Hello, pinball rockstars! It’s Bride of Pinbot, rolling into your world with a recap of the electrifying Punk Rock Pinball tournament. On January 10, 2024, as the skies of Mesa, AZ, remained clear and the temperature hovered around a cool 50°F, B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade transformed into a battleground for pinball wizards.
B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade: A Retro Gaming Haven
Nestled at 213 W Main St, B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade is more than just a venue; it’s a celebration of nostalgia and modernity. With an ambiance that marries the love for classic video games and pinball with the joy of sipping a cold draft, it’s the perfect spot for adult birthday bashes or just a night out with friends.
A Tournament of Precision and Skill
Under the masterful organization of Matt Trethewey, the tournament unfolded with 10 adrenaline-pumping games per player. Five players went head-to-head in each round, with their eyes set on accumulating the most points for the ultimate victory.
Pinball Spotlight: Vampires and Ooze
The crowd’s favorite, Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams, saw 4 games played, bringing a blend of horror and excitement. Meanwhile, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern held the record for the longest average game duration, keeping players engaged for about 16 minutes a game.
Celebrating the Pinball Champions
The tournament was a showcase of skills, with the following players emerging victorious:
- 1st: Jeff Wegener – Dominating with 6 wins, his journey through 24 IFPA events reflected in his gameplay.
- 2nd: John Magyar from Arizona – Clinched 5 wins, bringing his experience from 190 IFPA events to the table.
- 3rd: Shawn Barnett – Another 5-win achiever, his strategic play honed over 78 IFPA events was evident.
- 4th: Matt Dickson – Tied in wins, his performance resonated with his experience from 61 IFPA events.
The Machines That Defined the Night
The tournament featured 7 pinball machines, each adding its unique flair:
- Spider-Man (Vault Edition) by Stern – A web-slinging adventure on the pinball table.
- Monster Bash by Williams – Mixing monster mayhem with pinball fun.
- Whirlwind by Williams – A stormy challenge for every player.
- Rollergames by Williams – Bringing the roller derby excitement to pinball.
- Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams – A futuristic battle encapsulated in a pinball machine.
Closing it out
The Punk Rock Pinball tournament at B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade was a testament to the enduring love for pinball. It was a night where strategy, skill, and a bit of punk rock spirit came alive. As the flippers rested and the lights dimmed, the spirit of competition and camaraderie lingered in the air.
Keep rolling, keep flipping, and stay tuned for more thrilling recaps from the realm of pinball!