The summer sizzle wasn’t just outside; it was alive and well at the Level 1 Arcade Bar on July 24, 2024, where 14 passionate pinball players gathered for an exciting night of flipper action. With a cozy yet electric atmosphere, this tournament had four intense rounds, each filled with nail-biting moments and high scores. The event was flawlessly organized by Scott Goldsmith, and despite the scorching 98°F heat and scattered clouds, the arcade was buzzing with excitement!
A Night at Level 1 Arcade Bar
Nestled in the heart of Gilbert, Arizona, Level 1 Arcade Bar is more than just a gaming hub; it’s a place where memories are made. With its friendly bartenders and vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder patrons rave about the food and old-school games. Regulars love the positive vibes and often shout out to Chelsea, a bartender who always ensures a great time. Whether you’re in for an all-night hang or a quick drink, this spot has it all.
Jaw-Dropping Action on JAWS (Premium)
The waves were high and the competition fierce in Round 1, where players took on the shark-infested waters of JAWS (Premium) by Stern. John Magyar, ranked 6th in Arizona, proved to be the ultimate shark wrangler, navigating the game’s intense modes and challenges to claim victory. The suspenseful theme of the game mirrored the tension in the room as John skillfully dodged the virtual shark’s jaws and emerged triumphant. His sharp reflexes and deep understanding of the game’s mechanics left the crowd in awe.
Standout Pinball Machines: A Blast from the Past
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 8 amazing pinball machines. Players were transported to different worlds, from the eerie world of Stranger Things (Premium), where they battled Demogorgons, to the glamorous life of Elton John (CE) with its dazzling lights and music. Deadpool (Premium) offered quirky humor and fast-paced action, while Batman: The Dark Knight took players on a dark, thrilling ride through Gotham City. Other notable machines included Jurassic Park (Premium), where players had to escape from the chaos of a dinosaur-filled island, and the classic Monster Bash (Remake LE), where iconic monsters came to life. Not to be forgotten, Star Wars (Premium) let players relive the epic space battles from the beloved saga.
A Grand Finale on JAWS (Premium)
The final showdown was a thrilling rematch on JAWS (Premium), where the stakes were higher than ever. Justin Kolas, a relatively new contender with just six IFPA events under his belt, shocked everyone with a stunning first-place finish, demonstrating that skill can triumph over experience. Meanwhile, Jason Barre, an experienced player from Mesa, clinched second place, showcasing his consistent talent. Shawn Barnett and Jocelyn Bowers also put up impressive performances, securing third and fourth places, respectively. It was a night of surprises and spectacular play!
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 813.92 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 748.17 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 711.53 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 358.51 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 321.93 |
| 6 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 301.62 |
| 7 | Ben Clement | Marana | 297.66 |
| 8 | Jard Cassell | Scottsdale | 291.43 |
| 9 | Nate Tornero | 280.15 | |
| 10 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 264.41 |
Wrapping Up an Epic Night
The Level 1 Arcade Bar – Stern Army tournament was a fantastic event filled with unforgettable moments and intense competition. Huge thanks to Scott Goldsmith for organizing this exciting night and to the Level 1 Arcade Bar for providing the perfect venue. Congratulations to all the winners, especially Justin Kolas, for their impressive performances. We can’t wait to bring you more thrilling pinball updates and stories—stay tuned, and keep those flippers flipping!