Overview of the Tournament
On a sunny day in Mesa, Arizona, the Starfighters Arcade set the stage for the electrifying Starfighters SPF24 Division A pinball tournament. With 64 competitors ready to showcase their skills, the event, masterfully organized by Kevin Curtis, spanned nearly 9 hours of intense gameplay, captivating the audience with each flip and score.
Highlight Match: The Baywatch Epic
The tournament’s unforgettable highlight was the marathon match on the Baywatch pinball machine. In an extraordinary display of endurance, the game stretched to 110 minutes, with Nick Schademann leading the pack. This intense round not only tested the players’ skills but also their strategic acumen and stamina.
Champions of the Arena
The event culminated with remarkable achievements by the top competitors, each standing out for their strategic gameplay and pinball expertise:
- Carlos Delaserda – Dominating the field with a 440-point adjustment and an impressive IFPA rank of 13, Carlos’s performance was unmatched, reflecting his vast experience in 460 IFPA events.
- Dave Stewart – Representing Seattle, Dave secured the second position with a 440-point adjustment, leveraging his extensive background from 772 IFPA events to navigate the competition.
- David Marcis – With a 560-point adjustment, David’s strategic gameplay shone through, backed by their participation in 147 IFPA events and an IFPA rank of 820.
- Johnny Modica – Johnny’s tactical approach, coupled with a 540-point adjustment and an IFPA rank of 85, showcased his pinball prowess, honed over 445 IFPA events.
The Machines of Battle
The tournament boasted an eclectic mix of 73 pinball machines, ranging from timeless classics to contemporary hits. Machines like Attack from Mars, Firepower, and Monster Bash provided a rich tapestry of challenges, while Xenon and Ghostbusters (Pro) added modern twists to the lineup, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for all players.
The Stage and Its Ambiance
Starfighters Arcade, a bastion for arcade enthusiasts, offered the perfect backdrop for the tournament. Its commitment to preserving the golden era of arcade gaming created a nostalgic yet exhilarating environment, making it an ideal venue for both competitors and spectators to revel in the joy of pinball.
Acknowledgments and Anticipation
Heartfelt thanks go to Kevin Curtis and the Starfighters Arcade team for orchestrating such an enthralling event. The Starfighters SPF24 Division A tournament not only celebrated the skillful art of pinball but also strengthened the bonds within the community. As we eagerly await the next gathering, the spirit and memories of this tournament will undoubtedly inspire and entertain the pinball world.
Stay tuned for the latest from the vibrant world of pinball tournaments!