Electric Bat: A Showcase of Pinball Prowess

The Electric Bat Season 10- Series 2 #1 pinball tournament, held on January 23, 2024, at the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona, was a whirlwind of flippers and silver balls. Organized by Rachel Bess, this event drew a crowd of 105 players who competed in 5 rounds of intense pinball action, lasting just under 3 hours. Despite the overcast skies and a cool 54°F, the atmosphere inside was charged with excitement and competition.

Round 4 Highlight: Avengers Assemble on Infinity Quest

In the spotlight of Round 4, players battled on Stern’s Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro), a fan-favorite since its release in September 2020. Kevan Carter from Tempe, showcasing his skills with an IFPA rank of 246, clinched the top spot. Close on his heels were Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ (IFPA rank 314), Roland Nadeau from Phoenix, AZ (IFPA rank 49), and the unranked Brett Brandeburg, making for a thrilling round of play.

The Champions of the Electric Bat

The tournament culminated with stellar performances from the top players:

  1. Jard Cassell (Arizona, USA): Demonstrating his pinball mastery with an IFPA rank of 708 and 50 events.
  2. Jay Bondelli: A skilled player with an IFPA rank of 1739, participating in 101 events.
  3. John Magyar (Arizona): Showcasing his expertise with an IFPA rank of 291 and 194 events.
  4. Katie Adler: An emerging talent in the pinball world, holding an IFPA rank of 7800 over 7 events.

Pinball Machine Galore

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 59 pinball machines, providing a diverse range of challenges:

  • Medieval Madness (Remake) by Chicago Gaming (2016): A modern twist on a beloved classic.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (2018): Combining superhero antics with engaging gameplay.
  • Sorcerer by Williams (1985): A throwback to the classic era of pinball.
  • Freefall by Stern Electronics (1981): A game that tests players’ reflexes and precision.
  • Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball (2017): A modern machine with a retro feel.
  • Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern (2016): Bringing the iconic TV series to the pinball world.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022): A rock and roll journey with the band Rush.
  • Meteor by Stern Electronics (1979): A classic that has stood the test of time.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern (2023): The latest addition, bringing superhero action to the arcade.

The Electric Bat Experience

The Electric Bat Arcade, attached to the Yucca Taproom, is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. Offering a wide array of pinball machines in one location, it’s the perfect place for both casual and competitive play. With tournaments every Tuesday for just $1 plus coin drop, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for fun and competition.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball. Whether you’re a seasoned player aiming for high scores or a newcomer ready to hit your first jackpot, the vibrant community and thrilling tournaments await you. Keep those flippers flipping, and see you at the next pinball showdown!

Pinball Showdown at The Pinball Lounge: A Night of Flipping Excitement

An Evening of Pinball Magic in Oviedo, Florida

As the clear sky stretched over Oviedo, Florida, with a perfect temperature of 68°F, The Pinball Lounge at the Oviedo Bowling Center transformed into a pinball haven on the evening of January 23, 2024. Organized by Kurt van Zyl, the Bonanza 1/23/24 Round 2 tournament brought together 31 pinball enthusiasts for a gripping 3 and a half hours of competitive play.

The tournament’s format was both straightforward and intense: 6 rounds of play, one game per round. Players were grouped together, battling it out to earn points based on their finishing positions in each round. The ultimate goal? To amass the most points and claim victory by the end of the night.

The Batman 66 Battle: A Round 6 Thriller

The highlight of the tournament was the sixth and final round on the Batman 66 (Premium) machine by Stern, a fan favorite since its release in 2016. The game turned into a battleground for the top contenders. John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida, with an IFPA rank of 796, emerged as the victor of this round. Nick Smith from Florida, ranked 4144, followed closely in second place. Al Neumann, ranked 1558, and Doug Bernard from Orlando, ranked 3538, clinched third and fourth places respectively, showcasing their skills in this intense round.

Celebrating the Pinball Titans

The tournament concluded with an impressive lineup of winners:

  1. Al Neumann – IFPA rank 1558, a veteran of 293 IFPA events, displayed exceptional skill and strategy to secure first place.
  2. John Moschella – From Winter Springs, Florida, with an IFPA rank of 796 and 53 events to his credit, clinched a well-deserved second place.
  3. Brayden DeRazza – Hailing from Lake Mary, FL, and ranked 971st in IFPA with 55 events, showed remarkable consistency to take third.
  4. Nick Smith – With an IFPA rank of 4144 and participation in 77 events, completed the top four with his commendable performance.

A Pinball Enthusiast’s Dream Line-Up

The tournament was also a showcase of 20 pinball machines, each offering its unique charm and challenges. Highlights included:

The Venue: A Pinball Paradise

The Pinball Lounge, more than just a venue, was a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The impeccable selection of machines, combined with its pristine condition and friendly staff, made it a 10/10 experience for everyone involved. Despite a little road construction, the location’s appeal remained undiminished, testament to the dedication of those who run it.

Looking Ahead to More Pinball Adventures

As the event concluded, players and fans left with stories of triumph and the thrill of competition, eager for the next gathering of pinball enthusiasts. The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 1/23/24 Round 2 tournament was not just a display of skill and strategy, but a celebration of the enduring appeal of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates from the exciting world of pinball tournaments across the Country!