The Underdog Triumphs: A Night at Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House

Ah, the pinball scene in Roscoe, Illinois—where the tinkle of the chimes meets the cheers of triumph. It was on the 21st of September, a chilly evening with overcast clouds, that the 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House Pinball Tournament unfurled its flippers.

The Stage Was Set

Hosted at Louie’s Tap House on Elevator Rd and coordinated by Tom Menge, the tournament set out to find the best among the 8 pinball wizards in attendance. With a crisp three-and-a-half-hour runtime and six tense rounds, it promised fierce competition.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?—In Round 3!

One game that no one can stop talking about took place on Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball. In a surprising twist, David Slaymaker, a participant with zero IFPA ranking and zero events under his belt, took the game by storm. The more seasoned players like Vinnie Bologna, Tom Menge, and Shane Shadden had to accept defeat in that round. A classic Scooby-Doo mystery—how did the underdog come out on top?

Heck, someone needs to sign this “Slaymaker” up for IFPA; he’s going around winning tournaments like it’s his day job!

The Titans and the Newcomer

The overall winners of the night were as intriguing as the games they conquered:

  1. David Slaymaker – IFPA rank 0: The mysterious newcomer who proved rankings aren’t everything.
  2. Trae Vance – IFPA rank 3201: Experience paid off for Vance, whose performance was anything but average.
  3. Shane Shadden – IFPA rank 5038: Despite losing to Slaymaker, Shane proved why he keeps coming back to the game.
  4. Vinnie Bologna – IFPA rank 6989: Another seasoned player who had to bow to the might of the newcomer but still secured a place in the top four.

Pinball Corner

Louie’s had no shortage of games to offer. The evening featured a robust line-up of 11 pinball machines, including:

Where Food and Pinball Meet

The Louie’s Tap House experience isn’t just about pinball—it’s also about the atmosphere and, of course, the food. I indulged in a savory French dip that was marred only slightly by the odd piece of fat. The homemade chips and coleslaw were delicious add-ons. And let’s not forget the fantastic margaritas!

Top Guns of Illinois

To put the night into perspective, here are the IFPA Illinois Top 10 rankings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.66
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.11
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Ryan McQuaid179.12
5Chuck Sanderson169.23
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago152.87
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn137.55
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.1

This night at Louie’s Tap House was a reminder of the unpredictable, captivating nature of pinball—a night where an underdog could become a champion. Until next month’s showdown, keep those flippers flipping!

The Drama, The Upsets, The Glory: Inside the Thursday Throwdown at Arcade Legacy

Forget Netflix; forget primetime TV. The most gripping drama last week unfolded in a different kind of arena — the Arcade Legacy Sharonville in Cincinnati, Ohio, on the night of September 21, 2023. The clock struck 7:00 PM and thus began the Thursday Throwdown, a pinball showdown that defied rankings, defied odds, and made a lasting impression on everyone present.

A Format Built for Intensity

Organized by the meticulous Erik Wurtenberger, this tourney wasn’t your standard fare. With 7 grueling rounds of head-to-head gameplay in the first stage alone, the atmosphere was akin to a pinball pressure cooker. The intensity did not stop there. The top 8 scorers then progressed to the Finals, which featured two further rounds, each with a trifecta of games.

The Banzai Run Saga

The spotlight for drama was unarguably on Banzai Run by Williams. In the finals, this machine from May 1988 became the backdrop for an epic 103-minute duel that was the longest game of the tournament. With the flippers clicking like clockwork and the scoreboard a constant flurry of digits, Jesse Baker (IFPA rank 374) managed to edge out Joel Bergantino (IFPA rank 806), Stuart Nyswonger (IFPA rank 615), and Chris Hardewig (IFPA rank 2738) for the top spot in the round.

Overall Tournament Winners: The Definitive List

For those who love to cut to the chase, here are your champions:

  1. Joel Bergantino – IFPA Rank 806, Total IFPA Events 80
  2. Stuart Nyswonger – IFPA Rank 615, Total IFPA Events 287
  3. Jesse Baker – IFPA Rank 374, Total IFPA Events 259
  4. Chris Hardewig – IFPA Rank 2738, Total IFPA Events 39
  5. Roy Richey – IFPA Rank 2043, Total IFPA Events 186
  6. Jake Buchanan – IFPA Rank 3475, Total IFPA Events 32
  7. Justin Schnetzer – IFPA Rank 3531, Total IFPA Events 31
  8. Ian Raffenberg – IFPA Rank 17950, Total IFPA Events 1

The Machines of Destiny

Banzai Run wasn’t the only pinball machine in the spotlight. Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, released in 2021, served up excitement with its immersive gameplay, while Doctor Who by Bally offered a nostalgia-inducing challenge. And who could forget The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern? The zombie-apocalyptic world was an adrenaline rush that many players couldn’t get enough of.

The Venue — More Than Just Pinball

Arcade Legacy Sharonville is not just a pinball paradise; it’s an entire universe of arcade enjoyment. What makes it unique is its blend of classic cabinet games, modern rhythm experiences, and yes, an in-house bar to soothe the nerves after a tight game. It’s no wonder that players and spectators alike end up spending their entire evening here, coming for the pinball but staying for the full-bodied entertainment experience.

Ohio’s Who’s Who in Pinball

Let’s put things in context with Ohio’s top 10 pinball wizards:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Aaron Rich583.06
2Gregory KennedyPlain City514.31
3Stephen PrusaCleveland509.91
4Carlos DelaserdaColumbus423.75
5John DelzoppoCleveland364.06
6Andrew LeeCleveland342.56
7Cody WebbWesterville309.22
8Galvin MorganOlmsted Falls300.74
9Jesse BakerCincinnati276.29
10Jack NebraskaColumbus270.15

As the drama of the Thursday Throwdown settles, and as these digital warriors get ready for their next battle, it’s clear that the story is far from over. The question isn’t just who will win the next tournament, but what new legends will be written in this ever-exciting world of competitive pinball.

So, to everyone out there who thinks pinball is just a game, I say this: come down to Arcade Legacy and prepare to have your world rocked.

Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball! 🎮🏆🤘

The Time-Defying Duel at SFPD Fall 2023: A Night Where Every Flipper Counted

At the strike of 7:30 PM on September 20, 2023, the pinball wizards of California convened at Free Gold Watch in San Francisco for a night of electrifying competition. Organized by the San Francisco Pinball Department, the SFPD Fall 2023 #4 tournament had all the makings of a legendary showdown, complete with a game that lasted longer than time itself.

A Timeless Venue

First, let’s talk about the venue. Free Gold Watch has a name that sounds like a secret society for time travelers, and it felt just like that. Imagine walking into a space where every flick of a pinball flipper seems to slow down time. It’s a pinball parlor that doubles as a date spot, ideal for lovebirds who’d rather bond over a high score than a candlelit dinner.

The Longest Game in SFPD History

Black Knight: Sword of Rage, a Stern pinball machine from 2019, was the real star of the evening. As though caught in a time warp, the game extended to a mind-boggling 145 minutes. Now, if you’re a math wizard, you’ll notice that’s longer than the entire tournament (which lasted 139 minutes). How does that happen? Only in the realm of pinball, my friends.

It was Guest Amy Martin, an unranked player, who claimed first place in this never-ending battle, putting seasoned players to shame. Following her were Jose Godinez (IFPA rank 2827), Zac Wollons (IFPA rank 173), and Josh Lehan (IFPA rank 1059).

Pinball Titans & Their Machines

The event featured an impressive array of 62 pinball machines, but a few stood out in particular:

Winners Take It All

The overall winner was none other than Jared Garvey from Berkeley, CA, closely followed by Gabe Da Silveira from Oakland and Andrei Massenkoff from San Francisco. Eric Wagensonner rounded out the top four, proving that the city’s local pinball scene is a force to be reckoned with.

California Dreamin’

Here’s a quick look at the IFPA’s current California Top 10 Standings to give you an idea of the fierce competition:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale538.96
2Raymond AshbyLos Angeles518.08
3Gabe Da SilveiraOakland462.95
4Scott MaciasGlendora456.81
5Nic SteinDavis418.14
6Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
7Escher Lefkoff–411.53
8Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
9Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights401.79
10Leslie Ruckman–360.98

A Night to Remember

In a city known for its eccentricities, the SFPD Fall 2023 #4 pinball tournament did not disappoint. From time-defying games to rookie upsets, this was one for the books.

Keep flipping those flippers and stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Punk Rock Meets Pinball: The Untold Story of Week 12’s Electric Showdown

Picture this: the sun sets over Mesa, Arizona, the desert heat starts to subside, and the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade lights flicker on, signaling the start of an underground revolution. But instead of mosh pits and guitars, the stars of the show are pinball flippers and bumpers. Yes, it’s the Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 12, and if you think pinball can’t rock, well, buddy, you haven’t been to a tournament organized by Matt Trethewey.

The Tournament Where Everyone Was a Rockstar

As the clock hit 6:30 PM, 13 players stepped into the proverbial ring, going head-to-head in 10 frenzied games each. For an electrifying 2 hours and 25 minutes, participants were not just competing against each other but also racing against the clock. It was raw, it was intense, and it was most definitely punk rock.

X-Men Magneto (LE) Takes the Stage

Even in a sea of high-speed, intense games, X-Men Magneto (LE) by Stern stood out, becoming the undisputed fan-favorite with nine games played. The machine had participants hooked with its magnetic features (pun totally intended), challenging them to bring their A-game. Following closely behind was Whirlwind by Williams, with the longest average game duration at around 10 minutes, making it the “Stairway to Heaven” of pinball games for the night.

An Unexpected Win for the Underdog

The winner of the night was none other than Jeff Wegener, who boasts an IFPA ranking of 4163 and has only participated in eight IFPA events. Despite his rookie status, he racked up 5 wins, showing that even in the world of pinball, punk rock’s underdog ethos is alive and well.

A Vibrant Venue with a Twist

If you’re wondering about the venue, let’s just say B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade is a true pinball haven. But it’s not just the games that have people talking; it’s the ales and the atmosphere. With a variety of beers and an open policy on outside food, it’s a venue that offers a complete experience. And if you’re in the mood to mix it up, there’s always downtown Mesa just a flipper’s flick away.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite

Just to set the scene a little more, here’s a snapshot of Arizona’s Pinball Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau671.68
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.17
3John ShoppleMesa569.41
4John MagyarGilbert351.79
5Kevan CarterTempe320.85
6Jason BarreMesa312.19
7Adam HortonPhoenix310.26
8Paul BlancoChandler305.5
9Joey RioSurprise282.01
10Walter donyPhoenix280.57

For all the pinball aficionados out there, it’s worth mentioning that Jim Smith AZ, with an IFPA rank of 455 and 452 total IFPA events, couldn’t break past 4th place. It just goes to show, in the world of punk rock pinball, anything can happen.

In true punk rock fashion, the night was a testament to the spirit of fun, competitiveness, and community that lives in the heart of pinball culture. And if this is how Week 12 went down, just imagine what future weeks hold. So, stay tuned for more updates from the electrifying world of pinball.

The Sisterhood of Skill Shots: Inside the Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level #2

In the heart of Texas, specifically at Low’s Sound Lab in Houston, 21 women stood with laser focus, poised to take on the flippers and become pinball goddesses of the Space City. Welcome to the second installment of the “Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level,” an enchanting night of pinball where flair met skill.

When Time Stood Still at Cactus Canyon

In Round 1, the atmosphere reached peak intensity when the players huddled around Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming. The game stretched on for an eye-popping 69 minutes. Imagine the determination and intense concentration that went into each flipper shot! Summer Ellington, a newcomer with an unranked IFPA status, astonished everyone by taking first place. Following her were Miette Dronet, Liz Nebeker, and Elizabeth Dronet, seasoned players who surely felt the heat of the newcomer’s zeal.

The Cream of the Crop

The end of the tournament heralded a new sisterhood of pinball champions:

  1. Dawn Hayes – IFPA rank 5250, yet her play defied numbers as she snagged the top spot.
  2. Emily Hoffman – From Katy, TX, she showcased why she’s attended 126 IFPA events with a stellar second-place finish.
  3. Gina Low – Also from Katy, TX, Gina’s experience in 146 IFPA events shined through as she took third place.
  4. Miette Dronet – Her lengthy IFPA history (213 events) paid off as she rounded out the top four.

Pinball Machine Majesty

Low’s Sound Lab was practically a museum of pinball history, featuring 19 exquisite machines, each with its unique allure. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Diner by Williams: An old-school charm that still fascinates players to this day.
  • Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams: A voyage into space and strategic gameplay.
  • Jurassic Park by Data East: This dinosaur-themed wonder tested reflexes as well as nerves.
  • The Addams Family by Bally: The quirkiest family in pop culture got the pinball treatment it deserves.
  • Fish Tales by Williams: A serene yet cunning machine where angling met pinball.

Mysterious Vibes

We wish we could reveal more about the atmosphere inside Low’s Sound Lab, but for now, it remains an enigma, with Space City Pinball withholding the venue details on MatchPlay. One thing is clear, however: the secretive aura only adds to the allure.

Lone Star Pinball Maestros

To give you an idea of where this tournament fits into the broader picture, here are the latest IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands490
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.72
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station320.84
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.09
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio223.13
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio212.23
10Kevin RodriguezDenton210.55

It’s a wrap for now, but make no mistake: the women of the Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level are already aiming for the next high score. Until then, keep flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the incredible realm of pinball! 🌵🚀

Where the Underdogs Roar: A Night at Ball Busters Pinball League

Ah, the sweet clinking of pinballs against bumpers, the flashing lights, and that electric feeling you get when the machine erupts in a cacophony of sound as you unlock multiball—it’s the magic of pinball! The Ball Busters Pinball League returned for its 2023 Season #5 Week 3 at the much-revered Pinball Gallery in Malvern, Pennsylvania. And trust me, this one was for the books!

Quick Facts:

The event took place on September 20, 2023, starting at 6:30 PM. The gathering saw 17 pinball enthusiasts go flipper-to-flipper in five intense rounds. Our gracious host, Bill Disney, kept the event running smoothly, clocking in at just a minute shy of two hours. The weather? Let’s just say it was as clear as the players’ focus that night.

Spotlight on Batman 66

Ah, the caped crusader! No, I’m not talking about Batman; I’m talking about Ana Dult, an unranked underdog who swooped in and took the first place in a round on Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern. The other contenders, Charissa Wiley, Linda Slodki, and Kate Ocasio, also unranked, fought valiantly but had to settle for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th respectively.

An Unusual Leaderboard

Now, here’s the kicker. Our winners’ podium featured names you won’t find in the Top 10 IFPA standings. Let’s give a massive shoutout to the champions:

  1. Ana Dult – Unranked but mighty, this was her 7th IFPA event. Can someone get her ranked, please?
  2. Jamme Thomas – A seasoned player who showcased his skills splendidly.
  3. Becky Kisling – Another unranked gem, making waves in her 12th IFPA event.
  4. Sherry Disney – She showed she’s nobody’s sidekick in pinball.

The Machines That Witnessed It All

The Pinball Gallery offered an impressive spread of 12 machines, making sure there was something for everyone. Here are some of the highlight machines of the night:

A Blast from the Past

The venue? A retro haven. It was like stepping into a time machine aimed squarely at the ’80s, complete with a plethora of games that would make anyone feel nostalgic. With a convenient location and the added bonus of an Asian grocery store next door, this spot had it all.

IFPA Pennsylvania Top 10

And just for perspective, here’s how the local champions line up:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens180.56
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh152.25
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.78
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.81
5Stephen LeChesterbrook110.04
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia98.16
7Matt GuslerPhiladelphia94.96
8Tony MakowskiLansdale78.75
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72
10Jay Robinson70.23

See that? Not a single Top 10 IFPA player took the trophy this time. And that, my friends, is the beauty of pinball—anyone can be a hero for a night. So keep those flippers ready; we’ll be back with more pinball action soon!

Emporium Hi-Scorium: Where Pinball Dreams Take Flight

When neon lights flicker and the crowd gathers in a huddle, you know the Emporium Arcade Bar in San Francisco has something special in store. On September 19, 2023, the popular arcade bar turned into a battle arena, a proving ground where pinball aficionados vied for the title of Emporium Hi-Scorium Champion.

The Ambiance and Setting

The atmosphere was electric, both figuratively and literally, as pinball enthusiasts from all over the Bay Area filled the retro-style arcade. The venue’s vintage neon aesthetic bathed the competitors in otherworldly light, their eyes fixed on the pinball screens. Who says you can’t enjoy nostalgia while gulping down a good drink?

A Long Night of Flipper Magic

Organized by Myriad Pinball, the tournament saw 25 players divide into groups and compete across 4 initial rounds. With scattered clouds and a chilly 59°F outside, the competition inside was only getting hotter. The finalists would then proceed to a final showdown featuring not one but three games.

Spider-Man Swings into Action

One game that stood out during the tourney was a marathon 71-minute clash on the Spider-Man pinball machine by Stern. Players usually complete a game in a fraction of this time, but Jackie Olson, Jared Garvey, Reuben Esparza, and Ryan Dunn had other ideas. Each ball seemed to defy gravity, dancing between flippers, ramps, and tunnels, as if Peter Parker himself had orchestrated their path.

In the end, it was Jackie Olson who took the crown, with Jared Garvey not too far behind. Reuben Esparza, a wildcard entry with an IFPA rank of zero, surprised everyone by placing third, ahead of Ryan Dunn.

The Machines that Stole the Spotlight

Besides the legendary Spider-Man machine, other pinball games included in the tournament were:

Meet the Champions

When the dust settled, Jackie Olson from San Francisco emerged victorious, followed by Jared Garvey from Berkeley, and Ryan Dunn from Sacramento. The biggest surprise was the rookie Reuben Esparza, who had never played in an IFPA event before and yet managed to snatch the 4th place.

The Cream of the Californian Crop

The tournament wasn’t just a spectacle but a platform where the rising stars could measure themselves against the state’s best:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale538.96
2raymond ashbyLos Angeles518.08
3Gabe Da SilveiraOakland462.95
4Scott MaciasGlendora456.81
5Nic SteinDavis418.14
6Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
7Escher Lefkoff411.53
8Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
9Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights401.79
10Leslie Ruckman360.98

Final Thoughts

If the Emporium Hi-Scorium tournament proved anything, it’s that pinball is a sport where anything can happen. Veterans and newcomers alike can find common ground, even if it’s a playfield decked out with lights, bumpers, and obstacles. From the intense 71-minute Spider-Man round to the Cinderella story of Reuben Esparza, the night was a testament to why we still love to hear that silver ball bounce.

So, until the flippers flip again, let the spirit of friendly competition and nostalgia guide you to the next pinball showdown.

Stay tuned for more updates from the electrifying realm of pinball!

The Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament – A Night of High-Speed Thrills and Unexpected Twists!

In the picturesque town of Malvern, PA, where the night air was crisp at 66°F under a clear sky, pinball enthusiasts gathered in animated huddles. The reason? The eagerly anticipated Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament, slated for September 19, 2023.

Venue Vibes: Pinball Gallery, Malvern

Nestled snugly at 81 Lancaster Ave, the Pinball Gallery reverberated with the nostalgic pings and clangs of 68 resplendent machines, each offering its unique adventures. As one wandered through the maze of gleaming tables, the ‘Guns ‘n Roses’ machine caught many an eye. Nearby, ’80s kids were teleported back to their childhood, mastering Super Mario Brothers on a vintage television, much to the amazement of the younger generation. If someone wanted a reprieve from the pinball frenzy, board games were at hand. But what really stole the show? The PacMan video game-pinball machine combo. The cherry on the top: an amiable staff member, brimming with stories and facts about these mechanical marvels.

A Semifinal to Remember

The tournament, diligently orchestrated by Bill Disney, saw 29 players dueling over 10 games. Among these, a pulsating game on ‘The Getaway: High Speed II‘ emerged as the showstopper during the Semifinals. Phoenixville’s Daniel Piombino raced ahead, closely tailed by Malvern’s pinball prodigy, Tessa Morton. Not too far behind were John Bowman, a fresh face with no IFPA rank to his name, and the seasoned Nick Hislop.

The Night’s Best: Pinball Champions Steal the Show

  1. Tessa Morton (Malvern, PA) – Defying her IFPA rank of 1999, Tessa emerged as the undeniable champion of the night, bagging a staggering 6 wins.
  2. Daniel Piombino (Phoenixville, PA) – Trailing close behind, Daniel showcased some impeccable skills, bagging 5 wins against his name.
  3. Tony Makowski (Lansdale, PA) – Sporting an IFPA rank of 773, Tony’s vast experience in the realm of pinball shone brightly as he too clinched 5 wins.
  4. Dave Runk (PA) – Dave, coming from the underdog rank of 6224, surprised many by matching the top players with 6 wins.
  5. John Bowman – The dark horse of the tournament. With no prior IFPA rank or events, John showcased natural talent, securing 5 impressive wins.
  6. Jamme Thomas (PA) – Another formidable competitor, Jamme played fiercely, marking the scoreboard with 5 wins against his IFPA rank of 3433.
  7. Nick Hislop – With nearly a century of IFPA events under his belt, Nick lived up to expectations by adding another 5 wins to his legacy.
  8. Stephen Le (Chesterbrook, PA) – Stephen, ranking 1177, might’ve clinched 3 wins, but his performance throughout the night was nothing short of remarkable.

For a detailed view of the pinball elite:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens–180.56
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh152.25
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.78
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk–136.81
5Stephen LeChesterbrook109.02
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia98.16
7Matt GuslerPhiladelphia94.96
8Tony MakowskiLansdale76.73
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72
10Jay Robinson–70.23

In the Glare of the Neon: Pinball Machines that Defined the Tournament

A slew of machines, old and new, served as the battleground. ‘Deadpool (Pro)‘, from 2018, drew players into its vortex with an average game time of 22 minutes. Meanwhile, the popular ‘The Getaway: High Speed II‘, with 6 games played, witnessed the most action.

  1. Rush (LE) by Stern (2022) – The newest on the block, it dazzled with its sharp graphics and adrenaline-pumping gameplay, reminiscent of the legendary rock band it’s named after.
  2. Mars God of War by Gottlieb (1981) – A vintage delight, it reminded players of a time when pinball was the king of arcades.
  3. Fish Tales by Williams (1992) – With its aquatic theme and catchy sound effects, this machine had many a player hooked!
  4. Genesis by Gottlieb (1986) – A nostalgic trip down memory lane, with its retro graphics and sounds, Genesis remains a fan favorite.
  5. Space Station by Williams (1987) – Promising an interstellar experience, this machine’s gravitational pull was irresistible to many.

The Final Flippers

In a world where mechanical precision meets human skill, the Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament was more than just a game—it was an experience. As the evening drew to a close, one thing was evident: the world of pinball, with its blend of nostalgia and innovation, is very much alive and flippin’.

Stay in the loop for more dazzling dispatches from pinball paradise!

Electric Bat Rises: A Day Under the Pinball Sun!

Picture this: It’s a blazing 90°F, the sun’s rays piercing through a clear sky, casting a bright glow on the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, AZ. Inside, the atmosphere is electric (pun intended!), contrasting the warmth outside with the cool competitive spirit that is about to take over for the next ten and a half hours.

An Epic of Flipping Proportions

Organized by the indomitable Rachel Bess, the Electric Bat Season 9 Series 1 #1 pinball tournament kickstarted with the battle cry of 98 contenders on September 19, 2023. These pinball wizards formed groups, took to the machines, and played their hearts out over five thrilling rounds.

Bond… James Bond Takes Center Stage

Among the heroes of the day, a standout performance in Round 2 saw Paul Blanco, a Chandler native, outshine all on the James Bond 007 (Premium). He was closely tailed by Gavin Bowman and Mark Kelber. And let’s not forget Rachel Buck, who despite having an IFPA rank of 0, played her way into the round. This Bond certainly had its share of players both shaken and stirred!

Pinball Palace Par Excellence

The Electric Bat Arcade is a treasure trove of pinball machines. The alluring pull of “Game Of Thrones (Pro)” by Stern, the roaring thrill of the recently released “Godzilla (Premium)“, the mystique of the classic “Twilight Zone“, and the action-packed sequences of “Demolition Man” and “Johnny Mnemonic” kept players and spectators hooked.

Champions of the Day

When the flippers stopped flipping, it was Greg Davis from Phoenix who rose as the undisputed champion, followed by Nicholas Zachry, John Shopple, and Cody Winant. Their consistent performance over multiple games solidified their standings, reminding everyone of the dedication it takes to reign supreme in the pinball world.

Arizona’s Top Pinball Maestros

The tournament wasn’t just a one-day wonder. It reflected Arizona’s rich legacy of pinball enthusiasts:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau671.68
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.16
3John ShoppleMesa569.41
4John MagyarGilbert351.79
5Kevan CarterTempe320.85
6Jason BarreMesa312.2
7Adam HortonPhoenix307.57
8Paul BlancoChandler305.5
9Joey RioSurprise282
10Walter donyPhoenix280.57

Beyond the Game

For those who ventured into Electric Bat for the first time, it was more than just a pinball arena. The venue served as a delightful respite where one could grab a bite, sip on a refreshing drink, and indulge in arcade memories. To quote a visitor, “this is the first place I have been where all the games actually worked; all the buttons functioned.”

Whether you’re a pinball pro, an arcade aficionado, or someone looking to relive some cherished memories, Electric Bat Arcade offers something for everyone. This tournament might have ended, but the echoes of the games played, the laughter shared, and the competition faced will linger on.

Until next time, keep those balls rolling and stay tuned for more updates from the exciting realm of pinball!

Tik Tok’s Pinball Showdown: When Fierce Competition Meets Classic Fun

Under an overcast sky with temperatures lingering around 59°F, pinball aficionados gathered at Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton. But despite the slight chill in the air, the action inside was nothing short of fiery. The event of the evening on September 18, 2023? The ‘Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 9/18’ pinball tournament!

Setting the Scene: Tik Tok’s Workshop

Nestled at 1216 Sylvan Way, Tik Tok’s is more than just a pinball hub. The place hums with energy, be it from the thrumming of the machines or the chatter of enthusiasts. And while we did visit on a busier night some time ago and enjoyed their tantalizing drink options like pudding shots and the delightful “Dirty and Dry”, this evening was all about the pinball.

Discover more about Tik Tok’s here: http://www.tiktoksworkshop.com/

The Tournament Rundown

Richard Godwin, the man behind the magic, had the tournament running in top gear. With 14 players and a Basic Knockout format, the tension was palpable across the 12 rounds. And with the looming threat of elimination after seven strikes, every move mattered.

The ‘Monster Bash (Remake)‘ game in Round 10 was a sight to behold. Andrew McCann, leveraging his extensive experience, took top honors, while Donovan Haga and Conrad Rustad gave stellar performances.

Champions of the Evening

Here are the stars of the night:

  1. Andrew McCann – Clearly in his element with an impressive 495 IFPA events experience.
  2. Donovan Haga – Proving that skill and strategy can go hand in hand.
  3. Conrad Rustad – A consistent player who never ceases to impress.
  4. Richard Godwin – Not just an organizer but a pinball maestro himself!

Legendary Machines

Amidst the 12 pinball machines echoing the sounds of hits, bings, and buzzers, a few stood tall:

IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond625.95
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle532.98
3Richie TerrySeattle498.2
4Sean IrbySeattle469.74
5Jarrett GaddySeattle444.49
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.44
7Dave StewartCarnation387.17
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.81
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.69
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.25

As the final scores settled and the machines dimmed, Tik Tok’s workshop echoed with laughter, clinks of glasses, and perhaps, plans for the next showdown. Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the pinball universe! 🍹🎤