The Heat of Battle: Starfighters Kids Monthly Pinball Showdown!

The vibrant state of Arizona isn’t just known for its deserts and cacti. It’s also home to some of the most passionate young pinball wizards in the US, as proven by the recent Starfighters Kids Monthly Pinball Tournament. Taking place at the renowned Starfighters Arcade, this event was a testament to the undying spirit of arcade games and the passion of the next generation.

Where the Magic Happened

The 8-hour, 13-minute showdown took place on September 9, 2023, and was organized by the arcade enthusiast, Kevin Curtis. If you’re interested in the intricacies of the event, feel free to explore the official Starfighters website. This competition saw 40 youngsters form groups of four, battling each other in a series of four nail-biting rounds. The desert sun blazed outside with temperatures hitting 102°F, but nothing could heat up the atmosphere more than the intense competition inside the arcade.

Games, Glare, and Monster Bash

One of the most unforgettable moments was during Round 1, where players clashed on the iconic Monster Bash by Williams. Young Anthony P. showcased an outstanding performance, seizing first place and leaving Jason C., Zach S., and Kobe T. in the subsequent positions. With Monster Bash’s Dracula, Wolf Man, and Frankenstein figures flashing and grooving to the rock-n-roll beats, this match will remain in the annals of Starfighters’ history.

Champions of the Day

A huge round of applause goes to:

  1. Kenny F. with an IFPA rank of 10781, showing the world that rankings aren’t everything.
  2. Anthony P. proving that every game is an opportunity.
  3. Jackson S. making his debut in the world of pinball tournaments.
  4. Mollie M. an emerging star with a penchant for flippers and flashing lights.

Pinball Paradise

The Starfighters arcade is truly a pinball paradise. With classics like ‘Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure‘ and newer sensations like ‘Cactus Canyon (Remake Special)‘, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention the vibrant ‘Cirqus Voltaire‘ and the hair-raising ‘Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Premium)‘. But the cherry on top was the spine-chilling ‘Monster Bash’.

The Good, the Bad, and the Starfighters

Starfighters Arcade, although located in an industrial office setup, has a unique charm. Their vast array of retro games, combined with the unlimited play offer for just $11, is a steal. The staff is friendly, and there’s a contagious energy in the air. Sadly, you’ll have to satisfy your hunger pangs elsewhere.

Arizona’s Pinball Maestros

Speaking of competition, let’s look at the state’s top pinball aficionados:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.27
2Mark PearsonPhoenix535.49
3John ShoppleMesa519.45
4John MagyarGilbert315.33
5Paul BlancoChandler303.5
6Kevan CarterTempe295.36
7Jason BarreMesa292.28
8Joey RioSurprise282
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.75
10Andrew Roesch255.02

The Pinball Journey Continues

This event was a clear testament to the undying passion for pinball among the youngsters. As the flippers reset and the high scores flash, we await the next thrilling chapter in the saga of pinball showdowns. Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Pinball Royalty Crowned at Belles & Chimes GR: A Day of Flippers, Bells, and Cheers

Imagine spending 7 hours and 18 minutes in a room filled with the nostalgia-laden dings and whizzes of pinball machines. That’s exactly what transpired at the Belles & Chimes GR Sept 2023 tournament on September 9th, organized by the indefatigable Karen Cummings. But don’t let the nostalgia fool you; the tournament format brought a modern, intense structure that made the experience even more electrifying.

The Format: Where Every Flipper Counts

Unique to the event was its format. With a total of 9 players, the tournament featured 12 games for each contestant in the initial phase. Players went head-to-head, earning points based on their finishing positions. Talk about marathon pinballing! But that wasn’t all. The top 4 players moved onto the Finals, which consisted of two grueling rounds with three games per round. This format not only tested the players’ skill but also their endurance and strategy, making it a holistic pinball championship.

A Venue with a Pinball Soul

RLM Amusements in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provided an atmosphere that felt like every pinball lover’s dream living room. The venue hosted 27 machines ranging from vintage to modern, all in pristine working condition.

The Unforgettable Godzilla Round

Amidst the pinball pandemonium, a stand-out game took place on the Godzilla machine from 1998. Lisa LaBelle took the win, stamping her authority on the game and marking herself as one to watch for the rest of the tournament.

Machines That Were More Than Just a High Score

Several machines became the unsung heroes of the event, including the evergreen “300” by Gottlieb and the Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) which had the longest average game duration. Newcomers like Venom (Pro) by Stern showcased the bright future of pinball.

The Grand Finale

The Finals were a high-tension affair, with Lisa LaBelle from Holland, MI, clinching the first place. Robin Abbott, Karin Tessin, and Karen Cummings followed, each with an impressive number of wins and IFPA events under their belt.

Michigan’s Best: A Quick Look

And since we’re talking champions, let’s give a nod to the IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Sterling MitoskaBrooklyn450.93
2Rodney MinchGrand Rapids444.74
3Rick KnopikEvansville376.77
4Matthew StacksGrand Rapids306.04
5Dominic LabellaBay City296.29
6Alex HarmonSpring Lake273.51
7Ethan Magnum–249.27
8Jason HumphreyJackson240.07
9Sean BurkeWaterford Township219.34
10Philip SalminenMidland212.86

All said and done, the Belles & Chimes GR Sept 2023 tournament proved to be a pinball extravaganza unlike any other. It showcased the skill and passion of players who dedicated their day to the love of the game. No wonder folks were flipping out. Stay tuned for more updates from the buzzing, clattering, tilting world of pinball!

An Evening at Sparkeasy: Pinballs, Players, and Pure Excitement!

Ah, Chesterfield, MI – where the skies may be overcast, but the pinball sparks fly brighter than ever. On an evening with the cool air setting in at 64°F, 24 passionate players gathered for the Sparkeasy 9-8-23 pinball tournament. If you ever wondered what dedication looks like, it’s witnessing the event last just shy of 3 hours, with every game packed with suspense.

The Spectacle of Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of the tournament, let’s talk about the venue. Sparks Pinball Museum is not your average arcade – it’s a time machine. The aura of the place is such that you can almost hear the echoes of decades past, mingling with the clinking and clanking of the present-day machines. What’s not to love about a place that serves history with a side of fun? For those new to the scene, it’s like a mini-museum where you can actually touch (and play) the exhibits!

The Machines That Made the Night

Now, onto the real stars of the show – the pinball machines. The Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams was an absolute crowd-puller, recording six games for the evening. But the one machine that caught everyone’s attention was the Halloween (Blood Sucker Edition) by Spooky Pinball. With an average game duration of 20 minutes, players were on the edge, fully immersed in the ghostly thrill it offered.

Special mention to Funhouse, Stars, and Red & Ted’s Road Show, which kept the old-school charm alive. And of course, the The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern, where the drama of Round 1 unfolded.

A Game to Remember

The confrontation in Round 1 on The Mandalorian was like the battle scenes from the series itself. Bill Mann took the lead, with Mike Stewart Jr. not far behind. Jeff Catenacci and Jimmy Piornack gave their best shots, with Jeff coming from Roseville, making his hometown proud.

The Titans of the Tournament

Aaron Grabowski’s success was one for the books. While having an IFPA rank of 5573, his 4 wins showcased pure skill. However, the surprise element was Mike Stewart Jr. With 7 wins under his belt, the player made quite the impression. And let’s not forget Bill Mann, Kevin Rowe, and the rest of the top 8, each bringing their A-game.

The Best in Michigan

Here’s a glimpse at the creme de la creme of Michigan’s pinball wizards:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Sterling MitoskaBrooklyn450.93
2Rodney MinchGrand Rapids444.73
3Rick KnopikEvansville376.76
4Matthew StacksGrand Rapids306.04
5Dominic LabellaBay City296.28
6Alex HarmonSpring Lake273.59
7Jason HumphreyJackson240.05
8Ethan Magnum237.89
9Sean BurkeWaterford Township219.36
10Philip SalminenMidland212.86

A whirlwind evening at Sparkeasy, full of twists, turns, and terrific gameplay! But, as they say in pinball – the game is never truly over. So, stay tuned for the next exciting update from the buzzing world of pinball!

Flippin’ Through History at District 82: A Pinball Showdown to Remember!

In the crisp, autumnal air of De Pere, WI, under a clear sky, pinball enthusiasts from far and wide congregated at District 82 Pinball for the Flippin’ Friday Sept 8th tournament. The scent of nostalgia was palpable as players, surrounded by meticulously maintained machines spanning decades, prepped for an intense 7 hours and 31 minutes of pure, unadulterated pinball action.

Tournament Overview:

The clock struck 18:00, and the tournament was in full swing. Organized by the maestro of pinball tournaments, Erik Thoren, the evening was destined for greatness. With 37 contenders vying for the top spot across 4 rounds of 2 games each, the strategy was simple – outscore, outperform, and outlast your opponents. But as we’ve learned from history, execution is always harder than planning.

Game Spotlight:

One of the most thrilling matches took place on a true pinball classic – the Lost World by Bally, dated back to August 1978. Emerging from the midst of pinball warfare were our top contenders: Brian Leuthner clinching the top spot followed closely by Ryan Hacker. Tom Graf, our enigmatic player from PARTS UNKNOWN (and seriously, where is that?) took the third place, while Scott Landowski completed the quartet.

Ruling the Roster:

The final drum roll heralded our champions:

  1. The local hero, Brian Leuthner, ranked 249 in the IFPA.
  2. Tim Petitjean, showcasing his seasoned experience, took the second spot.
  3. Holden Milanowski, the gem from Combined Locks, WI, ranked 3rd.
  4. Not to be outdone, the man behind the evening, Erik Thoren, showcased his prowess by clinching the 4th position.

A Time Machine of Pinball Machines:

District 82’s repertoire is nothing short of a museum, with 116 pinball machines that recount the tales of yesteryears. Among the legends:

The Heartbeat of the Venue:

District 82 website is not your everyday arcade; it’s a time capsule. With tables set for tournament play, it’s a paradise for the pros and a challenge for the intermediates, ensuring everyone has something to take away. The machines are pristine, the ambiance is top-notch (a perfect 5 stars!), but here’s a note: they’re strict about their settings. So, for the casual visitor hoping for an easy play, brace for a challenge! The essence of District 82 lies in its dedication to tournaments, a commitment you’ll appreciate on every visit.

The IFPA Wisconsin Whizzes:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.37
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.25
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.65
4Escher Lefkoff1050.09
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.83
6Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.47
7Zach McCarthyConifer737.28
8Erik ThorenDe Pere732.17
9David DalugaMilwaukee691.14
10Jordan Dechaine683.91

As the flippers rest and the lights dim at District 82, the memories of this pinball showdown will remain vivid for a long time. Can’t wait to see what’s next in store! Stay plugged into the pinball world with us.

The NWPC Pre-Tourney – 4Bs Pinball Palooza: When the Clouds Gather, So Do The Players!

Dark overcast clouds settled over Seattle, giving the city a cinematic, moody feel, fitting for an event that was anything but predictable. With the temperature hovering around 66°F outside this evening, inside the 4Bs Tavern the atmosphere was entirely different: feverish, exciting, and palpable.

On the evening of September 7, 2023, pinball enthusiasts gathered for the NWPC Pre-Tourney – 4Bs pinball tournament, held at the ever-popular 4Bs Tavern. This wasn’t just another gathering; it was a war zone of flippers, silver balls, and brilliantly lit playfields. Organized by the revered Germain Mariolle, the event lasted a whopping 10 hours and 12 minutes.

The Machines That Took The Limelight

With 13 pinball machines from various eras vying for attention, a few managed to steal the limelight:

… And several others had players queued up for another shot at glory.

Standout Game: The Wheel of Fortune Decides

The semifinals saw a fierce battle on the Wheel of Fortune machine, a classic from Stern that’s been captivating players since 2007. Leslie Ruckman from California, boasting an impressive IFPA rank of 168, clinched the first spot. She was closely followed by Maka Honig and Seattle’s very own Jarrett Gaddy, with Daniel Salo from Los Angeles finishing fourth. The dynamics, energy, and sheer skill on display were a testament to how intense and competitive pinball can be.

Champions Rise

Jon Salzman, with his agile fingers and focused demeanor, emerged as the champion, followed by Maka Honig, Zac Wollons, and the ever-talented Leslie Ruckman. These players showcased an unparalleled mastery over the machines, ensuring their positions among the elite.

The Venue: 4Bs Tavern

Having been revamped in late 2021 or early 2022, 4Bs Tavern managed to retain its dive bar soul while adding a touch of modern class. Apart from the immersive pinball experience, one could sense a comfortable, unpretentious charm about the place, further elevated by its unique square wooden-framed area, perhaps ready for an impromptu music session or a stand-up act.

The IFPA Washington Standings Speak Volumes

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Lonnie LangfordSeattle479.13
2Jarrett GaddySeattle427.93
3Germain MariolleRedmond427.18
4David ChernicoffSeattle417.6
5Richie TerrySeattle375.66
6Sean IrbySeattle360.93
7Dave StewartCarnation350.99
8Neal JoslynBremerton339.8
9Jaran JonesSeattle291.33
10Alex Singleterry284.17

The standings are a testament to the level of dedication and passion the players bring to the table (pun intended).

As the silver balls came to rest and the scores were tallied, the event closed with anticipation in the air. For in the realm of pinball, there’s always another game, another tournament, another challenge just around the corner. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates!

The Wrath of Pinball: An Undisclosed Evening of Texas-sized Challenges

On a mysterious evening, September 7, 2023, the sun set somewhere in Texas, not just to bring forth the starry night, but to signal the onset of the Wrath of Pinball tournament. And as darkness enveloped the Lone Star State, 13 elite pinball enthusiasts gathered at a location so secretive even the owls and coyotes were left guessing.

An Evening of Unpredictability

Organized by the enigmatic Ray Ford, the tournament started at 8 PM and ran for an impressive 7 and a half hours. With 5 grueling rounds, each player battled the machines, gravity, and, of course, their fellow competitors. The objective? Simple, yet daunting: amass the most points and emerge as the ultimate pinball wizard.

The Surprise Standout Round

Round 2 witnessed an unexpected twist, played on Cactus Canyon by Bally. It wasn’t just about the ball and flippers, but the dramatic turnaround of ranks. Dave Parisotto, with an IFPA rank of 18863, clinched the top spot, leaving Jonathon Morales and Lee Thibodeau in wonderment. Lee, despite having no official rank, showcased sheer talent. A true testimony that sometimes, it’s the spirit of the game that truly counts.

And The Winners Are…

At the end of this undisclosed rollercoaster:

  1. Keb Gallows: A regular with 32 IFPA events, claiming his victory.
  2. Ray Ford: The man himself, not just an organizer, but a fierce competitor from Austin, Texas.
  3. Larry Morales: Another Austin native, showing that this city isn’t just about live music.
  4. Alex Johnson305: A wild card, first-time player making a mark.

The Machines That Made The Night

Among the 17 majestic pinball machines present, a few stood out with their legacy:

Texas’s Pinball Legends

Amidst the secrecy of the event, one thing remains transparent: Texas’s Top 10 Pinball Maestros:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands490
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.76
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station320.83
5Lee BalusekConroe254.5
6Fred RevnewThe Woodlands248.59
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio223.13
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio211.3
10Kevin RodriguezDenton206.72

Until Next Time…

Though the venue remains a secret, the passion and skill of these pinball enthusiasts are undeniable. As the night faded and the flippers rested, the world was left with tales of a thrilling tournament somewhere in Texas. One can only hope Ray Ford will drop us a hint about the next location. Stay tuned for more updates from the mysterious world of pinball!

Pins, Points, and One Incredible Bartender at Tik Tok’s Pinball Party

September 5th, 2023. The skies were overcast with a touch of chill at 65°F. But inside Tik Tok’s Workshop at 1216 Sylvan Way, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/5 pinball tournament was about to kick off, promising an evening of intensity, nostalgia, and a touch of wizardry.

Flipping Through The Atmosphere

Bremerton, WA became the playground for pinball enthusiasts as they gathered for the competition organized by Richard Godwin. However, while the competitors were making a ruckus with their flipper skills, the star of the venue had to be the rockstar bartender. Handling food, mixed drinks, servicing machines – all with the kind of multi-tasking skills you’d think were reserved for an octopus. This cool, bearded guy stole hearts and applause, proving that sometimes, the unsung heroes lie outside the competition.

Spotlight on the Sixth

The most exhilarating match had to be in Round 6. Williams’ Demolition Man, a throwback from 1994, became the battlefield for some intense pinball action. Pinky Barney, despite her rank of 6627, stunned the crowd with a victory. Close on her heels was Jessica Barron, proving that rankings are just numbers when you’re in the zone.

A Stellar Lineup

From the fruit-filled antics of Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons to the apocalyptic rushes of Terminator 2: Judgment Day, the array of pinball machines was a delight for both players and spectators. Machines like Icarus, Firepower, and Monster Bash (Remake) only added to the vintage charm and challenged the skills of the players.

And The Ball Drops On…

While every player brought their A-game, Jessica Barron emerged as the queen of the arcade, securing the top spot. A special shoutout to Richard Godwin, who not only organized the event but also nailed the second place! Pinky Barney’s performance was a surprise treat, coming in third.

Washington’s Pinball Prodigies

Here are the IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings to keep you on your toes:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Lonnie LangfordSeattle479.12
2Jarrett GaddySeattle427.92
3Germain MariolleRedmond427.18
4David ChernicoffSeattle417.6
5Richie TerrySeattle375.65
6Sean IrbySeattle360.93
7Dave StewartCarnation350.98
8Neal JoslynBremerton339.8
9Jaran JonesSeattle291.31
10Alex Singleterry284.17

With a night that had drama, nostalgia, and unexpected heroes, Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/5 pinball tournament will be one for the books. Until next time, keep those balls rolling and flippers flipping. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next pinball sensation!

Hot Times and Hotter Plays at Electric Bat’s Pinball Showdown

In a world where video games have increasingly gone digital, the allure of the silver ball bouncing around in a well-lit box, replete with sound effects and bonuses, is undying. This was vividly apparent at the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #5 pinball tournament. Held on September 05, 2023, at the legendary Electric Bat Arcade, this competition witnessed drama, unexpected turns, and the legacy of a pinball machine that many hold dear.

Desert Heats and Dracula Beats

In an evening that sizzled at a scorching 98°F, clear skies couldn’t have been more misleading. Inside Electric Bat, a chill of suspense hung in the air. The fifth round played host to a formidable game on the Bram Stoker’s Dracula machine, a classic from Williams crafted in 1993. Henry Hanshaw, ranked 646 by the IFPA, pulled an upset, securing the top spot, leaving behind higher-ranked opponents in his wake. A true testament to the unpredictable magic of pinball!

Who Emerged as the Pinball Wizards?

First and foremost, a bow of respect to Roland Nadeau. Holding the top rank in Arizona with 267 IFPA events under his belt, he lived up to his reputation by clinching the top spot. Not far behind were the likes of Walter Dony, Jard Cassell, and Jay Bondelli. Each brought their unique flair, strategy, and game to the table, making the competition all the more enthralling.

A Machine for Every Player

What is a pinball tournament without a glorious lineup of machines? From the political intrigue of Game Of Thrones (Pro) to the prehistoric adventures in Jurassic Park, and not forgetting the heart-pumping action of Terminator 2: Judgment Day – the machines were as much the stars of the show. Recent additions like James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) only added to the mix, ensuring players had a blend of nostalgia and new challenges.

A Venue Like No Other

One step into the Electric Bat Arcade, and you’re transported. Was this an arcade or a dive bar? The incredible bartenders, food, and functional games made it a haven for both the casual visitor and the hardcore pinball enthusiast. The unexpected surprise? Unique rhythm games from Japan – try playing those after a couple of drinks!

Top Dogs of Arizona

Here’s a look at the crème de la crème of Arizona’s pinball wizards:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.86
2Mark PearsonPhoenix535.9
3John ShoppleMesa520.11
4John MagyarGilbert316.35
5Paul BlancoChandler304.32
6Kevan CarterTempe295.87
7Jason BarreMesa292.35
8Joey RioSurprise282.01
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.82
10Andrew Roesch255.21

Electric Bat’s recent tournament stands as a beacon, illuminating the timeless allure of pinball. As the neon lights dimmed and the buzz of the evening faded into the desert night, one thing was clear – in the world of pinball, legends can be born anytime, anywhere.

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!

Chicago Sunday Best: A Night of Lights, Flips, and Legendary Plays!

On a clear evening with the temperature reading a comfortable 83°F, the pinball enthusiasts of Chicago had their game faces on. It was the Season 5 #2 of the Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League, taking place at the much-acclaimed Logan Arcade. Organized by none other than Mike Pantoliano, the event saw 40 players, some local favorites and others rising stars, all vying for the title of the evening’s pinball champion.

White Water Rages!

There’s always that one game in a tournament that etches itself into the annals of pinball history, and this evening was no exception. On the classic “White Water” by Williams, the balls rolled, jumped, and danced for an astonishing 1 hour, 21 minutes. Bob Twichell from Oaklawn, IL, emerged victorious from this marathon, but every participant, including William Cooper, Kevin Kolodziej, and Lucas Welsh, gave spectators a game to remember.

The Pantheon of Pinball Champions

The air was thick with competition, and when the flippers stopped, and the scores tallied, it was Mike Pantoliano, the organizer himself, who stood tallest. Following him were Andrew Wilkening, Bob Twichell, and Madeleine Benz, who showcased skills, strategies, and a touch of pinball magic to secure their spots.

Machines of Glory

From Stern’s recent “James Bond 007 (Premium)” to the beloved “Theatre of Magic” by Bally, Logan Arcade was a dazzling array of pinball machines, each with its legacy and lure. Personal favorites? The thrilling “Game of Thrones (Premium)” and the ever-spooky “Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium).” The beeps, buzzes, and illuminations from these machines were like a siren call, drawing both players and spectators into their grasp.

Logan Arcade: The Mecca of Pinball in Chicago

Ah, Logan Arcade. With its fantastic selection of pinball machines and competitive pricing, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite amongst enthusiasts. As one visitor aptly put, “Amazing selection of pinball, good prices. Will definitely be back next time I’m in Chicago.” If you’re a pinball aficionado or a newbie looking to dive into this world, Logan Arcade’s doors are always open.

The Best of Illinois

The IFPA Illinois Top 10 Standings were as follows:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.67
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.12
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Chuck Sanderson169.23
5Ryan McQuaid163.06
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago151.11
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn135.69
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.1

With the evening drawing to a close, the lights dimming, and the echoes of the pinballs fading away, one thing remained evident: Chicago’s pinball scene is alive, thriving, and filled with talent. Here’s to more flippin’ fun in the future! Stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!

Seattle’s Pinball Showdown: An Epic Journey through Time and Skill

Overcast skies at a comfortable 67°F painted the perfect backdrop on September 3, 2023, for an intense pinball showdown at The Ice Box. Located at the heart of Seattle, this venue reverberated with enthusiasm and competitive fervor, thanks to the Ice Box Mixed Matchplay tournament organized by the spirited Germain Mariolle.

An Epic Battle with the Stars (Star Gazer, to be precise!)

The true magic of pinball is when a game transcends time. This was brilliantly evident during the longest match of the tournament on “Star Gazer” by Stern, a machine that has enthralled players since 1980. The game spanned an astonishing 97 minutes! Phillip Saltzman secured the top spot with Dave Stewart, Richie Terry, and Lonnie Langford right on his heels. Such tenacity, especially on a vintage machine, is a testament to the players’ dedication and skill.

Celebrating the Titans of Pinball

When the flippers finally rested, Lonnie Langford emerged as the undisputed champion. Following him were Ashley Weaver, Jarrett Gaddy, and Trevor McDonald, who showcased exemplary gameplay. A special mention goes out to Emily Reilhan, who traveled all the way from Canada to make her mark on the top 10, embodying the international spirit of pinball.

A Blast from the Past: The Machines

The Ice Box was an eclectic mix of vintage classics and modern marvels. Machines like “Centaur” and “Dolly Parton” transported players back to the 80s, while “Jurassic Park (Pro)” offered a more recent thrill. The impeccable condition of these machines and their rotation ensured players experienced the best of both worlds.

The Icy Charm of The Ice Box

The Ice Box isn’t just another arcade. It’s a piece of Seattle’s rich history, offering a delightful fusion of the past and present. From its unique ice locker architecture to the ever-evolving game selection (hello, Killer Queen machines!), it’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts. And who could resist a BBQ offering delicious treats for patrons?

The bar’s eclectic selection of beverages, paired with an array of local arts and crafts, adds to its charm. The Ice Box isn’t just about games; it’s about community. Regular tournaments, coupled with live music, make it a hub of entertainment.

The Top Players in Washington

The IFPA Washington Top 10 Standings after the epic showdown were:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Lonnie LangfordSeattle455.38
2Germain MariolleRedmond422.98
3David ChernicoffSeattle411.82
4Jarrett GaddySeattle407.17
5Richie TerrySeattle375.62
6Sean IrbySeattle355.73
7Dave StewartCarnation344.53
8Neal JoslynBremerton339.8
9Jaran JonesSeattle291.28
10Conrad RustadBremerton284.15

This table, while showcasing the top pinball talent of Washington, is a promise that the pinball scene in Seattle and surrounding regions will remain vibrant for years to come.

The flippers might have rested for now, but the spirit of the game continues to echo. Keep those pinball dreams alive and stay tuned for more updates from the thrilling world of pinball!