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!

Pinball Passion & Competitive Thrills: The Ball Busters Pinball League Tournament Recap

In the world of pinball, every flicker of light, every bounce of the ball, and every tilt warning can spell victory or defeat. On September 27th, 2023, enthusiasts and competitors gathered under a clear sky with a temperature of a pleasant 60°F, at the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, to test their skills in the Ball Busters Pinball League – 2023 Season #5 Week 4 tournament.

Diving Into the Action

With Bill Disney at the helm as the organizer, the tournament saw 18 players diving deep into intense battles, spread across 5 enthralling rounds. Each round, with its intense moments, defined the skill, strategy, and sometimes, the sheer luck of the player.

The Galactic Battle

A moment worth the spotlight was the Round 3 face-off on the “Galactic Tank Force (Deluxe)” by American Pinball. This machine, a recent marvel from 2023, became the stage for a fierce battle. Anita Thallmayer, with her IFPA rank of 2330, showcased stellar gameplay to secure the top spot, followed by Kim Smith, Barb Britt, and Tina Kirby.

Celebrating the Champions

As the flippers settled and the scores were tallied, the victors emerged:

  • 1st – Terri Morton, a seasoned player with a rank of 2570 and a history of 108 IFPA events.
  • 2nd – Anita Thallmayer, proving her mettle once again with a rank of 2330.
  • 3rd – Stephanie Savy from Media, Pa, a passionate player with a rank of 5477.
  • 4th – Kim Smith, showcasing her skills with an IFPA rank of 5082.

The Machines That Made The Magic

From retro classics to modern masterpieces, the tournament flaunted an impressive array of 11 pinball machines. Some machines that caught everyone’s attention included:

The Venue – Pinball Gallery

The Pinball Gallery was abuzz with energy. As one attendee gushed, “I went to my friend’s birthday party that was being held here and I had soo much fun!! The bad cats pinball was my favorite! Def recommend”

Shining a Light on Pennsylvania’s Best

Lastly, it’s crucial to highlight the top pinball wizards in Pennsylvania:

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

With that, we wrap up our coverage of the Ball Busters Pinball League tournament. Stay flipped, and keep those balls bouncing, because in the realm of pinball, the game is always on!

Tik Tok’s Matchplay Showdown: A Night of High Stakes and Spinning Balls

A Bremerton Brawl

As the scattered clouds blanketed the Bremerton sky and the temperature hovered around a cozy 56°F, the ambient sounds of flippers, bells, and buzzers filled the air. Tik Tok’s Workshop, located at 1216 Sylvan Way, became a battleground for pinball enthusiasts on September 26, 2023. Hosted by the eminent Richard Godwin, the tournament saw 4 players locking horns over 8 intense rounds, each eager to prove their mettle.

A Decade of Wizardry

Round 4 stole the spotlight when players faced off on ‘The Wizard of Oz (LE)‘ by Jersey Jack Pinball, a machine celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. The results were nothing short of thrilling:

  1. Rachel Kahalekulu (IFPA rank 3075)
  2. Richard Godwin (IFPA rank 2257)
  3. Jared Doss (IFPA rank 3881)
  4. Anna Francolini (IFPA rank 6920)

Celebrating the Champions

This tournament showcased the essence of competition and camaraderie. Richard Godwin, besides being an excellent organizer, emerged as the top player, proving his prowess in both administration and action. Kudos to all the participants for making the event unforgettable. The final leaderboard was set, and the victors emerged:

  • 1st Place: Richard Godwin (IFPA rank 2257)
  • 2nd Place: Jared Doss (IFPA rank 3881)
  • 3rd Place: Anna Francolini (IFPA rank 6920)
  • 4th Place: Rachel Kahalekulu (IFPA rank 3075)

Machines of Legend

Among the 13 machines that participated, a few became the talk of the tournament:

  • Icarus by Recel (1977): This ancient marvel reminded players of the era when pinball was taking flight.
  • Grand Prix by Williams (1976): A machine that brings back the golden era of racing combined with the thrills of pinball.
  • Cyclone by Williams (1988): A classic favorite, invoking memories of fairgrounds and roller coasters.
  • Demolition Man by Williams (1994): Based on the cult classic film, this machine provided a futuristic pinball experience.
  • Sharpshooter by Game Plan (1979): A true test of aim and skill, taking players back to the wild west.
  • Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams (1991): A machine that never fails to entertain, with its sci-fi theme and challenging gameplay.
  • Legends of Wrestlemania by Stern (2015): A homage to the wrestling legends, offering a slam-dunk experience.
  • Firepower by Williams (1980): Its rapid gameplay and electronic sounds made it a stand-out for many enthusiasts.
  • Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons by Stern (2015): With its unique design and retro feel, this machine was a refreshing change for many players.

These machines not only tested the skills of the participants but also transported them back in time, each with its own story and charm.

Atmospheric Ambience

The venue, Tik Tok’s Workshop, was nothing short of remarkable. Their website offers a glimpse, but it’s the live experience that counts. The one-man army of a bartender ensured everyone felt right at home. From dishing out sumptuous meals to mixing drinks and even servicing machines, he did it all, becoming the unsung hero of the night.

Top Guns of Washington

As we wrap up, let’s take a moment to recognize the top 10 pinball masters of Washington:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond625.88
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle532.98
3Richie TerrySeattle498.13
4Sean IrbySeattle469.68
5Jarrett GaddySeattle446.87
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.45
7Dave StewartCarnation399.95
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.73
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.68
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.15

The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/26 might be over, but the tales of tilt, flippers, and high scores will echo for days to come. Until the next pinball adventure, keep those fingers nimble and spirits high!

Pinball, Passion, and a Fresh Cup of Joe: A Tale from San Antonio

On a balmy evening, with the thermometer nudging 93°F, the distinct chimes and electronic bleeps of pinball machines filled the spacious confines of What’s Brewing? in San Antonio. This wasn’t any ordinary pinball evening; this was the much-anticipated “Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #2.”

Tournament Insights

Taking place precisely at 6:30 PM on September 26, 2023, this fiesta of flippers and silver balls witnessed a nail-biting competition, lasting just shy of 3 hours. Organized by the passionate pinball aficionado, Christina Cheeseman, 19 fervent players faced off over 5 grueling rounds, competing two games per round, all in the pursuit of pinball glory.

An atmosphere of friendly rivalry pervaded the air, with players sharing both tips and banter between rounds. The competition was tight, with the top 8 players then progressing to the Finals – a 2 round showdown with 3 games in each round.

In the Limelight: Game of the Tournament

While each game had its moments, a special mention must be given to a dramatic showdown in Round 2. The game: Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, a recent classic from 2018. Christina Cheeseman, our organizer, showed her mettle by securing first place in this game, but not without fierce competition from Jovanna Barrientez, Cinthia Guadiana, and Lori Love.

Pinball Wizards of the Evening

As the last ball plunged down the table and the scores were tallied, the top contenders emerged:

  1. Alice Young – A maestro with an IFPA rank of 2385, and a veteran of 82 IFPA events.
  2. Don Dura – Close on Alice’s tail with an IFPA rank of 1310.
  3. Brian Fults from Longville, LA, a spirited competitor with a respectable IFPA rank of 1461.
  4. Elizabeth Dronet from Space City, and several others, showcased their skills, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.

Machines of Majesty

Though all pinball machines at the venue were fantastic, some that captured the heart and imagination included:

  • Funhouse by Williams, a true vintage classic from 1990.
  • Firepower by Williams, lighting up the scene since 1980.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming, a relatively fresh face from 2021.
  • Twilight Zone by Bally, a game that has taken players to another dimension since 1993.
  • … and many more, each telling its unique tale of design, gameplay, and history.

Venue Vibes

But it wasn’t all about pinball. What’s Brewing? offers more than just arcade games. As described on their website, it’s a coffee lover’s paradise. The scent of freshly brewed coffee perfectly complemented the electrifying atmosphere of the tournament. And with beans from burlap sacks being weighed and brewed in the background, it truly provided a unique, multisensory experience.

Top Players in the Lone Star State

A look at Texas’s cream of the crop:

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

Pinball may be an age-old game, but in the heart of Texas, it’s very much alive and thumping. With venues like What’s Brewing? and tournaments like Belles & Chimes, the silver ball continues to mesmerize. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a coffee connoisseur, there’s always something brewing in San Antonio. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball!

Thunder, Lightning, and Pinballs: A Night to Remember at The Pinball Lounge

On the evening of September 26, 2023, amidst a dramatic Florida thunderstorm with temperatures rising to a steamy 84°F, enthusiasts gathered for a showdown of flippers and silver balls at The Pinball Lounge’s “Bonanza 9-26-23”. Located within the heart of Oviedo Bowling Center, The Pinball Lounge provided the perfect shelter from the weather’s theatrics and the ideal stage for some pinball magic.

The Dance of the Silver Ball

The night was orchestrated by Kurt van Zyl and was divided into six tense rounds, with each round featuring one game. Seventeen top-notch players, from various corners of Florida, vied for the title. As the rounds unfolded, strategies were revealed, rivalries intensified, and the leaderboard kept everyone guessing.

Deadpool Dominance

Round 6 witnessed a stellar performance on the “Deadpool (Pro)” by Stern. John Moschella, hailing from Winter Springs, FL, clinched the top spot, showing his prowess despite his rank of 1118. But he was closely trailed by Doug Bernard from Orlando and John Osborne. Brayden DeRazza from Lake Mary, FL also showcased his skills, ensuring his name was not forgotten that evening.

Pinball Royalty

The night concluded with some clear champions:

  1. Doug Bernard – This Orlando native topped the charts, reminding everyone of his mastery.
  2. John Moschella – He might have been second on the list, but his gameplay resonated with flair and finesse.
  3. Justin Derazza – Consistently great throughout.
  4. Brayden DeRazza – Proving that Lake Mary, FL, has some serious pinball talent.

Spotlight on Machines

The Pinball Lounge’s vast collection of 37 machines ensured that players had a diverse range of games to test their skills. Some of the crowd favorites included:

The Lounge Experience

For those unfamiliar with The Pinball Lounge, it’s more than just a venue with pinball machines. It’s a vibrant community spot where novices can feel at ease and professionals can feel challenged. With all-you-can-play nights, themed events, and a fantastic atmosphere, it’s no wonder pinball fans flock here. Plus, who can resist the delightful combo of pinball, food, and adult beverages?

Florida’s Finest Flippers

A glance at the top pinball players in Florida:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.54
2Eric StoneFort Myers304.72
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale271.69
4Sebastian Bobbio265.88
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.73
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace146.87
8David Miller FLTampa140.89
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.7
10John MoschellaWinter Springs126.82

As the thunderstorm raged outside, inside The Pinball Lounge, another storm was brewing. But by night’s end, players left with memories of thrilling victories, narrow defeats, and the promise of more pinball adventures to come. Stay plugged in for more pinball updates, because the silver ball saga never truly ends!

District 82’s Dynamic Duel: Tilt’n Tuesday’s Highlighting Mata Hari

On a day where the clouds decided to make an appearance, with a comfortable temperature of 67°F, pinball enthusiasts from all over gathered at District 82 Pinball Arcade on September 26th, 2023. Starting at 6:00 PM, the tournament, meticulously organized by Erik Thoren, ran for an exhilarating 2 hours and 50 minutes.

A Tilt Back in Time

One of the standout games of the evening was a throwback to yesteryears. Celebrating its anniversary, the Mata Hari by Bally, a game that has it’s project date listed as September 26, 1977, had players battling fiercely in Round 3.

“Mata Hari” captures the enigma of its namesake, the exotic dancer and accused spy from the early 20th century, Margaretha Zelle. The game design, with elements like flippers, pop bumpers, drop targets, and a kick-out hole, takes players on a journey through the world of espionage, mystery, and dance. And while its gameplay offers a delightful throwback, the art by Dave Christensen, encapsulating the allure and intrigue of its central character, provides the perfect backdrop for fierce competition.

Back to the action, the Round 3 battle on “Mata Hari” was intense. Gerald Morrison, boasting a commendable International Flipper Pinball Association (IFPA) rank of 508, navigated the game’s challenges with finesse, securing a well-deserved first place. It was a thrilling display of skill and strategy, with Bob Brisk hot on his heels. Shawn McDonald and Tony Trofka also showcased their expertise, rounding out the top spots and making this round a highlight of the evening.

For many, this game served as a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding players of the deep-rooted history and evolution of pinball. “Mata Hari” proved yet again that classics never fade; they just get better with age.

Masters of the Machine

The evening culminated in the crowning of the ultimate pinball wizards:

  1. Nathan Zalewski with an IFPA rank of 271 showcased his skills and triumphed over the competition.
  2. Mike Schlumpf from Green Bay followed closely with a seasoned experience of 274 events under their belt.
  3. Tom Graf from the enigmatic PARTS UNKNOWN secured the third spot with an impressive 505 events experience.
  4. Tom Schmidt from Neenah, Wisconsin rounded out the top four.

The Arcade’s Arsenal

District 82’s impressive collection of 114 pinball machines was at full display. Players found themselves navigating through:

District 82 – The Mecca for Pinball Lovers

Located on O Keefe Road, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a gem for those in love with the game. Operating primarily from September to May, it offers various tournaments throughout the week, making it the go-to destination for pinball aficionados. The vast collection, well-maintained machines, and the friendly atmosphere make it a haven for both novices and pros.

The Sultans of Wisconsin Pinball

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.3
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.19
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.63
4Escher Lefkoff1050.03
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.75
6Erik ThorenDe Pere741.02
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.44
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.75
10Jordan Dechaine683.86

As the flippers came to rest and the pinballs lay dormant, players left District 82 with smiles, stories, and scores to remember. The realm of pinball in Wisconsin is alive and well, and we can’t wait for the next flip-tastic event. Keep those flippers ready!