A Sizzling Start
Level 1 Arcade Bar hosted the thrilling Stern Army pinball tournament on July 17, 2024. With 18 players battling it out over four intense rounds, the competition was fierce. Despite the sweltering 105°F heat outside, the atmosphere inside was electric as players aimed for the top spot. Organizer Scott Goldsmith ensured everything ran smoothly, wrapping up the event in just under two hours.
The Heart of the Action
Located at 60 West Vaughn Ave, Gilbert, AZ, Level 1 Arcade Bar is a beloved hangout spot for both pinball enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. The venue is praised for its lively ambiance, friendly bartenders like Chelsea, and a mix of classic and modern arcade games. Whether you’re there for an all-night hang or just a quick drink and game, Level 1 Arcade Bar never disappoints. Check out their website for more details: Level 1 Arcade Bar.
Jurassic Park’s Roar in Round 3
One of the standout moments of the night occurred during Round 3 on the Jurassic Park (Premium) pinball machine by Stern. Released in October 2019, this game is renowned for its incredible theme integration and the innovative “Raptor Pen” feature, where players must carefully manage the raptors to maximize their score. In this round, Justin Kolas demonstrated masterful control, securing first place with a display of skill that left spectators in awe.
Pinball Machines That Shined
The tournament featured a fantastic lineup of nine different pinball machines. Among the highlights were:
- Star Wars (Premium) by Stern (August 2017): Known for its immersive gameplay and dynamic LCD animations.
- Elton John (CE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (October 2023): A tribute to the legendary musician with a dazzling light show and iconic soundtrack.
- Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern (October 2019): Featuring the thrilling “Raptor Pen” and incredible playfield mechanics.
- Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern (December 2019): Transporting players into the Upside Down with its captivating theme and Demogorgon battles.
- Deadpool (Premium) by Stern (August 2018): Mixing humor and action with its unique playfield layout and animations.
- Monster Bash (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming (October 2018): A classic remake with stunning visuals and legendary monster battles.
- Batman: The Dark Knight by Stern (August 2008): Featuring iconic villains and a dark, immersive atmosphere.
- Venom (Premium) by Stern (July 2023): Highlighting the symbiote’s power and chaotic gameplay elements.
- JAWS (Premium) by Stern (January 2024): Bringing the terror of the classic film to life with its innovative playfield and suspenseful moments.
Celebrating the Champions
Congratulations to Justin Kolas, who clinched the top spot with an impressive performance throughout the tournament. Despite his modest IFPA rank of 16085, Justin’s six tournament appearances showcase his rising potential. Kevin Burns from Arizona secured second place, showing his experience with 165 events under his belt and an IFPA rank of 1712. Shawn Barnett took third place, adding another achievement to his 121 events and IFPA rank of 2952. Terry Kemp rounded out the top four, making a notable impression despite being unranked.
Arizona’s Pinball Elite
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 793.99 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 748.16 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 685.81 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 348.83 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 321.47 |
| 6 | Nate Tornero | 280.16 | |
| 7 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 275.44 |
| 8 | Andrew Roesch | 258.27 | |
| 9 | Ben Clement | Marana | 255.99 |
| 10 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 253.47 |
Wrapping Up the Action
This tournament was a blast, with intense competition and exciting gameplay. Congratulations once again to Justin Kolas for his outstanding victory. Level 1 Arcade Bar provided the perfect backdrop for this thrilling event, making it a memorable night for all. Stay tuned for more pinball news and coverage of events!