Player 1 Arcade 2024: A Night to Remember!

The Pinball Showdown at Player 1 Arcade

On the warm evening of May 6, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at the renowned Player 1 Arcade in Surprise, AZ, for the highly anticipated Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 4 (#1) tournament. With a clear sky and a comfortable temperature of 83°F, the stage was set for a thrilling night of competition. Organized by the dedicated Jim Smith, the event promised excitement with its format of 5 rounds, 1 game per round, featuring 27 skilled players.

Guardians of the Galaxy: The Epic Battle of Round 5

Round 5 saw an unforgettable clash on the iconic Guardians of the Galaxy pinball machine by Stern, released on November 1, 2017. Players battled through the cosmic adventures of Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, with every flipper hit and multiball frenzy echoing the movie’s thrilling escapades. Emerging victorious was Jeremy Reiman from Peoria, AZ, whose strategic mastery of the game’s unique modes and features earned him the top spot in this round. Following closely were Crystal De La O, Mark Pearson, and Juan Gonzalez, each demonstrating impressive skill in their own right.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament concluded with a celebratory cheer for the top performers. Here’s a closer look at the champions:

1. Mark Pearson, IFPA rank 49, Total IFPA Events 587
   • Mark’s experience and high ranking shone through as he clinched the first place, showcasing his deep understanding of pinball dynamics.
2. Alyssa De La O, from Phoenix, AZ, IFPA rank 4516, Total IFPA Events 73
   • Alyssa’s climb to second place is a testament to her growing prowess in the pinball community.
3. Mike McClure, from Glendale, AZ, IFPA rank 1481, Total IFPA Events 133
   • Mike’s consistent performance and strategic gameplay earned them a well-deserved third place.
4. Jeremy Reiman, from Peoria, AZ, IFPA rank 5052, Total IFPA Events 25
   • Jeremy’s impressive win in the Guardians of the Galaxy game helped secure his spot among the top contenders.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured a stellar lineup of 17 pinball machines, each with its own unique charm. Here are five standout machines that captivated players and spectators alike:

• The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (Released May 11, 2021): This game’s dynamic playfield and immersive themes from the hit TV series provided an engaging experience for all.
• Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern (Released December 15, 2020): Rocking to the tunes of Led Zeppelin, this machine’s vibrant design and electrifying gameplay were a hit.
• Black Pyramid by Bally (Released July 01, 1984): A classic that brought a nostalgic touch to the tournament with its retro design and challenging layout.
• Rush (Pro) by Stern (Released January 01, 2022): Celebrating the legendary rock band Rush, this machine offered high-speed action and intricate features that kept players on their toes.
• Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams (Released May 01, 1996): Known for its beautiful artwork and enchanting theme, this machine was a favorite among many participants.

The Perfect Venue: Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade proved to be the ideal venue for this exciting tournament. Located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, Surprise, AZ 85374, this spot is known for its welcoming atmosphere. It’s a fantastic local hangout where friends can enjoy a beer, engage in friendly conversations, and relish in the nostalgic ambiance. The collection of pinball games is diverse and meticulously maintained, making it a haven for pinball enthusiasts. The owner’s warmth and hospitality added a personal touch that made the event even more special.

A Big Thank You and What’s Next

A heartfelt thank you to Jim Smith for organizing such a fantastic tournament and to Player 1 Arcade for providing the perfect venue. Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball as we continue to bring you the latest and greatest from pinball tournaments across the United States.

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!