Electric Bat’s 5th Anniversary Bash: A Pinball Extravaganza!

On a cool day in Tempe, Arizona, with light rain setting a dramatic backdrop, the Electric Bat Arcade celebrated its 5th anniversary with a spectacular pinball tournament. Organized by Rachel Bess, this event turned into a 12-hour marathon of flippers, lights, and high scores, attracting a crowd eager to partake in the festivities and competitive play.

The Venue: A Pinball Haven

Electric Bat Arcade, nestled at 25 W Southern Ave, transformed into a pinball paradise. In celebration of its 5th year, the arcade was abuzz with excitement and the spirit of competition. The atmosphere was electric, with players and spectators alike reveling in the joyous occasion.

The Tournament: A Test of Endurance and Skill

A hundred players embarked on a pinball journey through 20 grueling rounds, each playing one game per round. The stakes were high, and the competition fierce, with players earning points for their finishing positions. The top 24 finalists moved on to an even more intense showdown, spanning four rounds and three games each.

Semifinal Spotlight: Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern

The semifinals saw a momentous 92-minute game on Foo Fighters (Pro), a Stern marvel from 2023. Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, clinched the top spot in this epic battle, followed closely by Leslie Ruckman from California, Will McKinney, and Mark Pearson, each demonstrating remarkable skill and endurance.

Celebrating the Winners

The tournament culminated with Walt Wood securing the first place, showcasing unparalleled mastery over the pinball machines. Greg Davis from Phoenix took the second spot, followed by Leslie Ruckman from California, and Roland Nadeau from Phoenix, AZ. The top eight were a testament to the high level of play and strategy involved in the tournament.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was graced with 56 pinball machines, each adding its unique charm. Notable mentions include:

  • Sinbad by Gottlieb (1978): A classic that brought players back to the golden era of pinball.
  • Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (1992): Known for its immersive theme and engaging gameplay.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022): A modern favorite, challenging players with its fast-paced action.
  • Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016): A machine that combined nostalgia with exciting play.
  • Eight Ball by Bally (1977): A testament to the timeless appeal of pinball.

Conclusion

The Electric Bat’s 5th Anniversary Bash was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the arcade’s journey, the thrill of pinball, and the community that cherishes this timeless game. As the event concluded, participants left with memories of a day filled with the clinks and clacks of pinballs, the joy of competition, and the warmth of camaraderie.

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A Day of Flippers and Fun: The Southland Mega Matchplay Pinball Tournament

On a chilly November morning with scattered clouds and a brisk 45°F, the Southland Lanes in the heart of town buzzed with excitement for the Southland Mega Matchplay pinball tournament. Organized by John Delzoppo, this event was not just a test of skill but a marathon of endurance, lasting an impressive 13 hours and 38 minutes.

Southland Lanes: The Perfect Host

Southland Lanes proved to be an ideal venue for this pinball extravaganza. With its easy accessibility, comfortable interiors, and reasonable prices, it was a hit among players and families alike. The great food and beverages added to the charm, making it more than just a bowling alley – but a community hub.

The Tournament: A Test of Pinball Prowess

With a staggering 63 players competing in 20 rounds, the tournament was a thrilling display of pinball wizardry. The top 24 players advanced to the finals, which consisted of 4 rounds with 3 games each. This format not only tested the players’ skills but also their strategies and stamina.

Game Spotlight: A Marathon on Taxi

One of the tournament highlights was a quarterfinals match on the classic Taxi by Williams. This game turned into a 75-minute epic battle, showcasing the endurance and skill of the players. Lewis Bevans emerged victorious, followed by Andrew Lee from Cleveland, OH, Mark Brown OH, and Evan Bingham.

Celebrating the Winners

The tournament saw some exceptional performances:

  • Lewis Bevans: Dominated the competition and clinched the first position.
  • Gary Hartz from Pittsburgh: A close second, demonstrating great skill and determination.
  • Stephen Prusa: Secured third place with his consistent gameplay.
  • Aaron Rich and Gregory Kennedy from Plain City, OH: Also made it to the top spots, showcasing their prowess in pinball.

The Pinball Lineup

The 33 pinball machines at the tournament provided a diverse range of challenges, including:

Wrapping Up

The Southland Mega Matchplay pinball tournament was a day filled with excitement, competition, and fun. As the last ball drained and winners celebrated, players and spectators left with fond memories and stories to share.

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