Multiballs, Match Play, and Mastery: Washington’s Best Face Off

It was clear skies and competitive vibes on January 18, 2025, as 46 skilled players converged on The Ice Box Arcade for the Washington State Match Play Tournament. With six rounds of intense pinball action, the top eight players battled through two more rounds in the finals. At just about two and a half hours, this tournament was as fast-paced as the flippers themselves. Let’s dive into the highlights of the day!

Chilled Vibes at The Ice Box Arcade

The Ice Box Arcade is a pinball paradise tucked into the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. This arcade delivers nostalgia by the quarter, combining rows of classic pinball machines with a few iconic arcade cabinets for good measure. Its cozy outdoor area is a nice bonus, especially when you need a breather from a hard-fought game. The venue keeps the spirit of retro gaming alive with its quarter-based machines and an impressive variety of beverages—whether you’re into craft beers or soda. If you’re hunting for a mix of friendly competition and throwback fun, this is your spot.

Foo Fighters Bring the Noise in the Semifinals

One of the most thrilling matches of the tournament unfolded on Stern’s Foo Fighters (Pro) pinball machine from March 2023. This game, themed around the band, packs plenty of punch with a high-energy soundtrack and fast-flowing ramps.

In the semifinals, Tom Walsh of Seattle played like he was headlining the machine’s Rock City mode, nailing combos and hitting the Overlord Multiball to pull ahead of Xyren Silvers. Ashley Weaver put up a strong fight but couldn’t quite keep the rhythm, finishing just behind the top two. The game’s innovative upper playfield and zany alien-themed story gave this match an edge-of-your-seat feel. Walsh’s rock-solid performance earned him a spot in the finals and bragging rights for dominating this crowd-pleaser.

Machines That Lit Up the Arcade

With 42 pinball machines in the mix at The Ice Box Arcade, players had plenty of challenges to tackle. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout games from the tournament and explore what makes them special.

Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (2019)

Released during the height of the Stranger Things craze, this machine immerses players in the eerie, supernatural world of Hawkins, Indiana. One of its most unique features is the Demogorgon bash toy, which players must hit to progress through the game’s modes. The machine also includes UV lighting that reveals hidden artwork on the playfield, creating an “Upside Down” effect that ramps up the tension. If you’re hunting for jackpots, activating the Total Isolation Multiball is your best shot at racking up points—assuming you can handle the pressure.

World Cup Soccer by Bally (1994)

A classic among classics, World Cup Soccer combines the thrill of the 1994 FIFA World Cup with some of Bally’s best pinball engineering. Its standout feature is the moving goalie, a mechanical defender that players must outwit to score goals during the game’s signature Penalty Kick mode. The machine also rewards strategic play, with timed shots and an intense Final Draw mode that keeps players coming back for more. It’s fast-paced, fun, and perfect for fans of both soccer and pinball.

Grand Lizard by Williams (1986)

Grand Lizard is a machine that proves you don’t need complex ramps to create a challenge. This dual-level playfield masterpiece features mesmerizing artwork and a jungle-themed soundtrack that keeps the adrenaline pumping. Its upper playfield rewards precision, requiring players to master ball control to score big. The game’s standout feature is its “tongue ball lock,” a unique mechanism that adds an extra layer of strategy. If you’ve got a knack for controlled shots, Grand Lizard is your jungle to conquer.

Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (2019)

This game brings the chaos and excitement of the Jurassic Park franchise to life. From the T-Rex that physically grabs the ball to the Raptor Pen where players must strategically lock shots, Jurassic Park demands both skill and creativity. One of its most thrilling features is the Escape Isla Nublar wizard mode, which offers massive points if you can survive the island’s many dangers. With high-speed ramps and clever ball paths, it’s no wonder this machine remains a favorite among tournament players.

Iron Man by Stern (2010)

For players who love speed, Iron Man is a relentless adrenaline rush. This machine is all about quick reflexes, with fast orbits and tight shots that keep you on your toes. The Iron Monger toy rises dramatically from the playfield, becoming a central target for big scoring opportunities. Combine that with challenging multiball modes like Do or Die and Jericho, and you’ve got a machine that pushes even the most seasoned players to their limits. It’s not forgiving, but it’s rewarding for those who can handle the heat.

Crowning Champions on James Bond 007

The final match of the tournament played out on Stern’s James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE), and it was the perfect stage for high-stakes pinball. With its sleek design and unique features like the Q Branch Multiball, the game demanded strategy and precision, and the finalists delivered in style.

Joshua Francis, Washington’s top-ranked player, showed exactly why he holds that title. His mastery of the multiball modes and ability to string together jackpots secured him a well-earned first-place finish. This marks yet another milestone in a storied competitive career for the Edmonds native.

Tom Walsh, representing Seattle, brought his A-game all day and didn’t let up in the finals. His skillful shot selection and focus on high-scoring opportunities made him a formidable competitor, earning him second place.

Third place went to Misha Alexeeff, another Seattle local, whose consistent gameplay and ability to stay cool under pressure saw him rise through the competition. While this is one of his best finishes to date, Misha’s sharp flipper skills suggest there’s even more to come in future tournaments.

Ashley Weaver, hailing from Renton, claimed fourth place with a solid performance throughout the day. Known for her precision and ability to read the playfield like a book, she kept the top three on their toes right until the final moments.

Bryson Singleterry rounded out the top five, proving that even with fewer tournaments under his belt, his determination and quick reflexes can keep up with the state’s best. Jaran Jones, Xyren Silvers, and Casey Benton also made their marks in the finals, showing the kind of grit and flair that make pinball tournaments so exciting to watch.

This lineup of finalists truly brought their best to The Ice Box Arcade, making for an unforgettable day of competitive pinball.

Washington’s Top 10 Pinball Players

Here’s the current leaderboard for Washington IFPA standings:

Another Great Day at The Ice Box Arcade

The Washington State Match Play Tournament delivered everything a pinball fan could hope for—intense competition, exciting gameplay, and a welcoming arcade atmosphere. Joshua Francis once again proved why he’s the top-ranked player in the state, dominating on James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) with a performance that was as smooth and precise as the machine’s espionage-inspired gameplay. Tom Walsh and Misha Alexeeff gave him a run for his money, while Ashley Weaver and the rest of the finalists showcased the depth of talent in the Washington pinball scene.

The Ice Box Arcade played host beautifully, with its nostalgic mix of classic and modern machines creating the perfect backdrop for this fast-paced tournament. With its quarter-based setup, great drinks, and cozy vibe, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite among Seattle’s pinball community.

As we dive deeper into the 2025 pinball season, one thing is clear: Washington’s players are bringing their A-game, and the competition is heating up. Stay tuned for more tournament recaps, player spotlights, and machine breakdowns—because in the world of pinball, the action never stops!