Pinball Pandemonium: Player 1 Arcade 2023 Showdown

In the heart of Surprise, Arizona, with a clear sky and the sun bidding its fiery goodbye at a soothing 90°F, Player One Arcade became the nucleus of a colossal clash of pinball enthusiasts on October 9th, 2023.

The Setting: Player One Arcade

Located strategically at 17239 North Litchfield Road, Player One Arcade isn’t just another game arcade—it’s a pinball haven! The feedback from regular patrons is evident: Monday nights transform into pinball paradise. With machines that resonate like the heartbeat of a true pinball fan and a convivial crowd, it’s the mecca for many. Add to this tantalizing scenario the lure of tacos and sushi from neighboring establishments, and you’ve got yourself a perfect evening!

The Machines That Stole The Show

Of the 14 luminous machines that adorned Player One Arcade, these were the crown jewels:

Guardians of the Pinball Galaxy

Round 4 etched an unforgettable narrative as players confronted the Guardians of the Galaxy machine. Christy Kohtz, ranked 3030, stood tall, securing the numero uno position. Kevin Ehlers and Andrew Kohtz followed in quick succession, while Lee Ann Scardina bagged the fourth place.

Arizona’s Pinball Pioneers

While every player exhibited an exemplary spirit, the top dogs of the night were:

  1. Mark Pearson: Holding an enviable IFPA rank of 36, Mark’s experience of 535 events was unmistakably visible.
  2. Mike McClure: Punching well above his IFPA rank of 1249, Mike clinched the second spot.
  3. Mary Profeta Scardina: Showcasing her prowess, Mary secured the third position.
  4. Jim Smith AZ: Not just the organizer, but also one of the top players, sealing the fourth position.

Arizona’s Pinball Powerhouses

The IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 standings post-tournament shimmered as follows:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau672.25
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.84
3John ShoppleMesa592.62
4Adam HortonPhoenix377.81
5John MagyarGilbert352.78
6Paul BlancoChandler342.12
7kevan carterTempe321.36
8Jason BarreMesa313.26
9Joey RioSurprise309.16
10Walter donyPhoenix281.38

Flipping Forward

With the clatter of the silver ball now a mere echo, Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3B #2 came to its grand conclusion. But remember, the pinball universe never really rests. So, get those flippers ready and stay dialed in for more updates from the radiant realm of pinball!

The Pinball Showdown in Dallas: Drama, Skill, and Flipping Action!

On the evening of October 9th, amidst the backdrop of a Dallas sky painted with a few soft clouds and a breezy temperature of 82°F, an epic showdown unfurled. The Free Play Dallas Pinball Monday tournament, buzzing with fervor, began at precisely 7:00 PM and spanned a thrilling 2 hours and 43 minutes.

The Venue:

Set in the heart of the city, Free Play Dallas is an arcade paradise, a treasure trove of games that makes one’s heart race. From the neon lights of the pinball machines to the nostalgic hum of arcade classics, it’s hard not to feel like a kid again. “Omg! Best place! So many games I love!” exclaimed an enthusiastic gamer, drink in hand, soaking up the lively atmosphere. And for those who wished to take a breather, the sight of the gorgeous nearby bridge provided a serene escape.

The Heart of the Action:

Organized by Chris Delp, whose reputation is echoed through his dedicated tournament website, the event saw 17 players clashing in 6 intense rounds. With each game, strategies evolved, rivalries deepened, and scores climbed. But only the top 8 would proceed to the all-important Finals.

Game of the Night:

The Finals were the pinnacle of nail-biting tension, especially on the Venom (Pro) by Stern, a machine released just a few months prior. The leaderboard was dominated by Garrett Shahan, a formidable player with an IFPA rank of 137, closely followed by the organizer himself, Chris Delp, and then Ken Kemp and Randy Nelson. This round was the culmination of strategy, skill, and perhaps a bit of luck.

Tournament Titans:

By the end, Garrett Shahan reigned supreme, with Chris Delp securing a proud second. Ken Kemp, Randy Nelson, Greg Gibson, Clark McCoy, Faulkner Turner, and Mike Archuleta rounded off the top 8, each marking their territory in the world of pinball.

A Machine Legacy:

Of the staggering 78 machines at the venue, some stood out for their history and design:

The Lone Star Pinball Legends:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands508.96
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.78
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station331.69
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands256.06
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi254.14
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio228.33
9Jim MuellerHouston222.33
10Kevin RodriguezDenton219.12

As the neon lights dimmed and the scores settled, the night might have ended, but the legends born would be spoken of for weeks to come. The realm of pinball has its heroes, its tales, and its undying spirit. Until the flippers rise again, stay tuned for more pinball chronicles!

The Pinball Chronicles: A Night at Logan Arcade with Chicago’s Finest

On a chilly evening in Chicago, with overcast clouds painting the skies and temperatures dipping to 51°F, Logan Arcade at 2410 W Fullerton Ave hummed with life. Here, the city’s elite pinball players converged for the ‘Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League Season 5 #4’ tournament, organized by Mike Pantoliano.

The Venue:

For those unfamiliar with Logan Arcade, it is an emblem of nostalgia and present-day passion. Hosting an array of pinball machines that encompass the classics and the contemporaries, it is every pinball enthusiast’s dream. The venue promises an amazing selection, and reasonable prices to boot. Many, like myself, leave with a note to self: “Definitely returning when next in Chicago.” Learn more about their offerings at Logan Arcade.

In the Game Spotlight:

Of the night’s pulsating matches, one stood out not just for its competitiveness but for its sheer duration. A game on ‘Robocop‘ by Data East, which lasted almost as long as the Robocop movie itself. Clocking in at 80 minutes, players Andrew Wilkening, Kevin Kolodziej, Natalie Nonos, and Alex Lecky battled fiercely, with Andrew emerging victorious.

Tournament Machines of Note:

Out of the 25 pinball machines present:

  • ‘Taxi by Williams’ took many on a nostalgic trip to the ’80s.
  • ‘Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming’ and ‘Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern’, both released in 2023, showcased how the game has evolved over the years.
  • ‘Doctor Who by Bally’ and ‘The Addams Family by Bally’ are classics that need no introduction.
  • ‘Robocop by Data East’, given its starring role in the night’s proceedings, had its legacy further cemented.

The Night’s Winners:

Mike Pantoliano, the event’s organizer, showed everyone how it’s done by clinching the top spot. Following him were Rachel Karlic, Emily Sweeney, and Jane Verwys, showcasing the talent and skill that Chicago’s pinball scene possesses.

Illinois’ Best Pinballers:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin370.86
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.12
3John Miller MOSt. Louis198.85
4Ryan McQuaid191.17
5Chuck Sanderson180.45
6Steven BowdenPalatine163.42
7Alex LeckyChicago162.84
8Stephen ChappellFerguson154.64
9Bob TwichellOaklawn140.41
10Andrew WilkeningChicago139.23

While the night celebrated individual skill, it also showcased the tight-knit and passionate community of pinball enthusiasts in Chicago. As the games ended and players dispersed, one thing was clear: The realm of pinball is alive and thriving, and we can’t wait to bring you more updates from this electrifying world!

Pinball Showdown at Blizzard Mountain: Where Skill Meets Strategy

The picturesque town of Conifer, Colorado isn’t just known for its serene beauty and clear skies. On October 8th, it was the battleground for the Blizzard Mountain October 2023 Max Matchplay Tournament! where pinball enthusiasts from around the state converged, aiming to emerge as the champions.

Setting the (Play)Field

The event was organized at Blizzard Mountain Pinball, a haven for pinball lovers, meticulously curated by Kevin McCarthy. With 33 players playing 12 games each, the top 16 moved onto the Finals, where they encountered 3 intense rounds of 3 games each.

A clear sky, with a comfortable temperature of 64°F, set a perfect atmosphere for the attendees, though the real heat was inside, amidst the flashing lights and buzzing sounds of the pinball machines.

When Time Stood Still

In the Quarterfinals, spectators witnessed one of the longest pinball games ever played. Taking a mind-boggling 87 minutes on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) by Stern, Lewis Ritenour took the lead, followed by Justin Hinman, Doug Harlow, and Stepan Mazurov.

Machines that Stole the Show

Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern proved to be an endurance test, with the longest average game duration of about 14 minutes. But the crowd’s favorite was the nostalgic Mousin’ Around! by Bally, played a total of 9 times.

Blizzard Mountain boasted a magnificent array of 36 pinball machines. Among these, standouts included a personal favorite, of course, Pinbot, the electrifying AC/DC (Premium), the adventurous Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure, the retro King Kool, the action-packed Big Buck Hunter Pro, the evergreen Mousin’ Around!, the regal Medieval Madness, and the trip down memory lane with Time Machine.

Champions of the Day

The fierce competition culminated in the crowning of the pinball wizards:

  1. Cassie Begay from Denver dazzled with 5 wins.
  2. Walt Wood from Englewood, showcasing impeccable strategy, clinched the second spot.
  3. The tenacity of Justin Hinman earned him the third spot.
  4. Alex Vanee stood fourth, proving that rank isn’t always the determinant of the day’s performance.
  5. The leaderboard was further graced by the likes of Jonathon Robel, Ryan Altermatt, David Weil, and Lewis Ritenour.

Colorado’s Pinball Elites

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood593.24
2Ryan AltermattDenver297.47
3Zach McCarthyConifer194.6
4Mark AbbottDenver176.98
5Donavan SteppLakewood166.33
6Daniel AndersonEnglewood150.31
7Ryan WangerBoulder137.44
8Robert Slyker—132.68
9Lewis Ritenour—131.25
10David Johnson COAurora129.73

A Venue Beyond Machines

While Blizzard Mountain Pinball boasts a plethora of machines, it’s the immaculate upkeep and the atmosphere that resonates with visitors. A recent review aptly summed it up, “Clean, well-maintained machines, and an atmosphere where passion for pinball meets camaraderie.”

Blizzard Mountain’s Max Matchplay was more than a tournament. It was a rendezvous of strategy, skill, and sheer determination. So, as the lights dim and the scores reset, we can’t help but wait eagerly for the next face-off.

Stay flipping, pinball lovers!

The Pinball Lounge Showdown: Strategy, Stamina, and Superb Gameplay

Florida’s sizzling sun might have been obscured by a few clouds on October 7th, 2023, but inside The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center, the atmosphere was positively electric. As the temperature outside teetered at 85°F, inside, the real heat was generated by 25 pinball wizards, meticulously mastering machines from yesteryears to contemporary classics.

The Pinball Lounge: An Arcade Utopia

Situated on 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, The Pinball Lounge is a paradise for aficionados of the silver ball. For visitors dropping by while vacationing in Orlando, it offers an escapade back in time. While they might not have tested the gastronomy, the pinball variety is nothing short of staggering. An essential stop for pinball enthusiasts and the perfect backdrop for the Pre Play Florida 2023 tournament.

Machines that Echoed through Time

Out of the 27 pinball machines present, a few definitely demanded the spotlight:

An Epic Round to Remember

Round 5 was not just another game—it was a saga. The players faced off on the Spirit of 76 by Gottlieb, a machine from 1975. An astounding 73 minutes saw Patrick Durland clinch the top spot, followed closely by Sebastian Bobbio and Sierra Lieffort, with David Miller finishing fourth.

The Titans of the Tournament

After hours of flippers flipping and balls bouncing, the champions emerged:

  1. Sebastian Bobbio: With his IFPA rank at 253 and equal number of IFPA events, Sebastian’s win wasn’t just about numbers—it was a showcase of sheer skill.
  2. Shannon Stafford: Ranked 77 globally, Shannon secured the second spot, further solidifying her position atop Florida’s pinball standings.
  3. Patrick Durland: The hero of the Spirit of 76 round secured a respectable third spot. Not bad for someone who’s participated in only 66 IFPA events!
  4. Garrett Smoke: Rounding out the top four, Garrett demonstrated that while his IFPA rank might be 3263, he’s a force to be reckoned with.

Florida’s Best Flippers

The IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 standings post-tournament are:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park329.54
2Eric StoneFort Myers306.2
3Sebastian Bobbio279.07
4Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale271.69
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg194.72
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace146.87
8David Miller FLTampa140.89
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary139.72
10John MoschellaWinter Springs127.51

Until the Next Plunge!

With the echoes of the bells and buzzers now a memory, The Pinball Lounge – Pre Play Florida 2023 came to a close. But rest assured, the pinball cosmos is ever-evolving. So, whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the strategy, or the sheer thrill of the game—stay tuned for more from the exciting realm of pinball!

Pins, Pirates, and Californian Skies: Inside the Showdown at Captain’s Arcade Showroom

It was a sizzling Friday evening in Anaheim, with clear skies above and the temperature a balmy 80°F. Inside the Captain’s Arcade Showroom, however, things were even hotter. The venue buzzed with the electrifying energy of pinball enthusiasts, both seasoned veterans and eager newcomers. The occasion? The much-anticipated Pins & Pirates League Season 2 – #1 pinball tournament.

The Legendary Venue:

Nestled at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, the Captain’s Arcade Showroom isn’t just a haven for pinball fanatics. It’s also a place that exudes passion for the game, where customers aren’t just buying a machine; they’re investing in memories.

Machine Majesty:

With an impressive roster of 61 pinball machines, it was hard to pick just a handful of standouts. Still, some that resonated with the evening’s crowd were:

  • Hokus Pokus by Bally: A mesmerizing classic that took players back to ’75.
  • Wizard! by Bally: Another ’75 favorite with its magical gameplay.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: A recent machine that brought comic-book antics to life.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: A melodious adventure released in 2020.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming: A 2021 marvel, it transported players to the wild, wild west.

Spotlight Showdown:

The standout game of the evening was a thrilling face-off on ‘Rush (Pro) by Stern’. Robert Potter clinched the top spot, followed by Fran Irwin, Dave DiFranco, and Hillary Jacobson, making it one of the most exhilarating matches of the night.

Golden Gamers of the Night:

Dennis Eichhorn emerged as the winner, marking another jewel in his pinball crown. Brian Sutherland, a surprise package with an IFPA rank of 0, secured the second position. Robert Potter and Erica Oursland also made their mark, taking the third and fourth spots respectively.

California’s Pinball Titans:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale599.77
2Gabe Da SilveiraOakland553.26
3Escher Lefkoff532.3
4Raymond AshbyLos Angeles520.25
5Scott MaciasGlendora461.57
6Nic SteinDavis435.99
7Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights420.6
8Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
9Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
10Leslie Ruckman408.04

With another thrilling tournament wrapped up, the pinball world’s eyes are already set on the next challenge. So whether you’re an avid player, a budding enthusiast, or just curious, join us in this exhilarating journey. The realm of pinball awaits!

Speakeasy Free Play 10-6-2023: Pinball, Passion, and Pouring Rain

On a drizzly October evening, with the unmistakable sound of pinball machines blending with the patter of raindrops, Fraser, Michigan became the epicenter of the pinball world.

When The Clock Struck 7:30

Free Play – Pinball Arcade, with its neon signs and the nostalgic hum of vintage games, threw its doors open for the Speakeasy Free Play 10-6-2023 pinball tournament. Organized by Joe Wade, this event attracted 30 pinball aficionados who battled it out in 5 grueling rounds.

In the Heart of the Action: Game Spotlight

As the night unfolded, and strategies were tested, round 4 emerged as the most nail-biting of all. Taking place on the newly-released James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern, players engaged in a clandestine war of flippers and flashing lights. Jon Lents, with his keen eye and precise shots, emerged victorious, leaving Jake Piornack, Tim Carpenter MI, and Jeff Gordon in the wake of his pinball prowess.

The Rain-Soaked Champions

As the rain intensified outside, the stakes got higher inside. By the end of the tournament, the leaderboard featured:

  • Jake Piornack: The master of maneuvering, stealing the top spot.
  • Ryan Jurado from Ann Arbor: A close second, showcasing impeccable strategy.
  • Jeremy Bell: The wild card, proving it’s not about how many events you’ve attended, but how well you play.
  • Joe Wade: The organizer showing he’s not just good behind the scenes but also at the flippers.

Machines of Legend

Among the pinball machines lighting up the arena, these stood out:

Where Magic Happened

Free Play Pinball Arcade, with its timeless charm, was more than just a venue. For many, like Vince, it’s a haven of nostalgia and camaraderie. Offering unbeatable value, it’s the kind of place where you enter in the morning and leave only when the night reminds you.

IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Sterling MitoskaBrooklyn458.29
2Rodney MinchGrand Rapids450.01
3Rick KnopikEvansville402.07
4Dominic LabellaBay City328.69
5Matthew StacksGrand Rapids313.85
6Alex HarmonSpring Lake301.12
7Jason HumphreyJackson276.37
8Ethan Magnum—257.11
9Sean BurkeWaterford Township220.49
10Philip SalminenMidland212.94

With the rain wrapping up the event like a curtain drop, the night in Fraser proved that passion for pinball shines, come rain or shine. We’ll be back with more from the world of pinball. Until then, keep the balls rolling and the scores soaring!

Flippin’ Friday Showdown at District 82 Pinball!

When the temperature outside drops and the clouds hang heavy, pinball enthusiasts find solace in the shimmering lights, captivating soundtracks, and strategic gameplay that only a pinball machine can offer. And, the recent Flippin’ Friday 10/6 Qualify pinball tournament at District 82 Pinball was the epitome of such an event.

Setting the Stage

Hosted at the iconic District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin on a cool October evening, 24 dedicated players arrived, ready to face off. Organized by the passionate Erik Thoren, the event saw players battle through 4 intense rounds, with each round comprising 2 nail-biting games.

An Ode to Dolly Parton

Round 2 had players rallying around the Dolly Parton pinball machine, a Bally classic celebrating its upcoming 45th anniversary. Released in November 1979, this machine boasts a 7-star rating, featuring a medley of flippers, pop bumpers, and unique targets. Dave Christensen’s art captures Dolly’s transition from country to pop, a shift reflected in her meticulous input on her pinball portrayal.

As scores skyrocketed, John Zalewski mastered Dolly’s playfield, claiming the top spot. Not far behind were Eddie Smith, Joe DeCleene, and Jacob Geurts. This round was a harmonious blend of nostalgia and competition, making the Dolly Parton machine the star of the evening.

The Unshakeable Champions

As flippers rested and the final tallies were counted, four players emerged as the undisputed masters of the night:

  • Nathan Zalewski, showing finesse and skill, walked away with the gold.
  • Gerald Morrison, demonstrating consistency and strategy, earned the second spot.
  • Danny Bronny and Chris Gerwing followed, grabbing the third and fourth positions, respectively.

A Pinball Paradise

District 82, with a whopping total of 116 pinball machines, is truly a pinball enthusiast’s dream. Among the plethora of machines, some noteworthy ones include the thrilling Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, the adventurous Jurassic Park, the mystical Lost World, and of course, the space opera Star Wars (Pro).

A Community Like No Other

One step into District 82 Pinball, and you immediately sense the camaraderie and passion. The venue isn’t just a place to play; it’s a haven where strategy meets fun, and where players, whether rookies or veterans, come together as a community. The atmosphere? Welcoming, energetic, and pulsating with excitement.

Wisconsin’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.34
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.22
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.64
4Escher Lefkoff—1050.06
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.76
6Erik ThorenDe Pere741.03
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.45
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.25
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.6
10Jordan Dechaine—683.87

District 82’s Flippin’ Friday was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of pinball, strategy, and the vibrant community. We eagerly anticipate the next showdown and, until then, keep those flippers flippin’!

When Time Warped: The SFPD Fall 2023 #5 Pinball Tournament

On a balmy evening, with temperatures hanging around a comfortable 72°F, the heart of San Francisco pulsated with a different kind of energy. On October 04, 2023, at 7:30 PM, the pinball wizards of the West converged at the iconic Free Gold Watch, ready to face off in the much-anticipated SFPD Fall 2023 #5 pinball tournament.

Venue Vibes: Free Gold Watch

Free Gold Watch wasn’t just another arcade. The retro lighting, the clattering of the pinball machines, and the excited murmurs created a symphony, making it the perfect place for dates, friendships, and of course, some serious pinball action.

A Game That Bent The Fabric of Time

In a peculiar and somewhat humorous turn of events, one game in particular, the Snow Derby by Gottlieb (circa 1970) seemed to stretch the very fabric of time. Clocking in at a mind-boggling 150 minutes, this game magically outlasted the entire tournament’s duration. Whether it was a rift in the space-time continuum or just some very intense gameplay, we might never know.

A hearty shoutout to the players of this marathon match:

  • Josh Campoverde: Leading the pack with the calm composure that comes with an IFPA rank of 3688.
  • Eric Wagensonner: A close second and a force to be reckoned with given his rank of 308.
  • Mikey Lee Barton: Third on the Snow Derby but first in enthusiasm with a rank of 7398.
  • Dominic DiPalantino: Completing the quartet with a respectable fourth position, showcasing his skillset ranked at 4681.

The Crowning Glories of the Evening

Amidst the echoes of flippers and bells, emerged some clear victors:

  1. Zac Wollons: Dominated the evening, backed by his impressive track record with 362 IFPA events.
  2. Jon Oberto: Made a mark despite his relatively newcomer status, landing a proud second.
  3. Jared Garvey: This Berkeley local clinched third with style, leveraging his experience from 277 IFPA events.
  4. Josh Lehan: Another force from Castro Valley, finishing the night strong in fourth place.

The Machines That Made The Night

A stellar line-up of 63 machines entertained the crowd, with some standouts like:

Golden State’s Pinball Giants

While the evening celebrated individual games, it also acknowledged the prowess of California’s finest pinball players:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale599.79
2Gabe Da SilveiraOakland553.28
3Escher Lefkoff–532.32
4Raymond AshbyLos Angeles520.25
5Scott MaciasGlendora461.57
6Nic SteinDavis436.01
7Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights420.6
8Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
9Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
10Leslie Ruckman–408.05

As flippers rested and lights dimmed, the SFPD Fall 2023 #5 came to a close, leaving attendees with memories, stories, and a palpable excitement for the next gathering.

Stay locked on San Francisco Pinball Dept for more adventures in the world of pinball!

Punk Rock Pinball Tournament: A Mesa Marvel

As dusk descended upon Mesa, Arizona, on October 4th, 2023, and the temperature held at a balmy 86°F, pinball enthusiasts began to gather at the famed B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for an evening of camaraderie, competition, and chilled brews. The Punk Rock Pinball 4th Quarter 2023 #1 Tournament, organized by the renowned Matt Trethewey, was about to kick off.

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade: More Than Just Another Bar

Nestled at 213 W Main St, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade isn’t just any watering hole. Here, a vast assortment of beers meet vintage video games and pinball machines, whisking patrons back to simpler times. The sheer nostalgia of the arcade is sure to tug at the heartstrings of anyone who’s ever flipped a pinball or smashed a joystick.

Machines of Legend and Legacy

Among the eight legendary pinball machines, a few stood out:

  • Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams: A 1993 classic that took players on a blood-curdling adventure, earning its spot as the tournament favorite.
  • Grand Prix by Stern: The thrill of the F1 race was encapsulated in this 2005 release, which also boasted the tournament’s longest game duration.
  • X-Men Magneto (LE) by Stern: A 2012 tribute to the mutant saga.
  • The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams: Zoom through the city streets with this 1992 hit.
  • Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally: Dive deep into the mysterious waters with this 1992 masterpiece.

The Grand Showdown

12 players. 10 games each. The atmosphere was charged as the competitors took their positions. While all participants showcased their A-game, the top 4 truly stood out:

  1. Jeff Wegener: With only 8 IFPA events under his belt, Jeff’s skill and focus surprised many, securing his spot at the top.
  2. Shawn Barnett: A seasoned player, Shawn’s experience from 61 IFPA events was evident in his gameplay.
  3. Jim Smith AZ: The Phoenix maestro, with a whopping 457 IFPA events to his name, clinched the third spot with his usual flair.
  4. Mahina Hayashi: Mahina, with only 4 IFPA events to her name, proved that sometimes, passion trumps experience.

The Crème de la Crème of Arizona’s Pinball Scene

As the evening wrapped up, the latest IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 standings were:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau671.64
2Mark PearsonPhoenix598.17
3John ShoppleMesa592.13
4Adam HortonPhoenix352.69
5John MagyarGilbert351.78
6Kevan CarterTempe320.85
7Jason BarreMesa313.21
8Paul BlancoChandler309.72
9Joey RioSurprise309.24
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

Until Next Flip!

As the lights dimmed and the pinballs came to rest, the 17-hour-long marathon (or so it seemed!) drew to a close. A night of fierce competition, new friendships, and old rivalries renewed came to an end. Mesa’s pinball enthusiasts departed with memories of a night to remember and the promise of more adventures to come.

Stay plugged in for more from the electrifying world of pinball. Play on, Arizona!