Inside the Arcade Arena
The evening of March 25, 2024, at Player One Arcade was charged with excitement as 31 pinball enthusiasts gathered for the third installment of the 2024 series. Jim Smith led the charge, organizing an event that spanned 5 rounds, each filled with the clatter of pinball machines and the cheers of the crowd, all under the cozy glow of scattered clouds and a pleasant 68°F.
The Dinosaur Roars in Round 4
A highlight of the tournament was a fierce competition on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Pro), a game that takes players on a thrilling adventure through the iconic park. Juan Gonzalez, Rob De La O, Catcher Knapp, and Sandy Magallanes battled it out, with Gonzalez leading the pack, showcasing the strategic depth and excitement that pinball can offer.
Celebrating the Pinball Champions
As the final ball plunged and the scores were tallied, the standout players emerged:
- Nicholas Van Doren: Clinching the top spot, Nicholas’s victory speaks volumes about his skill, especially considering his relatively moderate IFPA rank of 2458.
- Mark Pearson: With an impressive IFPA rank of 49, Mark’s experience in 574 IFPA events shone through as he secured second place.
- Jeremy Reiman: Representing Peoria, AZ, Jeremy’s third-place finish is a remarkable feat, highlighting his potential in the pinball community.
- Del Kyger: Rounding out the top four, Del’s performance adds another highlight to his growing pinball career.
The Pinball Machines That Stole the Show
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 16 pinball machines, each bringing its own unique flair:
- Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern: This machine, known for its immersive gameplay and intricate design, was the star of Round 4.
- Cyclone by Williams: A classic that transports players to the excitement of a bustling carnival, complete with a roller coaster and Ferris wheel.
- Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Captivating players with its monstrous battles and cityscape playfield.
- James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: Offering a sleek, spy-themed adventure filled with missions and gadgets.
- Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern: A rocking pinball experience that blends the energy of live music with fast-paced gameplay.
A Night at Player 1 Arcade
Player 1 Arcade, with its vibrant atmosphere, vast selection of games, and the communal joy of arcade and pinball gaming, provided the perfect setting for this tournament. It’s a place where the digital scores on the screens are only part of the fun—the real joy is in the shared experiences and friendly competition.
A Round of Thanks
A big shoutout to Jim Smith for organizing an unforgettable night of pinball and to Player 1 Arcade for being the go-to spot for arcade enthusiasts in Surprise, AZ.
Keep your flippers ready, and stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the pinball circuits across the United States!