Electrifying Evenings at The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza Event

On the evening of April 23, 2024, The Pinball Lounge nestled within the Oviedo Bowling Center transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts. The Bonanza 4/23/24, organized by Kurt van Zyl, featured a lively contest among 30 competitors over 6 rounds of intense pinball action. As the haze settled around Oviedo, FL, with temperatures holding steady at 70°F, players and spectators alike reveled in nearly four hours of flipper-flipping excitement.

Opening Splash with JAWS (LE)

The tournament kicked off with a standout game on the newly released JAWS (LE) by Stern, captivating players with its thrilling gameplay. Anton Samilian seized the top spot in this inaugural round, followed closely by Brayden DeRazza and Justin Derazza, setting a high bar for competition and showcasing the intense skill levels present.

Honoring the Pinball Champions

As the final balls drained, the top performers emerged, each demonstrating exceptional pinball finesse:

  1. Dawn Ziatyk – Triumphed with notable strategic acumen, despite an IFPA rank of 3159, highlighting her growth and competitive spirit through 59 events.
  2. Tony Reining – A rising star in the pinball community, placed second with an impressive climb considering his rank of 8717 and participation in only 26 events.
  3. Nick Smith from Florida – Showed consistent play and solid tactics to earn third place, with 88 events under his belt.
  4. Anton Samilian – After a strong start in the first round, Anton capped the tournament in fourth place, reflecting his steady improvement in the sport.

Showcase of Legendary Pinball Machines

The Pinball Lounge dazzled with a selection of 37 pinball machines, each with unique themes and mechanical wonders:

  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, a behemoth of the pinball world, challenges players to save cities from the iconic monster’s rampage, featuring destructible buildings and multiple ball play.
  • Batman Forever by Sega, known for its vibrant playfield and gadgets, transports players into the Gotham City of the 90s with dynamic gameplay and digital effects.
  • Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally, brings the basketball court to the pinball arena with fast-paced action and classic sound effects dating back to 1978.
  • Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern, revisits the classic TV series with modern twists, including detailed missions and high-definition displays.
  • Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern, immerses players in the supernatural world of Hawkins with interactive gameplay and scenes directly from the series.

A Night to Remember at The Pinball Lounge

The Pinball Lounge at 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo offers more than just pinball; it’s a venue that combines great food, craft beers, and unlimited pinball sessions on Friday nights for a flat fee. The atmosphere is always buzzing, making it a perfect spot for casual gamers and seasoned flippers alike.

Closing With Gratitude

Special thanks to Kurt van Zyl for organizing a spectacular evening of pinball at The Pinball Lounge. This venue continues to be a cornerstone of the pinball community in Florida, offering a top-notch gaming experience and regular refreshes of their pinball lineup. Keep your eyes on this blog for more exciting tales from the pinball world!

Thrilling Tides at the JAWS Launch Party

On April 21, 2024, the pinball enthusiasts of San Diego gathered at Dyno Bar for the electrifying JAWS Launch Party. Organized by Mark Schulz, this Group Knockout Tournament pitted 23 players against each other across 8 intense rounds. Using the Fair Strikes system, competitors were eliminated upon receiving 5 strikes, making every round critical. The clouds may have been broken above, but the focus inside was unyielding as the players battled amidst a cool 65°F.

Epic Showdown on JAWS (Pro)

The tournament’s grand finale unfolded on the freshly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern, drawing a crowd eager to see this new machine in action. In a gripping conclusion to Round 8, Derek Price emerged victorious, demonstrating why he holds an impressive IFPA rank of 64. Mark Maleko Schulz, also from San Diego, showcased his home turf advantage, securing a commendable second place.

Celebrating the Champions

As the flippers stilled, the tournament’s top contenders were lauded for their pinball prowess:

  1. Derek Price – A seasoned competitor with 406 IFPA events under his belt, Derek’s strategic gameplay and quick reflexes earned him the champion’s title.
  2. Mark Maleko Schulz – With an IFPA rank of 460 and 333 events, Mark’s deep knowledge of the game was on full display, earning him a well-fought second place.
  3. Mike Calcagno – Despite being a relative newcomer with only 34 events, Mike’s remarkable third-place finish proves his rising talent in the pinball world.
  4. Brian Heath – A testament to perseverance, Brian clinched fourth place, adding to his growing experience of 135 events.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was adorned with a stellar lineup of 11 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure:

  • James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern, celebrated for its sleek design and intricate missions that encapsulate the espionage and excitement of the Bond series.
  • Indianapolis 500 by Bally, a fast-paced table that captures the thrill of one of America’s most famous races with high-speed gameplay and challenging loops.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern, offers an adventurous escape to Isla Nublar, where players navigate through dinosaur encounters and terrain obstacles.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern, draws players into the Marvel universe with its vibrant graphics and engaging storyline that mirrors Venom’s dynamic character.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern, the star of the show, brings to life the suspense and danger of the iconic shark hunt with innovative gameplay and a chilling soundtrack.

Dynamic Dyno Bar: The Heart of San Diego’s Pinball Scene

Located at 3367 India Street, Dyno Bar is not just a venue; it’s a cultural hub for adult gamers. This 21+ establishment is renowned for its cool atmosphere and exclusive array of pinball machines and indie arcade games, making it a prime destination for nightlife and entertainment in San Diego.

A Round of Applause

Heartfelt thanks go to Mark Schulz for his impeccable organization of the JAWS Launch Party and to Dyno Bar for providing a perfect setting for this pinball extravaganza. As we continue to explore the vibrant pinball scenes across the nation, stay tuned for more thrilling updates and tales from the silver ball’s journey across America!

Clash of the Titans: SCPL Matchplay Overview

On April 20, 2024, The Game Preserve in Texas became the battleground for the SCPL: Monthly Matchplay, with 23 pinball wizards duking it out over 7 gripping rounds. The format pushed competitors to their limits, leading the top 8 into a nail-biting finals showdown. Despite a backdrop of light rain, the heat was on inside, with players and fans alike captivated by the intense arcade drama.

Marathon Match on the Mighty Paragon

The tournament’s spotlight shone brightly on a legendary game of Paragon, a classic machine by Bally from 1979. This standout game stretched an incredible 66 minutes in the finals, where Craig Squires ultimately triumphed. Nicholas Gustafson, Hunter Reed, and Marc Gammons rounded out the top spots, each demonstrating exceptional skill and determination under pressure.

Pinball Royalty: Celebrating the Champions

Our hearty congratulations go out to the pinball champions of this fiercely contested event:

  1. Craig Squires – Showcased veteran skills to dominate in his 437th IFPA event, despite his rank of 1137.
  2. Nicholas Gustafson – His strategic expertise earned him a well-deserved second place, coming from Spring, Texas with a rank of 939.
  3. Hunter Reed – Displayed tenacity and skill, snagging third place with an IFPA rank of 1263.
  4. Marc Gammons – Finished in a solid fourth place, showing his increasing competence in the pinball arena.
  5. Kyrra Warren – The newcomer impressed all by punching well above her rank of 7094 to place fifth.
  6. David Pollock – Their consistent play proved effective, landing them in sixth place.
  7. Liz Nebeker – Skillfully navigated the tables to finish in the seventh spot.
  8. Travis Hanna – Wrapped up the top eight with strategic gameplay and steady hands.

Spotlight on Stellar Machines

The tournament was adorned with 17 pinball machines, each bringing its own flavor to the fray. Among the standout tables were:

  • The Party Zone by Bally, celebrated for its exuberant party-themed artwork and energizing music that makes every player feel like the life of the party.
  • Tri Zone by Williams, a true testament to the golden era of pinball with its straightforward yet strategic design that challenges both novices and seasoned players.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, introduced in 2021, features state-of-the-art graphics and innovative gameplay elements, including a cityscape to demolish and monsters to battle, enhancing the thematic experience.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern brings a galaxy of adventure to the playfield with its integration of iconic music and detailed missions drawn directly from the popular film series.
  • Paragon, not only the marathon machine of this tournament but also known for its formidable playfield layout and the challenging “Golden Cliffs” section that tests even the most skilled players.

A Day to Remember at The Game Preserve

The Game Preserve, nestled at 473 Sawdust Road, Spring, Texas, proved to be more than just a venue; it was a pinball haven. With a robust selection of games dating from classic to contemporary, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. Players and spectators alike were treated to a day filled with nostalgia and fierce competition.

Farewell and Future Games

A big shout-out to Space City Pinball for orchestrating such an electrifying event and to The Game Preserve for their fantastic hospitality. This tournament was a testament to the thriving pinball scene, and we look forward to bringing you more tales from the flipper-filled world of pinball tournaments across the country. Stay tuned!

A Stellar Night at Match Play at Next Level

The Match Play at Next Level tournament took place on a pleasantly clear evening of April 19, 2024, at the Next Level Pinball Museum in Hillsboro, Oregon. With 25 competitors in attendance, the event unfolded over three rounds, each consisting of two games, culminating in a total duration of approximately 2 and a half hours.

High Stakes on Johnny Mnemonic

The tournament kicked off with a highlight match on the Johnny Mnemonic pinball machine by Williams, a classic from January 1995. Billy Brown III showcased his skills by securing first place in this round, followed by Mitch McAffee, who impressively competed despite being unranked, with Gregorio Sicard Jr and Bill Brown also performing admirably.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament saw remarkable performances from the top contenders:

  1. Bill Volckening from Portland, Oregon, ranked 2870th, demonstrated great skill and consistency over his 352 IFPA events, earning him the top spot.
  2. Vincent Sperrazza, from Bremerton with an impressive rank of 247, brought his extensive experience from 415 IFPA events to secure second place.
  3. Billy Brown III, ranked 753rd, used his competitive edge from 187 IFPA events to claim the third position.
  4. Joseph Rembecki, impressively made it to fourth place, a notable achievement for an unranked player.

Spotlight on Notable Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an exciting array of 87 pinball machines, including:

  • Barb Wire by Gottlieb: Known for its action-packed theme based on the movie, this machine challenges players with its dynamic playfield and unique multi-ball features.
  • The Addams Family by Bally: One of the most popular pinball machines ever, it offers players a blend of whimsy and challenge with its iconic mansion that activates various modes.
  • Heavy Metal by Stern: This machine, released in June 2020, draws players in with its rock music themes and innovative soundtracks coupled with engaging gameplay mechanics.
  • Johnny Mnemonic by Williams: The machine that shined in the tournament, famous for its fast-paced action and intricate cybernetic hand gadget that tests player reflexes and strategy.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams: Captivates players with its rich visuals and storytelling elements, where adventurers seek to rescue the Sultan’s daughter, adding layers of depth and intrigue to gameplay.

Next Level Pinball Museum: A Haven for Pinball Lovers

The Next Level Pinball Museum, located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR, is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub for pinball enthusiasts. Decorated with an eye for detail and maintained to the highest standards, the museum offers a fantastic array of pinball machines, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Appreciation for a Memorable Evening

A heartfelt thanks to Next Level Pinball for organizing such a smooth and engaging tournament and to the staff at Next Level Pinball Museum for maintaining a welcoming and immaculate environment. As the pinball scene continues to thrive, we look forward to bringing more news and stories from the exciting world of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates!

Flippin’ Friday Showdown at District 82

The D82 Flippin’ Friday event on April 19, 2024, at District 82 Pinball, brought together 35 avid pinball players for a spirited tournament. Hosted in the cool and overcast setting of De Pere, Wisconsin, by Erik Thoren, the competition spanned four rounds, each round comprising two games and lasting nearly three hours in total.

Intense Battles on Pool Sharks in Round 4

The fourth round featured an intense match on the vintage Pool Sharks pinball machine by Bally, dating back to 1990. Bret Derby led the pack with his exceptional skills, closely followed by tournament director Erik Thoren, with Danny Bronny and Josh Grube also showing strong performances.

Honoring the Tournament’s Standout Players

The tournament recognized the top competitors for their exceptional gameplay:

  1. Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh, WI, demonstrated strategic finesse, securing first place with his extensive experience in 455 IFPA events.
  2. Erik Thoren, both an organizer and a competitor from De Pere, WI, used his deep knowledge of pinball to earn the second spot in his 417th IFPA competition.
  3. Tom Graf, a veteran of the pinball circuit with 563 IFPA events to his name, claimed third place.
  4. Adam VanDynHoven from Appleton, WI, impressed with his determination, rounding out the top four.

Featured Machines: A Closer Look at the Legends

The tournament showcased a rich variety of 116 pinball machines, with each providing a unique gameplay experience:

  • Iron Man (Vault) by Stern: Known for its high-energy gameplay, this machine challenges players to battle iconic villains from the Iron Man universe, featuring rapid-fire multiball events and a challenging layout that rewards sharpshooting.
  • The Sopranos by Stern: This machine immerses players in the gritty world of Tony Soprano with missions that mimic the TV show’s plots, offering complex multiball modes and interactive mafia-related targets that enhance the storytelling element.
  • Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern: Released in 2023, this machine captures the essence of the band with its dynamic sound system playing iconic tracks, and includes features like band-themed playfield art and concert-style lighting effects that engage players in the rock and roll spirit.
  • Theatre of Magic by Bally: Appeals to players with its visually stunning magical motifs and tricks. As players navigate the game, they trigger illusions and magic tricks that not only dazzle but also strategically advance gameplay through hidden compartments and rotating playfield elements.
  • WWF Royal Rumble by Data East: This wrestling-themed machine features iconic wrestlers and offers a tag-team gameplay style, complete with body-slam multiballs and a Royal Rumble match that pits players against a cascade of wrestling challenges.

District 82 Pinball: A Hub for Pinball Enthusiasts

Located at 800 O Keefe Road, De Pere, WI, District 82 Pinball Arcade proved to be an excellent venue, with machines in pristine condition and an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm. The care taken in maintaining each pinball machine and the warm welcome given to out-of-town guests like us from New York highlighted the arcade’s commitment to quality and community.

Closing Thanks

A heartfelt thank you to Erik Thoren for orchestrating such a well-organized event and to District 82 Pinball for providing the perfect setting for this pinball adventure. The pinball community continues to thrive through these gatherings, and we look forward to bringing more news and updates from the exciting world of pinball competitions. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates!

Rolling Into Action: Ball Busters Pinball League Recap

Overview of the Competition

The Pinball Gallery in Malvern, Pennsylvania, hosted an electrifying evening of pinball on April 17, 2024, for the fifth week of Season 2 in the Ball Busters Pinball League. Eighteen players faced off across five rounds, each round featuring one game, totaling approximately 2 hours of playtime. The misty weather with a cool 60°F provided a fitting backdrop for the intense competition, meticulously organized by Bill Disney.

Game of the Night: Pulp Fiction Showcase

In the fourth round, players gathered around the Pulp Fiction (SE) machine by Chicago Gaming, a recent hit in the pinball world. This machine, known for its cinematic theme and engaging playfield, hosted a standout game that saw Emilia Choate taking the top spot, followed closely by Stephanie Savy from Media, PA, and Deanne Ross, who showed impressive skill despite her lack of a ranking.

Celebrating the Champions

As the final flippers stilled, the leaders of the tournament emerged:

  1. Jennifer Gold from PA, notably unranked in IFPA but with 28 events to her name, skillfully clinched first place, demonstrating that rankings aren’t everything in the world of pinball.
  2. Lisa Kavanagh, also unranked but quickly making her mark with only 3 events, secured a surprising yet well-deserved second place.
  3. Tessa Morton, with a solid IFPA rank of 1479, brought her experience from 113 events to bear, landing in third place.
  4. Kathy Furlong, another unranked competitor, showed that newcomers could still shake up the leaderboard by finishing fourth.

Featured Pinball Machines

The Pinball Gallery boasted an impressive array of 67 machines, including:

  • The Addams Family by Bally, a favorite for its challenging features and iconic theme.
  • Guns N’ Roses (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball, thrilled players with its rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack and innovative playfield.
  • Aztec by Williams and Star Trek by Bally took players on a nostalgic trip with their classic designs and gameplay.
  • Joker Poker by Gottlieb, with its strategic card game-inspired play, provided a unique challenge.

Venue Vibes

Located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, the Pinball Gallery proved once again to be a top-notch venue for pinball enthusiasts. The site’s welcoming atmosphere and broad selection of games make it a community staple, with many attendees planning return visits to dive deeper into the extensive collection.

Appreciations and Next Steps

A heartfelt thank you to Bill Disney for organizing such a smooth and enjoyable tournament, and to the Pinball Gallery for providing a fantastic venue. These gatherings not only challenge the players but also foster a thriving community spirit among pinball fans.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the Ball Busters Pinball League and other pinball events across the United States!

High Scores and High Spirits at Electric Bat

Tournament Action Unleashed

On the evening of April 16, 2024, the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona, buzzed with excitement as it hosted the inaugural event of Season 11, Series 2. With clear skies overhead and temperatures at a comfortable 83°F, 108 pinball enthusiasts dove into a series of 5 competitive rounds, each round featuring a single game and lasting about 3 hours. Orchestrated by the renowned organizer Rachel Bess, the tournament was a showcase of skill, strategy, and community spirit.

Game Highlight: Elvira’s House of Horrors Showdown

Round 2 of the tournament spotlighted Stern’s Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium), captivating attendees with its thrilling gameplay and eerie ambiance. Ty Bull, showcasing exceptional skill, secured a victory in this high-stakes round, closely followed by Stephanie Turner from Chandler, AZ. Paul Blanco and newcomer Nick Haney also made impressive showings, making this game a tournament highlight.

Champions of the Arcade

The tournament concluded with a celebration of the top performers who distinguished themselves with their outstanding gameplay:

  1. Cody Winant demonstrated strategic mastery and clinched the top position, reinforcing his status with an IFPA rank of 528.
  2. Stephanie Turner, bringing vast experience from over 200 tournaments, navigated the field expertly to secure a commendable second place.
  3. Greg Drewes displayed consistent skill throughout the evening, earning a well-deserved third place with his strategic gameplay.
  4. Mark Pearson, despite the stiff competition, utilized his extensive experience to secure the fourth spot.

Pinball Showcase

Electric Bat Arcade’s impressive collection of 67 pinball machines was more than just a backdrop for the tournament; it was a key player in the event’s success:

Electric Atmosphere at Electric Bat

The Electric Bat Arcade, located at 29 W. Southern Ave, Tempe, not only provided a stage for this spectacular pinball showdown but also contributed to the vibrant community vibe. The arcade, known for its eclectic mix of classic and modern machines, along with its adjacency to the Yucca Tap Room, made it the perfect venue for an evening full of excitement and entertainment.

Gratitude and Anticipation

A heartfelt thank you to Rachel Bess for orchestrating such a memorable event and to the Electric Bat Arcade for being an exemplary host. The dedication of the organizers and the welcoming atmosphere of the venue ensure that each tournament is not just a competition, but a celebration of the pinball community.

Stay tuned to our blog for more thrilling updates from the pinball tournaments across the United States!

Electric Nights at Free Play Denton Pinball Monday

Dive into the Action

On the evening of April 15, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Free Play Arcade in Denton, Texas, for a thrilling competition. The Free Play Denton Pinball Monday drew a spirited crowd of 28 players who battled it out across five rounds, with each round consisting of a single game. The top eight players advanced to the finals, where they faced off in two additional rounds to determine the champion. Under broken clouds and a comfortable 76°F, the tournament lasted just over three hours of intense pinball action.

Semifinal Showdown on Venom (Pro)

The spotlight game of the tournament occurred during the semifinals on the Venom (Pro) machine by Stern, a recent addition to the pinball world. Garrett Shahan, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 100, emerged victorious in this high-stakes match. He was closely followed by local competitor Clark McCoy, Randy Nelson from Roanoke, and Boss Hernandez from Dallas, who each displayed exceptional skill and strategy.

Celebrating the Victors

The competition was fierce, and the rankings reflected the high caliber of play:

  1. Garrett Shahan demonstrated why he’s ranked among the top players globally, adding yet another victory to his record of 166 events.
  2. Clark McCoy, a Denton local, showed hometown prowess and secured a strong second place with consistent performances throughout his 129 events.
  3. Kevin Rodriguez, known for their resilience and strategic gameplay, proudly represented Corinth, finishing third.
  4. Ken Kemp brought his vast experience from 415 events to bear, finishing in the fourth spot.
  5. Greg Gibson from Plano made a notable fifth-place finish, showing significant growth over his 63 events.
  6. Randy Nelson also left a mark with his tactical gameplay, finishing sixth.
  7. Austin Kemp, displaying skills honed over 255 events, took seventh place.
  8. Boss Hernandez rounded out the top eight, making a strong showing in his 64th event.

A Pinball Paradise

The tournament featured 15 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the event:

The Venue and Its Vibes

Free Play Arcade, located at 101 West Hickory Street in Denton, proved to be the ideal host for this event. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and extensive collection of games, the venue offered a perfect backdrop for both competitive play and casual fun. With promotions like half-off admission during the first hour on weekdays and early opening times during school holidays, Free Play ensures that pinball is accessible to everyone.

Heartfelt Thanks

A huge thank you to Chris Delp for organizing this fantastic event and to Free Play Arcade – Denton for hosting us. These tournaments are not just competitions; they are celebrations of the pinball community and the joy of the game.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates from the exciting world of pinball across the United States!

Action and Antics at the Speakeasy Special at DK Arcade

Dive into the Tournament

On a bright afternoon in April, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Terry’s Terrace in Harrison Township, Michigan, for the “Speakeasy Special at DK Arcade.” The event, orchestrated by Joe Wade, featured intense competition with 29 contenders engaging in 5 rounds of pinball. As they racked up points through the preliminary rounds, the top 8 moved on to a ‘grueling’ final showdown that humorously consisted of zero games—talk about a suspenseful way to keep the balls in the air!

Spotlight on Elvira’s House of Horrors

The tournament’s standout game occurred in the third round on Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE) by Stern, a recent favorite among the pinball community. Marco Vendetti clinched first place, demonstrating his prowess alongside Thomas Ruszkiewicz Jr., Philip Salminen, and Dominic Labella, who all showed remarkable skill and strategy in their quest for pinball glory.

Champions of the Day

The tournament concluded with high spirits as the champions took their well-deserved accolades:

  1. Marco Vendetti topped the leaderboard, confirming his reputation with his precise flips and tactical gameplay.
  2. Thomas Ruszkiewicz Jr. followed in second place, bringing a spirited challenge from the heart of Detroit’s Barcade.
  3. Philip Salminen secured third, showing that Midland, MI, has game.
  4. Dominic Labella took fourth place, impressing with his consistency and skill.
  5. Brandon Blake placed fifth, demonstrating growing prowess in the competitive pinball scene.
  6. Isaiah Bingham from Ann Arbor captured sixth place, showing great potential in his gameplay.
  7. Jared August, ranked eleventh worldwide, finished in seventh place with his expert moves.
  8. Ian Montgomery, though unranked, rounded out the top eight, proving his mettle in the competitive field.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament boasted a lineup of 9 pinball machines that ranged from classic to contemporary:

  • Attack from Mars by Bally: An alien invasion theme that keeps players on their toes.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams: Offers a magical carpet ride through Middle Eastern folklore.
  • Monster Bash by Williams: Where players reunite the classic Universal monsters for a rocking concert.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern: A thrilling hunt in Amity Island waters, fresh from its 2024 release.
  • Monopoly by Stern: Turns the classic board game into a pinball strategic battleground.
  • James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Engages players in espionage and action worthy of the iconic spy.
  • The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Lets players delve into bounty hunting missions across the Star Wars universe.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: Introduces the antihero’s fierce encounters and dynamic playfield features.

Venue Vibes

Terry’s Terrace provided more than just a venue; it offered a perfect blend of good food, great service, and excellent pinball. From mimosas and ‘man mosas’ to spicy Nashville Hot Chicken sandwiches, the food was as much a hit as the pinball was. The arcade corner, filled with pinball machines and classic games, made for a nostalgic yet vibrant backdrop to the day’s events.

Thanks and Farewells

A big shout-out to Joe Wade for organizing a seamless and spirited tournament and to Terry’s Terrace for their fantastic hospitality and setting, which added to the charm of the day’s events. Their combined efforts created a memorable experience for everyone who attended.

For more pinball tournament tales and updates, keep flipping through this blog!

Thrills and Flips at the Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024

A Full Day of Pinball Action

The Atomic Pinball Arcade in Wood River, Illinois, was buzzing with activity as it hosted the Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024. On a sunny day with temperatures hovering around 77°F, 41 players gathered on April 14, 2024, to participate in a grueling contest stretching over five rounds and ten games, each round averaging about 5 hours and 19 minutes. The event, organized by Tyler Becker, showcased a mix of strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck.

Marathon Match on JAWS (LE)

A standout moment of the tournament was the marathon game on the newly released JAWS (LE) by Stern, which unfolded during Round 4. This gripping game stretched to an incredible 65 minutes, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats. Tyler Hund emerged victorious, with Will Hoffmann and Mike Howard placing second and third respectively. John Ragusa rounded out the top four, showcasing the competitive spirit that defined the day.

Showcasing Premier Pinball Machines

The Derby featured 39 pinball machines, each bringing its unique flair to the event. Notable among them were:

  • Eight Ball Deluxe by Bally, a classic favorite known for its challenging gameplay and retro charm.
  • Aerosmith by Stern, which combines rock ‘n’ roll with engaging playfield features, attracting players with its vibrant art and soundtracks.
  • Metallica (Pro) also by Stern, thrilled players with its fast-paced action and iconic music integration.
  • JAWS (LE), the newest addition, proved to be a monster hit with its deep rule set and immersive shark-hunting theme.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming, introduced in 2023, drew attention with its cinematic graphics and quotes from the cult classic film.

Tournament Champions

The event concluded with several players standing out for their exceptional performance:

  1. Logan Henderson from Downers Grove, IL, with an IFPA rank of 1720, showcased remarkable skill throughout the tournament to clinch first place.
  2. Travis Murie, ranked 32nd, demonstrated why he is one of the top players in the world, securing a well-fought second place.
  3. Chuck Sanderson, another high-ranking player with a standing of 369 in IFPA, took home third place, adding another solid performance to his record.
  4. Mike Howard, despite the exhausting rounds, managed to finish strong in fourth place.

Venue Praise

Atomic Pinball Arcade, with its friendly staff and vast selection of games, provided the perfect setting for this pinball showdown. The venue’s bright and clean environment, paired with the option to play unlimited games for a set price, made it an ideal spot for both casual visitors and serious competitors.

Closing Acknowledgements

A big thank you to Tyler Becker for organizing an unforgettable pinball tournament and to the Atomic Pinball Arcade for hosting this spectacular event. The Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024 was a testament to the thriving pinball culture, and we look forward to more such exciting tournaments. Stay tuned to our blog for further updates from the pinball world across the United States!