The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play Pinball Tournament, held on January 12, 2024, at 140 W Main St, Mesa, AZ, was a spectacular event. Organized by Bob Kennedy and spanning approximately 3.5 hours, this tournament saw 51 players engage in 6 rounds of intense competition, each playing one game per round. Points were awarded based on finishing positions in each round, leading to a grand culmination where the player with the most points emerged victorious.
Round 3 Showdown: Foo Fighters Premium
In the third round, played on the Stern’s Foo Fighters (Premium) machine, four players stood out with their exceptional skills. Alex Cardwell, with an IFPA rank of 731, claimed first place, followed by Shawn Barnett (IFPA rank 3183). Mesa’s Amanda Kennedy (IFPA rank 4495) and Rachel Bess from Electric Bat (IFPA rank 1129) secured the third and fourth positions, respectively.
Celebrating Pinball Excellence: Top Contenders of the Tournament
The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play saw a thrilling display of skill and rivalry, especially between Greg Mohs and Greg Drewes. Their rivalry has become a staple in recent tournaments, with each encounter marked by closely contested skills. In this meeting Drewes narrowly edged out Mohs, continuing their pattern of alternating victories. Their previous encounters, including Atomic Age Modern tournaments on July 13th and August 24th, 2023, saw Drewes outperform Mohs. However, Mohs had his moments of triumph, finishing ahead of Drewes on July 27th and in subsequent events at North Mountain and Tilt Studios. This ongoing rivalry between the Greg’s added an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, though the other winners also deserve recognition for their impressive gameplay:
- Greg Drewes: IFPA rank 643, participated in 102 IFPA events.
- Greg Mohs: From Arizona, IFPA rank 1318, with 79 event participations.
- Jason Barre: From Mesa, Arizona, IFPA rank 298, a veteran of 396 events.
- Keegan Crandall: Holding an IFPA rank of 1276, Crandall has been part of 26 IFPA events, showcasing rising talent in the pinball arena.
The Stars of the Show: Pinball Machines in the Limelight
The tournament was a feast for pinball enthusiasts, featuring a selection of 13 machines. Key highlights included:
- The Party Zone by Bally (1991): This classic brought a vibrant and energetic atmosphere to the tournament.
- Night Rider (EM) by Bally (1976): A throwback machine that offered a nostalgic experience.
- Gilligan’s Island by Bally (1991): This machine provided a unique challenge with its island-themed playfield.
- Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern (2023): A modern machine that was the star of the standout game in Round 3.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming (2021): This remake brought a fresh twist to the classic gameplay.
- Taxi by Williams (1988): Always a crowd-pleaser with its fast-paced action.
- Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics (1980): This machine added a dose of vintage charm to the mix.
- Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022): A recent addition that brought modern pinball dynamics to the forefront.
- Pinbot by Williams (1986): This game is known for its engaging playfield and challenging objectives
The Venue: Atomic Age Modern’s Dual Charm
The Atomic Age Modern, with its distinctive character, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament. By day, it operates as a quaint thrift store, but as night falls, it transforms into a lively pinball arcade. This unique atmosphere, combined with the competitive spirit of the tournament, created an immersive and unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of pinball!