The vibrant state of Arizona isn’t just known for its deserts and cacti. It’s also home to some of the most passionate young pinball wizards in the US, as proven by the recent Starfighters Kids Monthly Pinball Tournament. Taking place at the renowned Starfighters Arcade, this event was a testament to the undying spirit of arcade games and the passion of the next generation.
Where the Magic Happened
The 8-hour, 13-minute showdown took place on September 9, 2023, and was organized by the arcade enthusiast, Kevin Curtis. If you’re interested in the intricacies of the event, feel free to explore the official Starfighters website. This competition saw 40 youngsters form groups of four, battling each other in a series of four nail-biting rounds. The desert sun blazed outside with temperatures hitting 102°F, but nothing could heat up the atmosphere more than the intense competition inside the arcade.
Games, Glare, and Monster Bash
One of the most unforgettable moments was during Round 1, where players clashed on the iconic Monster Bash by Williams. Young Anthony P. showcased an outstanding performance, seizing first place and leaving Jason C., Zach S., and Kobe T. in the subsequent positions. With Monster Bash’s Dracula, Wolf Man, and Frankenstein figures flashing and grooving to the rock-n-roll beats, this match will remain in the annals of Starfighters’ history.
Champions of the Day
A huge round of applause goes to:
- Kenny F. with an IFPA rank of 10781, showing the world that rankings aren’t everything.
- Anthony P. proving that every game is an opportunity.
- Jackson S. making his debut in the world of pinball tournaments.
- Mollie M. an emerging star with a penchant for flippers and flashing lights.
Pinball Paradise
The Starfighters arcade is truly a pinball paradise. With classics like ‘Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure‘ and newer sensations like ‘Cactus Canyon (Remake Special)‘, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention the vibrant ‘Cirqus Voltaire‘ and the hair-raising ‘Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Premium)‘. But the cherry on top was the spine-chilling ‘Monster Bash’.
The Good, the Bad, and the Starfighters
Starfighters Arcade, although located in an industrial office setup, has a unique charm. Their vast array of retro games, combined with the unlimited play offer for just $11, is a steal. The staff is friendly, and there’s a contagious energy in the air. Sadly, you’ll have to satisfy your hunger pangs elsewhere.
Arizona’s Pinball Maestros
Speaking of competition, let’s look at the state’s top pinball aficionados:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 605.27 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 535.49 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 519.45 |
| 4 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 315.33 |
| 5 | Paul Blanco | Chandler | 303.5 |
| 6 | Kevan Carter | Tempe | 295.36 |
| 7 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 292.28 |
| 8 | Joey Rio | Surprise | 282 |
| 9 | Adam Horton | Phoenix | 276.75 |
| 10 | Andrew Roesch | 255.02 |
The Pinball Journey Continues
This event was a clear testament to the undying passion for pinball among the youngsters. As the flippers reset and the high scores flash, we await the next thrilling chapter in the saga of pinball showdowns. Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!