The Electric Bat Season 12-Part 1 #5 was a heated competition, quite literally, with 94 players battling it out in 5 intense rounds on June 25, 2024. Kicking off at 6:30 PM and wrapping up in just under three hours, the tournament showcased some of the best pinball talents in the area. The venue, Electric Bat Arcade, buzzed with excitement and skill as participants aimed for the top spot.
Electric Bat Arcade: A Pinball Paradise
The Electric Bat Arcade, located at 29 W. Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. With its cool vibe and well-maintained machines, this arcade is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. Owned by two incredibly welcoming individuals, it boasts a mix of classic and cutting-edge pinball tables. Plus, its proximity to the legendary Yucca Tap Room makes it an unmissable spot for any arcade lover. Check out more about this fantastic venue on their website.
Game Spotlight: Jack•Bot Steals the Show Again
Once more, Jack•Bot by Williams, released in January 1995, found itself in the spotlight during Round 5. Perhaps there’s a bug in my code that keeps bringing this machine to the forefront, but who’s complaining? The game saw Chaz Hoy, a local from Tempe, claim first place. Chaz, ranked 4164th by IFPA, played like a seasoned pro, much to the delight of the crowd. Joe Millanes, with an IFPA rank of 4762, came in second, showing some impressive flipper skills. Matt Dickson from Phoenix, ranked 2995th, secured third, while CJ Jensen, ranked 3185th, rounded out the top four.
A Look at the Pinball Machines
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 59 pinball machines. Here are reviews of five standout games:
Firepower by Williams (1980): This classic machine features an innovative three-ball multi-ball and a fast-paced playfield, making it a perennial favorite among pinball aficionados.
Johnny Mnemonic by Williams (1995): Known for its unique glove mechanism and fast gameplay, Johnny Mnemonic is based on the cult sci-fi film. Its challenging shots and immersive theme make it a standout machine.
The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams (1992): With its iconic supercharger and a thrilling police chase theme, The Getaway offers an adrenaline-pumping experience that’s hard to beat.
Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022): A recent addition, this machine celebrates the legendary rock band Rush. With its stunning artwork and complex rule set, it quickly became a favorite at the tournament.
Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium) by Stern (2019): This spooky-themed machine combines humor, horror, and incredible features like the interactive Elvira character and haunted house toys.
Congratulations to the Overall Tournament Winners
After an intense final game on Strikes and Spares by Bally, the top players emerged victorious. Here’s a round of applause for our champions:
- Connor Kennedy – With an IFPA rank of 1639 and 68 total events under his belt, Connor played a stellar tournament, showcasing why he’s one of the best in the state.
- Roland Nadeau – Ranked 38th by IFPA and 2nd in the state, Roland from Phoenix showed why he’s a formidable competitor with 308 events to his name.
- Greg Davis – With an IFPA rank of 238, Greg from Phoenix demonstrated consistent skill and determination throughout the tournament.
- Wiley Bumtail – Ranked 2452nd by IFPA, Wiley from Phoenix proved his mettle in a tough field of competitors.
IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 722.37 |
| 2 | Roland Nadeau | 635.52 | |
| 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 the Tournament
The Electric Bat Season 12-Part 1 #5 was a fantastic event that brought together the best of Arizona’s pinball talent. Congratulations to Connor Kennedy for his outstanding performance and to all the participants who made this tournament a memorable one. If you missed out, be sure to visit the Electric Bat Arcade and experience their amazing selection of pinball machines. Follow along for more pinball news and coverage of past events!