Pinball Passion in Mesa: A Night at Atomic Age Modern

Kicking Off the Tournament

The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play tournament, held on July 12, 2024, was a blast with six intense rounds of pinball action. A total of 27 players competed, making it a lively event. The tournament started at 6:30 PM and lasted a little over three hours, which felt just right for everyone involved. You can check out more about this fantastic event on their website: Atomic Age Modern Pinball.

Welcome to Atomic Age Modern

Located at 140 W Main St, Mesa, AZ, Atomic Age Modern is a hotspot for pinball enthusiasts. This family-owned and operated venue specializes in mid-century modern furniture, vintage kitsch, and eclectic furnishings. The showroom is curated by Amanda, who has a knack for spotting and staging vintage treasures, while Bob, with years of experience in furniture restoration, offers consultation and instruction. Their passion for pinball is evident, with the entire family being internationally ranked players. The store also boasts a fantastic collection of pinball and arcade machines, making it a true community hub in historic downtown Mesa. For more details, visit their website​​.

Round 3 Highlights: Deadpool (Pro)

Round 3 saw some exciting action on Deadpool (Pro), a popular machine by Stern from August 2018. Robert Kennedy, a local player ranked 54th in the state, took first place, showcasing his skills with precision. Chris Peseri, with a state rank of 190th, put up a good fight but had to settle for second. Jeff Wegener, ranked 27th in the state, rounded out the top three with a solid performance. Dante Fishell, hailing from Electric Bat Arcade and ranked 266th in the state, played valiantly but finished fourth. The competition was fierce, and the gameplay on Deadpool was nothing short of spectacular.

Pinball Machine Highlights

Atomic Age Modern hosted 17 fantastic pinball machines for this tournament. Here are a few standouts:

• Sorcerer (Williams, 1985): This classic machine features mystical themes with spellbinding artwork and challenging gameplay. Its multiball feature and captivating sound effects make it a player favorite.
• Elvira’s House of Horrors (LE) (Stern, 2019): This limited edition machine combines horror and humor, with Elvira guiding players through a haunted house. The detailed playfield and intricate shots make it a thrilling experience.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) (Stern, 2020): Based on the beloved franchise, this machine is packed with action. The fast-paced gameplay and vibrant artwork capture the essence of the Turtles’ adventures.
• Rush (Pro) (Stern, 2022): Celebrating the iconic rock band, this machine features custom speech from band members and an amazing soundtrack. It’s a rockin’ good time with plenty of challenges for players.
• John Wick (Pro) (Stern, 2024): The newest addition, this machine is based on the hit action movie series. With sleek design and intense gameplay, it offers a high-octane pinball experience.

Shining Stars: Tournament Winners

Let’s give a round of applause to the top performers of the night:

1. Chris Stoltenberg: With a 10-point adjustment, Chris climbed to the top. Ranked 89th in the state, his consistent performance over 194 IFPA events paid off.
2. Robert Kennedy: A local hero from Mesa, Robert’s second-place finish highlighted his skill. Ranked 54th in the state, he’s no stranger to the winner’s circle.
3. Henry Hanshaw: Securing third place, Henry’s rank of 59th in the state shows he’s a formidable competitor with 296 IFPA events under his belt.
4. Wiley Bumtail: From Phoenix, Wiley rounded out the top four. Ranked 52nd in the state, his solid performance in just 29 IFPA events is impressive.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up

The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play tournament was a roaring success, with Chris Stoltenberg emerging as the champion. This event highlighted the skill and passion of the local pinball community. Atomic Age Modern, with its blend of mid-century modern treasures and vintage pinball machines, provided the perfect backdrop for a night of friendly competition. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a lover of vintage finds, this unique spot in downtown Mesa is well worth a visit. Stay tuned for more pinball news and event recaps, and keep flippin’!