Hey all you pinball wizards! On July 19, 2024, the Stern Army descended upon Taproom-120 for an intense evening of pinball action. With 28 players battling it out over five rounds, the stakes were high and the competition fierce. The event kicked off at 6:30 PM and wrapped up just over three hours later, with scattered clouds overhead and a scorching 108°F outside. But inside Taproom-120, the vibe was all cool retro fun.
Checking Out Taproom-120
Located at 4576 S Power Rd in Gilbert, Taproom-120 is the perfect spot for a pinball tournament. With its colorful 80s decor, spacious layout, and cool mix of seating options, it’s a place that screams fun. Whether you’re there for the games, the merch, or just a laid-back vibe with a friendly crowd, Taproom-120 delivers. Co-owner Matt is known for his welcoming demeanor and beer expertise, making every visit a memorable one. Plus, there’s plenty of parking, so you won’t have to hunt for a spot. Don’t forget to take a stroll around the whole room—you might discover something awesome you missed at first glance!
Thrilling Match on Venom (LE)
Spotlight on Pinball Machines
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 15 pinball machines. Here are a few highlights:
- Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball (February 2023): This game captures the essence of the classic cartoon with vibrant artwork and engaging gameplay. It’s packed with mysteries to solve and monsters to catch.
- The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern (October 2014): This machine immerses players in the zombie apocalypse, complete with gory details and thrilling missions. It’s a must-play for fans of the show.
- Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern (March 2023): Rock out with the Foo Fighters in this music-themed pinball machine. It’s got killer tracks, dynamic lighting, and a fast-paced playfield that keeps the adrenaline pumping.
- JAWS (LE) by Stern (January 2024): Dive into the terror of Amity Island with this cinematic pinball experience. The game features exciting modes and stunning visuals that bring the classic movie to life.
- Genesis by Gottlieb (January 1986): A vintage gem, Genesis boasts a unique design and challenging gameplay that keeps players coming back for more.
Celebrating the Champions
A big congratulations to Jeff Wegener, who clinched first place on the final game played on Genesis by Gottlieb. With a state rank of 27th and an IFPA rank of 767, Jeff’s skill and strategy were on full display. John Magyar, ranked 7th in Arizona, took second place, showing why he’s one of the top players in the state. Nate Tornero from Chandler, Arizona, came in third, and Adam Horton rounded out the top four. These players demonstrated exceptional talent and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
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 Stern Army – Starbase 120 @ Taproom-120 event was a fantastic showcase of skill, strategy, and fun. Congrats again to Jeff Wegener for his victory, and a big shoutout to all the players who made the tournament so exciting. If you’re ever in Gilbert, AZ, Taproom-120 is a must-visit spot for pinball enthusiasts. For more details on upcoming events, check out their Facebook page.
Stay tuned for more pinball news and highlights!