In the heart of Mesa, under a starlit sky at a cool 60°F, the Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play pinball tournament unfolded with great fanfare on the evening of December 8, 2023. The venue, Atomic Age Modern, located at 140 W Main St, buzzed with the energy of 47 players ready to showcase their pinball wizardry.
A Venue Oozing with Retro Charm
Atomic Age Modern, known for its eclectic collection of mid-century modern treasures, transformed into a pinball battleground for this tournament. The event, smoothly orchestrated by Bob Kennedy, was not just a competition but a celebration of the vibrant pinball culture. Discover more about this unique venue at Atomic Age Modern.
The Thrill of Godzilla (Pro)
One game that stole the spotlight was Round 6’s intense face-off on Stern’s Godzilla (Pro), released in September 2021. This modern pinball gem challenged players with its intricate gameplay and dynamic layout. Greg Drewes emerged victorious in this round, closely followed by Amanda Kennedy from Mesa, with Gavin Bowman and Carol Best putting up strong fights for the third and fourth spots.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament saw some exceptional gameplay, leading to a thrilling climax:
- 1st Place: Henry Hanshaw, who dominated the rounds with a strategic 20 points adjustment.
- 2nd Place: Jon Sieker, a skillful player from the United States, secured his spot with a 15 points adjustment.
- 3rd Place: John Magyar from Arizona, showcasing his expertise with a 10 points adjustment.
- 4th Place: Brandon Passey, concluding the list with a well-deserved 5 points adjustment.
A Lineup of Legendary Machines
The tournament featured an impressive array of 13 pinball machines, including:
- Taxi by Williams (1988) and The Party Zone by Bally (1991), offering a throwback to the classic era.
- Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022) and Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern (2023), blending modern technology with timeless gameplay.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming (2021), revisiting a beloved classic with a new twist.
A Night to Remember
As the evening came to a close, the Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play tournament left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended. It was a night where the spirit of competitive pinball was palpable, and the camaraderie among players was stronger than ever.
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