Speakeasy Showdown at Mum’s Arcade

June 28th marked an wild night for pinball enthusiasts as the Speakeasy at Mum’s tournament unfolded in all its glory. With 15 determined players facing off in five intense rounds, the competition was fierce and exhilarating. The top 8 players advanced to the finals, battling through three grueling rounds to claim the ultimate victory. With scattered clouds and a comfortable 73°F, the atmosphere was perfect for a night of pinball magic.

Mum’s Arcade: Where Fun Meets Family

Located at 17738 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe, MI, Mum’s Arcade is a beloved venue that combines the thrill of pinball with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Known for hosting memorable events, it’s a place where both serious competitors and casual players feel at home. The arcade’s accommodating staff and engaging setup have earned it rave reviews from visitors, making it a perfect spot for the Speakeasy tournament. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or looking to host a fun event, Mum’s Arcade delivers an experience that keeps everyone entertained.

Epic Battle on The Simpsons Pinball Party

Round 3 was a spectacle to behold, with players clashing on The Simpsons Pinball Party by Stern. This game, inspired by the iconic TV show, brought all the humor and chaos of Springfield to life. Nick Campbell showcased his pinball prowess, securing first place with a commanding performance. Brandon Blake gave a valiant effort, landing in second. Peter Spivak from Detroit demonstrated skill and determination, claiming third, while Marco Vendetti rounded out the top four. The game’s intricate playfield and amusing callouts kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

Pinball Machine Highlights

The tournament featured a stellar lineup of 16 pinball machines, each with unique features that delighted players and spectators alike.

  • Lost World by Bally (August 1978): This classic machine captivated with its fantasy-themed artwork and challenging gameplay.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) by Stern (October 2020): A modern marvel, this machine dazzled with its vibrant LED displays and intricate playfield, featuring characters from the beloved Marvel universe.
  • Twilight Zone by Bally (May 1993): A fan favorite, this machine offered a mind-bending experience with its multiple playfields and captivating theme.
  • Funhouse by Williams (November 1990): Rudy the dummy kept players on their toes with his taunts and challenges in this whimsical and engaging game.
  • Deadpool (LE) by Stern (August 2018): With hilarious commentary from Deadpool himself, this machine combined fast-paced action with comic book charm.
  • Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE) by Stern (September 2019): A spooky delight, this machine featured stunning artwork and interactive elements that brought Elvira’s world to life.

Celebrating the Champions

Congratulations to the top players who showcased their exceptional pinball skills at the Speakeasy tournament:

  1. Nick Campbell: With an impressive State Rank of 127th and 267 IFPA events under his belt, Nick’s victory was well-deserved.
  2. Brandon Blake: Ranked 42nd in the state, Brandon’s consistent performance across 51 events highlighted his dedication and talent.
  3. Peter Spivak: Hailing from Detroit and ranked 66th, Peter’s determination shone through in his 82 event appearances.
  4. Marco Vendetti: With a State Rank of 124th and 249 events, Marco’s experience was evident throughout the tournament.
  5. Aaron Wilburn Jr.: Ranked 25th in the state, Aaron’s skill was clear in his 43 IFPA events.
  6. Mike Stewart Jr.: With a State Rank of 32nd and an impressive 607 events, Mike’s expertise was on full display.
  7. Terry Cole: Ranked 255th in the state, Terry’s 27 events showed his growing prowess.
  8. Tim Grand: With a State Rank of 278th and 70 events, Tim’s efforts earned him a spot in the finals.

IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Dominic Labella Bay City 488.01
2 Matthew Stacks Grand Rapids 438.24
3 Sterling Mitoska Brooklyn 428.27
4 Ethan Magnum 379.23
5 Rodney Minch Grand Rapids 364.04
6 Philip Salminen Midland 243.07
7 Jason Humphrey Jackson 238.52
8 Daniel Overbeek Grand Rapids 215.78
9 Alex Harmon Spring Lake 204.03
10 Tyrus Eagle Ypsilanti 190.55

Wrapping Up the Night

The Speakeasy at Mum’s was a thrilling event that showcased the best of Michigan’s pinball talent. Congratulations again to all the top players for their outstanding performances. A special thank you to Joe Wade for organizing such a fantastic tournament and to Mum’s Arcade for providing the perfect venue. Keep following for more updates from the pinball world!

Tik Tok’s Matchplay: A Night of Thrills and Skills!

June 25, 2024, saw a gathering of pinball wizards at Tik Tok’s Workshop for an exhilarating evening of competition. Tik Tok’s Matchplay event, featuring eight intense rounds, attracted some of the finest players from around Washington. Starting promptly at 7:00 PM, the tournament wrapped up in a brisk hour and a half, making for a night packed with action and excitement.

A Cozy Haven for Pinball Enthusiasts

In the heart of Bremerton, Tik Tok’s Workshop at 1216 Sylvan Way is the ultimate pinball destination. The venue boasts an impressive array of vintage games and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit special. The glowing reviews, such as one that praises the amazing staff, great food and drink, and the beautifully welcoming people, truly capture the essence of this place. Check out their website here for more details.

Monster Bash Magic in Round 4

Round 4 witnessed an unforgettable game on Monster Bash (Remake) by Chicago Gaming. The game, themed around famous Universal Monsters coming together for a rock concert, set the stage for a thrilling duel. Richard Godwin, showing impressive skill and strategy, emerged victorious with their deft maneuvering and precise shots, while Daron Coull put up a fierce fight, showcasing their own mastery of the table. It was a monstrous clash that left the crowd cheering for more.

Pinball Machines Galore

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 13 pinball machines, each offering unique challenges and thrills:

Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams (1993) This machine is a fan favorite with its engaging missions and immersive theme. The dual cannons and the interactive Borg ship are standout features that keep players on their toes.

Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons by Stern (2015) A modern game with a retro feel, it offers straightforward, fun gameplay. The vibrant artwork and humorous theme make it a delightful addition to any lineup.

Twister by Sega (1996) Based on the hit movie, this game features a spinning disk and a fan that simulates a tornado. Its dynamic playfield and thrilling gameplay capture the chaos of chasing storms.

The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (2013) A visually stunning machine with a wide variety of modes and multiballs. The RGB LED lights and the crystal ball are particularly mesmerizing.

AC/DC (Premium Vault Edition) by Stern (2017) Rock out with this high-energy machine that features 12 classic AC/DC songs. The lower playfield and the interactive bell add to the rock concert experience.

Battle to the Top

With numerous skilled participants, Tik Tok’s Matchplay was a test of endurance and skill. The competition was fierce, and each player had to bring their A-game to advance through the rounds. Richard Godwin proved to be a force to be reckoned with, using their extensive experience to navigate the diverse array of pinball machines with finesse. Bruce Cherry demonstrated remarkable tenacity, climbing to second place with strategic plays and a keen eye for detail. Jared Doss showcased consistent performance, securing third place, while Daron Coull’s dynamic approach earned them a respectable fourth place.

IFPA Washington Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Lonnie Langford Seattle 545.31
2 Dave Stewart Carnation 418.56
3 John Robinson WA Bothell 402.07
4 Conrad Rustad Bremerton 378.17
5 Jaran Jones Seattle 371.51
6 Richie Terry Seattle 363.87
7 Jarrett Gaddy Seattle 339.93
8 Leslie Ruckman Seattle 337.49
9 Joshua Francis Edmonds 318.56
10 Ashley Weaver Renton 290.82

Thanks and Congrats!

A big thank you to Richard Godwin for organizing such a fantastic event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing the perfect venue. Congratulations to all the winners, especially Richard Godwin for their stellar performance! Stay tuned for more pinball action and stories. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!

Thrills and Spills at The Pinball Lounge

On June 25, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered for The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza at the Oviedo Bowling Center. With 21 players competing in a 6-round, 1-game per round format, the excitement was palpable. The thunderstorm outside only added to the electric atmosphere inside, where the temperature was a comfortable 77°F. Kurt van Zyl organized the event, ensuring everything ran smoothly over the nearly 3-hour tournament.

The Pinball Lounge – A Pinball Haven

The Pinball Lounge, located at 376 E Broadway Street, Oviedo, FL 32765, is renowned as the best pinball spot in the Orlando area. It’s a place where pinball machines are meticulously maintained, and you can find great deals for single, timed, or unlimited coin drops. Visitors often go out of their way to play here, drawn by the quality of the machines and the vibrant atmosphere. For more details, check out their website.

Medieval Madness Madness!

Round 4 on Medieval Madness by Williams was a highlight of the tournament. John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida, showcased his skills, clinching 1st place despite the fierce competition. John Osborne, Brendan Panzullo, and Mike Zink put up valiant efforts, but Moschella’s performance stood out, reflecting his high state and national rankings.

Pinball Machines Galore

The tournament featured 31 pinball machines, each with unique designs and special features. Here are reviews of five standout games:

  • Tales of the Arabian Nights (Williams, May 1996): A personal favorite, known for its beautiful artwork and immersive story, this machine captures the essence of Arabian Nights tales with its unique playfield design and challenging gameplay.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE) Chicago Gaming, November 2021): This remake of the classic game offers enhanced features, including updated sound and graphics, while retaining the wild west charm and engaging gameplay.
  • Medieval Madness (Williams, June 1997): A fan favorite, Medieval Madness boasts a dynamic playfield with castle destruction features and humorous medieval-themed animations.
  • Scooby-Doo (SE) Spooky Pinball, February 2023): With its vibrant colors and engaging modes, this machine brings the beloved cartoon to life, offering a mix of nostalgia and modern pinball challenges.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) Stern, October 2019): This machine captures the thrill of the Jurassic Park franchise with detailed playfield toys, challenging modes, and exciting multiball features.

Celebrating the Champions

The final game on Batman 66 (Premium) saw Doug Bernard from Orlando triumph, showcasing his pinball prowess. Here’s a shout-out to the top performers:

  1. Doug Bernard – He clinched 1st place with a steady hand and sharp focus. His state rank is 122nd, and his national rank is 4183.
  2. Nick Smith – An impressive 2nd place finish, state rank 20th, national rank 2638.
  3. Patrick Durland – Secured 3rd place with consistent performance, state rank 51st, national rank 3138.
  4. John Moschella – Also performed admirably, taking 4th place, state rank 15th, national rank 873.

IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Shannon Stafford Orange Park 251.58
2 Sebastian Bobbio 201.95
3 Adam Gray Temple Terrace 201.55
4 Eric Stone Fort Myers 188.99
5 Vince Gelormine Fort Lauderdale 147.89
6 Dan Coyle St. Petersburg 141.02
7 Tristan Stafford Orange Park 116.38
8 David Miller FL Tampa 113.08
9 Joel Cohen Miami 87.32
10 Joe Geneau St Augustine 84.93

Wrapping Up the Bonanza

The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza was a resounding success, filled with competitive spirit and thrilling moments. Hats off to Kurt van Zyl for organizing such a fantastic event and to The Pinball Lounge for providing a stellar venue. Congratulations to Doug Bernard, our overall tournament winner! Stay tuned for more pinball news and updates.