Heat Meets High Scores: Stern Army’s Latest Showdown at Taproom-120

The latest IFPA pinball tournament, Stern Army – Starbase 120 @ Taproom-120, brought 29 passionate pinball players to Gilbert, Arizona, on August 2, 2024, for an intense night of flipper action. Hosted at Taproom-120, the tournament kicked off at 6:30 PM and wrapped up just shy of three hours later. With five rounds of single-game battles, the competition was as fierce as the desert heat outside.

Where Retro Vibes Meet Pinball Fun

If you haven’t been to Taproom-120, you’re missing out. Located at 4576 S Power Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85212, this spot is the perfect blend of retro charm and modern flair. The vibrant 80s-inspired decor, complete with neon colors and nostalgic movie memorabilia, sets the stage for a fun night out. Whether you’re there for the pinball or just to hang out, Taproom-120 has something for everyone. The arcade area is a particular standout, offering a variety of classic machines that’ll transport you back in time. It’s clear why this place has become a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike. If you’re planning a visit, check them out at Taproom 120’s website.

Scooby-Doo and the Mystery of Round 3

Round 3 was a showdown on Spooky Pinball’s Scooby-Doo (CE), and it felt like a real-life episode of the classic cartoon. Players were immersed in the eerie, mystery-filled world of Scooby and the gang as they tried to solve the riddles presented by the game’s intricate playfield. Alex Cardwell, State Rank 74th, emerged victorious, channeling his inner sleuth to outplay his competitors, Corey Tinsley and Samantha Taylor. Corey, despite his valiant effort, couldn’t quite catch up to Alex’s skillful maneuvers, and Samantha, though holding her own, was left chasing ghosts. The theme of this game added an extra layer of excitement to the round, making it a highlight of the tournament.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

With a lineup of 15 machines, there was no shortage of variety at this tournament. Here are five that really stood out:

• Medusa by Bally (1981): This game is all about precision and control. With its unique dual-level playfield and challenging outlanes, Medusa demands both skill and strategy. The snake-themed art and the mythical Greek influences make it a feast for the eyes, while the gameplay keeps you coming back for more.
• Elvira’s House of Horrors (Blood Red Kiss) by Stern (2023): Elvira never disappoints. This latest edition features jaw-dropping artwork, spooky voiceovers, and a playfield packed with haunted house-themed challenges. The Blood Red Kiss edition brings an even darker twist to the game, making every shot feel like a venture into the unknown.
• Genesis by Gottlieb (1986): A sci-fi lover’s dream, Genesis is all about creating life—or rather, assembling a humanoid robot. The game’s multi-ball feature and unique sound effects transport players into a futuristic lab where every flip of the flipper is a step closer to bringing your creation to life.
• Venom (LE) by Stern (2023): This new release has quickly become a player favorite, and it’s easy to see why. The fast-paced gameplay, combined with Venom’s menacing presence on the playfield, makes for an adrenaline-pumping experience. The game’s integration of Venom’s powers and the storyline keeps players on the edge of their seats.
• Stargate by Gottlieb (1995): Inspired by the sci-fi movie of the same name, Stargate features a complex, multi-level playfield with plenty of ramps and targets to hit. The game’s immersive theme and intricate design make it a must-play for any pinball enthusiast.

The Final Battle on Foo Fighters (LE)

When it came down to the final game, all eyes were on the Foo Fighters (LE) machine. Kevin Burns, ranked 119th in the state, showed off his skills on this rock-and-roll-themed pinball machine, which features fast-paced gameplay and challenging missions. Kevin’s mastery of the machine’s “Overtime Multiball” mode gave him the edge he needed to secure first place. John Finnegan and Nate Tornero followed closely behind, but it was Kevin’s night to shine.

And the Winners Are…

The top finishers of the night deserve a round of applause:

1. Kevin Burns – He fought his way to the top, showing why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the Arizona pinball scene.
2. John Finnegan – A seasoned player from Tucson, John’s experience and high-ranking state position made him a formidable opponent.
3. Nate Tornero – From Chandler, Nate’s impressive finish in 3rd place solidified his spot among the state’s top competitors.
4. Wiley Bumtail – Wiley rounded out the top four, proving that his skills are on par with some of Arizona’s best.

Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Here’s how the top 10 players in Arizona stack up:

Wrapping It Up

Overall, the Stern Army – Starbase 120 @ Taproom-120 tournament was a smashing success, filled with exciting matches and top-notch pinball action. A big shout-out to Olivia Helm for organizing such a fantastic event and to Taproom-120 for providing the perfect setting. Congratulations again to Kevin Burns for his well-deserved victory!

Stay tuned for the latest pinball news and follow-ups! Don’t forget to check out more about this tournament on their Facebook event page.