“Multiball Monday Madness!” – The Tale of the IFPA Pinball Tournament at HOP Central

Quick Flips and High Scores in Chandler, Arizona

A hot 95°F evening in Chandler wasn’t the only thing making the pinball players sweat on September 25, 2023. Inside HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom, the sizzle of competition was even fiercer as 13 players descended for the Multiball Monday tournament, organized by the very talented Mark Farina Jr. The tournament website multiballmonday.com captured the highlights, but let’s dive deeper into the flips, tricks, and some jaw-dropping pinball tactics!

The Battle of the Best on “Rush (Pro)”

Round 1 set the tone for the entire evening, with the spotlight shining brightly on “Rush (Pro)” by Stern. Mark Farina Jr, ranked 1794, demonstrated why he’s not just an excellent organizer but also a formidable player, seizing first place in the game. But the competition was intense with Alex Cardwell and Walter Dony coming in a close second and third, respectively.

From Silver Balls to Golden Crowns

The leaderboard told a tale of agility, strategy, and a sprinkle of luck:

  • 🥇 Alex Cardwell: Dominating with a global rank of 682 and an impressive 192 IFPA events under his belt.
  • 🥈 Mark Farina Jr: Showcasing both his prowess as an organizer and a player.
  • 🥉 Walter Dony: A significant player in the Arizona pinball scene, Walter’s rank of 331 reflects his skill.
  • 🏅 Amanda Kennedy: With zeHir unique style, Amanda secured the 4th spot against some tough competitors.

A Pinball Paradise

Pinball aficionados were treated to a slew of incredible machines, ranging from vintage classics to modern masterpieces:

  1. Foo Fighters (Premium/LE) by Stern: Rocking out with every flip and score!
  2. James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Engaging players in a world of espionage and high-stakes action.
  3. Venom (Pro) by Stern: A new kid on the block, already making waves.
  4. Hot Wheels by American Pinball: Taking players on a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
  5. Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: Mixing humor, action, and some excellent pinball mechanics.

HOP Central: Not Just About Beer!

The HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom not only boasts a delicious range of brews but also an electric atmosphere perfect for a pre-dinner flight and some serious pinball competition.

Arizona’s Pinball Royalty

The state’s top talents lined up as follows:

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

So, as the flippers rested and the lights dimmed at HOP Central, the memories of Multiball Monday continued to echo. In the world of Arizona pinball, one thing is clear: the game is on, and it’s spectacular.

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

An Evening with the Wizards of Pinball: The IFPA Player 1 Arcade S3A Side Finals

It was a typical Arizona evening, with the temperature teasing at 95°F but surprisingly feeling cooler than usual. Player One Arcade, Arizona’s own pinball haven, braced itself for an electrifying event: the Player 1 Arcade S3A Side Finals. Organized by the diligent Jim Smith, this tournament promised fierce competition and gripping gameplay.

The Tournament of Tilt

36 pinball aficionados went head to head, maneuvering their way through five intense rounds. Each player aimed to score the highest points in their group, but as the silver ball raced across the playfield, some dreams of victory soared while others, well…tilted. As the minutes ticked on, with a total tournament time of about two and a half hours, a clear winner emerged: Mary Profeta Scardina, an IFPA-ranked powerhouse, took the crown!

Shiny Silverball Spotlight

One game that had everyone on the edge of their seat was during Round 3 on “Rush (Pro)” by Stern. This 2022 machine delivered suspense, drama, and thrill, all wrapped into a 3-ball game. Mary Profeta Scardina dominated, securing 1st place, followed by Timm Shere, Diane Smith, and Joana Delvalle.

Legacy in Machines

Player One Arcade’s stellar collection of pinball machines was the real star. The spotlight shone bright on:

Player One’s Pizzazz

For anyone unfamiliar with Player One Arcade, a quick visit to their website would do the trick. But for those who’ve been there, they know it’s more than just an arcade. Especially on a Saturday night with a 7-year-old, the array of pinball machines and 80s-90s arcade games, paired with a drink (maybe an IPA or cider), creates hours of cherished memories. A local treasure that’s so much more than just flashing lights and high scores.

Arizona’s Pinball Pros

Here’s how the top players in Arizona’s pinball scene stack up:

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

As the flippers rest and the lights dim on this memorable evening, one thing remains evident: the pinball community in Arizona is stronger than ever. The silver ball will roll again soon, so stay tuned for more exciting updates from the pulsating realm of pinball!

Pinball Pandemonium: Bat City Epic Fun Takes Austin by Storm!

The scorching Texan heat at 101°F wasn’t the only thing setting Austin on fire on September 24th, 2023. By 3:00 PM, with rain cooling down the fervor outdoors, inside Epic Fun, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The Bat City Epic Fun Monthly pinball tournament was unfolding, and it was indeed Epic.

The Round Robin Rumble

Dick Curtis, the grandmaster of the event, had the venue buzzing with the energy of a true unsupported round-robin. With 102 players battling on 12 pinball machines simultaneously, the sheer logistics of the event were dizzying. After what must have been a marathon session of 20 hours and 37 minutes, the top four emerged, ready to enter the finals with four rounds of fierce pinball competition.

Dirty Harry’s Dominance

The 1995 Williams classic, Dirty Harry, was the undoubted darling of the event with a whopping 19 games played on it. As the flippers clacked and bells rang, players navigated the crime-filled streets of San Francisco, channeling Clint Eastwood with every shot.

Mandalorian Magic in the Finals

However, the most talked-about game was during the finals on The Mandalorian (Pro). This modern marvel by Stern from 2021 became the backdrop of an intense face-off. Colin MacAlpine, with an IFPA rank of just 24, showcased his expertise and secured first place, leaving Jason Newman, Jonathon Morales, and John Walter in his wake.

The Clash of Titans

  • 1st – Colin MacAlpine, demonstrating why he’s ranked 24 in the IFPA, clinched the top spot.
  • 2nd – Jonathon Morales, not far behind in skills and passion, secured the second position.
  • 3rd – John Walter, a rising star in the pinball world.
  • 4th – Jason Newman, proving that every game, every flip, and every point counts in a tournament of this scale.

The Pinball Pantheon

The venue featured a bevy of 16 pinball machines, with some real legends in the mix:

And of course, The Mandalorian (Pro), which undoubtedly stole the show.

Where Fun Meets Epic

The venue, Epic Fun, lived up to its name. More than just pinball, it’s a wonderland of games and entertainment. Bowling, bumper cars, arcade games – the possibilities were endless. With its top-notch maintenance, friendly staff, and family-friendly ambiance, it’s no wonder this venue has become a weekly retreat for many Austin locals.

The Lone Star State’s Pinball Leaders

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.13
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.74
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.55
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.07
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.22
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio212.66
10Kevin RodriguezDenton210.54

With the Bat City Epic Fun Monthly culminating in such a grand fashion, Austin’s pinball community is already eagerly awaiting the next showdown. As they say in pinball – the ball is wild, and so was this tournament!

EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition² (9/24)

On a sweltering Texas afternoon with temperatures touching a blistering 96°F (feeling more like 108°F, if you ask me!), the EinStein’s=MatchplayCompetition² pinball tournament added its own brand of heat. Hosted at the spectacular EinStein’s Pub and Arcade in Richmond, this event, organized by the stellar Space City Pinball, brought 23 competitors together for almost 4 hours of intense pinball battles.

The Longest Duel: Turtles in Time!

While all games were epic in their own right, one game took the proverbial cake. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Premium/LE) witnessed a marathon 77-minute game during the Finals. We kid you not. It’s like the Turtles went back in time and we were all there to witness it!

Results for that historic game:

  • 🥇 Jim Mueller (IFPA rank 392)
  • 🥈 Don Dura (IFPA rank 1310)
  • 🥉 Elizabeth Dronet from Space City (IFPA rank 1534)
  • 🏅 Brian Fults from Longville, LA (IFPA rank 1461)

Champions of the Day

Amidst the cacophony of clinking balls and triumphant cheers, these players emerged as the ultimate pinball wizards:

  1. Jim Mueller: IFPA rank 392, with a whopping 103 IFPA events under his belt.
  2. Don Dura: IFPA rank 1310, just one event behind at 104.
  3. Brian Fults from Longville, LA: IFPA rank 1461, seasoned with 95 events.
  4. Elizabeth Dronet from Space City: IFPA rank 1534, the veteran of the group with 332 events.
  5. Chris Geist: IFPA rank 606, another veteran with 297 events.
  6. Bill Nebeker: IFPA rank 2519 with a solid 146 events.
  7. Chris Low: IFPA rank 1690, crossing the century mark with 101 events.
  8. Grayson Turner from Spring, TX: IFPA rank 5243, still making waves with 34 events.

Legacy in Machines

EinStein’s lineup truly was a feast for the eyes, representing a blend of old-school classics and modern-day marvels:

Venue Vibes

EinStein’s isn’t just an arcade; it’s an experience. With cheap beers, friendly bartenders (shout-out to Tara, Nick, and Eric!), and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder fans don’t mind the drive from downtown. But remember – bring your quarters, and if you forget, they’ve got you covered with change machines!

Texas Pinball Standings: The Titans

As we wrap up our coverage of the event, here’s a snapshot of the best in Texas pinball:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.13
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.72
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.54
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.09
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.24
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio212.67
10Kevin RodriguezDenton210.54

From long-lasting games to pulsating face-offs, this tournament had it all. The Texas sun might’ve been hot, but the pinball action? Definitely hotter! Stay tuned to this space for more from the thrilling world of pinball!

Hidden Masters and Monster Bashes: A Night to Remember at Kitsap’s Amazing Race Finals

Overview

It felt like a meeting of a secret society—veiled in mystery and palpable excitement. On September 23, 2023, the clandestine Kitsap’s Amazing Race Finals – September unfolded in an undisclosed location in Washington. Orchestrated by the elusive Richard Godwin, this tournament was pinball’s answer to Fight Club, without the fighting but all the drama.

Monster Bash Madness

In a dimly lit corner, the Monster Bash (Remake) pinball machine stood like an old guardian of pinball lore. Donovan Haga, not to be taken lightly with an IFPA rank of 1573, claimed victory in the first round against Daniel Trobare, Richard Godwin, and the enigmatic Pinky Barney. It was the stuff of legends—or would be if legends were allowed to be told about this secret gathering.

And the Winners Are…

Let’s not beat around the bush. The victors of the night deserve their moment in the dim light:

  • 1st Place: Donovan Haga, from Bremerton, IFPA rank 1573
  • 2nd Place: Pinky Barney, IFPA rank 6726
  • 3rd Place: Richard Godwin, IFPA rank 2257
  • 4th Place: Daniel Trobare, IFPA rank 1825

Congratulations to these masters of the flippers!

Pinball Gallery

The tournament showcased a rich tapestry of pinball history. Among the 13 fascinating machines, five stood out:

We’d love to tell you about the venue, really, but it seems even the organizer Richard Godwin prefers to shroud it in mystery. If you were part of this secret society, you’d know. If not, better luck next time.

IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings

The night’s performances were contextualized beautifully by the IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond625.96
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle533
3Richie TerrySeattle498.18
4Sean IrbySeattle469.73
5Jarrett GaddySeattle446.89
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.46
7Dave StewartCarnation399.99
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.84
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.69
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.28

In conclusion, Kitsap’s Amazing Race Finals was more than just a pinball tournament. It was a whispered legend, an underground sensation. And while the night may have been shrouded in secrecy, the dazzling skills displayed were impossible to hide.

Until the next whispered rendezvous, keep those flippers flipping, and may your pinball dreams be as mysterious and exciting as a hidden location.

Belles & Chimes Phoenix: Where Pinball Dreams Take Flight

A Desert Afternoon of Flicks, Flips, and Fantastic Pinball

When 20 top-tier pinball players assemble under the scorching Arizona sun, you can expect the competition to get fiery. The “Belles & Chimes Phoenix” tournament, organized by the pinball aficionado Tracy Lindbergh, kicked off at 1:00 PM on September 23, 2023, at an undisclosed Arizona location. For nearly 3 hours, these pinball wizards tested their mettle in a grueling 6-round showdown.

A Blackwater Battle for the Ages

Among the day’s highlights was an intense game in Round 2 featuring “Blackwater 100” by Bally, a table that debuted on March 1, 1988. Olivia Helm, ranked 931st in IFPA standings, took first place, fending off formidable opponents Diane Smith, Krisha Shufran, and Valerie Doucette. This face-off proved that when it comes to pinball, the thrill of the game transcends the machine itself.

The Champions of the Day

  • 🥇 Olivia Helm: Not only dominated “Blackwater 100” but also the tournament, boasting a total of 213 IFPA events under her belt.
  • 🥈 Stephanie Turner: A local from Chandler, AZ, with an IFPA rank of 1063, showcased her skills through consistent gameplay.
  • 🥉 Kathy Lovato: An emerging talent with a penchant for racking up points.
  • 🏅 Tracy Lindbergh: The woman behind the curtain, ranked 491 and the event’s organizer, made it to the top four. That’s multitasking at its finest!

The Tables that Talked

While “Blackwater 100” stole the spotlight, let’s not overlook the other magnificent machines that hosted our gladiators:

  1. Space Shuttle by Williams (1984) – A voyage into space minus the G-force.
  2. Stellar Wars by Williams (1979) – Your ticket to interstellar glory.
  3. Sorcerer by Williams (1985) – Where magic and pinball collide.
  4. Transporter the Rescue by Bally (1989) – A nostalgic trip back to late ’80s pop culture.
  5. Genesis by Gottlieb (1986) – Embark on a creation journey of points and combos.

IFPA Arizona’s Best

Before we wrap up, let’s look at the IFPA’s Arizona Top 10 to see how our competitors measure up:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau672.29
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.59
3John ShoppleMesa570.07
4John MagyarGilbert352.81
5Kevan CarterTempe321.37
6Jason BarreMesa312.26
7Adam HortonPhoenix310.32
8Paul BlancoChandler306.33
9Joey RioSurprise282.01
10Walter donyPhoenix281.39

In the world of pinball, you are only as good as your last game, and for those who played in the Belles & Chimes Phoenix tournament, that last game was exceptional. We can’t wait to reveal the next undisclosed location where pinballs will fly and dreams will either be made or shattered.

Until then, keep flipping!

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

Pinball at the Bank 2023: A Tilt of Skill & Strategy

A Day of Flippers and Silver Balls

On a clear sky afternoon with temperatures grazing a comfortable 82°F, pinball enthusiasts congregated at the Bank of Pinball, Terre Haute. The clock struck 3 PM and the Pinball at the Bank 2023 tournament commenced. Tyler Becker, a well-known figure in the pinball community, had organized what turned out to be an almost 3-hour-long adrenaline rush. 23 competitors, 7 rounds, but only 8 would proceed to the finals.

The Thrones’ Decree

It was in Round 4 that the audience was treated to an edge-of-the-seat game on the Game Of Thrones (Pro) by Stern. Derek Vandevier displayed a masterclass, clinching the top spot, while Steve Rolsing, with his IFPA rank of 461, fiercely secured the second.

And the Pinball Maestros Are…

The dazzling array of lights and the rhythmic clinks marked the end of the tournament, revealing the grandmasters of pinball:

  • 1st: Tyler Becker (IFPA rank 301)
  • 2nd: Robert Trail (IFPA rank 4609)
  • 3rd: Mike Howard from St. Louis (IFPA rank 888)
  • 4th: John Miller MO (IFPA rank 164)
  • 5th: Derek Vandevier (IFPA rank 0)
  • 6th: Preston Surdo (IFPA rank 2134)
  • 7th: Steve Rolsing (IFPA rank 461)
  • 8th: Michael LaFrieda, the extraterrestrial enthusiast from Planet Earth (IFPA rank 1293)

Legacy in Machines

16 pinball machines, each with its own history and challenges, graced the venue. Among them, a few stood out:

Venue Vibes

The Bank of Pinball isn’t just about games; it’s about experiences. Whether you’re on a date or with friends, there’s something for everyone. And with the promise of unlimited games for a mere $10 post 8 PM on weekends, it’s a haven for night owls. Word to the wise, the Bank has now relocated across from the Ulta at the main entrance, making it even more accessible!

IFPA Indiana’s Top 10 Pinballers

The state of Indiana boasts some of the best pinball players. Here’s a look at the crème de la crème:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy DillMartinsville378.56
2Joshua FranklinFort Wayne349.34
3Ryan QuinnBluffton347.43
4Preston CurrieFishers225.31
5Austin DeventerFort Wayne207.56
6Scott ElliottColumbia City199.58
7Sydnee DeventerFort Wayne195.63
8Chris FogelFort Wayne178.93
9Mattison OgdenKendallville174.65
10Ryan DonohueIndianapolis171.38

As the sun set on Terre Haute, the pinball realm was abuzz with tales of epic games, close misses, and triumphant victories. Until the next tilt, keep those flippers flipping!

Battles and Ball-Saves: The Thrills of Pin-toberfest/Main Event!

Overview

There’s a unique sensation when the clash of pinballs echoes through a venue, a fusion of nostalgia and competition. On September 23, 2023, Englewood’s renowned 1up Greenwood arcade reverberated with that very sensation. Over the course of nearly 6 hours, 61 pinball aficionados faced off in the Pin-toberfest/Main Event!, meticulously organized by the pinball savant, Donavan Stepp.

Game of the Tournament: Deadpool (Pro)

In Round 6, a classic Deadpool (Pro) machine became the theater for a gripping battle. Chad Markham, sporting an impressive IFPA rank of 346, claimed the top spot. He was closely followed by Kevin McCarthy, Aaron Rito, and Emily Unruh. The tension around this game could’ve been sliced with a knife – or a katana.

Meet the Champions

Here are the superheroes of the day, whose pinball prowess made them the talk of Englewood:

  • 1st: Walt Wood (Englewood, CO, IFPA rank 37)
  • 2nd: Nathan Haas (IFPA rank 1439)
  • 3rd: Ryan Altermatt (IFPA rank 477)
  • 4th: Daniel Anderson (Englewood, CO, IFPA rank 1348)

Kudos to these pinball wizards for their masterful control and precision!

Pinball Showcase

Out of the 23 gleaming pinball machines present, several caught our attention:

1up Greenwood: More than Just an Arcade

With classic games like Super Mario and Mortal Kombat alongside a staggering collection of pinball machines, 1up Greenwood offers more than just games—it offers memories. The venue, although a bit snug, sets the perfect stage for a vibrant night out. And let’s not forget their tantalizing drinks to quench the thirst of battling competitors.

IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10 Standings

To give a wider context to the event, let’s take a look at the top 10 players in Colorado:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood506.53
2Ryan AltermattDenver232.92
3Zach McCarthyConifer193.11
4Mark AbbottDenver122.02
5Lewis Ritenour120.7
6Donavan SteppLakewood110.68
7David Johnson COAurora110.54
8Mat BrundageDenver107.26
9Daniel AndersonEnglewood103.76
10Adam LefkoffBoulder95.67

That’s a wrap for the Pin-toberfest/Main Event! Pinball legends were born, and tales of epic comebacks and heartbreaking defeats will be shared until the next battle. We’ll be keeping an eye on these rising stars, and so should you.

Until next time, may your multi-balls be many, and your tilts be few!

The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL Showdown: A Pinball Night to Remember

The Buzz Before the Storm

In the heart of Anaheim, California, 44 pinball enthusiasts gathered on a pleasantly cool evening with overcast skies, just a few degrees shy of 70°F. The reason? The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL pinball tournament. Hosted at the Captain’s Arcade Showroom and organized by CC Castaneda, it was an evening designed for the swift, the skilled, and the pinball-savvy.

Venue Vibes

Captain’s Arcade Showroom was everything a pinballer could hope for. If you haven’t yet visited, check out their website and take my word for it: it’s a slice of arcade heaven. With well-maintained machines and a welcoming manager, it’s a local treasure where the love for pinball is palpable in the air.

Intricacies of the Game

Running for a little over four hours, the tournament was arranged into 5 challenging rounds. In each round, players grouped up to face off against each other across a grand total of 31 pinball machines, battling it out for the most points. In the end, points were tallied and the top players etched their names into the annals of Captain’s Arcade Showroom history.

Godzilla Steals the Show

Round 4 saw an intense game that had spectators and participants alike on the edge of their seats. The game of choice? Godzilla by Sega, released in 1998. Dennis Eichhorn emerged victorious, but not without formidable competition from Sean Irby, Hillary Jacobson, and Scott Macias. When two of the players rank in the top 100, you know you’re in for a masterclass in pinball strategy.

The Glorious Winners

  1. Sean Irby: Ranked 86th but played like he was in the top 10.
  2. Johnny Modica: With a whopping 431 total IFPA events, experience pays off.
  3. David Green CA: Consistency is key for this contender.
  4. Glenn Habas: A player to watch out for in future competitions.

Machine Highlights

The event showcased a variety of pinball machines, each bringing its unique flavor to the tournament. Among them:

  • Galaxy by Stern: A jump into cosmic wonders.
  • Future Spa by Bally: A journey into a futuristic realm.
  • Congo by Williams: Navigate through the jungle, avoiding perils.
  • The Bally Game Show: For those with a penchant for trivia and luck.
  • Godzilla by Sega: The crowd-pleaser, offering destructive fun.

Golden State’s Pinball Elite

The competitive spirit in California is strong, especially if we take a look at the IFPA’s top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale538.95
2Raymond AshbyLos Angeles518.08
3Gabe Da SilveiraOakland462.95
4Scott MaciasGlendora456.81
5Nic SteinDavis418.12
6Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
7Escher Lefkoff411.53
8Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
9Johnny ModicaHacienda Hts401.79
10Leslie Ruckman360.98

The Captain’s Friday Night Pre-PATL tournament was a high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping evening that both casual players and pinball pros will be talking about for a long time. If this event is any indication, the realm of pinball has a bright and competitive future ahead.

Stay tuned for more updates and keep those flippers ready!

An Evening of Flips and Triumphs at District 82’s Flipping Friday Tournament

It was an evening of tantalizing drama and spectacular flipper finesse at District 82 Pinball’s Flipping Friday Tournament on September 22, 2023. As broken clouds hovered outside with a comfortable 74°F temperature, inside the arcade, it was nothing short of electrifying.

Fast Flips, Faster Decisions

The tournament was conducted in 4 rounds with 2 games per round. A total of 27 pinball aficionados competed, earning points based on their finishing positions. With a time limit of just over two and a half hours, players had to be fast with their flippers and faster with their decisions.

The Highlight Reel

In a surprising turn of events, Round 1 on the vintage Star Trek by Bally was a game to remember. Bret Derby from Appleton, WI, left everyone stunned with his IFPA rank of 1524, securing first place in the round. Tom Schmidt, and with a higher IFPA rank of 397, found themselves in fourth place, proving that in the world of pinball, rankings aren’t the end-all.

And the Flippers Go To…

Applause and kudos to the champions who maneuvered their way through the complex mazes and flashing lights:

  1. Danny Bronny – Proving the power of experience, Danny with an IFPA rank of 450 emerged as the champion.
  2. Tom Schmidt – They didn’t let their Round 1 setback keep them down, surging to a second-place finish.
  3. Mark Hershey – His IFPA rank of 3491 didn’t hold him back from seizing third place.
  4. Jim Heidemann – Consistent gameplay ensured Jim a spot in the top four.

Machines that Stole the Show

With a staggering 112 machines on hand, it was tough to choose favorites. Yet, some stood out:

  1. Star Trek by Bally – A classic that can still draw a crowd.
  2. The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern – Because who doesn’t like dodging zombies?
  3. Dolly Parton by Bally – Bringing a bit of country glamour to the arcade.
  4. Last Action Hero by Data East – A 90s nostalgia trip worth taking.
  5. Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally – Another classic that never goes out of style.

The Mecca of Pinball

District 82 isn’t just another arcade; it’s a pinball pilgrimage site. Known for its stunning collection of well-maintained, rare, and popular pinball machines, the venue attracts a wide range of talent—from locals to global pinball celebs.

IFPA Wisconsin Top 10

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.28
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.19
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.63
4Escher Lefkoff1050.04
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.75
6Erik ThorenDe Pere737.83
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.44
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.62
10Jordan Dechaine683.87

As we closed the evening, it was clear that rankings and statistics are just numbers. What really matters is the skill you bring to the flippers and how you adapt in the face of unpredictability. Keep an eye out for our next tournament; who knows, you might be the next pinball wizard to rise through the ranks!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!