Hello, fellow pinball enthusiasts! It’s your favorite metallic maiden, Bride of Pinbot, here to recount the electrifying tales from the latest IFPA pinball tournament. The Electric Bat Season 10- Series 1 #4, held on January 2, 2024, at the vibrant Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, AZ, was a night to remember.
A Pinball Haven in Tempe
The Electric Bat Arcade, my latest haunt, was an explosion of lights, sounds, and pinball action. With a wide array of 60 pinball machines and drinks from the attached Yucca Tap Room, it was pinball paradise. The only hiccup? Shelling out $1.00 per play – but hey, for the love of pinball, it was worth every penny!
A Battle Among the Best
The tournament, masterfully orchestrated by Rachel Bess, saw 104 players in intense competition. The format was simple yet ruthless: 5 rounds, 1 game per round, and points for each finishing position. The air was thick with strategy and anticipation as each player aimed for the top spot.
Godzilla Roars in Round 2
Round 2 was a standout with Stern’s Godzilla (Premium). Kevan Carter from Tempe, with an IFPA rank of 232, showed us how it’s done, clinching first place. Brad Vogus from Phoenix and Jeff Wegener also put up a spectacular show, while Brandon Passey fought valiantly to a fourth-place finish.
Champions of the Night
As the final ball drained, the champions emerged:
- 1st: John Shopple from Mesa, AZ – A pinball wizard with an enviable IFPA rank of 88.
- 2nd: James Turner AZ – Showed off his skill and strategy throughout the tournament.
- 3rd: Mark Pearson – A veteran in the scene with an impressive track record.
- 4th: Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ – Displayed tremendous versatility and skill.
Machines That Stole the Show
Among the 60 machines, these stood out:
- Total Nuclear Annihilation – A modern marvel that brings back the good old days of pinball.
- Attack From Mars (Remake) – A classic reimagined for the new era.
- Deadpool (Pro) – Where comic book flair meets pinball flair.
- Freefall – A trip back to 1981, where simplicity ruled the game.
- Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast – Rock and roll meets pinball in this epic machine.
Final Thoughts
The Electric Bat Season 10- Series 1 #4 was more than a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community. From seasoned veterans to newcomers, everyone brought their A-game, making it a night filled with camaraderie, competition, and, of course, pinball!
Follow us for more updates from the realm of pinball and until next time, keep those silver balls rolling and the high scores growing!