The Max Value Classic Challenge 2023: A Pinball Extravaganza in Seattle

In the bustling heart of Seattle, the clinking and clanking of pinballs echoed through the alleys and streets, drawing curious onlookers to the Ice Box Arcade. On October 1, 2023, the arcade transformed into a battleground for the highly-anticipated “Max Value Classic Challenge – 2023/10” pinball tournament.

A Chill Afternoon at the Ice Box Arcade

Located at 615 NW Bright St, the Ice Box Arcade is a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. With a vast collection of pinball machines, the venue is a paradise for enthusiasts. A few clouds drifted in the Seattle sky, with temperatures a cool 63°F. The atmosphere inside the arcade was anything but cold, though. Filled with energy, anticipation, and the indomitable spirit of competition, participants and spectators alike reveled in the joy of the games. While some wished for more diverse arcade games and a richer menu, the massive pinball collection ensured that the focus stayed firmly on the silver ball.

Spotlight on the Bond Game

Round 16 of the tournament saw an intense face-off on the James Bond 007 60th Anniversary Limited Edition pinball machine by Stern. Michael B Bailey, John Robinson WA, Germain Mariolle, and others were immediately drawn into a world that celebrated the entire Bond franchise, spanning 25 iconic films. Each player navigated through the legacy that showcased every Bond actor, the intriguing villains, and their notorious henchmen.

Stern really created an immersive experience, capturing the rich history of 007 in its limited edition design. With only 500 units available globally, it promises a unique and unparalleled pinball session. This machine isn’t just about looks; it offers intense gameplay, asking players to control the chaos unleashed by Oddjob’s kinetic spinning disc hat and confront various villains using special in-game gadgets. The Mission Multiball mayhem gets triggered with precision shots against 10 drop targets, and players must swiftly dodge SPECTRE’s henchmen, guiding the pinballs through four fast-flowing optical spinners. And adding a touch of intrigue, akin to a gadget from Q Branch, the machine features a custom LCD screen set right inside the playfield, allowing players to track their assignments. Plus, for that touch of classic nostalgia, the LCD will display your skyrocketing scores on old school mechanical score reels. It’s a blend of modern gameplay and vintage charm that only James Bond could pull off so stylishly.

The Triumph of Champions

Every flick, every strategy, and every tilt mattered. The best players emerged after rounds of fierce competition:

  1. John Robinson WA – A titan in the pinball world.
  2. Jarrett Gaddy – Seattle’s pride with a wealth of experience.
  3. Michael B Bailey – An up-and-comer making his mark.
  4. Armand Go – Edmonds’ very own pinball prodigy.
  5. Germain Mariolle – Redmond’s top player and a force to be reckoned with.
  6. Lonnie Langford – Always consistent and ever competitive.
  7. Matt Strzelecki – A steady performer throughout.
  8. Jaran Jones – Rounding off the top 8 with a remarkable performance.

Pinball Machines of Note

A diverse range of pinball machines, spanning various eras, were present at the tournament:

The Best from Washington State

The creme de la creme of Washington’s pinball scene:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond636.3
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle540.38
3Richie TerrySeattle498.12
4Sean IrbySeattle469.67
5Jarrett GaddySeattle464.78
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.46
7Dave StewartCarnation399.95
8Neal JoslynBremerton364.7
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.68
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.09

As the evening wrapped up and the neon lights of the arcade started dimming, one thing was clear – pinball is more than just a game; it’s a passion, a community, and a tradition that continues to evolve. Stay tuned for more dazzling updates from the world of pinball!

A Night at The 1Up Lodo: Where Pinballs Roll and Champions Rise

As the overcast clouds hovered over Denver, the iconic 1Up – LoDo arcade bar brimmed with excitement. With the temperature a pleasant 79°F, and in the heart of Denver’s bustling district, pinball enthusiasts gathered for a tournament that would test their skills, strategies, and reflexes.

Gathering for Battle

On the evening of October 1st, 2023, organized by the dynamic Deanna Scalf, 14 top pinball players from around the state converged for the “1up Lodo October Pinball Tournament.” The competition format was intense — it was a Group Knockout Tournament, and with the Progressive Strikes system in place, the stakes were high.

A Legendary Game Stands Out

One game in particular stole the show. The James Bond 007 (Pro) pinball machine, released just a year prior, saw a fierce battle in the third round. Justin Hinman, with his quick reflexes, secured the first spot, followed by a neck-to-neck competition between Tim Bruner, Robert Slyker, and Denver’s own Nate Johnson.

Crowning the Kings of Pinball

Hours of strategic plays, impeccable timings, and a few bouts of good luck led to the crowning of our champions:

  • Robert Slyker: A master of the flippers with 122 IFPA events under his belt.
  • Tim Bruner: An ever-evolving player, bringing his A-game.
  • Justin Hinman: The strategist, reading each bounce and tilt.
  • Ryan Altermatt: A veteran with 251 IFPA events, always up for a challenge.

A Dive into Nostalgia with the Machines

The bar boasted an array of 10 pinball machines, each telling its own tale. The Jurassic Park (Pro) took players on a prehistoric journey, while The Mandalorian (Premium/LE) threw them into a galaxy far, far away. The nostalgic players took a trip down memory lane with classics like The Addams Family, while the newer entrants, such as James Bond 007, promised action and thrills.

The Heart of the Arcade: Venue Vibes

The 1UP Arcade Bar – LoDo wasn’t just about the games. The atmosphere radiated pure joy, combined with a hint of competitive spirit. While the Godzilla pinball machine seemed to be a crowd favorite, the arcade also offered classics like Pac-Man and Street Fighter. The venue perfectly blended old-school charm with modern amenities, ensuring every visitor, player or not, had a memorable time.

Colorado’s Pinball Pride: The Rankings

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood543.38
2Ryan AltermattDenver271.64
3Zach McCarthyConifer194.11
4Donavan SteppLakewood160.64
5Mark AbbottDenver152.5
6Daniel AndersonEnglewood138.44
7Ryan WangerBoulder137.41
8Robert Slyker—129.56
9Lewis Ritenour—126.39
10Mat BrundageDenver125.98

With the tournament wrapping up, it was more than just a game; it was about the community, the shared laughs, the groans at near misses, and the cheers for victories. The pinball scene in Colorado has never been more alive. Until next time, keep the balls rolling and the scores soaring!

SCPL Classics Beat the Clock

Beneath the exhilarating hum of pinball machines and the synchronized bursts of light lay the scene of one of the most competitive pinball battles of the year: The SCPL Classics Beat the Clock. On September 30th, 2023, the Meuller Residence transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts as 29 players clashed in a marathon event that stretched just short of 6 hours.

Historic Highlight: Team One

One moment that had everyone’s eyes riveted to the flippers was during the semifinals. The vintage gem, Team One by Gottlieb from 1977, became the stage for an epic showdown. Mike Flanagan hailing from Houston with an IFPA rank of 1342, took the lead with finesse and style. Greg Megan trailed, followed by David Pollock and Lisa Shore. The machine, over 45 years old, reminded everyone of the lasting allure and challenge of pinball, regardless of its age.

Pinnacle of Pinball Excellence

The culmination of the tournament witnessed strategic mastery and pinball dexterity. Jim Mueller, with an impressive IFPA rank of 360, emerged as the champion, with Tom Cornell and David Pollock capturing the second and third spots respectively. Mike Flanagan, the star from the semifinals, secured the fourth position. Each of these players demonstrated remarkable skills and a deep understanding of the game, captivating the audience with every flick, tilt, and bumper hit.

A Glimpse into Pinball Legacy

The tournament showcased a total of 12 pinball machines, but some deserved a special spotlight. Team One‘s legacy was evident, but other machines like Alien Poker, Flash Gordon, Jungle Princess, and Paragon presented an equally nostalgic experience. Machines like Hotdoggin’ and King Kool transported players back in time, emphasizing the rich history and evolution of pinball.

Texas Titans: IFPA Standings

The tournament not only brought enthusiasts together but also shook the IFPA Texas Pinball standings a bit. Here’s how the top players are positioned:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.1
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.74
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.53
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.07
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.23
9Kevin RodriguezDenton223.02
10Jim MuellerHouston222.34

In the realm of pinball, the buzz never dies down. As the balls shoot up and players take on the machines, each tournament writes a new chapter in the book of pinball glory. Stay tuned for more pinball pandemonium!

Pinball Fever Hits Oregon: A Throwback at Next Level Pinball Museum!

Amidst overcast skies and a pleasant 60°F temperature, pinball enthusiasts descended upon the iconic Next Level Pinball Museum in Hillsboro, Oregon, on September 29, 2023. The lure? The Max Match Play at Next Level pinball tournament, a spectacle of lights, flippers, and of course, the pursuit of that elusive high score.

Rolling Through Time at Next Level

Next Level Pinball Shop & Museum isn’t just a venue; it’s a time capsule. With a vast collection of games and pop culture memorabilia, it transports players and visitors alike to a bygone era. And it’s not just the pinball aficionados that love it here. With a unique pay-once-play-all model and the freedom to bring in food and non-alcoholic drinks, it’s an arcade paradise where everyone – gamer or not – can have a fantastic time.

Vintage Vibes with Modern Twists

The machines at the tournament were a perfect blend of old-school classics and new-age marvels:

  • Whirlwind by Williams: Where Mother Nature meets pinball!
  • Houdini: Master of Mystery by American Pinball: A magical escape into the world of the famous illusionist.
  • The Beatles by Stern: A melodic journey with the Fab Four.
  • Lost World by Bally: A prehistoric adventure in a world where dinosaurs ruled.
  • The Munsters (LE) by Stern: A monstrous good time with Herman, Lily, and the gang!

Special mention goes to Bad Cats by Williams, a 1989 classic that had everyone’s tails wagging, and Avengers: Infinity Quest (LE) by Stern, which saw the longest games at around 15 minutes a pop!

Battle of the Pinball Wizards

With 13 games for each player and 14 contenders in the fray, the competition was fierce. Here’s a tip o’ the hat to our top performers:

  1. Jeff Monroe: Cruising to the top with 6 wins and a wealth of experience from 145 IFPA events.
  2. Derek Jennings: With a single win more but a slightly lower rank, he proved his mettle.
  3. Thomas Urban: Another 6-win maestro, showcasing his skills honed over 285 IFPA events.
  4. Joseph Rembecki: An underdog story if there ever was one; no prior IFPA events, yet making it to the top four!

The Best in Oregon: Pinball Prodigies

Presenting the creme de la creme of Oregon’s pinball scene:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Mathew PetersonPortland218.49
2Ken MartinCoatsville217.17
3Dana ValatkaPortland192.57
4Colin UrbanPortland173.51
5Daniel RonePortland156.86
6Erik GraciosaPortland155.45
7Matt WaltonEugene153.35
8James AdamsonPortland120
9Paul RobertsonPortland109.32
10Adam JonesEugene106.67

Pinball: More Than Just A Game

With the echoes of pinball bells still ringing, another phenomenal event at Next Level came to a close. Whether it’s the thrill of the game, the camaraderie among players, or the sheer nostalgia of it all, pinball continues to enthrall.

Oregon, keep those flippers ready and eyes peeled; the silver ball will be back soon for more!

Flippin’ Friday Extravaganza: Pinball Prowess on Display at District 82

As the golden hue of the evening sun danced on a clear sky, pinball enthusiasts gathered for the much-anticipated Flippin’ Friday 9/29 Qualify tournament. The venue? The iconic District 82 Pinball Arcade in De Pere, WI. A place where memories are made with every flipper hit and every bumper bounce.

Setting the Scene

On September 29, 2023, at 6:00 PM sharp, the first ball was launched. 29 players, 4 rounds, and a passion for pinball that could be felt in the air, partly charged by the balmy 68°F weather. Over the next 2 hours and a half hours, strategies were employed, rivalries forged, and pinballs ricocheted, all under the masterful organization of Erik Thoren.

Jungle Lord’s Wild Reign

In a standout game during the 4th round, players took on the challenge of the classic Jungle Lord by Williams. With an impressive rating of 8/10, Jungle Lord is a solid state electronic machine that dates back to February 1981. With a production run of 6,000 units, this fantasy-themed gem showcases the brilliance of designer Barry Oursler and the artistic flair of Constantino and Jeanine Mitchell.

What makes Jungle Lord particularly notable? Its gameplay is enriched with features like four flippers, various drop target banks, two kick-out holes, and the distinctive Magna-Save. Perhaps its most enchanting feature is the mini-bagatelle located in the upper playfield, which releases a ball every time one lands in the kick-out hole.

Adam VanDynHoven, hailing from Appleton Wi, showcased his skills on this captivating machine, snatching the top spot and leaving Michael Reiman, Peter Goeben, and the very director of the tournament, Erik Thoren, trailing behind.

And The Pinball Kings Are…

  1. Andrew Kasten: With a dynamic gameplay style that left audiences in awe.
  2. Tom Graf: The enigma from “PARTS UNKNOWN”, always consistent in his performance.
  3. Matt McCarty: A seasoned player with a flair for the dramatic.
  4. Adam VanDynHoven: The hero from the Jungle Lord round, proving he’s not just a one-game wonder.

Arcade Acclaims

District 82 boasted an astounding lineup of 116 pinball machines for the event. Highlights included the nostalgic Lost World by Bally, the speed-fueled Corvette, and the monstrous Monster Bash (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming. Not to be overlooked were the intricate Ghostbusters (Premium) and the space saga of Star Wars by Data East.

A Love Letter to District 82

Words from a devoted fan capture the essence of District 82: “I couldn’t love and recommend this place more… Seriously though, I fly from NC several times a year to come here… D82 I love you!!!”

Wisconsin’s Best in Pinball:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.27
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.19
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.62
4Escher Lefkoff1050.04
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.73
6Erik ThorenDe Pere741.01
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.43
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.58
10Jordan Dechaine683.85

From ricocheting balls to roaring applause, from masterful moves to near misses, the Flippin’ Friday tournament was an ode to the love of pinball. Until the next game, keep those flippers ready and stay tuned for more from the realm of pinball!

Pinball Prowess & Electric Excitement: Inside Atomic Age’s Latest Tournament

In the heart of Mesa, Arizona, when the sun was beginning to set and the temperature was a sweltering 94°F, pinball enthusiasts from all corners converged for the ‘Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play’. On September 28, 2023, at 6:30 PM, Atomic Age Modern, located at 140 W Main St, became the epicenter of pinball excitement.

Setting the Scene at Atomic Age Modern

Atomic Age Modern is not just a venue for pinball. Walking in, one is greeted with an eclectic blend of antiques ranging from furniture to housewares, interspersed with the rhythmic clinking of pinball machines. The ambiance is something of a vintage dream, making it easy to get lost in time. A shopper’s paradise by day, and a gamer’s by night.

The Mighty Rush (Pro) Showdown

If there were a game that had people perched at the edge of their seats, it was in Round 2 on the ‘Rush (Pro)‘. Mark Farina Jr. from Gilbert, Arizona, took the top spot, showcasing some stellar gameplay. Close on his heels was Chris Peseri, followed by Denise Peseri and Brigg Sabol. The game became a fascinating dance of strategy, skill, and just a touch of luck.

Saluting the Champions

Out of the 25 fierce competitors, a few stood tall:

  • Connor Kennedy: A star player holding an IFPA rank of 2030.
  • Stephen Shufran: Representing Chandler, he’s proved his mettle time and again.
  • Mark Farina Jr.: Besides winning the spotlight round, he clinched the third spot.
  • Brandon Passey: His gameplay ensured he secured a position amongst the top four.

Pinball Par Excellence

The tournament showcased a mix of classic and contemporary pinball machines. Highlights include:

  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: An electrifying game that came alive in 2021.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern: Fresh from its 2022 release, it’s already a favorite.
  • Gilligan’s Island by Bally: Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale, a tale dating back to 1991.
  • Night Rider (EM) by Bally: Dating back to 1976, it’s an oldie but goldie.
  • Sorcerer by Williams: Unleashing magic since 1985.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite

The evening also gave us a glimpse of Arizona’s top pinball players:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau672.27
2Mark PearsonPhoenix589.29
3John ShoppleMesa570.05
4John MagyarGilbert352.79
5Adam HortonPhoenix331.45
6Kevan CarterTempe321.36
7Jason BarreMesa312.26
8Joey RioSurprise309.24
9Paul BlancoChandler306.33
10Walter DonyPhoenix281.38

The tournament, organized meticulously by Bob Kennedy, was not just about the competition. It was about reliving nostalgia, making new memories, and celebrating the enduring charm of pinball. Until the flippers come alive again, here’s signing off from the world of pinball! Stay tuned for more exciting updates.

The High-Stakes Throwdown at Arcade Legacy: A Night to Remember!

In the heart of Cincinnati, on a slightly cool evening with broken clouds, the unmistakable sounds of flippers and bells resonated at the Arcade Legacy Sharonville. The occasion? None other than the eagerly awaited “Thursday Throwdown at Arcade Legacy 9/28/23” pinball tournament, which kicked off at 7:00 PM on September 28, 2023.

An Evening at Arcade Legacy Sharonville

Nestled in the urban expanse of Cincinnati at 2241 Crowne Point Dr, the venue is a haven for arcade lovers. And its website doesn’t do justice to the electrifying atmosphere inside. It’s not just about the games, but the impeccable staff, tantalizing cocktails, and the overall vibe. As one enthusiast put it, “Gonna have to make it a regular stop on my hometimes!” High praise indeed.

The Legendary 69-Minute Game

While each round had its moment, the semi-finals on Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) took the cake. Clocking in at a whopping 69 minutes, it was a test of skill, patience, and endurance. Stuart Nyswonger emerged victorious, with Jesse Baker, Shawn Kenter, and Sam McConnell trailing closely.

Champions Rise

In the world of pinball, every point counts, every flipper move matters, and every strategy can make or break the game. And at the end of a fiercely competitive evening, the champions emerged:

  1. Jesse Baker – A pinball maestro with an IFPA rank of 405.
  2. Roy Richey – Who punched well above his IFPA rank of 2071.
  3. Stuart Nyswonger – Fresh from his semi-final victory, securing third place.
  4. George Cavalaris – A consistent player with an IFPA rank of 2911.
  5. Evan Crouch – Cincinnati’s very own, representing with an IFPA rank of 6536.
  6. John Holliday – With an impressive showing despite his rank of 5461.
  7. Shawn Kenter – Not just a semi-finalist, but seventh place overall.
  8. Sam McConnell – Rounding out the top eight with his skillful gameplay.

Pinball Machines That Stood Out

Several machines were the star attractions of the night:

The Best of Ohio Pinball

The cream of the crop in Ohio’s pinball scene:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Aaron RIch587.63
2Gregory KennedyPlain City515.95
3Stephen PrusaCleveland511.83
4Carlos DelaserdaColumbus424.33
5John DelzoppoCleveland364.06
6Andrew LeeCleveland343.81
7Cody WebbWesterville309.65
8Galvin MorganOlmsted Falls301.32
9Jesse BakerCincinnati277.88
10Jack NebraskaColumbus271.44

Till the flippers flip again, and the silver ball bounces back, stay tuned for more pulse-pounding updates from the world of pinball!

Pinball & Punk Rock: B.R.I. Taproom’s Ultimate Showdown!

Mesa, Arizona came alive with the sound of pinball bells and buzzers on the evening of September 27, 2023. At precisely 6:30 PM, amidst a clear sky with a warm temperature of 95°F, B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade transformed into a battleground for the ‘Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 13’.

Fast Flips and Frenzied Fingers

With Matt Trethewey orchestrating the event, the tournament saw 10 players going head-to-head, playing 10 games each. The goal? Simple: Rack up those points and reign supreme.

Creature’s Call and Walking Dead’s Thrall

Two machines drew significant attention:

  • Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally, a classic from December 1992, saw its flippers flipped a whopping 7 times.
  • The Walking Dead (Premium) by Stern, kept players enthralled, boasting the longest average game duration at about 10 minutes. Zombies, as it turns out, make for slow but intense gameplay!

Masters of the Machine

As the dust settled and the scores tallied:

  • 🥇 Jeff Wegener showcased his knack for the game, leading with 5 wins despite having only 8 events under his belt.
  • 🥈 Paul Pickett, with a total of 6 wins, gave a tough competition to all.
  • 🥉 Mahina Hayashi showed her pinball prowess with 4 impressive wins.
  • 🏅 Jim Smith AZ from Phoenix, despite having a whopping 454 events experience, finished fourth but showcased some mesmerizing gameplay.

Arcade’s Arsenal

The venue boasted a stellar lineup of pinball machines. The tournament highlights included:

  1. Bram Stoker’s Dracula – A gothic challenge for players.
  2. Creature from the Black Lagoon – The undeniable favorite of the evening.
  3. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) – A recent addition but a sure-fire hit.
  4. Junk Yard – Reminding players of the good old days.
  5. Whirlwind – A gusty challenge for all.

Beers, Ballers, and B.R.I.

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, with its official website, isn’t just a haven for pinball players. It’s a place where vintage video games meet a tantalizing variety of beers. And while they don’t serve food, patrons are welcome to bring their own or enjoy meals from the occasional food truck outside.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau672.28
2Mark PearsonPhoenix589.29
3John ShoppleMesa570.08
4John MagyarGilbert352.82
5Adam HortonPhoenix331.5
6Kevan CarterTempe321.39
7Jason BarreMesa312.26
8Joey RioSurprise309.24
9Paul BlancoChandler306.34
10Walter DonyPhoenix281.4

With another successful event in the books, pinball enthusiasts left B.R.I. Taproom with both nostalgia for the games of yesteryears and anticipation for future showdowns. In the realm of pinball, the game never truly ends; it just waits for the next coin drop.

A Night of Fierce Competition at the Space City Pinball Tournament

Under the twinkling lights of pinball machines, enthusiasts gathered at Low’s Sound Lab in Houston on the evening of September 27th, 2023. The pinball aficionados came together for the “Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level #3” tournament, promising an evening of thrill, strategies, and of course, the sweet sound of the silver ball bouncing off bumpers.

An Electric Atmosphere

While the exact decor and ambiance details of Low’s Sound Lab remain a mystery (as the location is undisclosed), the energy and passion of the participants filled the space with excitement. The echoing sounds of pinball machines, laughter, and occasional groans of a missed shot created a symphony unique to such events.

One For The Records

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping moment of the tournament was during the first round on the AC/DC (Pro) machine. A machine known for its challenging play and thunderous soundtracks saw a game that lasted an unbelievable 62 minutes! As the iconic lyric goes, “Thunderstruck!” And indeed, the audience was. Dawn Hayes, with her focused gameplay, secured the top spot, leaving Elizabeth Dronet, Maritza Chirichigno, and Dawn Freedkin “shaking at the knees” as they secured the following places respectively. It’s games like these that become the stuff of legends in the pinball community.

Champions of the Night

While every player showcased commendable skill, a few stood out and earned the top spots:

  • 1st: Emily Hoffman with an impressive IFPA rank of 2775.
  • 2nd: Space City’s own, Elizabeth Dronet.
  • 3rd: Gina Low, proving that she’s not just any player with her rank of 2569.
  • 4th: The talented Leslie Speights.

A Night of Machines

The evening was graced by 19 iconic pinball machines, with a few worth a special mention:

Top Players in Texas

Pinball isn’t just a game; it’s a sport with its own stars. A look at the current Texas Pinball Top 10 reveals some familiar and some rising names:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.14
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.72
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.55
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.08
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.24
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio212.67
10Kevin RodriguezDenton210.54

As the lights dimmed on another successful tournament, one thing was clear: The passion for pinball is alive and thriving. We can’t wait for the next gathering of pinball wizards. Stay with us for more news, tricks, and flicks from the vibrant world of pinball!

Stern Army 2023 Monthly Pinball Tournament at the I/O Arcade Bar September

In the heart of Madison, beneath the overcast skies and amidst the gentle murmur of evening chatter, pinball enthusiasts descended upon the I/O Arcade Bar on September 27, 2023. The event? The much-anticipated Stern Army 2023 Monthly Pinball Tournament!

An Electric Venue with Vintage Vibes

The I/O Arcade Bar, with its glowing neon, vast selection of games, and the unmistakable buzz of flippers and bells, is arguably Madison’s best-kept gaming secret. It’s a retro gamer’s dream come true, boasting an array of pinball machines that beckon even the most casual player. And if you’ve spent hours there like I have, you’d know that the bar staff is just as amazing as the games themselves, ensuring a perfect gaming environment paired with delightful drinks.

An Array of Pinball Machines – From Classic to Contemporary

Among the 18 machines that glittered and beckoned, some notable ones include:

  • Game Of Thrones (Pro) by Stern: Delve into Westeros and navigate the houses in this 2015 release.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: Released in 2023, this game brings the thrilling world of the symbiotic anti-hero to life.
  • Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: Dive into the Upside Down in this game from 2019.
  • Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball: Released in 2023, hop into the Mystery Machine and solve some spooky mysteries!
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Battle monsters and save the city in this 2021 game!

The Game that Stole the Show

Jungle Queen by Gottlieb, a classic from 1977, witnessed a fierce competition during Round 2. Jeff Skelly topped the charts, with Mary Owen taking second place. Wyatt Capener and Karl Luhrs finished in third and fourth positions, respectively. It’s worth noting that for a game of such vintage, the competition was intensely modern.

The Cream of the Pinball Crop

When the final ball had been shot and scores tallied, here stood the champions:

  1. Wyatt Capener: Hailing from Wisconsin, Wyatt’s dedication to the game has seen him participate in 75 IFPA Events.
  2. Jeff Skelly: A close second with a whopping 92 IFPA Events under his belt.
  3. Karl Luhrs: His consistency in the game earned him a respectable third place.
  4. Mary Owen: A dark horse, with this being her debut IFPA Event!

Wisconsin’s Elite Pinballers

The IFPA Wisconsin standings post the event are:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.29
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.2
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.62
4Escher Lefkoff1050.05
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.74
6Erik ThorenDe Pere741.01
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.43
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.59
10Jordan Dechaine683.86

Until Next Flip

With memories of the night still fresh, the pinball community eagerly awaits the next showdown. Madison, with its fusion of classic and contemporary, is truly the place to be for pinball aficionados. Keep those flippers ready, and stay in the loop for more pinball tales and tournaments!