In the heart of Tempe, AZ, where the temperature still touches 90°F even as the sun bids adieu, there’s a place where things get even hotter. The Electric Bat Arcade came alive on October 10, 2023, with the thrills, spills, and flippers of the Season 9 Series 1 #4 pinball tournament. An impressive turnout of 98 players, some seasoned pros and others pinball patriots, made for an electrifying event.
A Venue of Vintage Vibe and Vivid Videogames
A trip to the Electric Bat Arcade isn’t just another outing; it’s an experience. This arcade epitomizes the golden era of gaming while also embracing the new age. It’s a paradise where machines from the 70s converse harmoniously with those released just last year. The most commendable aspect? Each machine, from the oldest to the newest, is impeccably maintained, ready for the next eager player to test their mettle. And if you’re feeling competitive, their mid-week tournaments are a must-visit, drawing in a whopping 100+ attendees. Now that’s what we call ‘pinball fever’!
Pinball Picks of the Night
Among the 64 machines lined up for the tournament, a few shone brighter, attracting players and spectators alike:
- Centaur by Bally: A blast from 1981, this machine still boasts intricate gameplay.
- Night Rider by Bally: Representing 1976, it’s a testament to the timeless allure of pinball.
- Rush (Pro) by Stern: Fresh from 2022, this machine harmonizes music and pinball.
- Medieval Madness (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: Transporting players back to a time of knights and castles.
- James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern: A recent addition from 2022, shaken, not stirred, with elements from the iconic spy series.
A Tribute to the Dead
Highlighting the event was the tribute to The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern, commemorating its anniversary. Unleashing the horror and thrill of the acclaimed TV series, this machine stands as a testament to the fusion of pop culture and pinball. Manufactured in 2014, its playfield sets a haunting atmosphere. Unique features, like the “Animated prison” with a bashable zombie head and the “Well Walker” bash toy, promise relentless action, making every game an adrenaline-pumping escapade. During a nail-biting Round 4, John Shopple from Mesa navigated through its post-apocalyptic challenges and emerged victorious, trailed by the skilled Andrew Kohtz and Roland Nadeau. Truly, “The Walking Dead (Pro)” isn’t just a pinball machine; it’s an exhilarating journey into AMC’s The Walking Dead universe, adding depth and excitement to the tournament.
Titans of the Tournament
A shoutout to our champions:
- Jard Cassell: With an IFPA rank of 1160, he clinched the top spot.
- Henry Hanshaw: Following close, with numerous tournaments under his belt.
- Matt JohnsonAZ: Another gem from Mesa, securing the third place.
- Paul Blanco: A pinball veteran, finishing strong at fourth.
Arizona’s Pinball Pantheon
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 671.63 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 607.41 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 591.98 |
| 4 | Adam Horton | Phoenix | 377.73 |
| 5 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 351.77 |
| 6 | Paul Blanco | Chandler | 341.29 |
| 7 | Kevan Carter | Tempe | 320.85 |
| 8 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 313.19 |
| 9 | Joey Rio | Surprise | 309.16 |
| 10 | Walter Dony | Phoenix | 280.56 |
The Electric Bat tournament proved once again that in the world of pinball, age is just a number. Whether you’re playing on a machine from the 70s or one released last year, the thrill remains timeless. Until the next flip, keep those scores high and the balls in play!