A Night of Flips and Beats at B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade

In the heart of Mesa, AZ, under a sky as clear as the final round of a nail-biting pinball tournament, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade transformed into a battleground for the Punk Rock Pinball event. Organized by the indefatigable Matt Trethewey, this wasn’t just any tournament. It was a fusion of punk rock spirit and pinball wizardry, set against the backdrop of a balmy 69°F evening that promised thrills, spills, and the clattering symphony of pinball machines.

The Venue: Where Beer Meets Ball

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade isn’t just a venue; it’s a haven where the golden age of arcades collides with the craft beer renaissance. With its vibrant atmosphere and an array of classic video games and pinball machines, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to rewind, relax, and unleash their inner pinball wizard. Whether it’s a casual outing, an adult birthday bash, or a corporate gathering looking for a twist, B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade delivers. And if my last visit was any indication, it’s a place that leaves you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.

The Tournament: A Clash of Titans

With 9 players locked in a head-to-head battle across 10 games, the tournament was as intense as it was intimate. The competition was fierce, with every flipper press and silver ball maneuver scrutinized under the punk rock ethos of “go big or go home.” And amidst the cacophony of punk anthems and pinball dings, two machines stood out: Atlantis by Bally, a clear crowd favorite, and Dirty Harry by Williams, notorious for its lengthy game durations, this time only averaging around 11 exhilarating minutes.

The Champions: From Underdogs to Punk Rock Royalty

The tournament’s outcome was as unpredictable as a punk rock mosh pit. Mahina Hayashi, with her 5 wins and a fighting spirit, emerged victorious, her relatively low IFPA ranking of 13953 belied her pinball prowess. Hot on her heels was Paul Pickett, matching her win count but just falling short in the tie-breakers. Royce Schultz, an unranked enigma, surprised everyone with 6 wins, securing a respectable third place. Darren Coleman, another unranked contender, rounded out the top four with 5 wins, proving that in the world of pinball, rankings are just numbers.

The Machines: The Unsung Heroes

Amidst the punk rock riffs and the cheering crowds, the pinball machines were the silent heroes of the night. From the apocalyptic landscapes of The Walking Dead (Premium) by Stern to the comic book capers of Spider-Man (Vault Edition), each machine offered a unique challenge. The nostalgia of Monster Bash by Williams, the futuristic warfare of Terminator 2: Judgment Day, and the high-speed racing of Grand Prix by Stern provided diverse battlefields for our pinball warriors. And let’s not forget the immersive Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) and the gothic allure of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, which added depth and drama to the tournament’s lineup.

A Night to Remember

As the last ball drained and the final scores were tallied, Punk Rock Pinball at B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of community, music, and the timeless allure of pinball. A heartfelt thanks to Matt Trethewey for organizing an unforgettable evening and to B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for hosting us in their incredible space.

For those who missed it, fret not. The punk rock spirit lives on, and the flippers will keep flipping. So, keep your eyes peeled for the next gathering of pinball aficionados and punk rock enthusiasts. Until then, keep the spirit alive and the balls rolling!

Clash of the Pinball Titans at Colorado Pinball Pub Tournament

On a cool, overcast evening in March, the Colorado Pinball Pub transformed into a battleground where 8 fervent pinball enthusiasts dueled in the art of flippers, ramps, and high scores. The stakes were high, the atmosphere electric, and the pinball machines, ever the silent judges, stood ready for what would become a night of intense competition and unexpected triumphs.

A Night of Underdogs and Iron Maidens

In the midst of the fierce competition, a match on the classic Stern Electronics’ Iron Maiden from the golden age of arcades stood out. In this pivotal Round 4 clash, Mike Ulreich, a player whose name was not among the pinball elite, faced off against Ben Levine, an unranked challenger with everything to prove. The game was tense, filled with strategic flips and daring saves, culminating in Ulreich’s triumphant win, a moment that would echo throughout the rest of the tournament.

The Unexpected Heroes

As the final round drew to a close, it was Mike Ulreich who emerged victorious, his rank of 8173 a mere number that belied his skill and determination on this night. Jorel Velasquez, another dark horse with a ranking of 9822, clinched second place, proving that in the realm of pinball, anything is possible. Lewis Ritenour and Mike Cooley rounded out the top four, their experience and dedication to the game reflected in their impressive gameplay throughout the tournament.

Ode to the Machines

The real stars of the night, however, were the pinball machines themselves, each with its own story and challenge. Jack•Bot offered players a nostalgic trip with its casino-themed playfield, while the vintage charm of Iron Maiden tested players’ reflexes and strategy. Back to the Future brought cinematic thrills to the tournament, and Disney TRON: Legacy dazzled with its futuristic visuals and immersive gameplay. The Wizard of Oz by Jersey Jack Pinball, with its groundbreaking design and intricate playfield, offered a magical experience for all who stepped up to the challenge.

A Haven for Pinball Aficionados

The Colorado Pinball Pub, with its cozy atmosphere and impressive selection of whiskey, provided the perfect backdrop for this epic tournament. The venue, known for its commitment to the pinball community, offered players and spectators alike a chance to indulge in their passion for the game, with the added bonus of unlimited play on most machines for just $15 an hour.

A Night to Remember

As the night wound down and players exchanged stories of near misses and spectacular wins, gratitude was extended to J V for organizing an unforgettable event and to the Colorado Pinball Pub for hosting. The tournament was a testament to the enduring charm of pinball, a game that continues to bring people together in pursuit of that elusive high score.

So, to all the pinball wizards out there, keep your eyes peeled for the next tournament at the Colorado Pinball Pub. Who knows what surprises and exhilarating matchups await in the world of pinball?