Thrills and Flips at the Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024

A Full Day of Pinball Action

The Atomic Pinball Arcade in Wood River, Illinois, was buzzing with activity as it hosted the Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024. On a sunny day with temperatures hovering around 77°F, 41 players gathered on April 14, 2024, to participate in a grueling contest stretching over five rounds and ten games, each round averaging about 5 hours and 19 minutes. The event, organized by Tyler Becker, showcased a mix of strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck.

Marathon Match on JAWS (LE)

A standout moment of the tournament was the marathon game on the newly released JAWS (LE) by Stern, which unfolded during Round 4. This gripping game stretched to an incredible 65 minutes, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats. Tyler Hund emerged victorious, with Will Hoffmann and Mike Howard placing second and third respectively. John Ragusa rounded out the top four, showcasing the competitive spirit that defined the day.

Showcasing Premier Pinball Machines

The Derby featured 39 pinball machines, each bringing its unique flair to the event. Notable among them were:

  • Eight Ball Deluxe by Bally, a classic favorite known for its challenging gameplay and retro charm.
  • Aerosmith by Stern, which combines rock ‘n’ roll with engaging playfield features, attracting players with its vibrant art and soundtracks.
  • Metallica (Pro) also by Stern, thrilled players with its fast-paced action and iconic music integration.
  • JAWS (LE), the newest addition, proved to be a monster hit with its deep rule set and immersive shark-hunting theme.
  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming, introduced in 2023, drew attention with its cinematic graphics and quotes from the cult classic film.

Tournament Champions

The event concluded with several players standing out for their exceptional performance:

  1. Logan Henderson from Downers Grove, IL, with an IFPA rank of 1720, showcased remarkable skill throughout the tournament to clinch first place.
  2. Travis Murie, ranked 32nd, demonstrated why he is one of the top players in the world, securing a well-fought second place.
  3. Chuck Sanderson, another high-ranking player with a standing of 369 in IFPA, took home third place, adding another solid performance to his record.
  4. Mike Howard, despite the exhausting rounds, managed to finish strong in fourth place.

Venue Praise

Atomic Pinball Arcade, with its friendly staff and vast selection of games, provided the perfect setting for this pinball showdown. The venue’s bright and clean environment, paired with the option to play unlimited games for a set price, made it an ideal spot for both casual visitors and serious competitors.

Closing Acknowledgements

A big thank you to Tyler Becker for organizing an unforgettable pinball tournament and to the Atomic Pinball Arcade for hosting this spectacular event. The Southern Illinois Pinball Derby 2024 was a testament to the thriving pinball culture, and we look forward to more such exciting tournaments. Stay tuned to our blog for further updates from the pinball world across the United States!

Dazzling Play at Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout Tournament

Overview of the Knockout Challenge

The Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout pinball tournament took place on a sunny afternoon in Bremerton, Washington. The event, hosted at Tik Tok’s Workshop and skillfully organized by Richard Godwin, was a fast-paced competition running for nearly 3 hours. Fourteen players battled through 12 rounds of intense pinball action under a Group Knockout format, where the stakes grew higher with each strike given for lower finishes in the rounds.

Game of the Day: The Wizard of Oz Face-Off

One of the tournament’s most thrilling games unfolded in Round 3 on The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball. Jessica Barron took the lead with stellar gameplay, followed by Kathleen Rush and Jennifer Bremerton, while Pinky Barney faced a challenging round. This game not only tested their pinball skills but also highlighted their strategic depth under pressure.

Celebrating the Victors

The event concluded with a celebration of remarkable skill and endurance:

  1. Pinky Barney emerged victorious, showcasing great resilience and strategy throughout the tournament.
  2. Kathleen Rush claimed the runner-up spot with consistent performances that reflected her growing expertise.
  3. Jennifer Bremerton displayed formidable skill, earning a well-deserved third place.
  4. Rachel Kahalekulu rounded out the top four, bringing experience and precision to the fore.

Showcase of the Pinball Arena

Participants enjoyed a selection of 12 diverse pinball machines, providing various styles and eras of gameplay:

  • Twister by Sega: Known for its stormy, chaotic gameplay mirroring the movie’s tornado theme.
  • Cyclone by Williams: A classic amusement park-themed game that’s beloved for its whimsical design and fun quotes.
  • Eight Ball by Bally: One of the best-selling pinball machines of all time, offering classic pool hall action.
  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: Rocks players with high-energy music and electrifying play features.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Stands out with its colorful graphics and innovative game mechanics.
  • Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Brings back classic monsters with modern technology, enhancing play with updated effects.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern: Engages players with missions and adventures based on the popular TV series.

Venue Vibes and Final Impressions

Tik Tok’s Workshop not only provided the stage for this pinball spectacle but also crafted a welcoming atmosphere that was praised by all attendees. With its combination of vintage games, delightful food, and a friendly staff, the venue made everyone feel like part of a vibrant community.

Grateful Acknowledgments

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Richard Godwin for organizing such an engaging and smoothly run tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for their fantastic hospitality. Their efforts made the Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout a memorable event for everyone involved.

For more stories and updates from the exciting world of pinball tournaments, keep your flippers ready and stay tuned to this blog!

Classic Pinball Showdown at D82 Saturday Night

Inside the Tournament

On a crisp April evening, the District 82 Saturday Night Classics pinball tournament captivated enthusiasts and players alike. Held at District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin, and meticulously organized by Erik Thoren, this tournament drew a crowd of 65 competitors who battled it out over 7 rounds and 2 games each. With clear skies and a cool atmosphere, players were in high spirits as they vied for the top 24 spots to advance into an intense final consisting of 4 rounds with 3 games each.

Semifinal Spotlight: Dolly Parton by Bally

In the heat of the semifinals, a thrilling game on Dolly Parton by Bally took center stage. Erik Thoren, not just the organizer but also a formidable competitor, clinched first place in this round, showing off his deep understanding of the game. He was followed by Nathan Zalewski, Jason Werdrick, and Rick Miller in a closely fought contest that was a highlight of the evening.

Tournament Champions

The event concluded with some outstanding performances. Erik Thoren secured the championship position, adding yet another win to his impressive pinball resume. Nathan Zalewski followed in second place, with Ryan Eggers and Tom Graf rounding out the top four. Special mentions go to Jeff Asman, Jason Werdrick, Adam VanDynHoven, and Rick Miller, who all placed in the top eight, showcasing great skill and strategy.

Featured Machines of the Tournament

The tournament featured an eclectic array of 46 pinball machines, each contributing to the day’s challenges and excitement:

  • Eight Ball Deluxe (LE) by Bally: Renowned for its challenging gameplay and strategic ball control.
  • Hot Hand by Stern Electronics: Captures attention with its unique rotating flipper.
  • Hi-Deal by Bally: Known for its fast-paced play and retro charm.
  • Strikes and Spares by Bally: Combines bowling and pinball for a unique twist.
  • Frontier by Bally: Offers players a rugged wilderness theme with intricate gameplay.
  • Magic by Stern Electronics: Enchants players with its mystical artwork and classic pinball layout.
  • Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally: Provides a fun and dynamic basketball-themed game.
  • Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics: Features a futuristic space travel theme with advanced features for its time.
  • Mata Hari by Bally: Delves into espionage with its spy-themed playfield and mechanics.

Venue and Experience

Traveling all the way from New York for the tournament, the experience at District 82 was nothing short of spectacular. The venue boasted an exceptional collection of well-maintained pinball machines, reflecting the owner’s passion and dedication to the pinball community. The welcoming atmosphere made it a memorable visit for out-of-towners and locals alike.

Gratitude and Farewell

A massive thank you to Erik Thoren for organizing such a thrilling and smooth-running tournament and to District 82 Pinball for providing an impeccable venue for this classic pinball showdown. Your hard work and hospitality have undoubtedly enriched the pinball community.

Keep up with GobbleHole for more recaps and features from the pulsating world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

A Clash of Titans at Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals

Setting the Scene at Wormhole

On a pleasantly warm evening of April 13, 2024, with the skies only partially obscured by clouds, the Space City Belles & Chimes Houston April Finals unfolded at Wormhole, located at 2017 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX. As the doors opened at 5:00 PM, enthusiasts and competitors alike stepped into an electrifying atmosphere charged with anticipation and the distinct, animated sounds of pinball machines in active contest.

Strategic Play and Standout Moments

The tournament was tightly formatted with four players competing in three games over a single round lasting nearly four hours. A notable highlight was the intense showdown on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) machine. Alice Young, wielding an impressive IFPA rank of 1822, showcased a blend of sharp reflexes and strategic nudging that outplayed her competitors, including the formidable Tracy Abrahams from Texas and the ever-consistent Elizabeth Dronet from Space City.

Featured Pinball Machines: Blending Art and Mechanics

Among the 19 pinball machines, a few stood out not just for their gameplay but also for their unique designs:

  • Dialed In! (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball, which combines modern technology with classic pinball layout, captivated players with its sophisticated software and engaging missions.
  • Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, the latest from Barrels of Fun, intrigued with its enchanting artwork and complex playfield, bringing the beloved movie to life.
  • James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern offered espionage-themed excitement with gadgets and missions fit for a secret agent.
  • Warlok and Barracora by Williams threw back to the early ’80s with their mystical themes and challenging gameplay, drawing in both nostalgia enthusiasts and new players.

Crowning the Champions

The fierce competition culminated in a dramatic final tally:

  1. Alice Young, triumphing as the tournament champion, showed why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball community, adding this victory to her portfolio of 128 IFPA events.
  2. Tracy Abrahams, who employs a calm, methodical approach to gameplay, secured second place, reflecting their growing prowess over 162 events.
  3. Elizabeth Dronet, a seasoned player with 383 events, demonstrated consistency and skill to claim third place.
  4. Veronica Seymour, despite being relatively new to the scene with only 7 IFPA events, made an admirable showing in fourth place.

A Heartfelt Thanks

As the night wound down, the energy of the competition gently settled into shared stories of narrow misses and spectacular wins. A special thanks goes to Space City Pinball, the organizers who not only put together a seamless event but also fostered a community where camaraderie and competitive spirit thrive together. And to Wormhole, for hosting an unforgettable evening of pinball wizardry.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the dynamic world of pinball!

Flipping Out at the Starfighters Monthly Pinball Tournament

Tournament Highlights

On a clear and warm April afternoon, the Starfighters Monthly pinball tournament saw an exciting battle among pinball enthusiasts. Held at Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, and organized by Kevin Curtis, this event lasted for a spirited 4.5 hours. Fifty-seven competitors took part in a grueling 8-round competition where precision and strategy were key to accumulating points and advancing in the standings.

Unforgettable Gameplay Moments

The standout game of the tournament took place during Round 4 on Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams. Kevin Curtis himself, not just the organizer but also a skilled player, led the round. He was closely followed by Krisha Shufran from Chandler, Jim Smith from Phoenix, and Mike McClure from Glendale, making it a memorable battle that showcased some top-notch pinball skills.

Celebrating Our Champions

At the close of the tournament, accolades were awarded to the most skillful and persistent players:

  • Will McKinney claimed the top spot, further solidifying his standing as a formidable player in the pinball community.
  • John Shopple from Mesa followed closely in second place, bringing years of experience to the fore.
  • Mark Pearson, one of the highest-ranked players present, finished a strong third.
  • Hailey Buhrman from Chandler rounded out the top four, demonstrating great skill and potential for future tournaments.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue was packed with 31 pinball machines, each adding its own unique challenge:

Venue Vibes

Starfighters Arcade, with its vintage charm and bustling atmosphere, provided the perfect nostalgic backdrop for the tournament. Although the space was a bit cramped due to the large turnout, the array of classic and modern pinball machines made it a pinball lover’s paradise. The atmosphere was lively, evoking memories of childhood arcades and fostering a community spirit among players.

Acknowledgments and Thanks

A big thank you to Kevin Curtis for organizing such a fantastic event and to Starfighters Arcade for hosting. Your efforts have created a vibrant and welcoming community space that celebrates the joy of pinball.

Be sure to follow us for more news and stories from the pinball tournament circuit across the United States!

Highlights from the Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston April 2024

Overview of the Event

The Space City: Belles & Chimes Houston April 2024 pinball tournament took place on a warm and partly cloudy afternoon at Wormhole in Houston, Texas. This engaging event, organized by Space City Pinball, spanned nearly 4.5 hours and saw 43 competitors engage in fierce pinball action. The tournament structure consisted of 5 rounds, with each player striving to accumulate the highest total points across 2 games per round to clinch victory.

Featured Game Breakdown

One of the tournament’s highlights occurred in Round 3 on Galactic Tank Force (Signature) by American Pinball. This intense match showcased a formidable display of skill and strategy, with Kyrra Warren taking the lead, followed closely by Valli Irvine, Lauren Drullinger, and Leslie Speights. Their performances underscored the competitive spirit and high stakes of the tournament.

Tournament Champions

Congratulations to the tournament’s overall winners who stood out with their exceptional pinball skills:

  • Alice Young topped the charts, leveraging her experience across 125 IFPA events.
  • Tracy Abrahams showcased their prowess in a very competitive field, marking their 162nd IFPA event.
  • Veronica Seymour made a significant impact with her third-place finish in only her 7th IFPA event.
  • Elizabeth Dronet continued to demonstrate why she is a stalwart of the pinball community with her consistent high-level play.

Pinball Machine Highlights

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 24 pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and excitement:

  • Warlok by Williams (1982): Known for its intricate playfield and mystical themes.
  • Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams (1993): Engages players in space exploration missions with its deep rule set.
  • High Speed by Williams (1986): A fast-paced game that tests reflexes and timing.
  • Cosmic Princess by Allied Leisure (1979): A rare gem that provided a retro pinball experience with classic mechanics.
  • Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016): Always a favorite, with its engaging modes and interactive gameplay.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (2018): Combines humor and action for an entertaining game experience.
  • Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun (2023): Recently released, offering fresh challenges with its innovative design.
  • James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern (2022): Delivers espionage-themed excitement and sophisticated play features.
  • Future Queen by Bell Games (1987): Captures the essence of the 80s arcade with its vibrant art and gameplay.

Venue and Atmosphere

Though the Wormhole in Houston doesn’t have extensive reviews, the venue provided a perfect setting for a pinball showdown, with enough space and ambiance to keep the adrenaline pumping and flippers flipping throughout the event.

Appreciation and Acknowledgments

A special thank you to Christina Cheeseman and the team at Space City Pinball for organizing such a thrilling event and to Wormhole for hosting the tournament. Their efforts ensured a smooth and memorable competition for all involved.

Spring Fling at the Belles & Chimes SATX Tournament

Highlights from the Tournament

On the balmy evening of April 12, 2024, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Spring 2024 #2 pinball tournament unfolded at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters in San Antonio. This engaging event, masterfully organized by Christina Cheeseman, spanned approximately 2.5 hours. The air was crisp with a hint of broken clouds as 14 players dove into 5 rounds of pinball magic, each round consisting of 2 games. The culmination of their efforts led the top 4 scorers into a gripping finals round that featured three games to determine the ultimate winners.

Spotlight on a Stellar Game

The tournament kicked off with a remarkable session on Led Zeppelin (LE) by Stern, setting a high standard for skill and competition. Cinthia Guadiana clinched the top spot in this round, leading Nadia Didehbani, Hope Love, and Stephanie Stone through a tough battle that showcased their impressive abilities and strategic play.

Celebrating the Victors

A huge congratulations to Cinthia Guadiana, who emerged as the tournament champion with her strategic prowess, followed closely by Nadia Didehbani from Austin, TX. Hope Love and Stephanie Stone also showed commendable skill and determination, securing the third and fourth positions respectively.

Tour of the Tables

This tournament featured an impressive collection of 46 pinball machines, providing a diverse playing field for all participants. Key machines included:

  • Champion Pub by Bally (1998): A boxing-themed game that challenges players to a virtual fight in the ring.
  • Fish Tales by Williams (1992): Known for its angling antics and fast-paced play.
  • Evel Knievel by Bally (1977): A classic game that pays homage to the legendary daredevil.
  • Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (2019): Captures the essence of the popular series with immersive gameplay.
  • Surfer by Gottlieb (1976): Takes players on a nostalgic ride with its retro surfing theme.
  • Hot Wheels by American Pinball (2020): Revs up the excitement with racing-themed action and dynamic visuals.
  • Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016): Offers a ghost-hunting adventure filled with supernatural fun.
  • Congo by Williams (1995): Takes players deep into the jungle with its adventurous and exploratory gameplay.

A Coffee Shop with Character

The venue, What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, provided a unique and laid-back setting that perfectly complemented the night’s festivities. The ambiance was relaxed and welcoming, making it a hit among attendees who enjoyed not only the pinball but also the excellent coffee and delightful treats like hot cocoa with extra whipped cream and cinnamon rolls.

Gratitude and Goodbyes

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Christina Cheeseman for organizing a seamless and enjoyable pinball tournament and to What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for hosting us in such a charming and eclectic space. Their efforts made the evening not only a competition but a memorable gathering for everyone involved.

Keep flipping through GobbleHole for more updates and features from the pinball world!

Welcome to the Electrifying MFStrikes! Pinball Tournament

Overview of the Competition

On the evening of April 11, 2024, Lynn’s Arcade became the battleground for the MFStrikes!!! pinball tournament. Organized by Cary Carmichael, this knockout event saw 11 competitors vying for supremacy across 9 intense rounds, under a clear sky and pleasant 60°F.

Highlight Match: Transformers Face-Off

The tournament kicked off with a memorable first round on the Transformers pinball machine by Stern, where Dexter Farm, with an IFPA rank of 4006, narrowly defeated Craig Heitmann, an unranked challenger, setting an energetic tone for the night.

Showcasing the Machines

The tournament featured an impressive roster of 36 pinball machines. Highlights included:

  • No Fear: Dangerous Sports, known for its adrenaline-pumping action.
  • Demolition Man, offering a glimpse into a sci-fi future with unique control features.
  • Radical! by Bally, which brought back the colorful ’90s skate culture.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium), famous for its realistic dinosaur animations and interactive gameplay.
  • Foo Fighters (LE), the latest addition, drawing crowds with its rock ‘n’ roll theme and exclusive content.

Champions of the Arena

As the flippers stilled, the top players emerged victorious:

  1. Nikki Carmichael (IFPA rank 2697), with vast experience from 170 events, clinched the top spot.
  2. Linda G (IFPA rank 6871), proved her mettle with strategic plays in her 77th event.
  3. Melina Meltzer from California, leveraging their experience from 76 events, secured third place.
  4. Matt Nielsen demonstrated solid skills, finishing strong in fourth place.

The Venue: Lynn’s Arcade

Lynn’s Arcade, with its eclectic mix of pinball machines and unique beer selections, provided a perfect setting for an engaging night. Located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, the venue promised—and delivered—a fantastic pinball experience.

A Final Salute

Thanks to Cary Carmichael for a seamlessly executed tournament and to Lynn’s Arcade for hosting an unforgettable evening. For those passionate about the ping of pinball and the thrill of the game, stay connected for more tales from the pinball circuit across the nation!

Rolling Through the Emporium Hi-Scorium April Pinball Tournament

Key Highlights from the Evening

The Emporium Hi-Scorium April pinball tournament, orchestrated by Myriad Pinball, dazzled players and spectators alike on the evening of April 10, 2024. Hosted at the Emporium Arcade Bar in San Francisco, this competitive gathering lasted a spirited 2.5 hours. Despite the evening being draped in overcast skies, the mood inside was anything but gloomy, with 29 pinball aficionados clashing flippers in a series of four intense rounds, leading up to a high-stakes final showdown.

Battle of the Flippers: Tournament Insights

Competitors were divided into groups, battling across 4 initial rounds with each round consisting of a single game. The points accumulated based on their rankings in these games determined the top 4 players who advanced to the finals—a rigorous test of skill with three games in one decisive round.

Game of the Night: Stranger Things Showdown

Highlighting the game roster was Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern, which saw the longest game duration of the tournament. This epic round stretched to an astonishing 61 minutes, where strategy and stamina were key. Rob Coli triumphed in this marathon game, leading Conner Silverstein, Shannon Sweetser, and Mitch Diemert in a thrilling finish.

Champions of the Arena

Rob Coli emerged as the tournament champion, continuing to build his legacy with his 158th IFPA event. Close on his heels was Shannon Sweetser, a local talent from San Francisco, followed by Conner Silverstein and the spirited Mitch Diemert, who made an impressive showing despite his lack of an IFPA ranking.

Spotlight on the Machines: Icons of Pinball

The tournament featured a lineup of 11 enthralling pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the competition:

  • Star Wars (Pro) by Stern (2017): A fan favorite for its deep rule set and dynamic playfield, challenging players to navigate the galaxy.
  • Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern (2023): The newest addition, combining rock music with fast-paced pinball action, quickly became a crowd-pleaser.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern (2020): Known for its collaborative gameplay mechanics, encouraging teamwork and strategy.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021): Offering a monstrous challenge with its city-crushing, multi-ball events.
  • Metallica (Pro) by Stern (2013): Rock and roll meets pinball, featuring electrifying soundtracks and engaging missions.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (2019): Players embark on a dinosaur-hunting adventure with intricate play modes and immersive graphics.
  • Spider-Man by Stern (2007): A classic that combines superhero antics with intricate web-slinging pinball mechanics.
  • Revenge From Mars by Bally (1999): A throwback to the late ’90s with its unique blend of video and pinball gameplay, creating a hybrid experience.

Each machine offered unique challenges and played a pivotal role in testing the adaptability and skill of every participant.

Atmosphere and Acoustics: More Than Just Pinball

The Emporium Arcade Bar provided a perfect backdrop with its vibrant atmosphere. Arriving post-dinner, attendees were greeted by the energetic tunes of a live DJ, enhancing the competitive spirit with great music and a selection of refreshing beverages—a true pinball paradise.

Hats Off to the Hosts

A special thanks to Myriad Pinball for organizing an unforgettable night of pinball wizardry and to the Emporium Arcade Bar for hosting. Their combined efforts created a fantastic environment for both new enthusiasts and seasoned players to enjoy the grandeur of pinball competition.

Stay tuned for more pinball tournament updates and tales from the silver ball battlefield!

Punk Rock Pinball Showdown: A Night to Remember at B.R.I. Taproom

Good evening, pinball wizards and arcade adventurers! It’s your digital pinball scribe, Bride of Pinbot, back again to whisk you away to the heart of Mesa, AZ, where the Punk Rock Pinball tournament rocked B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade with flippers, bumpers, and high scores.

The Main Event

Under the clear skies of April 10, 2024, the vibrant atmosphere of B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade set the stage for an epic pinball battle that commenced at 6:30 PM. In a whirlwind of excitement that lasted approximately 2 and a half hours, nine skilled players went head-to-head across 10 intense games. Orchestrated by the visionary Matt Trethewey, the tournament was not just a test of skill but a celebration of pinball culture.

Pinball Spotlights

The Bally classic, Atlantis, released on the cusp of the ’90s, emerged as the crowd’s darling with six captivating games. Not to be outshone, Junk Yard by Williams, with its whimsical post-apocalyptic playground, boasted the longest average game duration at a gripping 13 minutes per play, keeping players and onlookers alike on the edge of their seats.

Champions of the Night

In a display of pinball prowess, the tournament unveiled its victors:

  1. Johnny Willem clinched the first place with 4 wins, showcasing the skills that earned him an IFPA rank of 4159.
  2. Darren Coleman, with a surprising 5 wins, proved that rankings aren’t everything, securing the second spot as an unranked contender.
  3. Mahina Hayashi, with 4 wins, stood tall on the podium, her determination reflected in her impressive gameplay.
  4. Lindsay Pobieglo, not far behind and leading with 6 wins, demonstrated that victory is not just about the number of wins but the journey through the ranks.

The Pinball Arsenal

The tournament was a showcase of 10 pinball marvels, including fan favorites like Fish Tales by Williams, known for its angling antics, and the action-packed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern. Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern brought the rock, while Whirlwind by Williams swept players into a storm of excitement. Each machine, from the adrenaline-pumping Rollergames to the cinematic Spider-Man (Vault Edition), added its unique flavor to the tournament.

A Night at B.R.I. Taproom

The B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade wasn’t just a venue; it was an integral part of the experience. From the nostalgic allure of classic games to the engaging lineup of pinball machines, the taproom provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. Their dedication to preserving the joy and community of arcade gaming shone through, making every quarter spent a token of joy.

In Gratitude

As the flippers rest and the lights dim, a heartfelt thank you goes out to Matt Trethewey for organizing an event that captured the essence of pinball competition and camaraderie. And to B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, your commitment to the arcade spirit made this more than a tournament; it was a celebration. Here’s to many more nights filled with the clinks, clacks, and cheers of pinball success!