In a cozy corner of Bremerton, 10 players squared off at Tik Tok’s Workshop for a night of classic pinball action. The format was simple but brutal—Group Knockout with Fair Strikes, where every slip-up could mean another step closer to elimination. With nine rounds to navigate and a maximum of seven strikes allowed, the pressure was on from the first plunge to the final tilt. The tournament kicked off at 6:55 PM and wrapped up just shy of three hours later, in a whirlwind of flippers, bumpers, and classic arcade vibes.
A Night at Tik Tok’s Workshop
Tik Tok’s Workshop is more than just a pinball paradise; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a modern twist. Located at 1216 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, this spot has earned a reputation as one of the best places to immerse yourself in the world of vintage games. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a casual player, Tik Tok’s offers a welcoming environment with friendly staff, great food, and an impressive selection of pinball machines that make you feel right at home. The cozy atmosphere and the fun-loving crowd made it the perfect backdrop for this intense tournament.
Spotlight Game: A Juicy Showdown on Whoa Nellie!
Round 3 brought one of the night’s most memorable matches on Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons, Stern’s quirky 2015 release. This game is all about timing and precision, with its playful farm theme and larger-than-life art. The players battled it out, with Sam Snyder proving his melon-busting skills by snagging first place. Donovan Haga, a seasoned player with a knack for strategy, managed to squeeze into second. Meanwhile, Richard Godwin held their own for third, leaving Mason Forsyth grappling with the fruit but falling short in fourth. It was a fun, fruity free-for-all that left everyone on their toes.
Pinball Machines: A Journey Through Time
Tik Tok’s Workshop hosted a selection of 18 pinball machines, each with its own unique flair. Here’s a closer look at five of them:
- Icarus by Recel (1977): This machine takes players on a mythological journey with its Greek-inspired theme. The layout is simple but challenging, with a single pop bumper and wide flippers demanding precision. It’s a classic that rewards patience and skill, making it a favorite among old-school enthusiasts.
- Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball (2017): This game is a love letter to the 80s with its synthwave soundtrack and intense, fast-paced gameplay. The goal is to destroy nine reactors, and the simplicity of the rules combined with the speed of play makes for an adrenaline-pumping experience. It’s a modern classic that feels right at home next to the vintage machines.
- Lord of the Rings by Stern (2003): An epic journey through Middle-earth, this machine is packed with modes, multiballs, and challenging shots. It’s a deep game that rewards those who take the time to learn its intricacies. The Ring’s magnet and the Balrog bash toy are standout features that add to the immersive experience.
- Eight Ball by Bally (1977): A staple of the late 70s, Eight Ball is a straightforward but satisfying game, with its pool theme and easy-to-understand rules. The spinner and drop targets are key features, and the game’s fast, smooth play keeps it timeless. It’s the kind of machine that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned players.
- Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming (2018): A fan-favorite, this game gathers the Universal Monsters for a rock concert like no other. The remake brings updated technology while staying true to the original’s fun and fast gameplay. The playfield is packed with toys and features, including Frankenstein’s Monster and a Dracula coffin that players love to bash. It’s a blend of nostalgia and modern pinball done right.
A Grueling Gauntlet: Tournament Winners
With 10 players battling through nine intense rounds, only the best could rise to the top. Andrew McCann proved his mettle, outlasting the competition to take the top spot. As the 24th ranked player in the state and with a solid IFPA ranking of 468, Andrew’s victory was hard-earned but well-deserved. Richard Godwin, a familiar face in the Bremerton pinball scene, came in second. Richard’s consistent performance across 521 IFPA events showcases their dedication to the sport. Donovan Haga, a strong competitor ranked 69th in the state, secured third place, leaving Todd Rosser to round out the top four.
Washington IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lonnie Langford | Seattle | 859.95 |
| 2 | Conrad Rustad | Bremerton | 651.1 |
| 3 | Leslie Ruckman | Seattle | 597.18 |
| 4 | Dave Stewart | Carnation | 492.33 |
| 5 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 491.18 |
| 6 | Richie Terry | Seattle | 482.45 |
| 7 | Sean Irby | Seattle | 478.62 |
| 8 | John Robinson WA | Bothell | 476.48 |
| 9 | Jarrett Gaddy | Seattle | 472.97 |
| 10 | Escher Lefkoff | 471.93 |
Closing: Bremerton’s Pinball Passion Continues
Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 8/26 Classics Only was a night to remember, with intense competition, iconic machines, and a vibrant atmosphere that only Tik Tok’s Workshop could provide. A big shoutout to Richard Godwin for organizing another stellar event, check out his Facebook page for more tournament info. Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights—keep your flippers ready and your eyes on the ball! See you next time, perhaps at the Kitsap Harbor Festival, where the pinball action might just make waves.