear that everyone had a fantastic time at the Match Play at Next Level. A special shoutout to the unranked players like Joseph Rembecki, who made a strong impression and showed that they’re ready to take on the more seasoned pros. A big thank you goes out to Next Level Pinball for hosting such a memorable event, and to all the participants who brought their A-game.
Keep following for more updates from the pinball world! There’s always another tournament, another machine, and another chance to prove you’ve got what it takes to be the next pinball wizard.