On a crisp evening with clear skies and temperatures dipping to 22°F (feeling like a brisk 9°F), pinball enthusiasts gathered at the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, for the Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament on February 18, 2025. The event saw 38 players going head-to-head over 10 games each, all vying for a coveted spot in the top 16 to advance to the finals. The competition wrapped up in just under three hours, making for an intense but efficient battle of flippers and skill.
Inside the Pinball Gallery
Located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, Malvern, PA, the Pinball Gallery is a paradise for both seasoned wizards and those looking to relive the nostalgic clinks and clatters of pinball. With a vast selection of pinball tables, visitors often find two hours insufficient to experience all the machines. The atmosphere is lively (read: delightfully noisy), and the staff’s friendliness adds to the charm. Whether you’re aiming to master the latest releases or revisit classic games, the Pinball Gallery offers a well-maintained collection that promises zero issues during play.
A Tournament Favorite: Aztec by Williams (1976)
Among the lineup, the 1976 classic Aztec by Williams stood out, with five games played during the tournament. Aztec is a single-level electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine known for its engaging yet punishing layout. The game features five drop targets, two spinners, and four flippers, making for a dynamic play experience where precision is key.
For players looking to maximize their scores, the best strategy revolves around completing the “A-Z-T-E-C” target bank. This not only racks up points but also advances the bonus multiplier, which is critical for high-scoring games. The left and right spinners, when fully lit, provide substantial scoring opportunities, and skilled players will use controlled shots to keep the ball moving through these high-value zones.
Nudging is another essential skill for Aztec—with a single-level playfield and wide outlanes, a light but strategic bump can save a ball from draining and keep gameplay going. The pop bumpers add to the chaos, meaning flipper control is a must to avoid errant rebounds into the outlanes. As with many classic Williams EM machines, ball control and shot accuracy separate casual players from tournament competitors.
With its classic chimes, fast-paced action, and deceptively simple yet rewarding gameplay, Aztec remains a favorite for players who enjoy mastering control-based play rather than relying on modern ball-save mechanics.
Machines That Made an Impact
The tournament showcased an impressive array of 65 pinball machines. Here are some highlights:
Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (September 2021)
A modern marvel, “Godzilla” is loaded with deep rules and challenging shots. Players take control of the legendary kaiju, battling enemies like Mechagodzilla and King Ghidorah across a multi-level playfield. The innovative magnetic bridge lock and collapsing building mechanism add strategic depth, while the game’s dynamic soundtrack keeps the adrenaline pumping. With multiple multiball modes and skill-based combo shots, “Godzilla” is a dream for high-level competitors who love layered objectives and satisfying shots.
AC/DC (LUCI Vault Edition) by Stern (February 2018)
Few games rock as hard as “AC/DC,” a music pin with an attitude. The “LUCI” edition features edgier artwork and the same fast, relentless gameplay that fans love. The game’s primary focus is its unique “Song Jackpot” system, where players choose a track that alters scoring strategies. The bell shot, which physically swings and rings, is one of the most satisfying shots in any pinball game. Whether you’re aiming for Encore Mode or just headbanging while flipping, “AC/DC” delivers an unforgettable experience.
Star Trek by Data East (January 1991)
Data East’s “Star Trek” machine is a blast from the past, featuring voice callouts from Leonard Nimoy himself. This wide-body game has a three-flipper design and a satisfying array of ramps and orbits. The standout feature is the “Transporter” mechanism, which creates exciting ball locks leading to multiball play. The game’s missions reflect classic Star Trek adventures, making it a nostalgic favorite for fans of the franchise.
The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams (February 1992)
“The Getaway” is one of the fastest-playing games of the ’90s, building on the legacy of the original “High Speed.” The game’s signature feature is the Supercharger loop, a high-speed metal ramp that accelerates the ball with magnetic force, leading to exhilarating rapid-fire sequences. The gear shift lever, which players use to launch the ball and activate “Redline Mania,” adds an extra layer of interactivity. Speed, skill, and an iconic driving soundtrack make “The Getaway” an enduring tournament favorite.
Elton John by Jersey Jack Pinball (October 2023)
“Elton John” is a feast for the senses, blending dazzling light shows with a deep, music-based ruleset. Featuring tracks like “Rocket Man” and “Tiny Dancer,” the game encourages players to build song-based combos to unlock jackpot multipliers. The piano key targets and rocket ramp provide unique shot mechanics, and the game’s extensive LED animations keep the energy high. It’s a celebration of Elton’s showmanship and an excellent choice for players who enjoy rhythm-based scoring challenges.
A Grand Finale on Grand Lizard
As the tournament progressed, the competition intensified, culminating in a thrilling final match on Williams’ Grand Lizard. This 1986 classic is renowned for its dual-level playfield, which requires players to balance careful flipper control on the lower playfield with strategic shot selection on the upper level. The standout feature is the lizard head, which roars to life as it feeds balls back into play. The game also features player-controlled Magna-Save, allowing skilled competitors to prevent outlane drains with a well-timed button press. This added an extra layer of drama to the final showdown, where precise flipper work made all the difference.
Congratulations to the Champions!
- Matt Zwitkowits – Clinching first place, Matt’s strategic mastery, especially utilizing the Magna-Save feature on “Grand Lizard,” showcased his prowess. With a state rank of 57th and an IFPA rank of 1839, his experience in 96 IFPA events clearly paid off.
- Keith Saroka – Securing second place, Keith demonstrated consistent skill throughout the tournament. Holding a state rank of 72nd and an IFPA rank of 3917, his participation in 61 IFPA events reflects his dedication to the sport.
- Michael Reimer – Finishing third, Michael’s performance was commendable. With a state rank of 18th and an IFPA rank of 2055, his extensive experience across 344 IFPA events was evident in his gameplay.
- Stefano Pinti – Taking fourth place, Stefano’s strategic play was noteworthy. Ranked 25th in the state and 1076th in the IFPA, his 205 event participations highlight his commitment to competitive pinball.
- Ryan Strobel – In fifth place, Ryan showcased impressive skills. With a state rank of 116th and an IFPA rank of 9050, his participation in 15 IFPA events indicates a rising talent in the pinball community.
- Tony Makowski – Finishing sixth, Tony’s gameplay reflected his high ranking. Holding the 11th state rank and 1152nd in the IFPA, his 229 event participations underscore his experience and dedication.
- Nathaniel Gibson – Securing seventh place, Nathaniel, hailing from Royersford, PA, demonstrated consistent performance. With a state rank of 59th and an IFPA rank of 2671, his 570 event participations speak to his extensive experience.
- Tom Gallagher – Rounding out the top eight, Tom’s unranked status didn’t deter him from delivering a strong performance, indicating potential for future tournaments.
Pennsylvania IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | WPPR Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Daniel Gilbert | Trappe | 69.25 |
| 2 | Bob Choate | Philadelphia | 52.32 |
| 3 | Cryss Stephens | 51.82 | |
| 4 | David Schumeister | Philadelphia | 45.97 |
| 5 | Jared Schmidt | Pittsburgh | 43.92 |
| 6 | Adam Lemankiewicz | Mars | 34.18 |
| 7 | Stephanie Traub | Washington | 33.51 |
| 8 | Bateman Edwards | Pittsburgh | 31.52 |
| 9 | David Riel | Pittsburgh | 31.29 |
| 10 | Cliff Albert | 29.42 |
End of the Line for This One
A huge thank you to Bill Disney for organizing another fantastic tournament and to the Pinball Gallery for providing an incredible venue packed with beautifully maintained machines. As we roll on through Pennsylvania’s thriving pinball scene, keep your eyes peeled for more tournaments and high-stakes matchups. Until next time, keep flipping and stay warm out there!
No comment yet, add your voice below!