A Night of Nostalgia and Nail-Biting Finishes: The Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament

As the stars twinkled in a clear December sky, the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, Pennsylvania, became a battleground for pinball enthusiasts. The Pinball Gallery Monthly Tournament – Max Match Play, masterfully organized by Bill Disney, was a spectacular mix of nostalgia, skill, and thrilling competition.

A Venue Steeped in Arcade History

The Pinball Gallery, with its excellent blend of classic and modern pinball machines, is more than just an arcade; it’s a time capsule of joyous memories. Bill’s long-standing commitment to preserving both pinball machines and classic video games is evident in the lovingly maintained collection, including treasures from his own past acquisitions.

The Tournament Unfolds

The competition was fierce, with 27 players facing off in 10 games each. The top 8 moved on to the finals, which consisted of 2 rounds with 2 games per round. The highlight was the battle on ‘Black Knight 2000’ by Williams, where Stephen Le, Dom Carr, Tony Lastowka, and Tony Makowski demonstrated their prowess in a thrilling semifinal.

Standout Machines and Moments

‘Joker Poker’ by Gottlieb, a favorite with 6 games played, and ‘Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium)‘ by Stern, known for its lengthy 25-minute average game duration, were among the stars of the show. Other notable machines included the rock-themed ‘Metallica (Pro)‘ by Stern and the nostalgic ‘Cyclone‘ by Williams.

A Salute to the Champions

Congratulations to Stephen Le for a well-deserved first place! Kudos also to Kim Smith, Tony Lastowka, and Don Werth for their remarkable performances. Each win was hard-earned, showcasing a blend of strategic gameplay and quick reflexes.

A Night to Remember

As the night came to a close, the Pinball Gallery stood as a testament to the timeless appeal of pinball. Bill Disney’s passion project has become a beacon for enthusiasts and casual players alike, proving that the spirit of pinball is alive and well.

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball, and remember, the silver ball awaits your next flip!

Venom and Vintage: The Pinball Tournament at Pinball Gallery

On a clear evening, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 56°F, the retro walls of the Pinball Gallery on Lancaster Ave in Malvern, PA were filled with the electrifying sounds of flippers, bells, and cheers. The reason? The Venom Pro Launch Party OPEN Tournament.

History Meets Modern Day:

The venue was a pinball enthusiast’s dream, featuring a total of 62 machines ranging from classic vintage to the latest releases. Highlights from this retro-modern fusion included:

The Venomous Climax:

But, of course, the star of the evening was Venom (Pro) by Stern, released just a few months prior in July 2023. With its stellar team comprising Lead Game Designer Brian Eddy, Technical Lead Artist Jeremy Packer (AKA Zombie Yeti), and music tracks by Mark Tremonti, it was the machine everyone had their eyes on.

During the finals, the tension was palpable. Each flipper action was a statement, each ball release a breath of anticipation. Stephen Le, with an IFPA rank of 1228, demonstrated impeccable skill, making his mark as the undisputed champion of the evening. Following closely were Kevin Lubanski, Stephen Haberman, and Tony Makowski, showcasing their prowess and passion for the game.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Titans:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh157.84
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh142.41
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk138.63
5Stephen LeChesterbrook117.63
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia116.68
7Tony MakowskiLansdale103.31
8Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
9Matt GuslerPhiladelphia96.01
10Cliff Albert89.06

More than Just Machines:

Beyond the competition and the iconic machines, the atmosphere of the venue itself was noteworthy. The Pinball Gallery, with its rich array of machines and energetic ambiance, is more than just an arcade. As one visitor recounted, “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!”

With another exciting tournament wrapped up, the journey of pinball continues, bringing together generations, blending nostalgia with modern-day thrills. Keep flipping, and stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!

Under Clear Skies: A Legendary Evening at the Pinball Gallery

The gentle hum of pinball machines, the vibrant lights blinking rhythmically, and the unmistakable sounds of silver balls ricocheting off bumpers — this was the setting on the evening of October 11, 2023, at the illustrious Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA. This wasn’t just any evening. It marked the continuation of a thrilling saga: The Ball Busters Pinball League’s 2023 Season #5 Week 6 tournament.

Setting the Stage: Atmospheric Excellence

Situated at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, the Pinball Gallery — a temple for pinball enthusiasts — was brimming with excitement. Organized by the ever-charismatic Bill Disney, the tournament attracted 18 pinball wizards ready to duel. And while the weather outside, a refreshing 60°F under a clear sky, might have made for a pleasant evening stroll, inside, the competition was heating up.

Grand Lizard: The Battle of the Titans

The highlight of the early rounds? A face-off on the vintage Grand Lizard machine by Williams from 1986. Anita Thallmayer, with an IFPA rank of 2403, showcased her mastery by clinching the top spot. Following close was the enigmatic Ana Dult, who despite having an IFPA rank of 0, proved that numbers aren’t everything. Kim Smith and Terri Morton wrapped up the top four, setting the stage for what was going to be an epic battle for the top.

Machines of the Night

From a spectacular collection of 63 pinball machines, a few stood out:

  • Joker Poker by Gottlieb: A card-game-based classic from 1978.
  • Star Trek by Bally: Transporting players to space since 1978.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern: A new entry from 2023, filled with superhero action.
  • Rock Encore by Gottlieb: A throwback to the vibrant music of the 80s.
  • Black Knight 2000 by Williams: A medieval adventure dating back to 1989.

Night’s Champions: Skill & Precision

  • Kim Smith took the throne showcasing skills honed over 73 IFPA events.
  • Anita Thallmayer and Ana Dult followed closely in second and third, with the former bringing experience from 157 IFPA events.
  • Terri Morton, or “Terri the Tenacious” as fans might say, clinched the fourth spot.

The Gallery Vibe

A peek at the Pinball Gallery’s website reveals a sterling recommendation: “I went to my friend’s birthday party that was being held here, and I had so much fun!! The bad cats pinball was my favorite! Def recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.”

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Powerhouses

The IFPA Pennsylvania Top 10 rankings stood as follows:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh157.84
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh142.41
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk138.63
5Stephen LeChesterbrook117.63
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia116.68
7Tony MakowskiLansdale103.31
8Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
9Matt GuslerPhiladelphia96.01
10Cliff Albert89.06

Pinball Dreams Continue…

As the silver balls came to rest and the flippers went silent, another thrilling chapter in Pennsylvania’s pinball history concluded. Until next time, keep those flipper fingers nimble and stay tuned for more tales from the pinball realm!

Pinball Pursuits: A Chilly October Night Warms up in Pennsylvania

On a clear and brisk evening, with temperatures hovering around 55°F, the Pinball Gallery on Lancaster Avenue was abuzz. While most might snuggle up indoors in such weather, for the pinball community, the atmosphere was heated with fierce competition and palpable excitement.

The Venue – More Than Just Pinball

The Pinball Gallery offers more than a retreat for pinball enthusiasts. For 80s kids, it’s a nostalgic journey. One visitor recalled playing Super Mario Brothers on a vintage television, stating, “It was like muscle memory – I beat the first world like it was nothing and my 12-year-old was in awe.” From vintage board games to the PacMan video game and pinball machine combo, there’s an arcade treasure at every corner. Not to mention the super friendly staff adding to the charm of the place.

Of Knights, Wizards, and Galactic Battles

The event showcased 72 pinball machines, with some making their mark more than others.

Quarterfinal Quake

Amid the flurry of flippers and flashing lights, the game on “The Addams Family” by Bally stood out. Tony Lastowka, with an impressive IFPA rank of 1302, bagged the first position. He was closely followed by Michael Reimer, Jamme Thomas, and Sam Fowler, making it a game to remember.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh156.6
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.79
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.8
5Bob ChoatePhiladelphia115.15
6Stephen LeChesterbrook110.04
7Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
8Matt GuslerPhiladelphia95.64
9Tony MakowskiLansdale88.05
10Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72

Celebrating the Champions

At the end of nearly 5 hours, Bob Choate from Delco, PA, emerged victorious. Not far behind were Michael Reimer and Tony Lastowka, securing the 2nd and 3rd spots, respectively. What’s notable is Billy Gianakopoulos’s performance, reaching 5th place despite it being his first IFPA event!

To all the players, attendees, and pinball enthusiasts, here’s to many more flippin’ fantastic tournaments. Keep those scores high, and spirits higher! Stay tuned for more updates from the enthralling realm of pinball.

A Night to Remember at the Pinball Gallery: Ball Busters’ Battle Royale!

Amidst the rhythmic hums and dazzling lights, on October 4th at 6:30 PM, the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA transformed into a veritable coliseum of pinball warfare. The Ball Busters Pinball League was in full swing for its 2023 Season #5 Week 5 tournament.

Stage Set for Thrills and Spills

With Bill Disney taking the reins of the event, 12 fervent players went flipper to flipper, vying for glory across 5 nail-biting rounds. The crisp, clear evening was no match for the electric atmosphere inside the gallery.

Air Guitars & Pinballs

But the talk of the tournament was the epic face-off in Round 2 on Aerosmith (Premium) by Stern. Amy McManus, unranked and under the radar, dazzled the competition, clinching the top spot, leaving behind veterans like Stephanie Savy and Jamme Thomas. Charissa Wiley, though valiant in her attempts, stood fourth.

Honoring the Masters of the Machines

As the echoes of the pinballs faded, the champions emerged:

  1. Kim Smith reigned supreme, her experience across 72 IFPA events clearly shining through.
  2. Anita Thallmayer clinched the second spot, proving her prowess.
  3. Terri Morton followed closely in third, showcasing her impeccable gameplay.
  4. The night’s underdog, Stephanie Savy, also found herself among the pinball elite.

Machines of Legacy and Lore

From the 12 magnificent pinball machines present, a few commanded special attention. Earthshaker by Williams transported players back to 1989 with its seismic themes. Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern provided medieval thrills, while the Oktoberfest machine made sure there were ‘cheers’ all around. Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally took players on a cinematic journey and, of course, Aerosmith kept the rock spirit alive and kicking.

An Experience Beyond Points

Visiting the Pinball Gallery isn’t just about the tournament. With a plethora of games and an amazing atmosphere, it’s no surprise attendees leave with an urge to come back for more, as one visitor raved about their fantastic experience and the sheer variety the gallery offers.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh156.6
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.79
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.8
5Bob ChoatePhiladelphia115.15
6Stephen LeChesterbrook110.04
7Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
8Matt GuslerPhiladelphia95.64
9Tony MakowskiLansdale88.05
10Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72

In the ever-evolving world of pinball, the titans of Pennsylvania continue their quest for glory. From Cryss Stephens at the pinnacle to Raymond Davidson completing the top ten, their competitive spirit remains unyielding.

So, as we tilt away from this week’s competition, the buzz is far from over. The Pinball Gallery and the Ball Busters League promise more thrills, more spills, and of course, more pinballs in action.

Keep flipping, folks!

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!

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

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

Quick Facts:

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

Spotlight on Batman 66

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

An Unusual Leaderboard

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

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

The Machines That Witnessed It All

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

A Blast from the Past

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

IFPA Pennsylvania Top 10

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

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

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

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

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

Venue Vibes: Pinball Gallery, Malvern

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

A Semifinal to Remember

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

The Night’s Best: Pinball Champions Steal the Show

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

For a detailed view of the pinball elite:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens180.56
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh152.25
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.78
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.81
5Stephen LeChesterbrook109.02
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia98.16
7Matt GuslerPhiladelphia94.96
8Tony MakowskiLansdale76.73
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72
10Jay Robinson70.23

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

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

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

The Final Flippers

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

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

Ball Busters & Bond: A Pinball Night to Remember

The stars aligned on September 13, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the world of pinball, bringing together the crème de la crème of players for a captivating event – The Ball Busters Pinball League – 2023 Season #5 Week 2. Set against a clear sky with the temperature gently caressing at 76°F, Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA became the battleground for an evening of flippers, bumpers, and unadulterated fun!

James Bond and the League of Novices

Round 1 opened with a cinematic twist, setting the stage on the recently released James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern. The game, younger than a year, showcased an unexpected tableau – Ana Dult, Becky Kisling, Linda Slodki, and Kathy Furlong. With each player yet to secure an IFPA rank, it was the wild west, and any novice could emerge as the sharpshooter. The surprise? Ana Dult took the top spot in a fierce bout that kept spectators on their toes.

Machines that Made the Night

While the league had 10 glittering machines, here are five that deserve a spotlight:

Unsung Heroines of the Night

While the James Bond machine saw novices shine, the overall winners were seasoned players.

  1. Kim Smith – Holding an IFPA rank of 4987, her record of 71 IFPA events showcased her seasoned approach.
  2. Terri Morton – With a rank of 2496 and 107 IFPA events under her belt, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
  3. Jennifer Gold – Even with fewer events (25), Jennifer’s gameplay shone bright.
  4. Emilia Choate – IFPA rank 4680 with a whopping 148 IFPA events! Emilia’s flair and skill were palpable.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Powerhouses

Pennsylvania’s pinball prowess isn’t just restricted to this one evening. Here are the state’s top guns:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens180.56
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh152.25
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.78
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.81
5Stephen LeChesterbrook109.02
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia98.16
7Matt GuslerPhiladelphia94.96
8Tony MakowskiLansdale76.73
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72
10Jay Robinson70.23

Pinball Gallery: The Gem of Malvern

For those unfamiliar with Pinball Gallery, it’s not just an arcade – it’s an experience. With a variety that caters to all ages and a pricing system that’s a steal, it’s no wonder a first-timer left with a sentiment, “So many fun games, and lots of great variety! Can’t wait to come back for more!!”

With another exhilarating evening in the annals of pinball history, the Ball Busters Pinball League left attendees and players eagerly awaiting the next. Until then, keep those flippers flippin’ and the silver ball zippin’!