From Tic-Tac-Toe to Total Domination: The Speakeasy Special at Mum’s Arcade

On February 21, 2025, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Mum’s Arcade in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, for “The Speakeasy Special at Mum’s.” The event, organized by Joe Wade, featured 11 players battling it out in 10 head-to-head games each, with the top four advancing to the finals. Despite the clear skies, attendees braved the 25°F chill for three and a half hours of competitive flipper action.

Discovering Mum’s Arcade: A Pinball Time Capsule

Tucked away at 17738 Mack Ave, Mum’s Arcade is a pinball lover’s dream. With nearly 30 well-maintained machines, including a mix of limited-edition pinball, classic arcade games, and even a four-lane slot car track, this venue offers a nostalgic escape. Tim, the passionate owner, has cultivated a welcoming environment where seasoned competitors and newcomers alike can enjoy the thrill of the silver ball. Whether you’re gunning for a high score or just taking in the ambiance of a retro-styled arcade, Mum’s delivers a unique experience.

X’s & O’s: The Tournament’s MVP

The most played machine of the night was Bally’s X’s & O’s, a January 1983 release designed by Greg Kmiec with artwork by Margaret Hudson. A solid-state update of the electromechanical Tic-Tac-Toe (1973), this game takes the classic pen-and-paper pastime and turns it into a strategic pinball battle.

How to Win on X’s & O’s

The goal is to complete a full tic-tac-toe line—horizontal, vertical, or diagonal—by hitting the designated stand-up targets scattered across the playfield. The center square, which acts as a vital multiplier shot, can significantly impact your score when hit strategically. Here’s how to dominate the game:

• Master the Skill Shot: At the start of each ball, the plunge determines the lit tic-tac-toe squares. A precise plunge can give you a head start on filling out the grid.
• Focus on Controlled Shots: Since the playfield has a wide, open layout with critical stand-up targets, avoid reckless flipping. Instead, aim for controlled, deliberate shots to complete your tic-tac-toe row efficiently.
• Leverage the Multipliers: The bonus multiplier can be activated by completing certain playfield sequences, rapidly escalating your score in the later stages of the game.
• Use Defensive Play: If you’re ahead, focus on maintaining ball control rather than aggressive shot-making. The outlanes can be unforgiving, so precise flipper control is crucial to keeping your ball alive.

While X’s & O’s may seem straightforward, competitive play reveals a deep level of strategy that rewards precise shooting and tactical decision-making. It was the perfect battleground for this tournament’s final showdown.

Standout Machines: The Stars of the Speakeasy Special

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of 15 machines, but a few particularly stood out:

Lost World (Bally, 1978)

Designed by the legendary Jim Patla, Lost World was one of Bally’s earliest solid-state machines, blending classic fantasy artwork by Paul Faris with innovative features for the time. The game features a wide-open playfield with a critical horseshoe lane that can build up bonus points quickly. With no ramps or multiball, success here depends on shot accuracy and bonus collection, making it a game of precision rather than chaotic flailing.

Star Wars (Pro) (Stern, 2017)

Designed by Steve Ritchie, this high-speed game immerses players in the Star Wars universe with an intense rule set centered around mission selection. Choosing between Luke, Leia, Han, or R2-D2 determines gameplay benefits, such as score multipliers and easier multiball activation. The Hyperloop wireform, where balls rocket around the playfield, is a show-stopper, and players who can effectively manage multipliers have a shot at truly galactic scores.

Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE) (Stern, 2019)

The third Elvira-themed pinball, this frightfully fun machine is a George Gomez and Dennis Nordman design, packed with interactive features. The House itself is a dynamic toy that reveals secret passages, and the campy horror theme is elevated with custom speech from Cassandra Peterson. Strategic play is key, as locking balls in the Crypt and hitting the Deadhead Family Crypt shots lead to lucrative multiball modes.

The Big Lebowski (Dutch Pinball, 2015)

A true cult-classic among modern pinball machines, The Big Lebowski brings The Dude’s world to life with a playfield featuring bowling alley mechanics, an under-playfield car chase, and quotes straight from the movie. The game’s rug mode (yes, it really ties the room together) is a must-hit feature that can send scores soaring if executed properly.

Revenge From Mars (Bally, 1999)

The first of two Pinball 2000 machines ever produced, Revenge From Mars integrates video game elements into traditional pinball with an interactive display that merges with the playfield. Designed by George Gomez and led by Pat Lawlor, this game features fast-paced, hit-the-target gameplay where players take on Martian invaders. Given its rarity and historical significance, it’s always a treat to see it in tournament play.

Michigan’s Pinball Powerhouses: Current Top 10 Standings

Celebrating the Champions

After a night of fierce competition, the final match came down to a thrilling showdown on X’s & O’s. The strategic center target became the deciding factor as players fought to complete their tic-tac-toe sequences.

1. Aaron Wilburn Jr. (Detroit) – Clinching first place, Aaron showcased masterful control, nailing the critical center shots when it mattered most. His ability to complete tic-tac-toe lines under pressure earned him the title.
2. Brandon Blake (St. Clair Shores, MI) – A consistent player throughout the night, Brandon put up a strong fight but couldn’t match Aaron’s clutch plays in the final game.
3. Marco Vendetti – A skilled competitor with a deep tournament history, Marco’s strategic shot selection kept him in the running.
4. Mike Stewart Jr. – Rounding out the top four, Mike’s accuracy on skill shots helped him make a deep run.

Another Tournament in the Books

“The Speakeasy Special at Mum’s” was a fantastic night of competitive pinball, bringing together top players for a test of skill, precision, and strategy. From strategic tic-tac-toe battles on X’s & O’s to intense duels on Twilight Zone and Alien (Remake), every moment delivered excitement. Congratulations once again to Aaron Wilburn Jr. for an impressive performance and a well-earned victory!

For those who missed this event, Mum’s Arcade continues to be a must-visit destination for pinball lovers. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or just enjoy some of the best machines around, keep an eye on upcoming tournaments. Who knows? Maybe next time, it’ll be your name in the winner’s circle.