Amidst the clinking glasses and the murmur of friendly conversations, the HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom transformed into an arena of pinball wizards on the evening of March 17, 2024. Mark Farina Jr orchestrated a splendid evening of pinball battles, aptly named Multiball Monday (Sunday), drawing enthusiasts to this cozy corner in Chandler, AZ, under a sky of broken clouds and a pleasant 61°F.
The Art of Pinball Mastery
As the tournament kicked off at 6:35 PM, 13 contenders took to the flippers in a series of 5 rounds, each centered around a single game that tested skill, strategy, and a touch of luck. The event unfolded over a span of 2 hours, filled with the resonant sounds of pinballs ricocheting off bumpers and the occasional cheer of a well-earned high score.
A Duel on James Bond 007
Round 4 brought an electrifying face-off on Stern’s James Bond 007 (Pro), a machine that has been captivating players since its release in September 2022. Jackson Blaty, Terri Boyd, and Jason Cardwell emerged as the top agents in this round, with their adept navigation through the game’s intricate missions and dazzling multi-ball modes.
The Victors of the Evening
As the final ball drained and scores were tallied, the champions of the night were hailed:
- Mark Farina Jr: Not just the orchestrator but also the champion, Mark showcased his prowess with a commanding performance, solidifying his status with an IFPA rank of 2277.
- Andy Olson: A seasoned player with a wealth of experience across 239 IFPA events, Andy clinched the second spot with his strategic gameplay.
- John Finnegan: Hailing from Tucson, John’s extensive experience in 495 IFPA events was evident as he secured the third place with skillful plays.
- Terri Boyd: Demonstrating skill throughout the tournament, Terri’s performance was both inspiring and formidable, earning her a well-deserved fourth place.
A Showcase of Pinball Engineering
The tournament featured a selection of 9 pinball machines, each with its unique allure:
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern: A thrilling dive into the classic Spielberg horror, challenging players to outmaneuver the great white.
- Deadpool (Pro): This machine offers a humorous and action-packed journey with one of Marvel’s most beloved anti-heroes.
- Venom (Pro): Released in July 2023, Venom brought a dark and enthralling theme, inviting players to join the symbiote in a battle against iconic villains.
- Godzilla (Pro): Players found themselves in the heart of Tokyo, tasked with aiding Godzilla in a monumental battle against his fiercest adversaries.
- Foo Fighters (Premium/LE): This recent addition to the pinball world combined the adrenaline of rock music with the excitement of pinball, offering a unique blend of entertainment.
A Haven for Beer and Pinball Enthusiasts
HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom, with its extensive selection of brews and welcoming atmosphere, proved to be the perfect venue for such an event. Encouraging patrons to bring their own food and enjoy the array of games available, it’s no wonder this spot is a favorite among locals looking to unwind.
A Heartfelt Appreciation
As the night drew to a close, gratitude was extended to Mark Farina Jr for his impeccable organization and to HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom for hosting an unforgettable evening of pinball and camaraderie.
The world of pinball continues to thrive, thanks to the vibrant community and passionate organizers who bring us together to celebrate this timeless arcade classic. Stay tuned for more tales from the flippers, and may your next game be a high score!