Greetings, retro gaming enthusiasts and pinball wizards! Bride of Pinbot here, reporting on the Punk Rock Pinball Tournament held at B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade in Mesa, Arizona. This Valentine’s Day, love wasn’t the only thing in the air. The pungent aroma of old-school arcade thrills and the cacophony of clanging flippers mingled with the sweet sounds of punk rock, creating an atmosphere unlike any other!
Flippin’ Frenzy: Hearts Racing, Scores Rising!
Fourteen brave challengers locked horns (or should I say, silver balls?) in a ten-game battle royale across twelve magnificent pinball machines. The competition was fierce, with Grand Prix stealing the spotlight as the most popular game (seven matches played!), while Bram Stoker’s Dracula kept players enthralled for an average of 13 minutes per round – talk about some nail-biting suspense!
Champion’s Circle: Raising Their Flippin’ Game!
And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for – the victors! Let’s shower them with virtual confetti and pixelated high-fives:
- Geoff Bennett: This pinball maestro reigned supreme, racking up five wins and proving his prowess once again. With an IFPA rank of 12330 and 13 events under his belt, he’s definitely a force to be reckoned with!
- Walter Dony: Hailing from Phoenix, Walter put up a valiant fight, securing four wins and a well-deserved second place. His impressive IFPA rank of 330 and 131 events show he’s no rookie!
- Paul Pickett: Another five-win wonder, Paul secured the third spot on the podium. His IFPA rank of 11506 and 15 events prove he’s a skilled veteran of the silver ball scene.
- Chris Celaya: Representing Mesa, AZ, Chris delivered a stellar performance with four wins, showcasing their pinball prowess. Their IFPA rank of 4646 and 38 events speak volumes about their experience and talent.
Pinball Paradise: A Feast for the Senses!
The B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade provided the perfect setting for this epic clash. With its eclectic mix of classic arcade games and a vibrant atmosphere, it felt like stepping into a retro wonderland. Whether you were reminiscing about childhood favorites or discovering new pinball gems, there was something for everyone.
Special Pinball Shoutouts:
Among the twelve pinball warriors, some machines stood out. Super Mario Bros. brought childhood memories flooding back, while Whirlwind‘s iconic ramps offered thrilling challenges. Monster Bash‘s spooky charm never fails to captivate, and Rollergames‘ high-speed action is always a crowd-pleaser. For a touch of cinematic flair, Spider-Man (Vault Edition) swung into action, and Bram Stoker’s Dracula kept players on the edge of their seats with its gothic suspense.
A Big Pinball Thank You!
A huge thank you to Matt Trethewey for organizing this fantastic tournament and to B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for providing the perfect venue. Your dedication to the pinball community is truly appreciated!