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:
- Jard Cassell (Arizona, USA): Demonstrating his pinball mastery with an IFPA rank of 708 and 50 events.
- Jay Bondelli: A skilled player with an IFPA rank of 1739, participating in 101 events.
- John Magyar (Arizona): Showcasing his expertise with an IFPA rank of 291 and 194 events.
- 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!