The Belles & Chimes Phoenix 7-20-24 tournament brought pinball enthusiasts together for a thrilling afternoon at the iconic Starfighters Arcade. With 20 players fiercely competing across six intense rounds, the tournament showcased some of the best pinball talent in Arizona. The event, organized by the dedicated Tracy Lindbergh, kicked off at 1:00 PM and wrapped up after a riveting two hours and thirty minutes.
The Ultimate Pinball Paradise: Starfighters Arcade
Nestled in Mesa, AZ, Starfighters Arcade is a beloved destination for retro gaming aficionados of all ages. Located at 4840 E Jasmine St #102, this arcade is more than just a gaming hub; it’s a trip down memory lane. With an impressive collection of well-maintained games, knowledgeable staff, and a charming retro ambiance, Starfighters Arcade offers an affordable and delightful experience. Whether you’re enjoying a nostalgic birthday party or a weekend hangout, this arcade ensures an unforgettable visit. The arcade’s variety and the enthusiasm of its owners make it a standout spot, even if its limited hours sometimes leave patrons yearning for more.
Clash of Monsters: A Highlight Game on Monster Bash
One of the standout moments of the tournament was the epic showdown on Monster Bash by Williams, a pinball game that has thrilled players since its release in July 1998. This round saw fierce competition as the players battled to assemble the classic Universal Monsters band. Olivia Helm emerged victorious, using her skillful flipper work to bring Dracula, Frankenstein, and the rest to the stage, outplaying Tracy Lindbergh, Meghan Bougher, and Angel Ramirez in a thrilling game that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
Pinball Machines That Made Waves
The tournament featured 59 fantastic pinball machines, each with unique features and designs. Here are a few highlights:
- Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure (Williams, 1993): This game transports players into the adventurous world of Indiana Jones, complete with thrilling multi-ball modes and intricate playfield toys that capture the essence of the iconic movies.
- Fish Tales (Williams, 1992): Known for its vibrant aquatic theme, Fish Tales offers challenging gameplay with its tight shots and fast-paced action. The game’s humorous theme and engaging mini-games keep players hooked.
- The Getaway: High Speed II (Williams, 1992): A sequel to the classic High Speed, this game amps up the excitement with its fast-flowing ramps and the iconic red light challenge, making players feel like they’re in a high-speed chase.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) (Chicago Gaming, 2021): This modern remake of the classic game brings the Wild West to life with enhanced graphics and sound, providing a nostalgic yet fresh experience for players.
- Godzilla (Sega, 1998): Dive into the chaos of monster battles with this game that features explosive gameplay and an array of targets and ramps, reflecting the destructive fun of Godzilla movies.
Celebrating the Champions
The Belles & Chimes Phoenix 7-20-24 tournament saw a mix of seasoned players and rising stars battling it out for top honors. Here’s a closer look at our top competitors and their impressive achievements:
- Olivia Helm: Securing first place was Olivia Helm, whose state rank of 176th and IFPA rank of 1926 reflect her steady ascent in the pinball world. Olivia’s extensive experience, with a whopping 230 IFPA events under her belt, was evident in her confident gameplay and strategic finesse. Her victory wasn’t a huge surprise, given her dedication and previous performances.
- Fae Ashley: Taking second place, Fae Ashley from Chandler, AZ, delivered an exceptional performance. With a state rank of 47th and IFPA rank of 1577, Fae demonstrated remarkable skill and focus throughout the tournament. Despite participating in fewer events (54 IFPA events), her ability to secure a high placement was impressive and showcased her potential to climb even higher in future tournaments.
- Mollie Stoltenberg: Mollie Stoltenberg claimed third place, backed by her solid state rank of 58th and IFPA rank of 1319. With 214 IFPA events to her name, Mollie’s experience played a crucial role in her strong showing. Her consistent playstyle and tactical approach helped her edge out many competitors, reaffirming her status as a formidable player in the pinball community.
- Tracy Lindbergh: As both the organizer and a top competitor, Tracy Lindbergh’s fourth-place finish was commendable. With a state rank of 105th and an IFPA rank of 520, Tracy’s participation in 534 IFPA events underscored her deep expertise and passion for pinball. Although she didn’t clinch the top spot, her performance was stellar and demonstrated her dual role as a leader and player.
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 793.93 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 748.16 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 685.79 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 348.78 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 321.47 |
| 6 | Nate Tornero | 280.16 | |
| 7 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 275.41 |
| 8 | Andrew Roesch | 258.27 | |
| 9 | Ben Clement | Marana | 257.19 |
| 10 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 253.47 |
Wrapping Up the Tournament
The Belles & Chimes Phoenix 7-20-24 tournament was a spectacular event, thanks to the efforts of organizer Tracy Lindbergh and the fantastic venue, Starfighters Arcade. A big shoutout to all the players who came out to compete and celebrate their love for pinball. The spotlight game on Monster Bash was a highlight of the day, showcasing the thrill and excitement of pinball tournaments. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps as we continue to celebrate the passion and skill of the pinball community!