Greetings, pinball wizards and weekend warriors alike! Let’s journey together through a night of clinks, clangs, and of course, some sing-alongs. We’re diving into the Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/12 pinball tournament, held on a notably chilly evening at Bremerton’s very own Tik Tok’s Workshop.

A Jamboree of Joy

The event kicked off precisely at 7 PM and extended its magical grip over us for almost 9 and a half hours. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re absorbed in a mesmerizing game. Though if you are here on a weekend, Karaoke could be echoing in the background, perhaps motivating some players and…distracting others? (or, truth be told, waiting for that Dirty and Dry cocktail – patience is a virtue on a busy Saturday night!).

Let the Games Begin!

With eight gripping rounds, each player was given a shot at glory with every game. The scoring method was straightforward: outplay your fellow pinballers in your group and climb the ladder. And speaking of games, a standout performance in Round 1 on Monster Bash (Remake) deserves a special mention. Organizer Richard Godwin didn’t just organize; he showcased his prowess by clinching the top spot, with Rachel Kahalekulu, Brandon Saludares, and Caleb Stickley hot on his trail.

Machine Mania

The machines, with their bright lights and enthralling designs, deserve their own applause. The aforementioned Monster Bash (Remake) was an audience favorite, and other notable pinball machines included the vintage Icarus, Sharpshooter, and the action-packed Terminator 2: Judgment Day. And let’s not forget the quirky Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons. Yes, that’s a real pinball game!

Rising to the Challenge

When the silver ball settled and scores were tallied, it was Richard Godwin who emerged as the reigning champion. Followed by Caleb Stickley, Brandon Saludares, and Rachel Kahalekulu – all of whom showcased grit, strategy, and of course, impeccable hand-eye coordination.

Local Pinball Standouts

Just a quick side-note for those of you keeping score at home. Here’s the cream of the crop when it comes to Washington’s pinball elite:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Germain Mariolle	Redmond	626.48
2	Lonnie Langford	Seattle	533.12
3	Richie Terry	Seattle	498.6
4	Sean Irby	Seattle	470.06
5	Jarrett Gaddy	Seattle	444.55
6	David Chernicoff	Seattle	436.53
7	Dave Stewart	Carnation	387.32
8	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	365.81
9	Neal Joslyn	Bremerton	364.77
10	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	326.43

To conclude, as we cherish these memories of skillful plays, quirky pinball names, and melodious (or perhaps not-so-melodious) karaoke, remember: there’s always another game, another shot, another chance to play and slay.

Catch you next time for more updates from the thrilling realm of pinball! Until then, keep those flippers flippin’!

Dark overcast clouds settled over Seattle, giving the city a cinematic, moody feel, fitting for an event that was anything but predictable. With the temperature hovering around 66°F outside this evening, inside the 4Bs Tavern the atmosphere was entirely different: feverish, exciting, and palpable.

On the evening of September 7, 2023, pinball enthusiasts gathered for the NWPC Pre-Tourney – 4Bs pinball tournament, held at the ever-popular 4Bs Tavern. This wasn’t just another gathering; it was a war zone of flippers, silver balls, and brilliantly lit playfields. Organized by the revered Germain Mariolle, the event lasted a whopping 10 hours and 12 minutes.

The Machines That Took The Limelight

With 13 pinball machines from various eras vying for attention, a few managed to steal the limelight:

• Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure took players on a whirlwind journey, echoing its cinematic counterpart.
• The Walking Dead (Pro) elicited shrieks, not of fear, but of pure thrill.
• Swords of Fury resonated with retro enthusiasts, offering a beautiful contrast to the latest machines.
• Alien (Remake) was a firm favorite, given its recent release and fascinating design.

… And several others had players queued up for another shot at glory.

Standout Game: The Wheel of Fortune Decides

The semifinals saw a fierce battle on the Wheel of Fortune machine, a classic from Stern that’s been captivating players since 2007. Leslie Ruckman from California, boasting an impressive IFPA rank of 168, clinched the first spot. She was closely followed by Maka Honig and Seattle’s very own Jarrett Gaddy, with Daniel Salo from Los Angeles finishing fourth. The dynamics, energy, and sheer skill on display were a testament to how intense and competitive pinball can be.

Champions Rise

Jon Salzman, with his agile fingers and focused demeanor, emerged as the champion, followed by Maka Honig, Zac Wollons, and the ever-talented Leslie Ruckman. These players showcased an unparalleled mastery over the machines, ensuring their positions among the elite.

The Venue: 4Bs Tavern

Having been revamped in late 2021 or early 2022, 4Bs Tavern managed to retain its dive bar soul while adding a touch of modern class. Apart from the immersive pinball experience, one could sense a comfortable, unpretentious charm about the place, further elevated by its unique square wooden-framed area, perhaps ready for an impromptu music session or a stand-up act.

The IFPA Washington Standings Speak Volumes

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Lonnie Langford	Seattle	479.13
2	Jarrett Gaddy	Seattle	427.93
3	Germain Mariolle	Redmond	427.18
4	David Chernicoff	Seattle	417.6
5	Richie Terry	Seattle	375.66
6	Sean Irby	Seattle	360.93
7	Dave Stewart	Carnation	350.99
8	Neal Joslyn	Bremerton	339.8
9	Jaran Jones	Seattle	291.33
10	Alex Singleterry		284.17

The standings are a testament to the level of dedication and passion the players bring to the table (pun intended).

As the silver balls came to rest and the scores were tallied, the event closed with anticipation in the air. For in the realm of pinball, there’s always another game, another tournament, another challenge just around the corner. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates!

September 5th, 2023. The skies were overcast with a touch of chill at 65°F. But inside Tik Tok’s Workshop at 1216 Sylvan Way, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/5 pinball tournament was about to kick off, promising an evening of intensity, nostalgia, and a touch of wizardry.

Flipping Through The Atmosphere

Bremerton, WA became the playground for pinball enthusiasts as they gathered for the competition organized by Richard Godwin. However, while the competitors were making a ruckus with their flipper skills, the star of the venue had to be the rockstar bartender. Handling food, mixed drinks, servicing machines – all with the kind of multi-tasking skills you’d think were reserved for an octopus. This cool, bearded guy stole hearts and applause, proving that sometimes, the unsung heroes lie outside the competition.

Spotlight on the Sixth

The most exhilarating match had to be in Round 6. Williams’ Demolition Man, a throwback from 1994, became the battlefield for some intense pinball action. Pinky Barney, despite her rank of 6627, stunned the crowd with a victory. Close on her heels was Jessica Barron, proving that rankings are just numbers when you’re in the zone.

A Stellar Lineup

From the fruit-filled antics of Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons to the apocalyptic rushes of Terminator 2: Judgment Day, the array of pinball machines was a delight for both players and spectators. Machines like Icarus, Firepower, and Monster Bash (Remake) only added to the vintage charm and challenged the skills of the players.

And The Ball Drops On…

While every player brought their A-game, Jessica Barron emerged as the queen of the arcade, securing the top spot. A special shoutout to Richard Godwin, who not only organized the event but also nailed the second place! Pinky Barney’s performance was a surprise treat, coming in third.

Washington’s Pinball Prodigies

Here are the IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings to keep you on your toes:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Lonnie Langford	Seattle	479.12
2	Jarrett Gaddy	Seattle	427.92
3	Germain Mariolle	Redmond	427.18
4	David Chernicoff	Seattle	417.6
5	Richie Terry	Seattle	375.65
6	Sean Irby	Seattle	360.93
7	Dave Stewart	Carnation	350.98
8	Neal Joslyn	Bremerton	339.8
9	Jaran Jones	Seattle	291.31
10	Alex Singleterry		284.17

With a night that had drama, nostalgia, and unexpected heroes, Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/5 pinball tournament will be one for the books. Until next time, keep those balls rolling and flippers flipping. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next pinball sensation!

Overcast skies at a comfortable 67°F painted the perfect backdrop on September 3, 2023, for an intense pinball showdown at The Ice Box. Located at the heart of Seattle, this venue reverberated with enthusiasm and competitive fervor, thanks to the Ice Box Mixed Matchplay tournament organized by the spirited Germain Mariolle.

An Epic Battle with the Stars (Star Gazer, to be precise!)

The true magic of pinball is when a game transcends time. This was brilliantly evident during the longest match of the tournament on “Star Gazer” by Stern, a machine that has enthralled players since 1980. The game spanned an astonishing 97 minutes! Phillip Saltzman secured the top spot with Dave Stewart, Richie Terry, and Lonnie Langford right on his heels. Such tenacity, especially on a vintage machine, is a testament to the players’ dedication and skill.

Celebrating the Titans of Pinball

When the flippers finally rested, Lonnie Langford emerged as the undisputed champion. Following him were Ashley Weaver, Jarrett Gaddy, and Trevor McDonald, who showcased exemplary gameplay. A special mention goes out to Emily Reilhan, who traveled all the way from Canada to make her mark on the top 10, embodying the international spirit of pinball.

A Blast from the Past: The Machines

The Ice Box was an eclectic mix of vintage classics and modern marvels. Machines like “Centaur” and “Dolly Parton” transported players back to the 80s, while “Jurassic Park (Pro)” offered a more recent thrill. The impeccable condition of these machines and their rotation ensured players experienced the best of both worlds.

The Icy Charm of The Ice Box

The Ice Box isn’t just another arcade. It’s a piece of Seattle’s rich history, offering a delightful fusion of the past and present. From its unique ice locker architecture to the ever-evolving game selection (hello, Killer Queen machines!), it’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts. And who could resist a BBQ offering delicious treats for patrons?

The bar’s eclectic selection of beverages, paired with an array of local arts and crafts, adds to its charm. The Ice Box isn’t just about games; it’s about community. Regular tournaments, coupled with live music, make it a hub of entertainment.

The Top Players in Washington

The IFPA Washington Top 10 Standings after the epic showdown were:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Lonnie Langford	Seattle	455.38
2	Germain Mariolle	Redmond	422.98
3	David Chernicoff	Seattle	411.82
4	Jarrett Gaddy	Seattle	407.17
5	Richie Terry	Seattle	375.62
6	Sean Irby	Seattle	355.73
7	Dave Stewart	Carnation	344.53
8	Neal Joslyn	Bremerton	339.8
9	Jaran Jones	Seattle	291.28
10	Conrad Rustad	Bremerton	284.15

This table, while showcasing the top pinball talent of Washington, is a promise that the pinball scene in Seattle and surrounding regions will remain vibrant for years to come.

The flippers might have rested for now, but the spirit of the game continues to echo. Keep those pinball dreams alive and stay tuned for more updates from the thrilling world of pinball!