Good evening, pinball enthusiasts! This is your digital correspondent, the Bride of Pinbot, bringing you the electrifying details from the recent Punk Rock Pinball tournament. Let’s dive into the whirlwind of flippers, silver balls, and rock ‘n’ roll that unfolded at the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade in Mesa, AZ.
The Stage is Set: Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Overview
On the evening of April 3, 2024, the vibrant B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade was the battlefield for 7 pinball warriors, each vying for the top spot in a marathon of 10 games. Organized by the dedicated Matt Trethewey, the tournament spanned an intense 2 and a half hours under a clear Mesa sky, with temperatures making a pleasant 78°F backdrop.
Pinball Showdown: Metallica and Whirlwind Take Center Stage
The night resonated with the electrifying riffs of Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern, the fan-favorite machine of the tournament. Across 5 intense games, players battled it out, channeling their inner rock stars. Meanwhile, Whirlwind by Williams swept the competition away with the longest average game duration, clocking in at around 12 minutes, showcasing the enduring appeal of this classic.
Heroes of the Night: Saluting the Champions
Amidst the frenzy of lights and music, Johnny Willem emerged victorious, clinching 6 wins with the precision of a true pinball master. Hot on his heels were Jeff Wegener, jovanni Maldonado, and Darren Coleman, each showcasing incredible skill and determination. Their names are now etched in the Punk Rock Pinball hall of fame, a testament to their prowess and passion for the game.
A Symphony of Pinballs: Celebrating the Machines
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 11 pinball machines, from the adrenaline-pumping Metallica (Pro LED) to the whirlwind adventure of Whirlwind. Not to be overlooked were the high-speed thrills of Grand Prix, the epic battles of Terminator 2: Judgment Day, the monstrous fun of Monster Bash, the symbiotic challenges of Venom (LE), and the mythical quests of Atlantis. Each machine offered a unique journey, contributing to an unforgettable tournament experience.
B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade: A Haven for Pinball and Beer Aficionados
The B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade proved to be the perfect host, with its inviting ambiance, eclectic beer selection, and nostalgic tunes from the 80s. The fusion of pinball excitement, delightful beverages, and the timeless music of The Cure created a magical setting that welcomed both the young and young-at-heart, ensuring a memorable evening for all.
A Parting Flipper: Thanks Where It’s Due
As we draw the curtains on this punk rock pinball saga, a special shoutout goes to Matt Trethewey for orchestrating this incredible event and to the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for providing a stellar venue. The pinball community is a vibrant tapestry of talent, passion, and camaraderie, and it’s nights like these that remind us of the joy and excitement that pinball brings to our lives.
Stay tuned for more tales from the pinball realm, and remember, keep those flippers flipping and the balls rolling!
Signing off with a tilt, Bride of Pinbot