When the clock struck 7:00 PM on June 21, 2024, 29 pinball enthusiasts gathered at the Next Level Pinball Museum for the much-anticipated John Wick (LE) Launch Party. This event, organized by Next Level Pinball, saw fierce competition through three rounds of two games each, with the excitement lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes. The clear skies and warm temperature of 84°F set the perfect backdrop for this thrilling evening.

The Ultimate Pinball Playground

Next Level Pinball Museum, located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA, is a paradise for pinball lovers. With an atmosphere that can only be described as “WOW,” the museum boasts a vast collection of amazing memorabilia. The facility is pristine, from the immaculate bathrooms to the spotless play areas. Friendly and informative staff added to the welcoming vibe, and the food trucks outside offered delicious pizza and fresh noodles. For more details, visit their website.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! – A Game to Remember

Round 1 featured a marathon on Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, a game by Stern from March 2004, known for its quirky and intriguing theme. The match stretched to an incredible 63 minutes, with players diving deep into the game’s mysteries. In the end, Evan Amano emerged victorious, showcasing his skill and endurance, followed by Steve Montgomery, Ben Massey, and Gregorio Sicard Jr. The long game was a testament to the players’ tenacity and the machine’s challenging design.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

With 73 machines on hand, the tournament was a pinball lover’s dream. Some standout pins included:

• RollerCoaster Tycoon (Stern, 2002): Featuring exciting ramps and thrilling multiball modes.
• Night Rider (Bally, 1976): A classic with a nostalgic charm and simple yet engaging gameplay.
• Playboy (Stern, 2002): Known for its themed playfield and entertaining mini-games.
• Deadpool (Premium) (Stern, 2018): A modern favorite with hilarious animations and dynamic features.
• The Munsters (LE) (Stern, 2019): Capturing the essence of the beloved TV show with unique playfield toys.
• Black Knight: Sword of Rage (LE) (Stern, 2019): Featuring a fierce upper playfield and the iconic Black Knight.
• Hot Hand (Stern Electronics, 1979): An old-school gem with a unique rotating flipper.
• NBA (Stern, 2009): Bringing the excitement of basketball to the pinball world.
• Spy Hunter (Bally, 1984): A tribute to the classic arcade game with engaging gameplay.

Battling Through the Ranks

The tournament was fierce, with players navigating through 29 competitors. Here are the top players who emerged victorious:

1. Billy Brown III – State rank: 23rd, IFPA rank: 777, Total IFPA Events: 201
2. Evan Amano – State rank: 4th, IFPA rank: 1387, Total IFPA Events: 83
3. Mathew Peterson – State rank: 1st, IFPA rank: 274, Total IFPA Events: 1006
4. Vincent Poudrier – State rank: 8th, IFPA rank: 1405, Total IFPA Events: 58

Billy Brown III’s steady play and experience saw him take the top spot, with Evan Amano and Mathew Peterson close behind. Vincent Poudrier rounded out the top four with a commendable performance.

IFPA Oregon Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Mathew Peterson	Portland	227.41
2	Matt Walton	Eugene	161.93
3	Dana Valatka	Portland	150.9
4	Evan Amano	Portland	128.28
5	James Adamson	Portland	127.21
6	Jeff Monroe	Eugene	122.67
7	Ben Massey		120.36
8	Vincent Poudrier		117.15
9	Nathan Stellhorn		104.98
10	Eric Merchant	Fall Creek	96.69

Wrapping Up a Night of Pinball Glory

A huge thank you to Next Level Pinball for organizing and hosting such a fantastic event. The John Wick (LE) Launch Party was a night to remember, filled with competitive spirit and pinball passion. The spotlight game on Ripley’s Believe It or Not! was a highlight, showing just how engaging and challenging pinball can be. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and tournament recaps!

On June 7, 2024, the Next Level Pinball Museum hosted an electrifying IFPA pinball tournament: Match Play at Next Level. With 24 players battling it out over three intense rounds, each consisting of two games, the competition was fierce and thrilling. The event kicked off at 7:00 PM under a clear sky, with a pleasant temperature of 83°F. The Tournament lasted around 2 hours and 33 minutes, making for a night full of high-octane pinball action.

Stepping into the Next Level Pinball Museum

Located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR, the Next Level Pinball Shop & Museum is a pinball enthusiast’s dream come true. The museum’s atmosphere is nothing short of spectacular, with an impressive array of memorabilia that keeps your head on a swivel. The welcoming and informative staff enhance the experience, ensuring every visitor feels right at home. The immaculate cleanliness of the facility, including the pristine bathrooms, is a testament to their dedication. And if you get hungry, the food trucks outside offer delicious options, including pizza and fresh noodles. It’s truly a WOW experience from start to finish!

Junk Yard Showdown: A Game to Remember

In Round 1, the game that stole the show was Junk Yard by Williams, released in January 1996. This game, with its quirky theme of scavenging and rebuilding, set the stage for an exhilarating match. Bruce Jones, ranked 5678 in the IFPA, showcased his scavenging skills to clinch first place. Caleb Hohlt, an unranked newcomer, surprised everyone by securing second place with his impressive gameplay. Local hero Derek Jennings, ranked 1414, put up a strong fight but had to settle for third place. Khris Bestel, another unranked player, showed great promise despite finishing fourth. The game perfectly mirrored the unpredictability and excitement of a junkyard adventure.

Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show

The tournament featured a whopping 55 different pinball machines, each bringing its unique flair to the event. A few standout pins included:

• Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams (1993): Known for its mist multiball feature and eerie theme, this machine captivated players and spectators alike.
• Scared Stiff by Bally (1996): With its spine-chilling design and Elvira’s iconic humor, this pin never fails to entertain.
• Split Second by Stern Electronics (1981): This machine’s fast-paced gameplay and innovative features made it a favorite among the participants.
• Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (1992): Combining 1950s drive-in movie nostalgia with a fantastic playfield design, this pin was a hit.
• Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams (1991): Featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger’s voice and a thrilling playfield, this machine brought the heat to the competition.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament concluded with some stellar performances. Here’s a rundown of the top winners:

1. Michael Dorland from Portland, OR, IFPA rank 4883, Total IFPA Events 40: Michael’s skill and consistency earned him the top spot.
2. Jacob Edwards from OR, IFPA rank 8042, Total IFPA Events 19: Jacob’s impressive gameplay secured him second place.
3. Noah Sicard, IFPA rank 4702, Total IFPA Events 30: Noah’s strategic plays landed him in third place.
4. Derek Jennings from Hillsboro, IFPA rank 1414, Total IFPA Events 143: Derek’s local support and experience saw him through to fourth place.

IFPA Oregon Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Mathew Peterson	Portland	220.35
2	Matt Walton	Eugene	161.93
3	Dana Valatka	Portland	147.93
4	Evan Amano	Portland	127.76
5	James Adamson	Portland	124.97
6	Jeff Monroe	Eugene	119.18
7	Ben Massey		114.35
8	Vincent Poudrier		107.18
9	Sean Irby	Seattle	96.52
10	Scott Benoit	Portland	93.14

Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Night

A massive thank you to Next Level Pinball for organizing and hosting such a phenomenal event. Their dedication and passion for pinball are truly inspiring. We hope everyone had an incredible time, especially our newcomers like Caleb Hohlt and Khris Bestel, who showed great promise. Stay tuned for more pinball tournament news and highlights. Don’t miss out on the next exciting chapter in the world of pinball!

The Match Play at Next Level tournament took place on a pleasantly clear evening of April 19, 2024, at the Next Level Pinball Museum in Hillsboro, Oregon. With 25 competitors in attendance, the event unfolded over three rounds, each consisting of two games, culminating in a total duration of approximately 2 and a half hours.

High Stakes on Johnny Mnemonic

The tournament kicked off with a highlight match on the Johnny Mnemonic pinball machine by Williams, a classic from January 1995. Billy Brown III showcased his skills by securing first place in this round, followed by Mitch McAffee, who impressively competed despite being unranked, with Gregorio Sicard Jr and Bill Brown also performing admirably.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament saw remarkable performances from the top contenders:

1. Bill Volckening from Portland, Oregon, ranked 2870th, demonstrated great skill and consistency over his 352 IFPA events, earning him the top spot.
2. Vincent Sperrazza, from Bremerton with an impressive rank of 247, brought his extensive experience from 415 IFPA events to secure second place.
3. Billy Brown III, ranked 753rd, used his competitive edge from 187 IFPA events to claim the third position.
4. Joseph Rembecki, impressively made it to fourth place, a notable achievement for an unranked player.

Spotlight on Notable Pinball Machines

The tournament featured an exciting array of 87 pinball machines, including:

• Barb Wire by Gottlieb: Known for its action-packed theme based on the movie, this machine challenges players with its dynamic playfield and unique multi-ball features.
• The Addams Family by Bally: One of the most popular pinball machines ever, it offers players a blend of whimsy and challenge with its iconic mansion that activates various modes.
• Heavy Metal by Stern: This machine, released in June 2020, draws players in with its rock music themes and innovative soundtracks coupled with engaging gameplay mechanics.
• Johnny Mnemonic by Williams: The machine that shined in the tournament, famous for its fast-paced action and intricate cybernetic hand gadget that tests player reflexes and strategy.
• Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams: Captivates players with its rich visuals and storytelling elements, where adventurers seek to rescue the Sultan’s daughter, adding layers of depth and intrigue to gameplay.

Next Level Pinball Museum: A Haven for Pinball Lovers

The Next Level Pinball Museum, located at 1458 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR, is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub for pinball enthusiasts. Decorated with an eye for detail and maintained to the highest standards, the museum offers a fantastic array of pinball machines, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Appreciation for a Memorable Evening

A heartfelt thanks to Next Level Pinball for organizing such a smooth and engaging tournament and to the staff at Next Level Pinball Museum for maintaining a welcoming and immaculate environment. As the pinball scene continues to thrive, we look forward to bringing more news and stories from the exciting world of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates!

Pinball Wizards Gather at Next Level

The Next Level Championship 2023 qualifier transformed an ordinary Sunday into a pinball extravaganza. Nestled in the heart of Hillsboro, Oregon, the Next Level Pinball Museum became the arena for a thrilling 3 hours of competitive play, where 33 contenders battled under a sky of broken clouds and a mild 61°F.

The Thrill of the Game

With 10 games on the line for each participant, the tournament was a true test of endurance, skill, and strategy. The atmosphere was electric, with players from all walks of life sharing a common goal: to claim victory and etch their names in the annals of pinball history.

Spotlight on the Classics

“Demolition Man” by Williams, a beloved machine from 1994, emerged as a crowd favorite, challenging players with its futuristic gameplay. Meanwhile, “High Roller Casino” by Stern captured attention with the longest average game duration, turning each play into a high-stakes gamble.

Champions of the Day

The tournament’s victors stood out not just for their wins but for their journey in the world of competitive pinball:

1. Sean Goller from Portland, OR – 6 Wins, IFPA Rank 3814: Showcased remarkable skill and resilience, leading the pack with his strategic plays.
2. Mathew Peterson from Portland, Oregon – 4 Wins, IFPA Rank 266: A seasoned player known for his deep understanding of pinball mechanics and tactics.
3. Vincent Poudrier from Portland – 5 Wins, IFPA Rank 4360: Demonstrated his competitive edge, rising through the ranks with each game.
4. Jeff Monroe – 4 Wins, IFPA Rank 1622: Brought his A-game, proving that experience and consistency are key to pinball success.

A Pinball Haven

The Next Level Pinball Museum, with its staggering collection of 108 pinball machines, provided a perfect backdrop for the tournament. From the adventure-filled “White Water” by Williams to the iconic “Disney TRON: Legacy” by Stern, the museum offered a diverse playground for all pinball enthusiasts.

Next Level: More Than Just a Venue

Beyond the competition, the Next Level Pinball Shop & Museum stood out for its welcoming atmosphere and passionate staff. The venue’s dedication to maintaining a top-notch collection and providing a great experience made it a beloved destination for both players and spectators.

Wrapping Up

The Next Level Championship 2023 qualifier was more than a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit, bringing together individuals united by their love for the game. Congratulations to all the players, and a big thank you to the organizers for creating an unforgettable pinball experience.

Stay tuned for more heart-stopping pinball action from across the nation!

On November 10, 2023, the Next Level Pinball Museum in Hillsboro Oregon hosted the Max Match Play pinball tournament, drawing in enthusiasts ready to test their skills against the best.

A Pinball Haven: Next Level Pinball Museum

The Next Level Pinball Museum, known for its extensive collection and lively atmosphere, proved to be the perfect venue for such an event. With an all-day play offer for $22.00 and the presence of food trucks, the museum was not just a gaming venue but a social hub for players and visitors.

Next Level Pinball Museum

Intense Gameplay and Strategy

The tournament featured 19 players, each facing off in 14 games. The competition was fierce, with participants employing various strategies to maximize their points. Mathew Peterson emerged victorious with 7 wins, despite Jeff Monroe and Joseph Rembecki securing 9 wins each. Derek Jennings also made a notable impact with 10 wins.

Standout Machines and Moments

The event was not short of excitement, especially with a line-up of 38 pinball machines. Notable ones included:

• Nitro Ground Shaker by Bally: A favorite among players, saw action in 6 games.
• Lord of the Rings by Stern: Known for its long game duration, averaged around 28 minutes per game.
• Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball: A modern classic that challenged even the best players.
• Venom (Pro) by Stern: One of the newest machines that added extra thrill to the tournament.
• Stranger Things (LE) by Stern: This machine brought the excitement of the popular series to the pinball world.

Concluding Thoughts

The Max Match Play at Next Level was more than just a competition; it was a testament to the skills and passion of the pinball community. As players left the venue, there was a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the next challenge.

Stay tuned for more gripping tales and updates from the pinball world!

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:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Mathew Peterson	Portland	218.49
2	Ken Martin	Coatsville	217.17
3	Dana Valatka	Portland	192.57
4	Colin Urban	Portland	173.51
5	Daniel Rone	Portland	156.86
6	Erik Graciosa	Portland	155.45
7	Matt Walton	Eugene	153.35
8	James Adamson	Portland	120
9	Paul Robertson	Portland	109.32
10	Adam Jones	Eugene	106.67

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!