The Level 1 Arcade Bar Stern Army tournament on June 19, 2024, was an event filled with thrilling pinball action. The format of 4 rounds with 1 game per round saw 14 players battling it out for supremacy. Starting at 7:00 PM and wrapping up around 9:30 PM, this tournament kept the excitement high in the clear, balmy 100°F evening at Level 1 Mesa.
Venue Vibes: A Pinball Haven
Level 1 Arcade Bar, located at 48 W Main St, Mesa, AZ, is a pinball enthusiast’s paradise. This fun and chill bar boasts a lively atmosphere with friendly bartenders who craft excellent drinks. The bar offers a wide variety of games spread across two floors, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Tokens are reasonably priced, making it easy to indulge in endless pinball fun. You can learn more about this fantastic venue at Level 1 Arcade Bar.
Adventure Awaits: Indiana Jones Takes the Spotlight
Round 4 saw a standout game on the iconic Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams, released in January 1993. Players were transported into the adventurous world of Indiana Jones, navigating through challenging modes inspired by the movies. John Magyar emerged victorious in this round, showcasing his mastery of the game’s complex features and thrilling multiball modes. Kevin Burns followed closely, while Geoff Bennett and Jocelyn Bowers gave a commendable performance, battling through traps and treasures alike.
Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 11 pinball machines. Here are a few highlights:
- The Munsters (Premium/LE) by Stern (January 2019): This game brings the classic TV show to life with its eerie yet entertaining design. The game features a lower playfield, Grandpa’s Laboratory, and a dynamic code that keeps players on their toes.
- Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (December 1992): A nostalgic tribute to the 1954 monster movie, this game has a unique holographic creature and a fantastic 1950s drive-in theme. The “Move Your Car” video mode and multiball feature are particularly fun.
- Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium/LE) by Stern (September 2020): Marvel fans rejoice! This game offers intricate playfield mechanisms and a deep rule set. The spinning disc and portal locks provide an immersive experience that keeps players engaged.
- Godzilla (Premium/LE) by Stern (September 2021): This machine is a smash hit with its vibrant artwork and innovative playfield features. The magnetic newton ball and skyscraper bash toy add layers of excitement to the gameplay.
- John Wick (Pro) by Stern (May 2024): Inspired by the action-packed film series, this game features intense shootouts and challenging missions. The adrenaline-pumping music and sleek design make it a crowd favorite.
Triumph and Glory: Tournament Winners
With 14 skilled participants, the competition was fierce. Here are the top performers who rose to the challenge:
- John Magyar – Arizona, State rank: 4, IFPA rank: 257, with 249 total IFPA events, he showed why he’s one of the top players in the state.
- Shawn Barnett – IFPA rank: 2894, with 119 events under his belt, he secured a commendable second place.
- Kevin Burns AZ – IFPA rank: 1670, with 163 events, Kevin proved his consistency and skill.
- Geoff Bennett – Gilbert, IFPA rank: 4560, with 43 events, he rounded out the top four with a solid performance.
IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 722.37 |
| 2 | Roland Nadeau | 635.51 | |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 606.1 |
| 4 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 314.73 |
| 5 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 250.26 |
| 6 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 249.69 |
| 7 | Nate Tornero | 243.22 | |
| 8 | Ben Clement | Marana | 235.81 |
| 9 | Andrew Roesch | 232.84 | |
| 10 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 226.54 |
Wrapping Up: A Shoutout to the Organizer and Venue
A big thank you to Scott Goldsmith for organizing such a fantastic event and to Level 1 Arcade Bar for hosting. Congratulations to John Magyar for his stellar performance and victory. Stay tuned for more pinball updates and stories from the Bride of Pinbot. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!