The Starfighters Kids Monthly tournament was a hit! Taking place on July 13, 2024, at Starfighters Arcade, the event saw 30 young pinball wizards battling it out in a swift and exciting competition. With clear skies and a scorching 104°F temperature outside, the arcade was the perfect escape for some indoor fun. The tournament, organized by Kevin Curtis, featured four intense rounds of gameplay and wrapped up in just an hour and a half.

A Retro Arcade Experience

Located at 4840 E Jasmine St #102, Mesa, AZ, Starfighters Arcade is a nostalgic haven for pinball enthusiasts of all ages. For just $11, you can enjoy unlimited gameplay from 7 PM to 11 PM. The snack bar offers affordable treats, making it a family-friendly destination. Whether you’re a fan of classic games like Ms. Pac-Man or modern favorites, there’s something for everyone. The arcade’s impressive collection and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout spot for tournaments like this one. For more details, check out their website.

Spotlight on the JAWS Game

The highlight of the tournament was the intense showdown on JAWS (Premium) by Stern, a recent release from January 2024. As the players faced off, the atmosphere was electric with tension and excitement. The JAWS pinball machine, themed around the iconic shark movie, brought the thrilling terror of the deep sea to the arcade. In the final round, Kenny F. showcased incredible skill and focus, navigating the treacherous waters of the playfield. He expertly hit the ramps and targets, avoiding the dreaded shark attack to rack up an impressive score. Mason P., Beckett S., and Weslyn P. put up a valiant fight, but Kenny’s mastery of the game mechanics and strategic play earned him the top spot. The immersive experience of battling the Great White Shark added a unique and exhilarating twist to the tournament, making Kenny’s victory all the more impressive.

Pinball Machines on Display

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 10 pinball machines. Here are reviews of five standout games:

• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (2021): This machine captures the chaos and excitement of a city under siege by the mighty Godzilla. With its dynamic playfield and incredible light show, it’s a fan favorite.
• Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams (1993): A true classic, this game takes you on an adventure with Indiana Jones. The playfield features iconic movie scenes and challenging ramps that keep players on their toes.
• Iron Man by Stern (2010): Fast-paced and action-packed, Iron Man is all about keeping up with the rapid-fire gameplay. The magnets and Iron Monger toy add to the thrilling experience.
• Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern (2019): Step into Jurassic Park and face off against dinosaurs in this exciting game. The intricate playfield and interactive T-Rex toy make it a standout.
• Lord of the Rings by Stern (2003): Embark on a quest through Middle-earth with this epic pinball machine. The game features multiple modes and deep rules, providing endless entertainment.

Celebrating the Winners

With 30 participants, the competition at Starfighters Kids Monthly tournament was fierce and full of energy. The young players demonstrated impressive skills and sportsmanship, making it a memorable event for everyone involved. Kenny F., ranked 244th in the state, showcased his experience and determination to clinch the top spot. This victory marks his 13th IFPA event, adding another achievement to his growing pinball career.

Mason P., although unranked, showed exceptional talent and potential, securing second place in a highly competitive field. His performance was a pleasant surprise and a testament to the rising stars in the pinball community. Third place went to Nixon F., who, despite being new to the IFPA rankings, displayed remarkable skill and composure throughout the tournament. Fourth place was claimed by Finn F., whose enthusiasm and passion for the game were evident in every round.

The presence of so many unranked players making it to the top four is a great sign for the future of pinball. It shows that new talent is continually emerging, promising exciting times ahead for the sport. The tournament wasn’t just about winning; it was a celebration of the growing community of young pinball enthusiasts, their love for the game, and their bright futures in the world of competitive pinball.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		794.05
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	748.2
3	John Shopple	Mesa	685.88
4	Greg Drewes	Mesa	348.88
5	Jason Barre	Mesa	321.53
6	Nate Tornero		279.78
7	John Magyar	Gilbert	275.22
8	Andrew Roesch		258.29
9	Ben Clement	Marana	256.02
10	Cody Winant	Tempe	253.5

Wrapping Up

A big thank you to Kevin Curtis for organizing such a fantastic event and to Starfighters Arcade for hosting. Your efforts made this tournament a memorable experience for everyone involved. Congrats again to Kenny F. for his impressive win on JAWS! Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps. For more information about Starfighters Arcade, visit their website. Until next time, keep flipping those flippers!