As the last rays of the sun dipped below the horizon in Tempe, Arizona, and a pleasant 68°F evening unfolded under a sky dotted with a few clouds, the Electric Bat Arcade on Southern Ave brimmed with excitement. The Season 9 Series 2 #6 pinball tournament, orchestrated by the talented Rachel Bess, wasn’t just another event; it was a vibrant celebration of pinball’s past and present.
The Electric Bat Arcade: A Mecca for Pinball Lovers
The Electric Bat Arcade, with its harmonious blend of retro and modern pinball machines, offered an ideal stage for this tournament. With its convenient parking, easy access through the Yucca Tap Room, and well-stocked bar, it provided a seamless experience for the players and spectators alike. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, as pinball enthusiasts gathered for an evening of skillful play and camaraderie.
Celebrating Paragon: A Pinball Classic
A special focus of the tournament was the celebration of the anniversary of Bally’s Paragon, a machine that has captivated players since its project kicked off on December 05, 1978. As the first wide-body machine from Bally, Paragon introduced innovative features like in-line drop targets and a distinctive artwork by Paul Faris, which included personal elements like depictions of himself and his wife. The European export models with only two bottom flippers added an interesting variation to the game. Paragon’s presence at the tournament brought a wave of nostalgia, especially during Round 1, where players relished the challenge of this classic game.
Round 1: A Tribute to Paragon
Round 1 saw Joe Soares taking the lead on Paragon, followed by Alex Morris, Brian Pinney, and Jard Cassell from Arizona, USA. The game was a testament to Paragon’s enduring appeal and the players’ ability to adapt to its unique playfield and challenges.
The Champions of the Tournament
The tournament culminated with a display of exceptional skill and strategic gameplay by the top players:
- Mark Pearson – Demonstrating top-notch skill and consistency.
- Andrew Roesch – A close second, showcasing impressive gameplay.
- Chui Aguilar (from Phoenix, AZ) – Claimed the third spot with a strong performance.
- Mark Lindbergh (from Chandler, AZ) – Rounded out the top four with his adept play.
A Diverse Array of Pinball Machines
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 60 pinball machines, ranging from classics to modern hits. Machines like Joker Poker by Gottlieb, Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern, and Godzilla (Premium) by Stern not only tested the players’ skills but also added a vibrant energy to the tournament.
A Night of Pinball Magic
As the tournament drew to a close, the Electric Bat Arcade stood as a beacon for the pinball community — a place where the nostalgia of yesteryears and the excitement of today’s technology coalesce. It was more than a competition; it was a celebration of the timeless allure of pinball and the community that cherishes it.
For more stories from the exciting world of pinball and updates on upcoming events, keep your flippers ready and eyes on this blog!