As the doors of the Electric Bat Arcade swung open on the evening of March 12, 2024, a palpable buzz filled the air, signaling the commencement of something truly electrifying. The venue, already renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and an impressive lineup of pinball machines, was about to host the much-anticipated Season 11 – Series 1 #2 of its iconic pinball tournament. With 108 players ready to tilt, nudge, and flip their way to glory, the stage was set for an unforgettable showdown.
A Clash Among Titans
In a tournament where every flipper hit and bumper bash could mean the difference between triumph and defeat, it was the clash on Stern’s latest marvel, JAWS (Pro), that had everyone talking. Released just months prior, this machine became the arena for a riveting battle in Round 4, where Jay Bondelli, John Shopple from Mesa, AZ, Kevan Carter from TEMPE, and the enigmatic Beau Hough, an unranked dark horse, faced off in a whirlpool of high stakes and higher scores.
The Victors Emerge
As the final ball plunged into play and the scores were tallied, it was Mark Pearson, a titan of the pinball world with an IFPA rank of 47, who stood tallest among the competitors. Hot on his heels was John Magyar from Arizona, showcasing skill and strategy that belied his rank of 245. John Shopple, having made waves in the JAWS game earlier, secured a commendable third place, with Serge Sicular rounding out the top four, proving that in the world of pinball, rankings only tell half the story.
A Salute to the Machines
The Electric Bat Season 11 was not just a testament to the players’ skills but also a celebration of the machines that make it all possible. From the city-stomping excitement of Godzilla (Premium) to the rock-and-roll frenzy of Foo Fighters (Pro), and the superheroic adventures on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro), each machine added its unique flavor to the tournament. The classic charm of Hotdoggin’ and Nitro Ground Shaker reminded players of pinball’s golden age, while the modern classics like Batman 66 (Premium) and Monster Bash (Remake LE) kept the adrenaline pumping.
More Than Just an Arcade
The Electric Bat Arcade, with its chill staff, delicious food, and an array of drinks, proved to be more than just a venue; it was a community hub where enthusiasts and newcomers alike could share their passion for pinball. The weekly leagues and tournaments have made it a beacon for pinball aficionados, earning it a special place in the hearts of many.
A Night to Remember
As the lights dimmed and the last pinball came to rest, gratitude was extended to Rachel Bess for orchestrating such a spectacular event and to the Electric Bat Arcade for hosting. The Season 11 – Series 1 #2 tournament was a reminder of the joy, excitement, and community spirit that pinball brings to our lives.
So, as we flip back into our daily routines, let’s keep an eager eye on the Electric Bat Arcade’s calendar. Who knows what high-scoring dramas and flipper-flashing fun the next tournament will bring to the vibrant world of pinball?