Pinball wizards and enthusiasts gathered at Player 1 Arcade on August 5th, 2024, for the Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 Side Finals. With a scorching 111°F outside, the action inside was equally intense as 19 players battled it out in five rounds of pinball madness. The event, organized by Jim Smith, ran for five and a half hours, proving that in Arizona, the heat doesn’t just come from the sun!
Player 1 Arcade: A Pinball Paradise
Located in Surprise, AZ, Player 1 Arcade offers a unique mix of retro gaming charm and modern convenience. Located at 17239 North Litchfield Road, this spot is a treasure trove for gamers of all ages. The arcade’s inviting atmosphere, combined with a vast selection of pinball machines and other classic games like Street Fighter and Donkey Kong, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s not just about the games, though—the drink selection is top-notch, and the service adds to the overall experience, making it a great place to hang out, whether you’re chasing high scores or just enjoying a cold drink.
Guardians of the Galaxy: A Battle of Wits
The tournament kicked off with a memorable game on Stern’s Guardians of the Galaxy (2017). This game perfectly encapsulates the chaotic energy of the Marvel universe, where players take on the role of the Guardians, battling their way through various challenges. In Round 1, Moto (IFPA rank 7570) claimed victory, expertly navigating the game’s tricky shots and multiballs. Mary Profeta Scardina, hailing from Arizona and ranked 2236, gave a strong performance but ultimately had to settle for second place. Unranked Xris Rincon and Shaun Ping (IFPA rank 3940) rounded out the top four, both putting up a good fight but falling short of the top spot.
Machines That Made the Magic Happen
With 17 pinball machines in play, participants had a lot to choose from. Each game brought its own unique flavor to the tournament:
- Tales of the Arabian Nights (Williams, 1996) continues to captivate with its exotic theme and imaginative gameplay. Designed by John Popadiuk, this machine is a feast for the senses, blending intricate artwork with challenging modes that transport players to a fantastical world.
- Pulp Fiction (SE) (Chicago Gaming, 2023) is a recent addition to the pinball world, and it’s already turning heads. The design captures the essence of Quentin Tarantino’s iconic film, with every flip and nudge echoing the movie’s dark, twisted humor.
- Black Pyramid (Bally, 1984) is a classic that still packs a punch. The artwork and theme transport players to ancient Egypt, where strategic play is key to unlocking the game’s secrets.
- Foo Fighters (LE) (Stern, 2023) is another crowd favorite, combining the band’s energetic spirit with fast-paced pinball action. This machine is a dream for music lovers and pinball enthusiasts alike.
Tournament Titans: The Top Four
The competition was fierce, but in the end, it was Del Kyger who claimed the top spot. Known for his sharp instincts and a steady hand, Del’s experience in over 50 IFPA events shone through as he skillfully navigated each round. His victory was well-earned, showcasing the kind of consistency that makes a true champion.
Taking second place was Jobie Gilchrist from Piney Flats. Jobie is no stranger to the podium, having competed in over 100 tournaments. His cool-headed approach and tactical play kept him in the running, proving once again why he’s a player to watch.
Michael B Cameron, representing Phoenix, AZ, secured third place with a performance that was nothing short of impressive. With a deep well of experience from nearly 160 events, Michael brought a level of finesse and strategy that made every game a thrill to watch.
Rounding out the top four was Moto, who might be ranked lower on the state leaderboard but showed that rankings aren’t everything. Moto’s determination and flair for the dramatic kept everyone on their toes, reminding us all that pinball is a game where anything can happen.
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 814.1 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 755.07 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 717.14 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 359.5 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 323.95 |
| 6 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 302.33 |
| 7 | Ben Clement | Marana | 297.95 |
| 8 | Jard Cassell | Scottsdale | 291.5 |
| 9 | Nate Tornero | 280.28 | |
| 10 | Nicholas Zachry | Gilbert | 270.85 |
Wrapping Up the Fun
The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 Side Finals was a fantastic event, filled with high scores, close calls, and plenty of friendly competition. A huge thanks to Jim Smith and the team at Player 1 Arcade for hosting such a well-organized tournament in a venue that truly celebrates the joy of gaming.
For those who missed out, don’t worry—Player 1 Arcade has plenty more in store. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates and future events. Until next time, keep those flippers ready and those scores high!