Tournament Action Unleashed
On the evening of April 16, 2024, the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona, buzzed with excitement as it hosted the inaugural event of Season 11, Series 2. With clear skies overhead and temperatures at a comfortable 83°F, 108 pinball enthusiasts dove into a series of 5 competitive rounds, each round featuring a single game and lasting about 3 hours. Orchestrated by the renowned organizer Rachel Bess, the tournament was a showcase of skill, strategy, and community spirit.
Game Highlight: Elvira’s House of Horrors Showdown
Round 2 of the tournament spotlighted Stern’s Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium), captivating attendees with its thrilling gameplay and eerie ambiance. Ty Bull, showcasing exceptional skill, secured a victory in this high-stakes round, closely followed by Stephanie Turner from Chandler, AZ. Paul Blanco and newcomer Nick Haney also made impressive showings, making this game a tournament highlight.
Champions of the Arcade
The tournament concluded with a celebration of the top performers who distinguished themselves with their outstanding gameplay:
- Cody Winant demonstrated strategic mastery and clinched the top position, reinforcing his status with an IFPA rank of 528.
- Stephanie Turner, bringing vast experience from over 200 tournaments, navigated the field expertly to secure a commendable second place.
- Greg Drewes displayed consistent skill throughout the evening, earning a well-deserved third place with his strategic gameplay.
- Mark Pearson, despite the stiff competition, utilized his extensive experience to secure the fourth spot.
Pinball Showcase
Electric Bat Arcade’s impressive collection of 67 pinball machines was more than just a backdrop for the tournament; it was a key player in the event’s success:
- Dolly Parton and Rollergames offered a blast from the past with their classic appeal and engaging playfields.
- Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) and Batman 66 (Premium) provided a modern twist with features that appeal to both casual and hardcore gamers.
- Terminator 2: Judgment Day and The Getaway: High Speed II continued to thrill players with their action-packed gameplay.
- Pulp Fiction (SE) stood out as a crowd favorite, combining cinematic flair with challenging pinball action.
Electric Atmosphere at Electric Bat
The Electric Bat Arcade, located at 29 W. Southern Ave, Tempe, not only provided a stage for this spectacular pinball showdown but also contributed to the vibrant community vibe. The arcade, known for its eclectic mix of classic and modern machines, along with its adjacency to the Yucca Tap Room, made it the perfect venue for an evening full of excitement and entertainment.
Gratitude and Anticipation
A heartfelt thank you to Rachel Bess for orchestrating such a memorable event and to the Electric Bat Arcade for being an exemplary host. The dedication of the organizers and the welcoming atmosphere of the venue ensure that each tournament is not just a competition, but a celebration of the pinball community.
Stay tuned to our blog for more thrilling updates from the pinball tournaments across the United States!