Overview of the Tournament
On a perfect spring afternoon of April 15, 2024, 35 enthusiastic pinball players converged at Player 1 Arcade in Surprise, Arizona for the fifth tournament of the 2024 Series 3. The event unfolded over five rounds, with each round consisting of a single intense game, lasting a total of about 7 hours and 12 minutes. Jim Smith, the organizer of this popular series, successfully orchestrated another thrilling day of flipper action under clear skies and a pleasant 74°F.
Spotlight on James Bond 007 (Premium)
The grand finale of the tournament featured a riveting session on the James Bond 007 (Premium) machine by Stern, which highlighted the skills of the top competitors. Mark Pearson, with an impressive IFPA rank of 49, managed to secure a first-place finish in this round, outplaying opponents such as Del Kyger, Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix, and Crystal De La O in a nail-biting conclusion to the series.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament showcased exceptional talent and strategic gameplay, culminating in noteworthy victories:
- Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ, with a ranking of 4438, demonstrated his rising prowess in the pinball community by clinching the top position.
- Mark Pearson, a seasoned player with an IFPA rank of 49, added another runner-up finish to his extensive record of 585 events.
- Robert Paluc, relatively new to the tournament scene with just 11 events, made a remarkable third-place finish.
- Scott Ping from Arizona, showcasing consistent skills across 33 events, rounded out the top four.
The Machines That Stole the Show
Player 1 Arcade featured a diverse lineup of 12 pinball machines, each with its own charm and challenge:
- Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, known for its deep rule set and engaging modes that faithfully represent the beloved franchise.
- Stranger Things (Pro), also by Stern, drew players with its immersive gameplay and interactive features based on the hit series.
- Deadpool (LE) offered not just vibrant artwork but also quirky humor and challenging shots, making it a crowd favorite.
- Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams transported players to a world of magic carpets and genies with its rich visuals and compelling story-driven gameplay.
- Foo Fighters (LE), the newest addition, thrilled fans with its rock theme and exclusive tracks, creating a concert-like experience.
Venue Highlights
Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, is more than just a venue; it’s a community hub where locals gather to unwind. The arcade offers a cozy, not-too-loud atmosphere perfect for both intense gaming and relaxed conversations, enhanced by a friendly owner who adds a personal touch to the experience.
A Special Thanks
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Jim Smith for organizing such a fantastic event and to Player 1 Arcade for providing a welcoming space for pinball enthusiasts. Events like these enrich the pinball community, bringing together players of all skill levels to share in the joy of the game.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the pinball tournaments!