Nestled under the picturesque broken clouds of a 68°F Tempe night, the Electric Bat Arcade transformed into a pulsating heart of pinball magic for its Season 9 Series 2 #5 tournament. Orchestrated by the ever-capable Rachel Bess, this event wasn’t just a competition; it was a vivid tapestry of clinking metal, flashing lights, and the shared heartbeat of pinball enthusiasts.

Electric Bat Arcade: Where Time Warps and Joy Unfolds

Stepping into the Electric Bat Arcade, you might momentarily question your whereabouts, only to be swiftly swept up in its unique charm. It’s a place where the past and present collide, offering a smorgasbord of nostalgia and modernity, all wrapped up in an atmosphere buzzing with excitement. Here, the bartenders shine as bright as the pinball machines, the rhythm games from Japan add a quirky twist, and every game works flawlessly — a rare gem in the arcade world.

Epic Battles and Unexpected Twists

With a record-breaking 109 players, the tournament unfolded across 5 rounds of intense competition. Each round, played on a different machine, wasn’t just a test of skill but a showcase of mental agility and the occasional stroke of luck. The players, grouped and regrouped, fought not just for points but for the thrill of the game.

A Spy-Themed Showdown

The tournament’s zenith was perhaps in Round 2, featuring Stern’s James Bond 007 (Premium). It was more than a game; it was an epic in itself, with Andrew Kohtz from Phoenix, AZ, taking the lead in a thrilling escapade, closely followed by the formidable Greg Drewes and the steadfast Nate Tornero from Chandler, Arizona.

Champions of the Electric Bat

As the final round concluded, the tournament’s heroes emerged, each a story of perseverance and pinball prowess:

1. Greg Davis (Phoenix) – A maestro of the flippers, leading the pack.
2. Jeff Barthold – The embodiment of consistency and strategic play.
3. Conrad Betti (Phoenix) – With a flair for the dramatic, clinching third.
4. Jard Cassell (Arizona, USA) – A dark horse, surprising many with his skillful ascent.

Legendary Machines Bearing Witness

The 56 pinball machines at the tournament were not just games; they were silent storytellers. From the whirlwind adventure of Whirlwind by Williams to the gothic allure of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, each machine added its own chapter to the night’s narrative.

An Unforgettable Tapestry of Pinball Delights

As the night wound down, the Electric Bat Arcade stood as a testament to the timeless allure of pinball. It was an evening where every flipper hit, every light blink, and every high score beep was a note in the symphony of pinball’s enduring charm. It was more than a tournament; it was a gathering of stories, laughs, and shared passions.

For tales that go beyond the silver ball and updates on the vibrant world of pinball, keep your eyes on this blog!

Greetings, pinball aficionados! It’s your guide through the silver ball universe, Bride of Pinbot, here to recount the thrilling escapade that was the Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 1 Pinball Tournament.

Tournament Overview

On a serene evening in Surprise, Arizona, under a clear sky and a cool 64°F, the Player One Arcade buzzed with excitement. Organized by the diligent Jim Smith, the tournament saw 29 pinball wizards compete in 5 intense rounds. The goal was simple yet challenging: amass the most points to be crowned the champion.

Round 2 Spotlight: Rush (Pro) by Stern

In Round 2, “Rush (Pro)” by Stern, a recent favorite since its 2022 release, witnessed a fierce battle. Nicholas Van Doren clinched first place, followed by Del Kyger, with Mike McClure from Glendale, AZ, and Mary Profeta Scardina from AZ trailing closely. The game was a blend of swift decisions and precise flipper skills, making it a highlight of the night.

Celebrating the Winners

The tournament’s top honor went to Rob De La O, who displayed exceptional skill throughout the event. Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix dazzled as the runner-up, while Mark Pearson and Mike McClure from Glendale, AZ, secured third and fourth places, respectively. Their gameplay was a testament to their dedication and love for the game.

Featured Pinball Machines

Among the 13 machines at the tournament, several stood out:

• “Led Zeppelin (Pro)” by Stern (2020): This rock-themed machine had players feeling like stars.
• “Venom (Pro)” by Stern (2023): The newest addition, adding a superhero twist to the tournament.
• “The Walking Dead (Pro)” by Stern (2014): A fan-favorite, known for its immersive zombie-themed gameplay.
• “Foo Fighters (LE)” by Stern (2023): A modern classic that resonates with both music and pinball lovers.
• “Jurassic Park (Pro)” by Stern (2019): Offering a prehistoric adventure that never gets old.

Venue and Atmosphere

Player 1 Arcade, known for its awesome arcade and pinball games, provided the perfect setting. The atmosphere was lively, with TVs showing players in action, adding to the excitement. It’s always a pleasure to be here, where the fun never stops, and the flippers never rest.

Conclusion

The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 1 Pinball Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the timeless joy of pinball. As the night concluded, players and spectators left with memories of flashing lights, ringing bells, and the spirit of friendly competition.

Stay tuned, dear readers, for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball!

In the heart of Tempe, Arizona, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the Electric Bat Arcade became a symphony of lights and sounds, signaling the start of the much-anticipated Electric Bat Season 9 Series 2 #4 pinball tournament. With a clear sky overhead and a temperature perfect for a night of indoor arcade action, players and enthusiasts gathered for an evening of competitive spirit and pinball prowess.

The Electric Bat: More than Just an Arcade

The Electric Bat Arcade, located at 29 W. Southern Ave, is not just an arcade but a sanctum for pinball lovers. With its fusion of vintage charm and modern buzz, complemented by the inviting atmosphere of the adjoining Yucca Tap Room, it’s a haven where the clinks of glasses mix with the sounds of pinball action. The diverse lineup of pinball machines, alongside the reasonably priced drinks, makes it a paradise for both the uninitiated and the seasoned pinballers.

A Tournament of Skill and Strategy

Rachel Bess, a maestro in the pinball community, organized an event that saw 98 players engaging in a strategic battle across 5 rounds. The format was simple yet challenging: each round featured one game where players’ fates were decided by their skillful maneuvers and tactical play.

The Champions Ascend

The tournament was graced with remarkable talent, but only a few could claim the top spots:

1. Mark Pearson – The victor, whose deft hands and strategic gameplay earned him the crown.
2. Jeff Barthold – A close second, showcasing impressive skill and consistency.
3. Joe Soares – Demonstrating a blend of finesse and strategy to secure the third spot.
4. Kevan Carter (from Tempe) – Rounding out the top four with his adept gameplay.

Machines of Legend and Lore

The tournament was a showcase not just of players’ skills but also of the pinball machines themselves, each with its own story to tell. The Iron Man (Vault) by Stern, a 2014 marvel, stood as a testament to the modern era of pinball design. The Paragon by Bally, a classic from 1978, reminded players of the golden age of pinball. Stern’s 2022 James Bond 007 (Premium) added a touch of cinematic thrill to the lineup. The Nitro Ground Shaker by Bally, another gem from 1978, and the Firepower by Williams, released in 1980, were examples of the evolution of pinball over the decades.

A Night to Remember

As the tournament drew to a close and the last pinball clattered to a stop, the Electric Bat Season 9 Series 2 #4 tournament left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were present. For more adventures and tales from the exciting world of pinball, stay tuned and keep those flippers ready!