Frog Fun: A Night of Ribbit-ing Pinball Action in Texas

Hey there, pinball pals! Gather ’round as I spill the beans on the latest IFPA tournament, the Frog Fun event. This shindig went down on July 18, 2024, and lasted about seven and a half hours of pure flipper action. With 20 eager players and an undisclosed location (seriously, it’s like they want me to guess), it was a night to remember. Maybe it was Kermit the Frog’s pad—who knows? Let’s dive into the details!

Round 1 Showdown on Metallica (Premium)

One of the standout matches took place on Metallica (Premium) by Stern from April 2013. Picture this: Hanson Keuler, ranked 6720, channeling his inner rockstar, going up against Nikolas Poklitar from Austin, TX, with an IFPA rank of 1373. Levi Hailey, ranked 11262, and Nadia Didehbani from Austin, TX, with an IFPA rank of 5455, were in the mix too. As the game roared to life, it felt like a battle of the bands. Hanson’s skillful shots and Nikolas’s strategic play made it feel like a rock concert with each flipper hit. Levi and Nadia gave it their all, but it was Hanson who clinched first place in this electrifying showdown.

Five Pinball Machines That Rocked the House

Now, let’s talk about some of the machines that made this tournament a blast.

Metallica (Premium) by Stern (April 2013): This game is a headbanger’s dream. With features like the Snake, Coffin, and Electric Chair multiball modes, it’s no wonder it’s a fan favorite. The machine’s dynamic art and soundtracks keep players on their toes, making every game a thrilling ride.

The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern (October 2014): If you’re into zombies, this one’s for you. The Walking Dead (Pro) brings the apocalypse to life with its gruesome artwork and intense gameplay. The crossbow and “Well Walker” bash toy add an extra layer of excitement, keeping players engaged as they fend off the undead.

Skateball by Bally (April 1980): A classic with a vibrant skateboarding theme, Skateball is known for its fast-paced action and challenging playfield. The inline drop targets and spinner shots require precision, making it a test of skill for even the most seasoned players.

Indianapolis 500 by Bally (June 1995): Start your engines! This racing-themed pinball machine captures the thrill of the Indy 500 with its turbo boost feature and raceway ramp. It’s all about speed and strategy, perfect for those who love a high-octane game.

Fathom by Bally (August 1981): Dive deep into this underwater adventure. Fathom is renowned for its stunning artwork and unique gameplay features like the 3-ball multiball and the ball save feature, making it a true gem in the pinball world.

Cheers to the Champions

Big congratulations to our top players! John Walter snagged first place with his impressive state rank of 118th, and a solid record of 48 IFPA events. Jonathon Morales, a pinball wizard ranked 13th in the state with a whopping 149 events under his belt, took second place. Hanson Keuler, fresh off his Metallica victory, claimed third, showing that his skills are no fluke. Nikolas Poklitar from Austin, TX, rounded out the top four, showcasing his talents with a state rank of 29th and 137 events to his name. Bravo to all!

Texas IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Fun

Hats off to Ray Ford for organizing this fantastic event at our secret (possibly amphibian-themed) location. A big thank you to everyone who came out to play. The spotlight game on Metallica was a highlight, with Hanson Keuler rocking his way to victory. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps—until next time, keep those flippers flipping!