The Ultimate Pinball Showdown at Tik Tok’s Workshop

On the brisk, overcast evening of May 6, 2024, Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, hosted an electrifying pinball tournament: Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 5/6. With the temperature hovering at a cool 50°F, nine avid players gathered for a Group Knockout Tournament featuring the Fair Strikes system. The competition was fierce as players faced elimination after accumulating 7 strikes over the course of 9 intense rounds.

Racing Through Round 8: Grand Prix’s Thrilling Match

The excitement peaked in Round 8 on the vintage Grand Prix pinball machine by Williams, released on December 1, 1976. This round transported players back to the fast-paced world of Formula One racing, where precision and strategy are key. Michael Serna took the checkered flag, expertly navigating the twists and turns to secure first place. Andrew McCann raced to a close second, followed by Donovan Haga and Gocelyn Morgado, who demonstrated remarkable skill and tenacity on the classic machine.

Champions in the Spotlight

As the final round concluded, it was time to celebrate the top performers of the night. Here are the tournament’s shining stars:

1. Andrew McCann, IFPA rank 764, Total IFPA Events 570
   • Andrew’s high ranking and extensive experience made him a formidable contender, earning him the top spot in this thrilling competition.
2. Donovan Haga, from Bremerton, IFPA rank 1863, Total IFPA Events 143
   • Donovan’s strategic play and local knowledge helped him secure a well-deserved second place.
3. Michael Serna, IFPA rank 7450, Total IFPA Events 57
   • Michael’s standout performance in Round 8 on Grand Prix showcased his potential, earning him third place overall.
4. Gocelyn Morgado, from Bremerton, WA, IFPA rank 5968, Total IFPA Events 131
   • Gocelyn’s consistent performance and dedication to the game landed her in the top four, an impressive achievement in this competitive field.

Pinball Machines That Lit Up the Tournament

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 15 pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and thrills. Here are five that particularly stood out:

• Icarus by Recel (Released September 01, 1977): This machine’s vibrant artwork and mythological theme made it a nostalgic favorite, reminiscent of classic arcade days.
• Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams (Released January 01, 1993): Featuring intricate missions and voice clips from the TV series, this machine provided an immersive experience that was out of this world.
• Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming (Released October 01, 2018): A modern twist on a classic, this game’s interactive features and spectacular light show were a hit among players.
• The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern (Released July 01, 2021): With its cutting-edge design and captivating gameplay, this machine drew crowds and challenged even the most seasoned players.
• Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball (Released January 01, 2017): Known for its fast-paced action and unique soundtrack, this machine kept players on their toes with its high-energy gameplay.

Nostalgia and Fun at Tik Tok’s Workshop

Located at 1216 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA 98310, Tik Tok’s Workshop is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The venue’s cool selection of pinball machines evokes nostalgia, bringing back cherished memories from childhood. Alongside the pinball action, visitors enjoyed classic arcade games like Galaga and even a fun bowling game. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and the eclectic mix of games made it the perfect setting for an unforgettable tournament.

A Big Thanks and What’s Next

A big thank you to Richard Godwin for organizing this fantastic event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for hosting it in their unique venue. Stay tuned for more updates and coverage from the thrilling world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and the scores climbing!