As the sun set over Surprise, Arizona, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple, the air at Player One Arcade buzzed with excitement. It was November 13, 2023, a perfect evening with a clear sky and a pleasant 76°F, ideal for the much-anticipated Player 1 Arcade S3A Side Finals pinball tournament. Organized by the seasoned Jim Smith, the arcade at 17239 North Litchfield Road became a vibrant battleground for pinball enthusiasts.
A Haven for Pinball Lovers
Player 1 Arcade, known for its eclectic mix of classic arcade games and a wide array of pinball machines, is a haven for gamers. On tournament nights, it transforms into a coliseum of sorts, where players battle it out, flippers in hand, under the watchful eyes of spectators who gather around. The atmosphere is electric, with the clangs and dings of pinball machines creating a symphony that’s music to any gamer’s ears.
The Spotlight: Avengers: Infinity Quest
In Round 3, the spotlight shone on Stern’s Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium). This machine, known for its intricate playfield and immersive gameplay, saw a dramatic face-off. Del Kyger emerged as the victor, employing a strategy that was both bold and calculated. Hot on his heels were Mike McClure from Glendale AZ, Juan Silvagnoli, and Joel Daniel from Surprise AZ, each showcasing their prowess and determination.
Celebrating the Masters of Pinball
The tournament was a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sometimes sheer luck. Emerging as the champions were:
- 1st: Catcher Knapp – A virtuoso of the flippers, whose gameplay was nothing short of art.
- 2nd: Del Kyger – A strategist par excellence.
- 3rd: Jeremy Reiman from Peoria, AZ – Known for his calm demeanor and precise shots.
- 4th: Mike McClure from Glendale AZ – A player who combined patience with agility.
A Parade of Pinball Legends
The tournament featured 13 pinball machines, each adding its own unique flavor to the event:
- The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern: A thrilling walk through a post-apocalyptic world.
- Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: A rock and roll adventure with one of the greatest bands of all time.
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: A journey into the outer reaches of the galaxy.
- Rush (Pro) by Stern: For those who love the adrenaline rush of high-paced gameplay.
- Cyclone by Williams: A throwback to the classic era of pinball.
A Night to Remember
As the night drew to a close, players and spectators left with stories of epic comebacks, strategic masterstrokes, and the shared love for pinball. The Player 1 Arcade S3A Side Finals wasn’t just a tournament; it was a testament to the thriving pinball culture, a place where legends are made and stories are told.
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