Amidst the light rain and the cool 70°F evening of January 31, 2024, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, transformed into a battleground for the Punk Rock Pinball Tournament. Orchestrated by the passionate Matt Trethewey, this 2.5-hour event saw 12 players locked in a fierce competition, each vying for the title over 10 intense games.
The Clash on Classic Machines
The tournament was a nostalgic trip back to the golden era of pinball with machines that have stood the test of time. Fish Tales by Williams, a 1992 classic, emerged as a player favorite, hosting 8 riveting games. Meanwhile, Grand Prix by Stern, with its adrenaline-pumping races and strategic gameplay, boasted the longest average game duration at around 11 minutes, turning each match into a test of endurance and skill.
The Victors of the Night
The tournament’s conclusion was as electrifying as the games themselves:
- John Magyar from Arizona, with his strategic plays and 4 impressive wins, clinched the first place, his experience echoed in his IFPA rank of 290.
- Jeff Wegener, matching the winner in victories but differing in rank, secured a well-deserved second place, proving that every game was a new battle.
- Geoff Bennett, despite claiming 6 wins, found himself in third place, a testament to the unpredictable nature of pinball tournaments.
- Mahina Hayashi, with 6 wins under her belt, showcased exceptional talent and determination, marking her presence as a formidable contender.
Pinball Legends of the Tournament
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 10 pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the competition:
- Grand Prix by Stern: A race-themed adventure that pushed players to their limits with each lap.
- Monster Bash by Williams: A monstrous gathering where strategy met classic horror in a symphony of flippers and silver balls.
- Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally: A dive into a cinematic universe, challenging players to save the damsel in distress amidst a 3D holographic lagoon.
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern: A journey into the sewers of New York, battling villains with the beloved heroes in a half shell.
- Junk Yard by Williams: A creative escapade where players built contraptions to escape from the junkyard using an eclectic mix of parts.
The Heartbeat of Main Street: B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade
B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, with its rich selection of beers and classic tunes from The Cure, set the perfect backdrop for the tournament. The venue’s blend of nostalgic arcade games, a welcoming atmosphere for both kids and adults (until 7 pm), and a refreshing break from the IPA-dominated beer scene made it the ideal spot for a pinball showdown.
In Closing
A round of applause for Matt Trethewey for organizing and B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for hosting this memorable pinball rendezvous. The Punk Rock Pinball Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of pinball culture, camaraderie, and the timeless joy of the game.
Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the pinball universe!