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!

Dazzling Play at Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout Tournament

Overview of the Knockout Challenge

The Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout pinball tournament took place on a sunny afternoon in Bremerton, Washington. The event, hosted at Tik Tok’s Workshop and skillfully organized by Richard Godwin, was a fast-paced competition running for nearly 3 hours. Fourteen players battled through 12 rounds of intense pinball action under a Group Knockout format, where the stakes grew higher with each strike given for lower finishes in the rounds.

Game of the Day: The Wizard of Oz Face-Off

One of the tournament’s most thrilling games unfolded in Round 3 on The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball. Jessica Barron took the lead with stellar gameplay, followed by Kathleen Rush and Jennifer Bremerton, while Pinky Barney faced a challenging round. This game not only tested their pinball skills but also highlighted their strategic depth under pressure.

Celebrating the Victors

The event concluded with a celebration of remarkable skill and endurance:

  1. Pinky Barney emerged victorious, showcasing great resilience and strategy throughout the tournament.
  2. Kathleen Rush claimed the runner-up spot with consistent performances that reflected her growing expertise.
  3. Jennifer Bremerton displayed formidable skill, earning a well-deserved third place.
  4. Rachel Kahalekulu rounded out the top four, bringing experience and precision to the fore.

Showcase of the Pinball Arena

Participants enjoyed a selection of 12 diverse pinball machines, providing various styles and eras of gameplay:

  • Twister by Sega: Known for its stormy, chaotic gameplay mirroring the movie’s tornado theme.
  • Cyclone by Williams: A classic amusement park-themed game that’s beloved for its whimsical design and fun quotes.
  • Eight Ball by Bally: One of the best-selling pinball machines of all time, offering classic pool hall action.
  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: Rocks players with high-energy music and electrifying play features.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Stands out with its colorful graphics and innovative game mechanics.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Brings back classic monsters with modern technology, enhancing play with updated effects.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern: Engages players with missions and adventures based on the popular TV series.

Venue Vibes and Final Impressions

Tik Tok’s Workshop not only provided the stage for this pinball spectacle but also crafted a welcoming atmosphere that was praised by all attendees. With its combination of vintage games, delightful food, and a friendly staff, the venue made everyone feel like part of a vibrant community.

Grateful Acknowledgments

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Richard Godwin for organizing such an engaging and smoothly run tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for their fantastic hospitality. Their efforts made the Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout a memorable event for everyone involved.

For more stories and updates from the exciting world of pinball tournaments, keep your flippers ready and stay tuned to this blog!

Classic Pinball Showdown at D82 Saturday Night

Inside the Tournament

On a crisp April evening, the District 82 Saturday Night Classics pinball tournament captivated enthusiasts and players alike. Held at District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin, and meticulously organized by Erik Thoren, this tournament drew a crowd of 65 competitors who battled it out over 7 rounds and 2 games each. With clear skies and a cool atmosphere, players were in high spirits as they vied for the top 24 spots to advance into an intense final consisting of 4 rounds with 3 games each.

Semifinal Spotlight: Dolly Parton by Bally

In the heat of the semifinals, a thrilling game on Dolly Parton by Bally took center stage. Erik Thoren, not just the organizer but also a formidable competitor, clinched first place in this round, showing off his deep understanding of the game. He was followed by Nathan Zalewski, Jason Werdrick, and Rick Miller in a closely fought contest that was a highlight of the evening.

Tournament Champions

The event concluded with some outstanding performances. Erik Thoren secured the championship position, adding yet another win to his impressive pinball resume. Nathan Zalewski followed in second place, with Ryan Eggers and Tom Graf rounding out the top four. Special mentions go to Jeff Asman, Jason Werdrick, Adam VanDynHoven, and Rick Miller, who all placed in the top eight, showcasing great skill and strategy.

Featured Machines of the Tournament

The tournament featured an eclectic array of 46 pinball machines, each contributing to the day’s challenges and excitement:

  • Eight Ball Deluxe (LE) by Bally: Renowned for its challenging gameplay and strategic ball control.
  • Hot Hand by Stern Electronics: Captures attention with its unique rotating flipper.
  • Hi-Deal by Bally: Known for its fast-paced play and retro charm.
  • Strikes and Spares by Bally: Combines bowling and pinball for a unique twist.
  • Frontier by Bally: Offers players a rugged wilderness theme with intricate gameplay.
  • Magic by Stern Electronics: Enchants players with its mystical artwork and classic pinball layout.
  • Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally: Provides a fun and dynamic basketball-themed game.
  • Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics: Features a futuristic space travel theme with advanced features for its time.
  • Mata Hari by Bally: Delves into espionage with its spy-themed playfield and mechanics.

Venue and Experience

Traveling all the way from New York for the tournament, the experience at District 82 was nothing short of spectacular. The venue boasted an exceptional collection of well-maintained pinball machines, reflecting the owner’s passion and dedication to the pinball community. The welcoming atmosphere made it a memorable visit for out-of-towners and locals alike.

Gratitude and Farewell

A massive thank you to Erik Thoren for organizing such a thrilling and smooth-running tournament and to District 82 Pinball for providing an impeccable venue for this classic pinball showdown. Your hard work and hospitality have undoubtedly enriched the pinball community.

Keep up with GobbleHole for more recaps and features from the pulsating world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

Flipping Out at the Starfighters Monthly Pinball Tournament

Tournament Highlights

On a clear and warm April afternoon, the Starfighters Monthly pinball tournament saw an exciting battle among pinball enthusiasts. Held at Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, and organized by Kevin Curtis, this event lasted for a spirited 4.5 hours. Fifty-seven competitors took part in a grueling 8-round competition where precision and strategy were key to accumulating points and advancing in the standings.

Unforgettable Gameplay Moments

The standout game of the tournament took place during Round 4 on Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams. Kevin Curtis himself, not just the organizer but also a skilled player, led the round. He was closely followed by Krisha Shufran from Chandler, Jim Smith from Phoenix, and Mike McClure from Glendale, making it a memorable battle that showcased some top-notch pinball skills.

Celebrating Our Champions

At the close of the tournament, accolades were awarded to the most skillful and persistent players:

  • Will McKinney claimed the top spot, further solidifying his standing as a formidable player in the pinball community.
  • John Shopple from Mesa followed closely in second place, bringing years of experience to the fore.
  • Mark Pearson, one of the highest-ranked players present, finished a strong third.
  • Hailey Buhrman from Chandler rounded out the top four, demonstrating great skill and potential for future tournaments.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue was packed with 31 pinball machines, each adding its own unique challenge:

Venue Vibes

Starfighters Arcade, with its vintage charm and bustling atmosphere, provided the perfect nostalgic backdrop for the tournament. Although the space was a bit cramped due to the large turnout, the array of classic and modern pinball machines made it a pinball lover’s paradise. The atmosphere was lively, evoking memories of childhood arcades and fostering a community spirit among players.

Acknowledgments and Thanks

A big thank you to Kevin Curtis for organizing such a fantastic event and to Starfighters Arcade for hosting. Your efforts have created a vibrant and welcoming community space that celebrates the joy of pinball.

Be sure to follow us for more news and stories from the pinball tournament circuit across the United States!