Pinball Precision on a Perfect Night in De Pere

A Clear Night for Pinball Glory

With a clear sky and a comfortable 75°F, the scene was set for a fantastic night of competitive pinball at District 82. The players came in ready for battle, and the fast-paced 2-hour tournament didn’t disappoint. This was the kind of night that shows off what pinball is all about: precision, strategy, and a little bit of luck.

District 82 Pinball Arcade

District 82 Pinball in De Pere, WI, is more than just an arcade; it’s a pinball haven. With over 100 impeccably maintained machines, it’s a destination for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The space is wide, welcoming, and well-organized, making it perfect for both tournaments and casual play. On Fridays and Saturdays, it’s open to the public, offering unlimited pinball for a set fee—ideal for families, groups, or anyone looking to dive deep into the game. Bring your own refreshments or grab a soda while you enjoy the world-class machines. This isn’t just any arcade—it’s a premier location for all things pinball, attracting players from all over to its numerous weekly tournaments.

Meteor Shower in Round 3

One of the most exciting moments of the night came during Round 3, as players took to Meteor, the iconic 1979 release from Stern Electronics. Meteor stands out for its thrilling combination of fast-paced gameplay and strategic depth. Inspired by the 1979 sci-fi disaster film of the same name, the game immerses players in a high-stakes space battle where destroying meteors is the ultimate goal. The playfield is packed with challenging drop targets that represent enemy ships, and hitting the bank of meteor targets allows players to rack up major points. But with its unforgiving layout and lightning-fast ball movement, Meteor demands quick reflexes and precise shot-making.

On this machine, Robert Wendricks proved why it’s not just high-ranking players who steal the show. Despite his 283rd state rank, Robert played with the finesse of a seasoned veteran. By expertly controlling the ball and focusing on the bank of meteor targets, he gained a hefty score lead. His smart use of the spinner shot — a key feature of Meteor that, when hit properly, can boost your multiplier and rapidly increase your score — gave him a significant advantage over his competitors.

Peter Goeben, with a state ranking of 41st, wasn’t far behind. Known for their consistent play, Peter capitalized on the multi-ball feature, adding pressure to Robert’s lead. However, Robert’s early domination of the meteor targets and his superior handling of the spinner shot helped him secure the win. Chrissy Klitzke and Sara Bradley both put up strong performances, but they couldn’t catch Robert’s rhythm on this fast, unforgiving machine. It was a match that demonstrated just how crucial it is to manage Meteor’s unique features while under intense competition.

Pinball Machine Highlights

The tournament featured a stunning lineup of machines, each with its own quirks and charm. Here’s a quick look at some of the standouts from the night:

• Six Million Dollar Man (Bally, 1977): With an eye-catching retro design, this game challenges players with a wide-open playfield and demanding shot accuracy. The sound effects transport you right back to the era of Steve Austin.
• Red & Ted’s Road Show (Williams, 1994): A quirky and fun game with two talking heads and a massive playfield that offers a road trip theme full of hilarious moments and tricky shots. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a test of multi-ball control.
• KISS (Bally, 1979): This rock-themed pinball has the flair of a live concert with bright lights, pumping music, and a challenging series of drop targets. It’s a nostalgia trip for anyone who grew up with the band’s iconic style.
• Magic (Stern, 1979): Known for its fast-paced, tight shots, this machine blends a unique theme with addictive gameplay. The layout forces players to stay sharp, as one missed shot can send the ball straight down the middle.
• Bram Stoker’s Dracula (Williams, 1993): Dark and moody, this machine is a true challenge with its ‘Mist Multi-Ball’ feature. It keeps players on edge, and its deep ruleset rewards those who understand its intricate mechanics.

Flippin’ Friday Champions

Congratulations to the night’s top competitors, who delivered an impressive showcase of skill and determination:

1.  Matt McCarty: With a state ranking of 13th and an IFPA ranking of 229, Matt’s experience shone through. His ability to stay consistent across four rounds was key to his victory, proving why he’s a mainstay in the top ranks of Wisconsin pinball.
2.  Erik Thoren: The tournament organizer himself took second place, showing that even when running the show, his competitive edge is sharp. Ranked 6th in the state and 102nd worldwide, Erik’s deep knowledge of each game clearly gave him an edge.
3.  Mike Carlson: Representing Sobieski, WI, Mike’s performance was a pleasant surprise. Despite being ranked 81st in the state, he played with a precision that outshined several higher-ranked players. Keep an eye on this rising star!
4.  Gregory Hein: Gregory’s 25th state ranking didn’t deter him from making it to the top four. With 142 IFPA events under his belt, his consistent play is what sets him apart in high-pressure moments.

Top 10 Wisconsin IFPA Standings

Looking Forward

Flippin’ Friday was a triumph for both seasoned players and up-and-comers, showcasing why District 82 is a must-visit spot for competitive pinball. As the temperatures cool, the competition is only heating up. Don’t miss how the tournament concluded with an intense showdown—head over to our finals coverage at Flippin’ Fun Under Clear Skies – D82 Flippin’ Friday Tournament Finals for all the exciting details! Keep an eye on future tournaments for more thrilling pinball action!