This Oregon arcade has been named world’s best place for pinball

The Pacific Northwest has long been hailed as a haven for pinball aficionados, and a historic arcade in Portland, Oregon recently earned the distinction of being named the world’s best place for the classic game.

The Silverball Room Arcade, located in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District, was recently crowned the world’s number one pinball arcade by the International Flipper Pinball Association (IFPA). The accolade was based on the number of unique machines, the overall quality of the machines, and the frequency of tournaments and events hosted at the venue.

The Silverball Room, which opened in 2019, boasts an impressive lineup of over 50 pinball machines from various decades. A few of the most noteworthy machines in the collection include a 1978 Bally “Harlem Globetrotters on Tour” and a 1985 Williams “Space Shuttle.” In addition, the arcade frequently runs tournaments and special events for players of all skill levels.

The arcade’s owner, Nick Mann, believes the Silverball Room’s success is a testament to the timelessness of pinball. “Pinball is something that has been around since the 1930s, and it’s still popular today,” he told the Portland Tribune. “It’s a game that people of all ages can enjoy, and it’s something that will never go out of style.”

The IFPA’s recognition of the Silverball Room Arcade is a major honor for the Portland pinball community, and a reminder of the city’s long-standing commitment to the beloved game.