Retro Vibes where Pinball Thrives: The Atomic Age Modern

In the heart of Mesa, Arizona, where the clear skies paint a serene backdrop, the Atomic Age Modern venue turned into a bustling arcade arena for the eagerly awaited Group Match Play pinball tournament. As the neon lights flickered on, 43 pinball enthusiasts gathered on the evening of January 26, 2024, each with their eyes set on victory.

A Venue Out of Time

Atomic Age Modern, known for its eclectic mix of vintage finds and nostalgic ambiance, provided the perfect setting for a pinball showdown. The atmosphere, infused with the spirit of bygone eras, added a layer of charm to the intense competition. It was not just about playing pinball; it was about stepping back in time and reliving the golden age of arcades.

The Foo Fighters Face-off

Among the 13 pinball machines, the Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern, a recent addition from March 2023, stood out as the battleground for one of the tournament’s most memorable rounds. Adam Horton, Matt Dickson, Courtney Hall, and Tawni Rene put up a fierce fight, with Horton taking the lead in a display of skill and precision that set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Champions of the Night

As the flippers stilled and the scores tallied, the top contenders emerged, each having navigated through six grueling rounds of pinball prowess:

  1. Stephanie Turner from Chandler, AZ, emerged as the tournament victor, her consistent performance across all rounds proving her pinball mastery.
  2. Adam Horton showcased his competitive edge and strategic gameplay, securing a well-earned second place.
  3. Mollie Stoltenberg demonstrated skill and determination, clinching the third spot on the podium.
  4. Alex Kee, a rising star from Stardust, made a significant impact with their fourth-place finish, signaling a promising future in the pinball circuit.

Pinball Lineup: A Blend of Old and New

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of pinball machines, from classic titles to modern marvels, each adding its unique flavor to the competition:

  • Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics and Firepower by Williams brought the classic pinball experience to the fore, challenging players with their timeless designs.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern unleashed monstrous challenges, testing the players’ ability to navigate through the chaos.
  • Sorcerer by Williams and The Party Zone by Bally offered a magical and whimsical twist, with gameplay that was both enchanting and exhilarating.

A Night to Remember

The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play tournament was a nod to the nostalgic charm of vintage arcades, and a testament to the timeless appeal of pinball. As the night concluded, the players left with memories of flippers, silver balls, and the unmistakable camaraderie that defines the pinball community.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the world of pinball, where every game is an adventure, and every player has a story to tell.

A Night of Flips and Finesse: Belles & Chimes SATX

In the ever-spinning world of pinball, where the clatter of silver balls and the glow of neon lights reign supreme, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Winter 2024 #2 tournament carved out its own legendary spot on January 26, 2024. As your guide through these tales of skill and chance, I, Bride of Pinbot, am here to relay the excitement of this clandestine gathering.

The Secret Pinball Convocation

In a location so veiled in secrecy that even Gandalf might utter, “I have no memory of this place,” a group of 19 pinball warriors assembled under the aegis of the illustrious Christina Cheeseman. Their mission: to conquer the flippers in a battle of wits and reflexes across 5 intense rounds.

The Opening Gambit: Congo’s Jungle Joust

From the get-go, the tournament set a high bar with a fierce competition on the Congo machine, a Williams classic that transports players deep into the heart of a pinball jungle. Amanda Fincher, hailing from Austin, Texas, led the charge with a victory that set the tone for the evening’s relentless pursuit of pinball glory.

The Victorious Vanguard

As the final flippers stilled, four champions emerged, their names etched in the annals of pinball history. Lori Love, with her steadfast resolve, claimed the throne, followed closely by Hope Love, whose skill was as formidable as her spirit. Amanda Fincher’s initial triumph bore fruit as she secured a spot in the top three, with Laurie Abel rounding out this distinguished quartet.

The Mechanical Marvels of the Arena

The tournament was a showcase not just of talent, but of pinball history and innovation. From the charm of King Pin and Meteor to the narrative-rich playfields of Stranger Things (Pro) and Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast, each machine offered a unique battlefield. Diner, Fish Tales, and the adrenaline-pumping Hot Wheels added flavor to the mix, making each round a new adventure.

A Night to Remember

As the echo of the last ball drained away, the event remained shrouded in mystery, its location a closely guarded secret known only to those who dared to navigate the labyrinth of Texas’ pinball underworld. We extend our deepest gratitude to Christina Cheeseman for orchestrating this pinball symphony.

Until We Flip Again

As the tales of this secret tournament spread through the pinball realm, let us remember the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and the sheer joy of the game that brings us together. Stay tuned for more adventures from the flippers’ edge, where legends are born and high scores are conquered.

Keep those balls rolling, and may your next game be a high score!