Max MatchPlay Showdown: Oregon’s Pinball Pros Battle at Next Level

Hey there, fellow pinball enthusiasts! Let’s dive into the electrifying Max Match Play at Next Level, where 26 players battled it out in a fast-paced, head-to-head format. The event kicked off at 7:00 PM on August 2, 2024, and in just about two and a half hours, the tournament wrapped up with some intense moments. The clear sky and warm 88°F temperature outside didn’t compare to the heated action happening inside. Let’s get into the details!

A Pinball Paradise: Next Level Pinball Museum

Nestled in the vibrant city of Hillsboro, Oregon, Next Level Pinball Shop & Museum is a haven for both hardcore pinballers and casual players alike. Located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, this place is more than just a pinball spot; it’s an experience. Imagine a venue packed with over 600 classic arcade games, pinball machines, and modern video games, all surrounded by a treasure trove of gaming memorabilia. It’s like stepping into a gamer’s paradise.

Whether you’re there for a quick visit or planning to spend the whole day, there’s something for everyone. The themed rooms add an extra layer of excitement, from Super Mario to Hot Wheels, making every corner of this place feel unique. And the best part? Most games are on free play, so you can just dive right in. The museum is well-maintained, cool, and clean, with staff who are genuinely passionate about keeping everything in top shape. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in pinball history and, of course, to throw down in a tournament like this.

Tournament Highlights: Classic and Modern Pinball Action

With 96 pinball machines to choose from, the Max Match Play tournament featured some true gems. Here’s a peek at a few of the standout machines that players had the pleasure of battling on:

• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021): In Godzilla, you’re taking on the role of the big guy himself, smashing through cities and battling kaiju enemies. The gameplay is all about chaos and destruction—you’re aiming to conquer cities, activate multiballs, and unleash Godzilla’s fury. The key is to stay focused on your shots, hit those ramps, and keep the action going by destroying everything in sight!
• Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern (2016): Batman 66 is a blast from the past, bringing the campy fun of the classic TV show to life. You’ll be capturing villains like the Joker and the Penguin, all while enjoying clips from the show. The game is packed with modes, each tied to different episodes, and you’ll need to navigate gadgets like the Batphone and Batcave to progress. It’s all about balancing your focus between mode progression and setting up big multiball opportunities.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern (2018): Iron Maiden is all about speed and precision. The game features a ton of shot variety with its ramps, orbits, and loops, all while you’re rocking out to classic Maiden tracks. You’re battling through different worlds, collecting the iconic Eddie characters, and trying to hit as many combos as possible. The flow is fast, so keeping your ball in play while stacking modes and multiballs is key.
• KISS by Bally (1979): KISS is a classic, pure and simple. The game revolves around building up your score by hitting targets, lighting up KISS letters, and keeping the ball alive. It’s straightforward but challenging, with the focus on old-school pinball skills like nudging and mastering those classic spinner shots. The simple yet addictive gameplay makes it a timeless favorite.
• James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern (2022): James Bond 007 immerses you in the world of the legendary spy. The game is all about completing missions that tie into classic Bond films, taking on villains, and using Q’s gadgets to your advantage. It’s a blend of skill shots, strategic multiball plays, and cinematic flair. You’ll need to be sharp and precise to master the different modes and rack up those high scores, all while feeling like you’re on a secret mission yourself.

And the Winners Are…

The finals at the Max Match Play tournament were nothing short of spectacular, with every shot on Flash demanding precision and focus. Let’s give a big shout-out to all the top finishers who made it to the finals and gave us a thrilling conclusion to the evening:

1. Billy Brown III – Billy clinched the top spot with a performance that showcased his mastery of the game. Ranked 22nd in the state and 862nd in the nation, Billy’s experience in over 200 IFPA events shone through as he skillfully navigated the tricky lanes and flippers of Flash. His victory here solidifies his place as a rising star in the pinball world. Well done, Billy!
2. Derek Jennings – Derek, representing Hillsboro, brought his A-game to the finals. With a state rank of 11th and a IFPA rank of 1494, Derek demonstrated why he’s one of Oregon’s top players. His strategic play and sharp instincts kept him in the running until the very end, securing him a well-earned second place. Great job, Derek!
3. Mathew Peterson – Mathew, the reigning top player in Oregon, faced tough competition but still managed to secure a third-place finish. With an impressive national rank of 261 and over 1,000 IFPA events under his belt, Mathew’s consistent performance throughout the tournament reminded everyone why he’s at the top of the state rankings. Keep an eye on Mathew as he continues to dominate the scene.
4. Ryan Wanger – Ryan’s fourth-place finish was a testament to his skill and determination. Ranked 119th in Oregon and 158th nationally, Ryan played with precision and confidence, making it clear that he’s a formidable competitor in any tournament.
5. Chad Sulloway – Chad battled his way to a fifth-place finish, showing off his talent and passion for pinball. With a state rank of 143rd and a IFPA rank of 6097, Chad’s performance in this tournament was a significant achievement, proving that he’s one to watch in future events.
6. Joseph Rembecki – Joseph, though unranked in the IFPA, made an impressive run in this tournament, finishing in sixth place. His strong showing here could be the start of a promising pinball career. Keep an eye out for Joseph in upcoming events!
7. Julian Narino – Julian secured the seventh spot, bringing his best to the competition. With a global rank of 3826 and a growing presence in the pinball community, Julian’s determination and skill were on full display throughout the tournament.
8. Sean Goller – Rounding out the top eight, Sean, from Portland, showed why he’s ranked 85th in the state and 4711th nationally. His solid performance earned him a spot in the finals, and his play throughout the night was nothing short of commendable.

Oregon IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Tournament

And that’s a wrap on the Max Match Play at Next Level! Congratulations to Billy Brown III for his well-deserved victory and to all the competitors who gave it their all. Whether you were there to compete or just to soak in the atmosphere, Next Level Pinball Museum proved once again why it’s a must-visit destination for pinball fans.

Keep those flippers ready for the next tournament, and until then, keep the spirit of pinball alive!