IFPA League Super Awesome Season 33 Seeding tournament was a success at Heart State Brewing! Congrats to Jared Schmidt from Pittsburgh for clinching 1st place! 🏆 Check out the full recap of the pinball action and see who made it to the top! #Pinball #IFPA #HeartStateBrewing #PinballTournament
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Pinball fans, check out our latest blog post on the epic Salamander Slam Jam tournament! Dive into the highlights, machine spotlights, and meet our top contenders. Congrats to all the winners, especially Ray Ford for making the Texas Top 10! #Pinball #IFPA #AustinTX
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Just wrapped up an epic night at the #EmporiumHiScorium June pinball tournament! Congrats to Lawrence Aguiar for taking the top spot! 🏆 Dive into the highlights, epic games, and our top players. #Pinball #IFPA #PinballWizardry
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What a tourney at the Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – June 2024! From fierce competition to epic pinball machines, it was a night to remember. Congrats to the winners and big thanks to Mark Schulz 🏆 #Pinball #IFPA #SanDiego #PinballTournament #DynoBar
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Electric Bat Season 12-Part 1 #3 was a blast! Congrats to the winners, especially Arizona’s top 10 stars Greg Drewes (#6) & Nate Tornero (#9)! Pinball talent was on full display. Huge thanks to Rachel Bess & ElectricBat for hosting! Check out our full recap #Pinball #IFPA #ElectricBatArcade #PinballTournament
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It’s that time again, pinball aficionados! The Space City Pinball: Belles Final 4 took place on a sweltering June evening, and it was a battle for the ages. Hosted at the mysterious and ever-enigmatic venue, Jim & Stephanie’s, this tournament brought out the best in our local pinball talent. With clear skies and a blistering 94°F that felt more like 104°F, the competition was heated in more ways than one.
The highlight of Round 1 was undoubtedly the thrilling match on Earthshaker, the classic Williams game from February 1989. Imagine the ground trembling beneath your feet as the players navigated through this seismic showdown. Maritza Chirichigno, our underdog from Houston, ranked 8986 in the IFPA, emerged victorious with a performance that shook the competition to its core. Stephanie Mueller, ranked 7125, held her ground but couldn’t withstand the tremors created by Maritza’s stellar play. Sailor Palis, unranked but determined, and Erin Simper, ranked 5310, both gave valiant efforts but were ultimately left in the aftershocks of Maritza’s victory.
The tournament concluded with our top four players taking their well-deserved places on the podium. Here’s a salute to their incredible skills and sportsmanship:
The tournament featured 14 pins that brought thrills and spills to every round. Here’s a look at some of the standout machines:
While MatchPlay software failed to disclose the exact location of Jim & Stephanie’s, we respect their wish to remain shrouded in mystery. What we do know is that it provided a perfect backdrop for an intense and exciting tournament.
Here’s a look at the current top players in the Texas pinball scene:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 501.9 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 347.95 |
| 3 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 241.25 |
| 4 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 238.33 |
| 5 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 234.61 |
| 6 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 228.51 |
| 7 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 225.44 |
| 8 | Keith Shahan | Abilene | 197.53 |
| 9 | Travis Hanna | 194.57 | |
| 10 | Nicholas Gustafson | Spring | 181.66 |
A big thank you to the Space City Pinball and Jim & Stephanie for hosting such a fantastic event. We hope everyone had an incredible time, especially the new faces like Sailor Palis, who made their IFPA debut. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!
The latest IFPA pinball tournament, Starfighters Monthly, was a sizzling spectacle, drawing 59 players to the vibrant Starfighters Arcade. With the clear skies and a scorching temperature of 103°F, the heat was on, both inside and outside the arcade. As the tournament kicked off on June 8, 2024, at 1:00 PM, the excitement was palpable. With 8 intense rounds and taking roughly 4 hours players had to stay sharp and hydrated to endure the heat and competition.
The highlight of the tournament was undoubtedly Round 5, where players clashed on Stern’s Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) from October 2020. Just like the Avengers uniting against Thanos, the competitors brought their A-game, battling for supremacy.
Andy Olson emerged victorious, channeling his inner Iron Man with strategic precision. Robert Kennedy, resembling Captain America’s resilience, secured second place. Matthew Roth, with a Spider-Man-like agility, clinched third, while Christy Kohtz, as tenacious as Black Widow, rounded out the top four.
A huge congratulations to the top players who emerged victorious in this heated battle:
These champions showcased exceptional skill and determination, making their mark in the pinball community.
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 53 pinball machines. Here are a few standout stars:
Located at 4840 E Jasmine St #102, Mesa, AZ, Starfighters Arcade is a haven for pinball and arcade enthusiasts. This vibrant venue channels the nostalgic spirit of the classic “Starfighter” arcade game, inviting visitors with the call to adventure: “Greetings, Starfighter. You have been recruited by the Star League to defend the frontier against Xur and the Ko-Dan Armada.” The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter and the clinking sounds of pinball machines. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, Starfighters Arcade offers a journey back to the golden age of gaming with a stellar collection of old arcade games and awesome pinball machines. Visit their website at Starfighters Arcade for more information.
Here’s a look at the current top 10 standings in the Arizona pinball scene:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 703.09 |
| 2 | Roland Nadeau | 635.53 | |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 606.08 |
| 4 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 314.75 |
| 5 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 249.69 |
| 6 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 242.31 |
| 7 | Ben Clement | Marana | 235.81 |
| 8 | Andrew Roesch | 232.84 | |
| 9 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 226.54 |
| 10 | Walt Wood | Englewood | 222.36 |
A heartfelt thanks to organizer Kevin Curtis and the wonderful venue, Starfighters Arcade, for hosting this electrifying tournament. Your efforts and dedication have made this event a grand success. A special shout-out to everyone who came out to play, braving the heat and giving their all on the pinball machines.
Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps as we continue to explore the thrilling world of competitive pinball. See you at the next tournament!
On June 7, 2024, the Next Level Pinball Museum hosted an electrifying IFPA pinball tournament: Match Play at Next Level. With 24 players battling it out over three intense rounds, each consisting of two games, the competition was fierce and thrilling. The event kicked off at 7:00 PM under a clear sky, with a pleasant temperature of 83°F. The Tournament lasted around 2 hours and 33 minutes, making for a night full of high-octane pinball action.
Located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR, the Next Level Pinball Shop & Museum is a pinball enthusiast’s dream come true. The museum’s atmosphere is nothing short of spectacular, with an impressive array of memorabilia that keeps your head on a swivel. The welcoming and informative staff enhance the experience, ensuring every visitor feels right at home. The immaculate cleanliness of the facility, including the pristine bathrooms, is a testament to their dedication. And if you get hungry, the food trucks outside offer delicious options, including pizza and fresh noodles. It’s truly a WOW experience from start to finish!
In Round 1, the game that stole the show was Junk Yard by Williams, released in January 1996. This game, with its quirky theme of scavenging and rebuilding, set the stage for an exhilarating match. Bruce Jones, ranked 5678 in the IFPA, showcased his scavenging skills to clinch first place. Caleb Hohlt, an unranked newcomer, surprised everyone by securing second place with his impressive gameplay. Local hero Derek Jennings, ranked 1414, put up a strong fight but had to settle for third place. Khris Bestel, another unranked player, showed great promise despite finishing fourth. The game perfectly mirrored the unpredictability and excitement of a junkyard adventure.
The tournament featured a whopping 55 different pinball machines, each bringing its unique flair to the event. A few standout pins included:
The tournament concluded with some stellar performances. Here’s a rundown of the top winners:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mathew Peterson | Portland | 220.35 |
| 2 | Matt Walton | Eugene | 161.93 |
| 3 | Dana Valatka | Portland | 147.93 |
| 4 | Evan Amano | Portland | 127.76 |
| 5 | James Adamson | Portland | 124.97 |
| 6 | Jeff Monroe | Eugene | 119.18 |
| 7 | Ben Massey | 114.35 | |
| 8 | Vincent Poudrier | 107.18 | |
| 9 | Sean Irby | Seattle | 96.52 |
| 10 | Scott Benoit | Portland | 93.14 |
A massive thank you to Next Level Pinball for organizing and hosting such a phenomenal event. Their dedication and passion for pinball are truly inspiring. We hope everyone had an incredible time, especially our newcomers like Caleb Hohlt and Khris Bestel, who showed great promise. Stay tuned for more pinball tournament news and highlights. Don’t miss out on the next exciting chapter in the world of pinball!
The D82 Flippin’ Friday June 7th Qualify was nothing short of a pinball wizard’s dream. With 17 players vying for the top spot in a 4-round, 2-game-per-round format, the evening was packed with thrilling action and skillful play. The tournament kicked off at 6:00 PM and lasted approximately 2 and a half hours, giving each round a sense of urgency and excitement. Hosted at District 82 Pinball by the ever-dedicated Erik Thoren, the event was set against a backdrop of scattered clouds and a pleasant 72°F temperature—perfect pinball weather.
Nestled in De Pere, WI, District 82 Pinball Arcade is the go-to sanctuary for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 800 O’Keefe Road, this arcade boasts over 100 impeccably maintained pinball machines, making it a haven for both casual players and serious competitors. Open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from September to May, District 82 also hosts various tournaments throughout the week. With a flat fee for unlimited play, it’s a fantastic spot for groups and families to enjoy. While soda and water are available, players are welcome to bring their own drinks. Whether you’re there for a private party or just some solo play, District 82 offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that keeps pinball magic alive.
Round 2 of the tournament featured an unforgettable game on Bally’s Mystic, released in August 1979. As the eerie lights and sounds of Mystic enveloped the players, Craig Sengstock emerged victorious, using his precise flipper skills to outmaneuver his opponents. Erik Thoren, the tournament director, gave a stellar performance, but Craig’s mastery of the bumpers and drop targets sealed his first-place finish. Gerald Morrison and Eddie Smith put up a tough fight, showcasing their strategic prowess, but ultimately, Craig’s enchanting gameplay on Mystic was unrivaled.
District 82 featured an impressive lineup of 113 pinball machines. Here’s a closer look at five standout games:
This classic machine captures the thrill of the iconic TV show with vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay. Players love the challenging drop targets and the unique six-player capability, making it a hit for group play.
Rock out with Metallica! This machine combines the band’s electrifying music with fast-paced pinball action. The intricate playfield features, such as the Snake Jaw and the Fuel Stand-Up Targets, make it a favorite among modern pinball enthusiasts.
A journey into space awaits with Flight 2000. This game is renowned for its complex multi-ball play and the mesmerizing sounds of space travel. The futuristic design and intricate ramp system keep players on their toes.
Step into another dimension with Twilight Zone. This machine is packed with innovative features like the gumball machine, the Powerball, and the Clock. Its deep rule set and engaging theme make it a timeless favorite.
Relive the adventures of Indiana Jones with this action-packed game. Featuring memorable scenes from the movies, this machine’s Path of Adventure and Well of Souls add exciting challenges that keep players coming back for more.
The tournament saw fierce competition, but in the end, these players emerged victorious:
Here’s a look at the top players in Wisconsin according to the IFPA:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Graf | Appleton | 587.62 |
| 2 | Erik Thoren | De Pere | 461.86 |
| 3 | Danny Bronny | Beverly Shores | 435.34 |
| 4 | Steven Bowden | Palatine | 434.31 |
| 5 | Kassidy Milanowski | Appleton | 408.28 |
| 6 | Matt McCarty | Neenah | 373.06 |
| 7 | Jason Zahler | 372.99 | |
| 8 | Eric Strangeway | Oshkosh | 368.69 |
| 9 | Mike Weyenberg | Manitowoc | 322.73 |
| 10 | Erik Rentmeester | Green Bay | 321.35 |
Kudos to Erik Thoren and the fantastic team at District 82 for organizing such an exhilarating event. Their dedication to keeping the pinball spirit alive is truly commendable. Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights—stay tuned, and keep flipping those flippers in De Pere, the city that’s truly a pinballer’s paradise!
Our latest pinball showdown, MFStrikes!!, kicked off with a bang. This knockout tournament featured 15 eager players facing off in intense two-player games. The format was simple: survive nine rounds without collecting three strikes. The event took place on June 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM at the iconic Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery. The competition was fierce, lasting nearly 3 hours. Cary Carmichael orchestrated this thrilling evening, where scattered clouds and a cool 57°F added to the atmosphere.
Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery provided the perfect backdrop for our tournament. The atmosphere was electric, with friendly staff who were as passionate about pinball and beer as the players themselves. The machines were meticulously maintained, adding to the overall enjoyment of the event. If you’re ever in the area, make sure to stop by and experience the magic for yourself.
The fourth round brought us a standout match on the Pabst Can Crusher by Stern (January 2016). The game’s vibrant, beer-themed artwork set the stage for an epic showdown. Philip Priddy, ranked 1163 in the IFPA, clinched first place, outplaying Linda G, ranked 7028. With every flipper flip and skillful nudge, Philip demonstrated exceptional prowess, mastering the intricate shots and combos that the Can Crusher demanded. Linda put up a valiant fight but couldn’t quite match Philip’s dominance on this frothy battleground.
The tournament featured a collection of 40 spectacular pinball machines. Here are a few highlights:
Cherry Bell by Sonic (February 1978): This classic machine, designed by Luis Lopez, captivated players with its nostalgic charm and challenging gameplay.
Road Kings by Williams (July 1986): Mark Ritchie’s design brought a post-apocalyptic theme to life, with thrilling features that kept players on their toes.
Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): Themed after the iconic film, this machine delivered cinematic excitement and intricate playfield elements.
JAWS (Pro) by Stern (January 2024): Joe Kaminkow’s creation immersed players in a thrilling shark hunt, combining suspenseful gameplay with stunning visuals.
Dialed In! by Jersey Jack Pinball (August 2017): Pat Lawlor’s innovative design and dynamic features made this machine a crowd favorite, offering a unique and interactive experience.
Let’s give a round of applause to the top players of the MFStrikes!! tournament. Their skill and determination shone brightly, earning them well-deserved spots on the leaderboard:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.52 |
| 2 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.87 | |
| 3 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 779.56 |
| 4 | Jason Zahler | 778.13 | |
| 5 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.71 |
| 6 | Nic Stein | Davis | 681.22 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.81 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.57 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.23 |
| 10 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 554.38 |
A heartfelt thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing this fantastic event and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting us in their superb venue. The night was filled with exciting matches and impressive displays of pinball skill. Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding performance. We hope everyone enjoyed the tournament as much as we did and are looking forward to more thrilling pinball action in the future. Keep following for more updates and highlights from the pinball world, and we’ll see you at the next event!