Pinball Battles and Classic Machines: D82’s Tilt’n Tuesday

On March 11, 2025, pinball enthusiasts gathered at District 82 Pinball Arcade in De Pere, Wisconsin, for the latest edition of Tilt’n Tuesday. With 62 players stepping up to the challenge, the competition was fierce over four rounds of two-game sets. By the time the dust settled, only a handful of players could claim bragging rights.

Step Inside Wisconsin’s Ultimate Pinball Playground

For anyone who hasn’t made the trip, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a dream come true for serious players and casual fans alike. With over 100 games, all kept in tournament-ready condition, it’s no wonder this venue has built a reputation as one of the best places to play in the country. More than just a collection of machines, District 82 is a community—a place where newcomers can learn, veterans can hone their skills, and everyone can enjoy some high-quality pinball without the usual distractions of a bar setting.

A Nostalgic Battle on Memory Lane

Round 3 saw an epic battle on Memory Lane, Stern Electronics’ 1978 blast from the past. True to its name, the game forces players to rely on tight control and an understanding of the basics—no ramps, no fancy toys, just pure pinball fundamentals. Released during the late ‘70s, a time when Stern was solidifying itself as a serious competitor in the pinball industry, Memory Lane embodies the simplicity of early solid-state machines. Peter Goeben, playing on their home turf in De Pere, showcased an uncanny ability to control the ball, making shot after shot while their opponents scrambled to keep up. Steve Beno put up a strong fight, coming close with a final ball rally, but ultimately, Peter’s consistency sealed the win. Erik Nelson and Matthew Beaumier both had solid showings, but they’ll be looking to rewrite history in their favor next time.

From Classic Ballys to Modern Marvels: A Look at the Machines

With 115 machines in play, competitors had plenty of variety to test their skills. A few highlights from the lineup:

• Demolition Man (Williams, 1994): Designed by Dennis Nordman, this widebody game brings the explosive action of the Sylvester Stallone movie to the pinball world. Known for its unique gun-style triggers and smooth flow, Demolition Man was part of Williams’ innovative mid-90s lineup that pushed pinball mechanics forward. Players who mastered the combos on this machine found themselves racking up serious points.
• Twilight Zone (Bally, 1993): One of the most complex pinball machines ever designed, this Pat Lawlor masterpiece is packed with features, including a working gumball machine and a ceramic Powerball that changes the gameplay dynamic. Released at a time when Bally was pushing the limits of what was possible in pinball design, Twilight Zone remains a favorite for deep-strategy players who can navigate its many modes and multiball opportunities.
• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Stern, 2020): This modern powerhouse takes players through the Marvel universe with fast, combo-heavy gameplay. Designed by Keith Elwin, a competitive pinball champion turned designer, the game emphasizes strategic multiball play and precise shot-making. Those who could reliably hit the Gauntlet ramp and progress through the modes saw the biggest payouts.
• The Flintstones (Williams, 1994): A quirky, fun-packed game that recreates the charm of Bedrock. With colorful artwork and well-integrated theme elements, this machine was one of the last major releases before Williams shifted away from traditional pinball manufacturing.
• Gorgar (Williams, 1979): A true piece of pinball history, Gorgar was the first talking pinball machine. With a vocabulary of just seven words, the machine’s eerie speech and accelerating heartbeat created a tension that few machines of its era could match. Only those with nerves of steel survived long enough to rack up serious points.
• Iron Man (Vault Edition) (Stern, 2014): Fast, brutal, and relentless, Iron Man is a game that demands accuracy and quick reflexes. Originally released in 2010 and reissued in 2014 due to popular demand, it’s known for its unforgiving nature—no ball save, no long-playing cradling. Only players with the tightest control could make it through unscathed.
• Pharaoh (Williams, 1981): A lesser-known but beautifully designed early-’80s Williams machine, Pharaoh combines an Egyptian theme with innovative playfield features. Its dual-level playfield and unique bonus multiplier mechanics make it a hidden gem for those who love a challenge.
• Spider-Man (Stern, 2007): Designed by Steve Ritchie, the master of fast-flowing games, Spider-Man incorporates characters from the Tobey Maguire film trilogy into a kinetic, combo-heavy play experience. Players who mastered its ramp shots and Sandman multiball found themselves among the top scorers.

Battling Through the Brackets

With so many strong competitors, advancing through the rounds was no easy feat. Nathan Zalewski, the reigning top-ranked player in Wisconsin, lived up to his reputation with a commanding performance, handling the pressure like a seasoned pro. Trae Vance from Madison, who has quietly been climbing the ranks, put together a string of impressive wins, proving he’s a name to watch going forward. Chris Gerwing played with a scrappy, never-quit attitude, making several comeback victories that kept his tournament hopes alive deep into the night. And, of course, Erik Thoren, the man behind District 82, showed he’s more than just an arcade owner—his skill on the flippers kept him in the mix right until the very end.

Wisconsin’s Top 10 Pinball Standings

With another tournament in the books, Wisconsin’s top players continue to make their mark. Here’s how the standings look after Tilt’n Tuesday:

Pinball Never Rests—What’s Next for District 82?

As the final scores were tallied, Nathan Zalewski stood victorious, proving once again why he’s the player to beat in Wisconsin. But every great tournament isn’t just about the winner—it’s about the battles fought along the way, the near-misses, the incredible comebacks, and the moments of brilliance that make pinball so thrilling.

District 82 continues to deliver as one of the best places to play in the country. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or just enjoy some of the greatest machines ever made, it’s worth the trip. For those eager to experience it firsthand, check out their upcoming events at District 82 Pinball Arcade. And as always, stay tuned for more pinball action coming your way!