When the clock struck 7:00 PM on August 28, 2024, the I/O Arcade Bar in Madison, WI, buzzed with anticipation. The Stern Army Monthly Pinball Tournament was in full swing, featuring 33 players battling through six rounds, all for a chance to make it to the intense finals. With a format like this, where each round consisted of a single game, the stakes were high, and the pressure was on. The overcast skies and mild temperature of 71°F set the perfect mood for an evening of serious pinball action. The entire event, expertly organized by Michael Williams, clocked in at just over three hours, wrapping up at around 10:00 PM. For more details on the tournament, you can check out the official listing here.
The I/O Arcade Bar: Where Old Meets New in Pinball Heaven
Nestled on the lively Williamson Street in Madison, the I/O Arcade Bar is not just another place to grab a drink—it’s a destination for pinball enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. This spot has made a name for itself as a prime location to catch up with friends over some classic arcade games, all while enjoying a drink or two. The vibe here is a perfect blend of modern and retro, with a lineup of games that span decades. Whether you’re into the nostalgia of older machines or the excitement of the latest releases, I/O Arcade Bar has something for everyone. The space is large enough to handle a crowd without making you wait forever to get your hands on your favorite game. For more details, you can visit their website.
A Medieval Madness in Round 2: When Ranks Don’t Matter
Round 2 brought us to Medieval Madness, a fan-favorite pinball machine from Williams, released in June 1997. This game is a true classic, known for its whimsical medieval theme where players take on the roles of brave knights battling to overthrow tyrannical rulers. The machine’s intricate playfield is packed with interactive elements like the collapsing castle and the raucous trolls, making it as challenging as it is entertaining.
In this round, the Castle Multiball mode played a pivotal role, turning the game into a thrilling spectacle. Mitchell Turino, ranked 299th in the state, defied the odds by seizing victory, proving that rankings don’t always tell the whole story. His performance was nothing short of heroic as he outmaneuvered higher-ranked competitors like Jim Radovich, who holds the 71st spot in the state, and Tom Menge, a seasoned player with a state rank of 52nd. Even Bryon Schmitz, a local favorite from Madison, couldn’t stop Turino’s momentum. This round was a reminder that in Medieval Madness, and in pinball, every knight has their day.
The Pins That Shaped the Tournament: A Closer Look
The tournament boasted an impressive lineup of 22 pinball machines, each offering its own unique challenges and thrills. Here’s a look at some of the standout games that players faced:
Monster Bash (Remake): Released in October 2018 by Chicago Gaming, this game is a love letter to Universal’s classic monsters, blending humor with fast-paced gameplay. The remake captures all the magic of the original, making it a fan favorite for good reason.
John Wick (Pro): Stern’s May 2024 release brought the high-octane world of John Wick to pinball. Designed to keep players on their toes, this game mirrors the intensity of the movies, with rapid-fire modes and challenging missions.
Jurassic Park (Pro): Another hit from Stern, released in July 2019, this game transports players to the chaotic world of Jurassic Park. The layout, combined with thrilling modes like T-Rex Rampage, keeps players engaged from start to finish.
Stranger Things (Premium): Stern’s December 2019 release, themed around the hit Netflix series, immerses players in the eerie world of Hawkins, Indiana. The gameplay is as captivating as the show, with features like the Demogorgon battle adding layers of excitement.
Jungle Queen: A vintage gem from Gottlieb, released in July 1977, Jungle Queen is all about precision. With its wide flippers and unique layout, this game is a testament to the ingenuity of 70s pinball design.
The Addams Family: Bally’s 1992 classic remains one of the most popular pinball machines ever made. Its combination of innovative features and timeless theme makes it a must-play in any tournament setting.
Scooby-Doo (CE): Spooky Pinball’s February 2023 release brings the mystery-solving gang to life in a way only pinball can. With dynamic modes and plenty of references to the classic cartoons, it’s a nostalgic treat for players.
Godzilla (Premium): Stern’s 2021 masterpiece is as massive as the monster itself. Released in September, this game combines stunning visuals with engaging gameplay, making it a standout in any lineup.
Ghostbusters (Pro): Stern’s 2016 tribute to the Ghostbusters franchise is as fun as it is challenging. The game’s art and features, like the Slimer bash toy, make it a favorite for fans of the series.
Celebrating the Champions: A Night of Triumph
As the dust settled and the final scores were tallied, it was Jim Radovich who emerged victorious, claiming the top spot in the tournament. With a state rank of 71st and an IFPA rank of 912, Jim’s experience and skill shone through, especially in the high-pressure finals. Following close behind was Tom Menge, a seasoned player who never fails to impress. Hailing from Madison, Bryon Schmitz rounded out the top three, showing that local talent can hold its own against the best. And let’s not forget Mitchell Turino, whose surprising performance in the earlier rounds earned him a well-deserved fourth place.
- Jim Radovich, State Rank: 71st, IFPA rank 912, Total IFPA Events 483
- Tom Menge, State Rank: 52nd, IFPA rank 477, Total IFPA Events 330
- Bryon Schmitz, from Madison, WI, State Rank: 98th, IFPA rank 1395, Total IFPA Events 379
- Mitchell Turino, State Rank: 299th, IFPA rank 6000, Total IFPA Events 31
Wisconsin IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 725.95 |
| 2 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 619.76 |
| 3 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 600.84 |
| 4 | Neil Graf | Appleton | 585.47 |
| 5 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 561.08 |
| 6 | Nathan Zalewski | Stevens Point | 516.5 |
| 7 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 506.11 |
| 8 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 469.43 |
| 9 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 414.67 |
| 10 | Carlos Delaserda | Columbus | 409.88 |
Closing Out Another Thrilling Tournament
What a night! The Stern Army Monthly Pinball Tournament at I/O Arcade Bar delivered intense competition and plenty of memorable moments. The players brought their A-game, and the final results reflected just how fierce the competition was. A big thanks to Michael Williams for organizing such a seamless event and to the I/O Arcade Bar for being the perfect backdrop for an exciting evening of pinball. Keep following for more updates from the pinball world—there’s always something new on the horizon!