Let’s dive into the latest action from the Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 (#3) tournament. It was a fantastic evening with 37 players battling it out over five intense rounds on July 8, 2024. This nail-biting tournament wrapped up in just two hours and 18 minutes, all under the sweltering 112°F clear skies of Surprise, AZ. Big shout-out to our dedicated organizer, Jim Smith, who made it all possible. For more details, check out Player 1 Arcade’s Facebook page here.
Player 1 Arcade: The Perfect Spot for Pinball
Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, Surprise, AZ, is a gem for any arcade lover. This place has a unique charm with its extensive collection of pinball machines and other classic games. It’s surprisingly chill and quiet, even on a busy Friday night, allowing visitors to play to their heart’s content. The arcade offers great value, with just $10 in tokens giving you hours of fun. Their drink selection is impressive, and the service is top-notch. Visit their website to learn more about this fantastic arcade.
Foo Fighters (LE) Shakes Up Round 2
Round 2 saw a thrilling game on Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern, a machine inspired by the iconic rock band and released in March 2023. Jeremy Reiman from Peoria, AZ, rocked his way to the top, securing 1st place with his 178th state ranking and 4885th IFPA ranking. Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ, wasn’t far behind, coming in 2nd with his 122nd state rank and 4128th IFPA rank. Juan Gonzalez and Justin Miller gave it their all, finishing in 3rd and 4th place, respectively. This round was a perfect blend of high-energy gameplay and rock ‘n’ roll vibes!
Pinball Machines That Stole the Show
With 17 pinball machines lighting up the tournament, here are some standout highlights:
- John Wick (Pro) by Stern, released in May 2024, is a thrill ride just like the movies. This machine features breathtaking artwork and intense gameplay, with missions that mirror the action-packed scenes of the John Wick series. Players love the fast-paced action, which keeps them on the edge of their seats.
- Black Pyramid by Bally, a classic from July 1984, offers a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of pinball. With its Egyptian theme, players are drawn into a world of pharaohs and pyramids. The game’s unique layout and challenging objectives make it a timeless favorite among pinball enthusiasts.
- Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern, released in April 2018, combines heavy metal with intricate playfield mechanics. This game is packed with features like the Pharaoh’s Tomb and Trooper Multi-ball, providing a rich and engaging experience. The iconic music of Iron Maiden only adds to the adrenaline rush of gameplay.
- Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, from August 2017, brings the epic saga to life. This machine immerses players in the Star Wars universe with features like the Death Star, TIE Fighter multiball, and interactive hyperdrive. The combination of sounds, lights, and fast-paced gameplay makes it a must-play for any fan of the franchise.
- The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern, released in May 2021, is based on the hit TV series. Players embark on a journey with The Mandalorian, completing missions and battling enemies. The game features dynamic gameplay with various modes and missions, reflecting the adventurous spirit of the show. The Razor Crest ship and Grogu (Baby Yoda) are highlights that add to the immersive experience.
These machines are just a glimpse of the fantastic lineup that made the tournament so exciting.
Celebrating the Champions
A huge congratulations to the tournament winners! Mark Pearson took home the gold, showcasing why he’s ranked 2nd in the state and 70th globally with 600 IFPA events under his belt. Dave Halley followed closely, earning 2nd place with his 39th state rank and 665th IFPA rank from 446 events. Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix clinched 3rd place, proving her skills with a 94th state rank and 1616th IFPA rank from 228 events. Rounding out the top four, Cara Eisinger from New River, AZ, demonstrated their prowess with a 200th state rank and 4088th IFPA rank from 71 events.
Top 10 IFPA Arizona Pinball Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 750.49 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 748.1 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 684.02 |
| 4 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 321.5 |
| 5 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 314.79 |
| 6 | Nate Tornero | 279.03 | |
| 7 | Ben Clement | Marana | 255.99 |
| 8 | Andrew Roesch | 254.85 | |
| 9 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 253.48 |
| 10 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 252.93 |
Wrapping Up the Fun
This tournament was a rollercoaster of excitement, skill, and pinball passion. Kudos to Jim Smith and Player 1 Arcade for hosting such a fantastic event, and a big congratulations to Mark Pearson for his well-deserved victory! Stay tuned for more pinball news and follow-ups. Until next time, keep flipping those flippers!