A Night of Flippers and Fun at Tik Tok’s Matchplay

The Tik Tok’s Matchplay tournament on July 30, 2024, was a thrilling evening of pinball action. With a unique format of 8 rounds, each featuring a single game, the competition was intense and fierce. Hosted at Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, this two-hour-long event saw four players battling it out under the cool evening temperature of 68°F with broken clouds overhead.

Tik Tok’s Workshop: A Retro Paradise

Tik Tok’s Workshop, located at 1216 Sylvan Way, is a pinball enthusiast’s dream come true. The venue boasts a fantastic collection of vintage and modern pinball machines, creating a nostalgic yet exciting atmosphere. The welcoming staff and friendly locals make it a perfect spot for both seasoned players and newcomers. The food and drinks only add to the experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in Bremerton.

Monster Bash: The Game That Stole the Show

Round 4 featured a standout game on Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming, a machine known for bringing classic Universal Monsters to life. Jared Doss, currently ranked 255th in the state, showed off his pinball prowess by orchestrating an incredible symphony of high scores. The atmosphere was electric as Doss nailed the instrument shots and unleashed the Monsters of Rock mode, leaving his competitors in awe. Richard Godwin, Anna Francolini, and Bruce Cherry gave a valiant effort, but it was Doss’s mastery of the game’s features that led him to victory in this round.

Spotlight on Machines: Classic and Quirky

1. Terminator 2: Judgment Day – This iconic game from Williams, released in 1991, features a unique gun handle shooter and a captivating theme based on the blockbuster movie. The fast-paced gameplay and challenging ramps make it a crowd favorite.
2. Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons – Stern’s 2015 release is a whimsical homage to vintage pinball, complete with a classic layout and playful artwork. The mechanical bells and chimes bring back the nostalgia of simpler times.
3. Icarus – A rare gem from Recel, this 1977 machine features vibrant artwork and a captivating mythological theme. The game challenges players with its complex playfield and unique scoring mechanics.
4. AC/DC (Premium Vault Edition) – This high-energy machine from Stern, released in 2017, is a rock lover’s dream. Featuring hits from the legendary band, players can jam out while navigating a challenging playfield with multiple ramps and a dynamic cannon shot.
5. Star Trek: The Next Generation – Released by Williams in 1993, this game is a treasure trove for sci-fi fans. It boasts intricate missions, an engaging storyline, and a wide array of features, including a mesmerizing Borg ship.

Top Players Take the Spotlight

The final game on Grand Prix, a 1976 classic by Williams, was a nail-biter. Known for its fast-paced gameplay and smooth flow, Grand Prix was the perfect stage for the climactic showdown. The tournament ended with the following results:

1. Jared Doss – With an impressive IFPA rank of 4929 and 128 total events, Doss’s consistent performance paid off as he clinched the top spot.
2. Richard Godwin – Representing Bremerton with an IFPA rank of 3547 and 515 total events, they showcased their skills with finesse and precision.
3. Anna Francolini – Ranked 7272, Francolini demonstrated solid play throughout the night, proving to be a formidable competitor.
4. Bruce Cherry – From Silverdale, Cherry’s IFPA rank of 8026 belies his talent, making him a player to watch in future events.

Washington IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up an Epic Night

The tournament at Tik Tok’s Workshop was a fantastic display of skill and sportsmanship. Special thanks to Richard Godwin for organizing such a well-run event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing an excellent location. Congratulations to Jared Doss for a well-deserved victory, and we look forward to more exciting pinball stories and tournaments in the future!