Dive Into the Tournament Details

The pinball scene was abuzz with excitement at HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom on March 24, 2024, where the Jaws Multiball Monday (on a Sunday) unfolded. The tournament, orchestrated by Mark Farina Jr, saw 23 players engaging in a series of 5 nail-biting rounds, each lasting a game. Despite the drizzle outside with temperatures at a cool 60°F, the indoor atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and the clatter of pinball machines.

Round 3 Spotlight: Godzilla Roars

The highlight of the evening was a riveting showdown on Stern’s Godzilla (Pro), a machine known for its dynamic gameplay and stunning design. Mark Farina Jr, along with Jeff Barthold, Jason Hecht, and Jason Cardwell, showcased exceptional skills, turning the game into a memorable battle of flippers.

Saluting the Tournament Champions

The tournament’s conclusion saw the rise of pinball champions, whose skillful play earned them top honors:

1. Bob Kennedy: Hailing from Mesa, AZ, Bob’s victory is a significant achievement, reflecting his growing stature in the pinball community with an IFPA rank of 1871.
2. Nick Goegan: With his roots in Chandler, AZ, Nick’s impressive second-place finish in just his 38th IFPA event signals a promising pinball career ahead.
3. Mark Farina Jr: The organizer himself showed his prowess on the pinball field, securing the third spot and demonstrating his passion for the game extends beyond just organizing events.
4. Jeff Barthold: Jeff’s skillful play, earning him the fourth position, is especially commendable given his high IFPA rank of 986 in 251 events.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament was graced by 9 pinball marvels, each adding its unique flavor to the event. Noteworthy among them were:

• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: A crowd favorite, known for its engaging storyline and immersive playfield.
• Foo Fighters (Premium/LE) by Stern: Captivating players with its rock-themed design and interactive gameplay elements.
• Hot Wheels by American Pinball: A fast-paced adventure on the playfield, much like the toy cars it’s themed after.
• Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: Known for its humor and vibrant artwork, making every game an entertaining experience.
• JAWS (Pro) by Stern: The newest addition, captivating players with its deep-sea adventures and thrilling gameplay.

The Heart of Chandler’s Pinball Community

HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom, with its welcoming staff, excellent beer selection, and cozy ambiance, has become a beloved spot in Chandler, not just for watching the Suns games but for hosting vibrant pinball tournaments. The venue’s commitment to creating a friendly and engaging community space was evident throughout the event.

A Round of Applause

As we close this chapter on the Jaws Multiball Monday (Sunday), a hearty thanks to Mark Farina Jr for orchestrating such a thrilling event and to HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom for their unmatched hospitality.

Stay tuned for more thrilling tales from the pinball tournaments crisscrossing the United States!

On a day graced with broken clouds and a comfortable 61°F, the Dangerzone Arcade became the battleground for the most recent IFPA pinball face-off. The “Dangerzone Arcade Knockout Tournament” saw 16 players in a strategic dance of flippers and silver balls, where the fine line between victory and defeat was as narrow as the gap between the flippers.

The Strategy and the Strike

This wasn’t your average pinball skirmish. With a Group Knockout format that spanned 10 intense rounds, players had to navigate the treacherous waters of competition with the precision of a pinball wizard. The rules were clear: avoid the bottom to dodge the strikes, but as every pinball aficionado knows, the game always has the final say.

The Battle of the Bands: Foo Fighters Faceoff

Among the plethora of games that filled the arcade, it was the Foo Fighters (LE) pinball machine that stole the spotlight in Round 2. Bruce Thatcher, an enigmatic figure with no IFPA ranking, rose to the challenge, outmaneuvering seasoned players like Alex Carlin from Chandler, AZ, and Mollie Stoltenberg. This round wasn’t just a game; it was a testament to the unpredictability and sheer excitement of pinball.

The Champions of the Arcade

As the dust settled and the last ball drained, a new set of pinball legends emerged. Greg Mohs claimed the top spot, with his expertise solidifying his place in the IFPA ranks. Hot on his heels were Keegan Crandall, John Finnegan from Tucson, and Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ, each demonstrating that skill, experience, and perhaps a touch of luck are the ingredients for pinball success.

A Showcase of Pinball Mastery

The tournament featured an impressive array of pinball machines, from the ninja antics of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (LE) to the mythological adventures on Legends of Valhalla (Deluxe). The Deadpool (Premium) machine provided laughs and challenges in equal measure, while JAWS (LE) and Star Wars (Premium Comic Art) transported players to cinematic worlds, all within the confines of the Dangerzone.

An Arcade Unlike Any Other

Dangerzone Arcade, nestled in Uncle Bears Brewery in Gilbert, AZ, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball saga. With its eclectic mix of games and a family-friendly atmosphere that caters to both the young and the young-at-heart, it’s a haven where the love for pinball and good times converge.

A Salute to the Masters of the Arcade

As we close the chapter on this thrilling tournament, our hats go off to Jordan Lamoreaux and the entire Dangerzone Arcade team. Their dedication to the pinball community turns every tournament into a memorable event. So, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on the silver ball, for the world of pinball has more adventures in store, and we’ll be here to share every flip, tilt, and high score.