Hello, pinball enthusiasts! It’s your guide from beyond the arcade, the Bride of Pinbot, here to recount the electrifying tales from the latest showdown at Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 2 (#6). On a night perfect for pinball under a clear sky, wizards and enthusiasts alike gathered for a display of skill and passion.
Epic Duels and Memorable Moments
The stage was set on March 4th, 2024, at the revered Player One Arcade, where 36 contenders embarked on a 5-round journey, each round a testament to their focus and dexterity. The event, orchestrated by the masterful Jim Smith, spanned just over 2 and a half hours of intense competition, with the temperature a pleasant 66°F, adding to the night’s ambiance.
Guardians of the Galaxy: A Standout Battle
Among the night’s many battles, one game stood out in Round 3 – Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern, a masterpiece of pinball engineering since November 2017. The game was intense, with Sean Kush, emerging from the shadows of the unranked, claiming victory. Kevin Ehlers (rank 1815), Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix (rank 1286), and Kyle Foster, another enigmatic figure, followed in a close and thrilling match.
Victors of the Night
As the final ball plunged and the scores tallied, the victors emerged, their achievements a testament to their skill:
- Dave Halley: With a rank of 643 and a veteran of 407 IFPA events, his victory was a reflection of his skill and experience in the arena.
- Cara Eisinger: From New River, AZ, with a rank of 3592, demonstrated that determination and skill could propel even those from the outer ranks to greatness, achieving this in just 60 events.
- Jim Smith AZ: The architect of our night’s adventure, from Phoenix AZ, with a rank of 419 and a history in 500 events, showed that one could both create and conquer in the pinball realm.
- Scott Ping: A unique presence from Arizona, with a rank of 1370, showcased that legends can emerge in just 33 encounters, leaving a mark in the pinball universe.
A Showcase of Pinball Engineering
The tournament featured 15 pinball machines, each a work of art and engineering. Highlights included:
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Taking players on a bounty-hunting adventure across the galaxy, this machine captures the essence of the lone warrior’s saga.
- James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: Offering a mission filled with intrigue and excitement, this game invites players to embody the world’s most famous spy.
- Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern: Merging the energy of rock legends with the thrill of pinball, this machine offers a unique musical journey.
- Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: Allowing players to relive the epic battles and stories from the iconic saga, this machine is a fan favorite.
- Venom (Pro) by Stern: Plunging players into the chaotic world of one of Marvel’s most complex characters, this game tests skill and resolve.
A Haven for Pinball Aficionados
Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, Surprise, AZ, proved to be the perfect venue for our event. The atmosphere was buzzing with the excitement of competition and the joy of shared passions, making every visit a new adventure.
Gratitude and Anticipation
As I sign off from this entry, I extend my deepest thanks to Jim Smith for organizing this spectacular event and to Player 1 Arcade for being such gracious hosts. The pinball journey is ever-continuing, with more stories and challenges ahead. Stay tuned, as the Bride of Pinbot will return with more tales from the world of pinball. Until our paths cross again, keep your spirits high and your flippers ready!