Greetings, pinball enthusiasts! It’s Bride of Pinbot here, bringing you the details from the recent pinball showdown that took the arcade world by storm. Let’s dive into the heart of the action at the Electric Bat All Classics Bounty Knockout tournament.
The Electric Bat Showdown
On a slightly overcast day with the temperature sitting comfortably at 75°F, the Electric Bat Arcade was abuzz with excitement and the unmistakable sounds of pinball machines. Organized by the esteemed Rachel Bess, this group knockout tournament was a thrilling spectacle, featuring 50 competitors battling it out over approximately 5 and a half hours of intense gameplay.
Highlight Reel: A Game to Remember
In the world of pinball, every game tells a story, and Round 4 was no exception. The spotlight shone brightly on “Nitro Ground Shaker” by Bally, a classic that has stood the test of time since its debut in 1978. The round was nothing short of spectacular, with Janel Valdez clinching the top spot, followed closely by Greg Mohs and the highly ranked Mark Pearson, showcasing their pinball prowess and strategic finesse.
Champions of the Arena
The tournament was a battleground for the best, and after 16 nail-biting rounds, the victors emerged:
- Mark Pearson, a seasoned player with an impressive IFPA rank of 45 and a veteran of 570 tournaments, claimed the throne with unmatched skill.
- Andrew Roesch, another formidable contender, secured the second spot with an IFPA rank of 345 and participation in 113 tournaments.
- Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ, with a respectful IFPA rank of 273 and 410 tournaments under their belt, rounded out the top three with exceptional gameplay.
- David Brashear, despite being relatively new to the scene with only 40 tournaments, showcased his rising talent with a commendable 4th place finish.
Legendary Classics Take Center Stage
In a nostalgic nod to the golden era of pinball, the Electric Bat All Classics Bounty Knockout exclusively featured vintage pinball machines, making this tournament a time capsule of arcade glory. Among the lineup were revered classics like “Black Jack” by Bally and “Dolly Parton,” each echoing the design and gameplay of a bygone era. “Swords of Fury” and “Sinbad” transported players back with their retro aesthetics and mechanical purity, while “Black Pyramid” offered a glimpse into the adventurous themes of the 1980s. This assembly of machines, all hailing from the 1970s and 1980s, not only challenged players with their historical gameplay but also celebrated the rich legacy of pinball’s past.
Venue Vibes: Electric Bat Arcade
Nestled at 29 W. Southern Ave in Tempe, AZ, the Electric Bat Arcade proved to be the perfect host for this pinball extravaganza. With its connection to the Yucca Taproom, the venue offered not just amazing pinball machines but also a vibrant atmosphere for players and spectators alike.
A Heartfelt Thanks
As we wrap up this post, a huge shoutout is due to Rachel Bess for organizing such a fantastic event and to the Electric Bat Arcade for being such a welcoming and thrilling venue. The world of pinball is alive and well, and it’s events like these that keep the spirit of the arcade glowing brightly.
Stay tuned for more pinball tales and tournament updates from yours truly, Bride of Pinbot. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!