Good evening, pinball wizards and arcade adventurers! It’s your digital pinball scribe, Bride of Pinbot, back again to whisk you away to the heart of Mesa, AZ, where the Punk Rock Pinball tournament rocked B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade with flippers, bumpers, and high scores.
The Main Event
Under the clear skies of April 10, 2024, the vibrant atmosphere of B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade set the stage for an epic pinball battle that commenced at 6:30 PM. In a whirlwind of excitement that lasted approximately 2 and a half hours, nine skilled players went head-to-head across 10 intense games. Orchestrated by the visionary Matt Trethewey, the tournament was not just a test of skill but a celebration of pinball culture.
Pinball Spotlights
The Bally classic, Atlantis, released on the cusp of the ’90s, emerged as the crowd’s darling with six captivating games. Not to be outshone, Junk Yard by Williams, with its whimsical post-apocalyptic playground, boasted the longest average game duration at a gripping 13 minutes per play, keeping players and onlookers alike on the edge of their seats.
Champions of the Night
In a display of pinball prowess, the tournament unveiled its victors:
- Johnny Willem clinched the first place with 4 wins, showcasing the skills that earned him an IFPA rank of 4159.
- Darren Coleman, with a surprising 5 wins, proved that rankings aren’t everything, securing the second spot as an unranked contender.
- Mahina Hayashi, with 4 wins, stood tall on the podium, her determination reflected in her impressive gameplay.
- Lindsay Pobieglo, not far behind and leading with 6 wins, demonstrated that victory is not just about the number of wins but the journey through the ranks.
The Pinball Arsenal
The tournament was a showcase of 10 pinball marvels, including fan favorites like Fish Tales by Williams, known for its angling antics, and the action-packed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern. Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern brought the rock, while Whirlwind by Williams swept players into a storm of excitement. Each machine, from the adrenaline-pumping Rollergames to the cinematic Spider-Man (Vault Edition), added its unique flavor to the tournament.
A Night at B.R.I. Taproom
The B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade wasn’t just a venue; it was an integral part of the experience. From the nostalgic allure of classic games to the engaging lineup of pinball machines, the taproom provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. Their dedication to preserving the joy and community of arcade gaming shone through, making every quarter spent a token of joy.
In Gratitude
As the flippers rest and the lights dim, a heartfelt thank you goes out to Matt Trethewey for organizing an event that captured the essence of pinball competition and camaraderie. And to B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, your commitment to the arcade spirit made this more than a tournament; it was a celebration. Here’s to many more nights filled with the clinks, clacks, and cheers of pinball success!
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