A Cosmic Clash in the Desert!
When the scorching Arizona sun dipped below the horizon, 24 brave pinball warriors gathered at Taproom-120 for an epic battle. Under the broken clouds and in 101°F heat, the Stern Army tournament brought the heat inside and out. This five-round contest, organized by the illustrious Olivia Helm, was an electrifying showdown that lasted a thrilling two and a half hours.
Taproom-120: The Perfect Pinball Playground
Located at 4576 S Power Rd, Gilbert, AZ, Taproom-120 is not just any taproom—it’s a pinball paradise. With its vibrant retro 80s decor, spacious layout, and a fantastic mix of seating options, it’s the ultimate spot to enjoy a brew and a game. The co-owner, Matt, brings a friendly and knowledgeable vibe, making everyone feel right at home. Whether you’re a regular or a newbie, the welcoming atmosphere and the room’s energetic ambiance are sure to keep you coming back for more.
The Magical Showdown: Jim Henson’s Labyrinth
In the final round, the spotlight shone brightly on Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun. This mesmerizing game, themed around the enchanting world of David Bowie’s Labyrinth, saw Nate Tornero triumph with skill and precision. Channeling the movie’s whimsical and mysterious spirit, Nate navigated through tricky mazes and challenging obstacles to secure his victory, leaving Walter Dony, Jocelyn Bowers, and Elizabeth Quijada in awe.
Highlight Machines: Stars of the Show
The tournament featured an array of pinball machines that added to the excitement. A few standout games included:
- Sorcerer by Williams (1985): Known for its mesmerizing artwork and challenging gameplay, this machine captivated players with its mystical aura.
- Johnny Mnemonic by Williams (1995): This cyberpunk-themed game, based on the cult classic film, tested players’ reflexes with its fast-paced playfield.
- Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball (2023): Players loved the nostalgic journey with the beloved Mystery Inc. gang, solving mysteries and unmasking villains.
- Elvira’s House of Horrors (Blood Red Kiss) by Stern (2023): With its spooky theme and engaging features, this machine provided thrills and chills throughout the tournament.
And the Champions Are…
The battle was fierce, the competition intense, and the final results truly spectacular. Let’s give a roaring round of applause to our pinball champions who conquered the tournament with skill and flair!
- Kevin Burns
With an impressive IFPA rank of 1670, Kevin showcased why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball universe. Having competed in 163 events, his experience and precision were on full display, earning him the top spot and the coveted title of tournament champion. - Jeff Wegener
Jeff, with a solid IFPA rank of 1124 and a state rank of 39, brought his A-game to the tournament. Competing in 45 events, Jeff’s consistency and strategic play earned him a well-deserved second place. His performance was a testament to his growing prowess in the pinball community. - Nate Tornero
The local hero from Chandler, Arizona, Nate, ranked 7th in the state and 575th in the IFPA, once again proved his mettle. With 49 events under his belt, Nate’s familiarity with the competition and his home-field advantage propelled him to an impressive third place, solidifying his status as a top-tier player. - Olivia Helm
Not only did Olivia organize this stellar event, but she also demonstrated her skills on the playfield. With an IFPA rank of 1844 and an astonishing 230 events to her name, Olivia’s dedication to the game shone through, securing her a commendable fourth place.
Congratulations to all the champions! Your dedication, skill, and love for pinball make these tournaments an unforgettable experience.
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 with a Tilted Smile
A huge thank you to Olivia Helm for orchestrating this spectacular tournament and to Taproom-120 for providing the perfect backdrop for pinball magic. As the sun sets over the desert, the echoes of flippers and cheers remind us why we love this game. Until next time, keep flipping and stay tuned for more pinball excitement from the heart of Arizona! Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights!