On August 23rd, 2024, the Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play brought together 40 fierce pinball wizards for an evening of high-stakes competition in Mesa, AZ. With temperatures soaring to a sweltering 97°F and a haze hanging in the air, the tournament heated up quickly, but the real action was inside the Atomic Age Modern, where players faced off in six intense rounds of match play.
Stepping Into Atomic Age Modern
If you haven’t yet visited Atomic Age Modern, you’re missing out on a slice of vintage paradise nestled right in the heart of Mesa. Located at 140 W Main St, this eclectic spot is more than just a pinball venue—it’s a retro haven that oozes cool vibes and nostalgia. The decor, a throwback to the mid-century era, sets the perfect stage for pinball showdowns, and the owners? Let’s just say they’re as legendary as the machines they host. With a lineup of well-maintained pinball tables and a welcoming atmosphere, Atomic Age Modern is a must-visit for any pinball enthusiast.
JAWS Sinks Its Teeth Into Round 1
Round 1 kicked off with a bang on the JAWS (Pro) machine, one of Stern’s latest creations from January 2024. The tension was palpable as Thomas Matthews, ranked 408th in the state, faced off against some of Arizona’s top contenders. Despite his lower ranking, Thomas navigated the treacherous waters of the JAWS table like a seasoned shark hunter, utilizing the game’s iconic Great White mode to rack up points and secure first place. Jason Hecht, from Chandler, AZ, put up a strong fight but couldn’t quite catch Thomas, finishing second. Meanwhile, Mesa’s own pinball powerhouse, Jason Barre, landed in third place, and Amy Myers, an unranked but formidable opponent, took fourth. The match was a reminder that in pinball, it’s not just about ranking—sometimes, it’s about who can ride the wave when the shark comes for you.
Pinball Machines That Stole the Show
The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play featured a stellar lineup of pinball machines, each bringing its own flavor to the competition. Among the standouts was Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics, a vintage classic from 1980. This machine’s space-themed adventure, complete with a thrilling three-ball multiball mode, had players navigating cosmic challenges while aiming for that elusive high score.
Then there was Strikes and Spares from Bally, a beloved machine released in 1978. It’s a fan favorite for a reason, blending the excitement of a bowling alley with pinball’s fast-paced action. The game’s simplicity belies its depth, rewarding those who can master its tricky shots.
For those who love a bit of modern flair, James Bond 007 (Pro), a 2022 release by Stern, delivered all the espionage action you’d expect from the world’s most famous spy. Its playfield was packed with gadgets and missions, keeping players on their toes. John Wick (Pro), fresh off the assembly line in May 2024, also captivated players with its sleek design and intense, action-packed gameplay that mirrors the high-octane films.
Other crowd-pleasers included Deadpool (Pro), known for its humor and unique battle modes, and Foo Fighters (Premium), which rocked the tournament with its fast-paced play and music-themed challenges. Each machine offered something different, ensuring that players had to bring their A-game to every round.
Dominating the Competition: Tournament Winners
When the dust settled, it was Matt Dickson from Phoenix who emerged victorious, proving once again that skill and strategy can overcome even the toughest competition. Ranked 131st in the state with 80 IFPA events under their belt, Matt’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, outplaying seasoned pros and up-and-comers alike.
Coming in second was Mesa’s own Jason Barre, who, with 472 IFPA events and a state ranking of 5th, demonstrated why he’s considered one of Arizona’s top players. Connor Kennedy secured third place, showing why he’s ranked 55th in the state, while Michael B Cameron from Phoenix rounded out the top four with a solid performance that lived up to his 29th state ranking.
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 833.95 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 783.1 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 773.33 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 378.96 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 334.07 |
| 6 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 308.52 |
| 7 | Jard Cassell | Scottsdale | 308.24 |
| 8 | Andrew Roesch | 307.18 | |
| 9 | Nicholas Zachry | Gilbert | 299.69 |
| 10 | Ben Clement | Marana | 299.48 |
A Tournament to Remember
The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play was a night to remember, packed with intense competition and a fantastic lineup of games. A big shoutout to Bob Kennedy for organizing such a smooth and exciting event and to Atomic Age Modern for providing the perfect backdrop for pinball greatness. Congratulations again to Matt Dickson for their impressive victory!
Be sure to check out more events and updates at Atomic Age Modern’s website: atomicagemodern.com/pinball. See you at the next tournament!