The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 3 (#6), held on April 22, 2024, saw 29 pinball enthusiasts gather for a spirited competition in Surprise, Arizona. Organized by Jim Smith, the event unfolded over five rounds, with each participant battling it out in a single game per round. Despite the broken clouds and a sweltering 93°F, the arcade buzzed with excitement as players aimed for their best performances within the 2 hour and 54-minute tournament window.
Spotlight on Rush: A High-Velocity Challenge
Round 3 highlighted the Rush (Pro) by Stern, a game that tests both speed and strategy. Mark Pearson, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 49, took the lead in this round, followed closely by Kevin Ehlers and Del Kyger. The competitive gameplay mirrored the energetic soundtrack of Rush, making it a fan favorite for the night.
Pinball Champions of the Night
The tournament showcased some incredible talent, with the final results reflecting the intense competition:
- Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix – With an IFPA rank of 1421, Lee Ann showed outstanding skill and consistency, topping the leaderboard after participating in 222 events.
- Jeremy Reiman from Peoria, AZ – Despite being relatively new to the circuit with only 25 IFPA events, Jeremy’s impressive play earned him a solid second place.
- Mark Pearson – Already highlighted in the game spotlight, Mark added another top finish to his record, underscoring his elite status in the pinball community.
- Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ – Joel’s performance was notable, securing a commendable fourth place from a competitive field.
Featured Machines of the Tournament
Player One Arcade was packed with 16 pinball machines, each offering unique themes and challenges:
- Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, celebrated for its immersive gameplay that pulls players into the epic space saga with missions and characters from the beloved series.
- Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams, transports players to a world of magic carpets and genies with its rich visuals and captivating storytelling mechanics.
- James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern, combines elegance and espionage, offering missions that mirror the thrilling adventures of the iconic spy.
- Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern, brings to life the humor and drama of the superhero team with vibrant art and engaging missions.
- Rush (Pro) by Stern, not only featured in a spotlight game but also admired for its fast-paced playfield and rocking soundtrack that enhances the pinball experience.
The Heart of Surprise’s Gaming Scene: Player 1 Arcade
Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road, UNIT 60, has quickly become a local favorite, overshadowing even well-known entertainment venues like Dave and Busters. With its excellent selection of craft beers, friendly atmosphere, and a diverse array of pinball and classic arcade games, it’s no wonder families and gamers alike prefer this spot for a fun outing.
Closing With Thanks
A big thank you to Jim Smith for organizing another successful event in the Player 1 Arcade series, and to Player 1 Arcade for continuing to be an excellent host and a pivotal part of the local gaming community. Keep those flippers ready, and stay tuned for more pinball action from across the United States!