Electric Bat Season 12-Part 2 #3: A Night of Flippers and Fun
It was another sizzling evening in Tempe, Arizona, as pinball enthusiasts flocked to the Electric Bat Arcade for the third installment of the Electric Bat Season 12-Part 2 series. With broken clouds offering little relief, the temperature soared to a blistering 110°F. Nonetheless, the heat didn’t stop 106 eager players from battling it out over five rounds, each filled with nail-biting excitement. The tournament, organized by the ever-energetic Rachel Bess, lasted two and a half hours, wrapping up just shy of three hours with a high-energy finale.
The Magic of Electric Bat Arcade
Located in the heart of Tempe, Electric Bat Arcade has quickly become a beloved hotspot for pinball lovers. Found at 29 W. Southern Ave, this venue is more than just a collection of pinball machines all meticulously maintained, it just oozes cool vibes thanks to its friendly staff and the legendary Yucca Tap Room next door. The vibe is so welcoming, even newbies can’t resist falling in love with the silver ball. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting your feet wet, Electric Bat Arcade offers a unique experience that’ll keep you coming back for more!
Bond, James Bond: A Shaken not Stirred Round 4
One of the most thrilling matches of the night took place during Round 4 on the James Bond 007 (Premium) machine by Stern. This game, inspired by the legendary spy, offers players the chance to channel their inner Bond as they navigate high-stakes missions. In a spectacular display of skill, Andrew Roesch clinched first place, outmaneuvering his competitors with precision shots and cool composure—just like the suave agent himself. John Shopple, a top-ranked player from Mesa, gave a valiant effort, but Roesch’s mastery of the game’s intricate features, including the infamous Aston Martin DB5 multi-ball, sealed the deal. Alejandro Muro and Matt Dickson rounded out the top four, each showcasing their own unique strategies.
Pinball Machines That Shone Brighter Than the Arizona Sun
With 60 machines to choose from, the tournament featured some of the best pinball tables around. Here’s a closer look at a few standouts:
- Big Game by Stern Electronics (1980): A jungle-themed adventure with vibrant artwork and four flippers. It’s all about hitting those drop targets and navigating through the unique wide-body layout.
- No Fear: Dangerous Sports by Williams (1995): Adrenaline junkies rejoice! This game packs extreme sports into a pinball machine, complete with ramps, loops, and a killer soundtrack. The skull-shaped shaker motor adds a nice touch of drama.
- Johnny Mnemonic by Williams (1995): Inspired by the cult classic movie, this machine is a techie’s delight with its magnetic glove feature and fast-paced play. It’s all about hacking your way to victory!
- Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (1992): A tribute to the 1950s horror flick, this game combines nostalgic cinema with pinball magic. The holographic creature lurking beneath the playfield is a spooky highlight!
- Congo by Williams (1995): Journey to the jungle in search of diamonds! This game boasts challenging ramps, a fun map feature, and a talking gorilla to guide you. It’s a wild ride from start to finish.
Top Wizards of the Night
In a field of over 100 fierce competitors, including some of Arizona’s top-ranked players, the Electric Bat Season 12-Part 2 #3 tournament was a true test of skill and strategy. The competition was intense, with players battling it out across five rounds on a variety of machines. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, everyone brought their A-game, making the night an unforgettable showcase of talent. As the dust settled, four players emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional prowess and determination. Let’s celebrate the top wizards who stood out in this epic showdown:
- Andrew Kohtz: The underdog from Phoenix who took everyone by surprise! Kohtz played with a calm yet aggressive style, clinching the top spot with finesse.
- Nicholas Zachry: Known for his consistent performances, Zachry showed why he’s one of Arizona’s top players. His precision and cool-headedness earned him second place.
- Andrew Knies: A relative newcomer with only three events under his belt, Knies made waves with his impressive third-place finish. Talk about making a splash!
- Paul Blanco: A seasoned pro, Blanco’s experience shone through as he secured fourth place. His strategic play was a masterclass in pinball prowess.
With so many talented players in the mix, these top four truly earned their spots on the podium, delivering outstanding performances that wowed the crowd and set the bar high for future tournaments.
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 813.92 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 748.17 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 711.53 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 358.51 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 321.93 |
| 6 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 301.62 |
| 7 | Ben Clement | Marana | 297.66 |
| 8 | Jard Cassell | Scottsdale | 291.43 |
| 9 | Nate Tornero | 280.15 | |
| 10 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 264.41 |
Wrapping It Up with a Cactus Hug
What a night! Big thanks to Rachel Bess for organizing such a stellar tournament at the ever-awesome Electric Bat Arcade. With its friendly atmosphere and killer selection of machines, this spot is a must-visit for any pinball enthusiast. As the sun sets over the desert, we say goodbye for now—but don’t stray too far, pinheads! There’s always another adventure around the corner. Until next time, keep those flippers hot and your shots on point!