The Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona, became a haven for pinball enthusiasts on a mildly cloudy evening with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 76°F. Organized by Rachel Bess, the Electric Bat 8 Point Progressive Strikes Knockout Tournament not only tested the skills of the players but also their ability to adapt and survive in a high-stakes environment.
The Venue: A Pinball Paradise
The Electric Bat Arcade, with its eclectic mix of retro and modern pinball machines, set the perfect stage for the tournament. Offering a range of games from classics like Tekken to pinball favorites like Dolly Parton, the arcade provided an accessible and fun experience for players and spectators, with most games priced between 50 cents to a dollar.
The Tournament: A Test of Endurance and Skill
Ninety competitors entered the fray in this Group Knockout Tournament, which spanned over 6 hours. The unique Progressive Strikes system added an extra layer of excitement: in four-player groups, players received 0 to 3 strikes based on their finishing position, while three-player groups saw a 0 to 2 strike system. This format kept competitors on their toes, as accumulating 8 strikes meant elimination.
Game Spotlight: The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern
A particularly intense game unfolded in Round 5 on The Walking Dead (Pro), a Stern machine from 2014 known for its challenging gameplay and immersive theme. Matthew Sommerfeld emerged as the victor in this round, with Michael Bougher, Dave Halley, and Fae Ashley from Chandler, AZ, following closely behind.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament’s top honor went to Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, who displayed remarkable consistency and skill throughout the event. Close behind were Mark Pearson, Adam Horton, and Dustin Grossbier, each showcasing their pinball prowess and strategic gameplay.
Notable Pinball Machines
Among the 55 machines at the tournament, several stood out for their unique themes and gameplay:
- Hotdoggin’ by Bally (1979): A classic that brought back the golden era of pinball.
- Game Of Thrones (Pro) by Stern (2015): A machine that brought the epic fantasy saga to the pinball world.
- Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (2018): A modern favorite known for its humor and engaging play.
- Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (2019): A machine that captured the suspense and mystery of the popular TV series.
- James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern (2022): The newest addition, offering a sleek and sophisticated pinball experience.
Conclusion
The Electric Bat 8 Point Progressive Strikes Knockout Tournament was not just a competition; it was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the timeless joy of pinball. As players and spectators left the Electric Bat Arcade, they carried with them the memories of flippers, silver balls, and the spirit of friendly competition.
Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!