Tilt’n Tuesday: 73 Players, 110 Machines, One Epic Showdown!

September 10th, 2024, marked a fierce pinball battle at District 82 Pinball with 73 competitors and a staggering lineup of 110 machines. From seasoned pros to rising stars, the D82 Tilt’n Tuesday tournament wasn’t just a regular Tuesday night—it was a pinball marathon. With 4 rounds of 2 games per round, players had just three and a half hours to prove their skills in the heart of De Pere, Wisconsin. Despite scattered clouds outside and a 73°F breeze, the action inside was anything but calm as players raced from machine to machine in a bid for pinball glory.

District 82: Wisconsin’s Pinball Wonderland

If you haven’t heard of District 82 Pinball Arcade, you’ve been missing out on a true gem in the pinball community. Located at 800 O’Keefe Road in De Pere, this massive arcade is a haven for competitive and casual players alike. Housing more than 100 well-maintained machines, this arcade offers an unparalleled experience. Whether it’s your first time or you’re flying in from across the country (yes, people do that!), District 82 offers spacious layouts and an exceptional tournament setup that puts it among the top venues in the country.

Owner and tournament organizer Erik Thoren has built a pinball mecca. From the quality of the machines to the skill level of the players who frequent the place, it’s no wonder District 82 regularly hosts some of the most competitive events in Wisconsin. If you’re a pinball fan, this place should be on your bucket list.

Game Spotlight: Jurassic Park Throws Down in Round 2

Round 2 brought the thunder on Jurassic Park (Premium), Stern’s 2019 dinosaur epic. This machine is packed with adventure, and the “Escape Nublar” mode brought the excitement to the table. Erik Thoren, in a thrilling head-to-head with fellow state top-ranked players, maneuvered expertly through the chaos. He narrowly escaped dino danger with every flipper shot, claiming first place against fierce competition.

While Erik, ranked 6th in Wisconsin, managed to hold off Kassidy Milanowski (ranked 3rd), it was no easy feat. Kassidy’s competitive spirit and precise shots kept the game tight, but Erik’s deep familiarity with the machine’s multi-ball features proved decisive. Mike Weyenberg, another top 10 state player, took third, keeping the pressure on throughout the match. Meanwhile, Danny Zhang, despite a lower ranking at 504th, showed flashes of potential, holding his own against some of the top players in the state.

Pinball Machines: The True Stars of Tilt’n Tuesday

With a whopping 110 machines available, Tilt’n Tuesday gave players a chance to dive into some of the most legendary games in pinball history. Here’s a closer look at the standout machines that made the night unforgettable:

• Jurassic Park (Premium) – Stern, 2019
  This fan-favorite game blends captivating design with intense gameplay. Players had to dodge raptors, shoot down the T-Rex, and survive the wilds of Isla Nublar. With features like the animatronic T-Rex head and the smart missile button, it’s easy to see why this game brings excitement to any competition. Its deep rule set, combined with the brilliant integration of the theme, meant players needed both strategy and quick reflexes to dominate.

• Whirlwind – Williams, 1990
  A classic from the golden age of pinball, Whirlwind literally blows players away. Designed by Pat Lawlor, the spinning discs on the playfield and fan on the backbox create a windy challenge that forces players to adjust their shots on the fly. The challenge of locking balls under constantly shifting conditions makes this a beloved machine for both newcomers and veterans alike.

• Stingray – Stern Electronics, 1977
  A vintage Stern offering, Stingray brought the retro charm of the late ’70s back into the fray. Its simplicity and straightforward gameplay were a refreshing break from modern, feature-packed games, but make no mistake—mastering Stingray requires precision. The vibrant backglass art and sound effects evoke the classic era of pinball, keeping players coming back for more.

• Pharaoh – Williams, 1981
  This early ’80s gem takes players on a journey into ancient Egypt with one of the most distinctive playfields of the era. Featuring unique 4-flipper action and an upper mini-playfield, Pharaoh demands accuracy to unlock its secrets. The game’s vibrant, detailed artwork paired with challenging multi-level gameplay made it a tough but rewarding favorite.

• Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines – Stern, 2003
  The relentless pace of Terminator 3 is perfect for players who thrive under pressure. Its fast loops, smooth flow, and gun-trigger skill shot combine to create a rush of adrenaline from the first flip. Add Arnold Schwarzenegger’s voiceovers, and it’s no wonder this machine draws in crowds. Surviving the endoskeleton army isn’t easy, but that’s what makes victory so sweet.

These machines, alongside others like Trident, Viking, and Metallica (Pro LED), gave players endless opportunities to test their skills and push their limits.

The Final Showdown: Triumph Against the Odds

The competition was fierce, but it was Nathan Zalewski who emerged victorious, overcoming 73 competitors to claim the top spot. Zalewski, ranked 5th in Wisconsin, proved his mettle with a stellar performance that culminated in the final game on Lectronamo. Despite tough matchups, Nathan powered through, showing that he wasn’t just playing for points—he was playing for the win. His final victory was a testament to his consistency and strategic play, edging out players with higher rankings.

Coming in second, Erik Rentmeester (state rank 14th) gave Zalewski a run for his money. With nearly 300 IFPA events under his belt, Rentmeester’s experience shined through, and his climb to second place demonstrated why he’s a respected competitor in Wisconsin’s pinball scene.

Third place went to Kassidy Milanowski, ranked 3rd in the state, who continued to prove her dominance on the circuit. Kassidy’s ability to adapt under pressure showed why she’s consistently one of the top players, while Steve Beno, ranked 106th, rounded out the top four with a breakout performance that exceeded expectations. Beno’s journey to the final four, competing against some of the best players in the state, demonstrated that rankings are just numbers when it comes to raw pinball skill.

Wisconsin IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Closing Thoughts: An Epic Tilt’n Tuesday

With 73 players and 110 machines, Tilt’n Tuesday at District 82 Pinball was a battle to remember. Huge congratulations to Nathan Zalewski for taking home the top prize, and a big shout-out to Erik Thoren for organizing another spectacular event. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a newcomer, District 82’s tournaments always deliver. For more information on their events and how to join in the fun, visit District 82’s website. Keep flipping, and we’ll see you at the next tournament!