The D82 Summer Pinball Classic Main Event was a marathon—or was it? Kicking off on August 16, 2024, at 4:30 PM, 63 players gathered at District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin, for what was reported to be a 21.5-hour tournament. With 10 rounds of 2 games each, followed by the Finals with 4 rounds and 3 games per round, the event certainly had the makings of an endurance test. But 21.5 hours? You’ve got to wonder if there were a few coffee breaks or technical hiccups stretching out the clock. Erik Thoren, the organizer, kept the action rolling—or at least that’s the story we’re sticking with. In the end, whether it was a true marathon or a slightly exaggerated epic, this tournament gave us some unforgettable matches and a showcase of serious pinball skills.
Why District 82 is the Place to Be
Tucked away at 800 O Keefe Road in De Pere, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a pinball lover’s paradise. The reviews don’t lie—people are flying in from all over the country to get a taste of this Wisconsin gem. Whether you’re a local or a traveler from afar, the immaculate maintenance of the machines and the warm welcome from the owner make it a standout location for any pinball enthusiast. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the experience. Every machine here plays like a dream, and that’s no small feat. The love and care put into this place are apparent, making it the perfect venue for such a high-stakes tournament.
The 2 Hour Showdown on Star Trek
In the Quarterfinals, the tournament saw one of the most grueling and intense matches ever on Star Trek (Premium) by Stern, a machine known for its fast gameplay and deep rule set. This particular game stretched on for a staggering 119 minutes—a true test of endurance, focus, and pinball prowess.
The Star Trek machine, released in 2013, draws players into the thrilling world of intergalactic missions, with modes like “Kobayashi Maru” putting players under extreme pressure, just like the iconic no-win scenario from the franchise. In this match, the pressure was palpable as four top competitors faced off, each aiming to conquer the game’s intricate missions and secure a spot in the finals.
Carlos Delaserda, ranked 10th in the state and 14th globally by IFPA, ultimately claimed victory. His ability to remain cool under pressure, especially during the intense “Kobayashi Maru” mode, showcased his mastery of the game. Carlos skillfully navigated the game’s complex rules and fast-flowing playfield, making precise shots to complete missions and build his score.
Luke Nahorniak, hailing from Lonsdale, MN, and ranked 4th globally, fought valiantly to the very end. Their deep understanding of the game’s mechanics kept the match tight, pushing Carlos to his limits. Despite falling just short, Luke’s performance was nothing short of stellar, reflecting their top-tier skill level.
Keith Hanson and Mike Weyenberg also put up impressive fights, each making significant contributions to this unforgettable match. In the end, though, it was Carlos’s strategic play and steady nerves that led him to outlast the competition in what will be remembered as one of the most intense matches in the tournament’s history.
A Tour Through the Classics: The Pinball Lineup
With 114 machines available, the D82 Summer Pinball Classic had a little something for everyone. Let’s take a quick tour through some of the highlights:
- Harlem Globetrotters On Tour (Bally, 1978): Designed by Greg Kmiec with art by Kevin O’Connor, this game brings the flair of the famous basketball team to life with its fast-paced gameplay and challenging shots. A real crowd-pleaser!
- Volley (Gottlieb, 1976): An Ed Krynski design with a simple yet addictive layout, perfect for players who enjoy a strategic game. The artwork by Gordon Morison adds a nostalgic charm to this classic.
- Lectronamo (Stern Electronics, 1978): A true blast from the past with its electronic sounds and vibrant playfield, designed by Harry Williams. It’s a must-play for those who appreciate the early days of electronic pinball.
- Paragon (Bally, 1979): Known for its massive playfield and stunning fantasy art by Paul Faris, Paragon is as challenging as it is beautiful. It’s a game that requires precision and a cool head under pressure.
- Star Wars (Pro) (Stern, 2017): A modern favorite with cutting-edge features and a theme that never gets old. The playfield is packed with action, and the artwork brings the Star Wars universe to life like never before.
- Twilight Zone (Bally, 1993): Designed by Pat Lawlor with artwork by John Youssi, this game is a legend in its own right. With complex rules and multiple playfield elements, it’s a game that offers endless challenges.
- Robo-War (Gottlieb, 1988): An under-the-radar gem that combines fast gameplay with a unique theme. If you haven’t played it yet, you’re missing out!
- Trident (Stern Electronics, 1979): Another Harry Williams design, this game features a nautical theme and simple but satisfying gameplay. It’s perfect for those who love the classics.
- Mustang (Pro) (Stern, 2014): A celebration of the iconic car brand, with fast ramps and a smooth playfield that’s all about speed and power. It’s a modern classic in the making.
And the Winners Are…
After hours of intense competition, the final game of the D82 Summer Pinball Classic took place on Vector, a standout title from Bally released in 1982. With its futuristic sports theme and intricate playfield design, Vector is not just another pinball machine—it’s a true test of skill and strategy. The game challenges players to manage their energy levels, build up a Vector score multiplier, and aim for the elusive “Maximum Vector” to rack up big points. With its fast-paced gameplay, precise shot requirements, and the need for strategic ball control, Vector pushed our finalists to their limits.
When the dust settled, it was Neil Graf who emerged victorious. His mastery of Vector’s layered playfield, combined with his ability to keep his energy levels in check while nailing those critical shots, secured him the top spot. Neil, ranked 5th in the state and 27th by IFPA, showed why he’s one of the top players around, navigating the complexity of Vector with a level of precision that was simply unmatched.
Right behind him was Steven Bowden, the top-ranked player in Wisconsin and a veteran of the pinball scene. With 929 IFPA events to his name, Steven’s experience was on full display, and his second-place finish is a testament to his skill in managing the fast and frenetic pace of Vector. Carlos Delaserda, who had already impressed everyone with his marathon win on Star Trek, claimed third place, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with on any machine. Jane Verwys rounded out the top four, delivering a strong performance that demonstrated her growing prowess in the competitive pinball circuit.
Wisconsin IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 727.09 |
| 2 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 619.91 |
| 3 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 590.53 |
| 4 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 561.17 |
| 5 | Neil Graf | Appleton | 550.04 |
| 6 | Nathan Zalewski | Stevens Point | 500.83 |
| 7 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 484.43 |
| 8 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 469.14 |
| 9 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 414.62 |
| 10 | Carlos Delaserda | Columbus | 410.5 |
Wrapping Up the D82 Summer Pinball Classic
What a ride! The D82 Summer Pinball Classic delivered on every front—challenging games, marathon matches, and an atmosphere that was nothing short of electric. Huge thanks to Erik Thoren for organizing such a memorable event and to District 82 Pinball for being the perfect host. Congratulations to all the winners, especially Neil Graf for his outstanding performance. We can’t wait to see what the next tournament holds—stay tuned for more pinball action and stories from the front lines!