Pinball Magic at Taproom-120: Wiley Bumtail Takes the Win

It was a sizzling evening on August 16, 2024, at Taproom-120 in Gilbert, Arizona, where 26 passionate players gathered for the Stern Army – Starbase 120 pinball tournament. With the mercury hovering around 106°F and scattered clouds offering little relief, the atmosphere inside the venue was charged with excitement. The event, organized by the ever-enthusiastic Olivia Helm, saw competitors battling through five rounds of intense play. By the end of the 2 hour and 52-minute tournament, one player emerged as the night’s ultimate pinball wizard.

A Hangout That’s More Than a Taproom

Taproom-120 is not just another stop on the pinball circuit; it’s a destination in its own right. Nestled on S Power Rd in Gilbert, this spacious and vibrant pub offers more than just craft beers and pub grub. Picture this: retro 80s decor, quirky merchandise, and a mix of seating that invites you to stay a while—whether you’re there to catch a game on TV or just soak in the good vibes. The arcade, a major draw for pinball enthusiasts, boasts a coin exchange machine that ensures you’re never short on tokens for those old-school machines. The owners, Matt and his team, have created a haven that’s as much about community as it is about the games. It’s no wonder this spot has become a regular go-to for locals and visitors alike.

Battle of the Monsters on Godzilla

Round 3 of the tournament was a standout, featuring a thrilling match on the Godzilla (Premium) pinball machine by Stern. Released in September 2021, this game lets players step into the chaos of a city under siege by Godzilla. The atmosphere was electric as John Finnegan, hailing from Tucson, skillfully navigated the mayhem, battling it out against three formidable opponents. With his precise flipper action and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics, John unleashed the mighty Godzilla’s fury to secure a hard-fought first place. Nate Tornero and John Magyar put up a valiant fight, but it was John’s mastery of the Monster Ramp and his well-timed Multiball that ultimately led him to victory. A special shout-out to Shawn B for holding his own in a match that showcased the best of what this iconic game has to offer.

Tournament Tips: Machines That Stole the Show

While the tournament featured a diverse lineup of 15 pinball machines, a few stood out for their unique designs and gameplay features.

• Jim Henson’s Labyrinth (Barrels of Fun, October 2023): This machine is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, capturing the essence of the 80s cult classic. With its intricate playfield design and a mesmerizing crystal ball feature, players are challenged to navigate the twists and turns of the labyrinth, just like Sarah in the movie. The machine’s interactive gameplay and stunning visuals make it a favorite among fans of both pinball and fantasy films.
• Venom (LE) (Stern, July 2023): With its dark and gritty comic book theme, Venom is all about speed and precision. The LE version boasts enhanced lighting effects and a dynamic soundtrack that amps up the intensity. The game’s key feature is the Symbiote Multiball, where players can rack up massive points while battling Venom’s nemeses. It’s a thrilling ride for anyone who enjoys fast-paced action.
• Johnny Mnemonic (Williams, January 1995): Based on the sci-fi film, this machine transports players into a dystopian future where information is currency. The standout feature here is the Cyber Glove, a mechanical hand that players control to manipulate the ball across the playfield. It’s a unique experience that adds a layer of strategy to the game, making it a hit among those who appreciate a challenge.
• Medusa (Bally, February 1981): This classic machine combines Greek mythology with intricate artwork and challenging gameplay. The standout feature is the double-flipper setup, which adds an extra layer of difficulty. Players must activate the “Shield of the Gods” to protect their ball from draining, making every shot count in this mythological adventure.

The Final Showdown: Top Players of the Night

With 26 skilled participants vying for the top spot, the competition was fierce. Each round was a test of strategy and skill, and the final rankings reflect just how tight the battles were.

1. Wiley Bumtail (Phoenix, AZ) – IFPA Rank: 1959
   Wiley’s victory was a testament to his resilience, battling through the ranks to claim first place despite being ranked 45th in the state. His consistent play across all machines earned him the top spot in this grueling tournament.
2. Kevin Burns – IFPA Rank: 1786
   Kevin, ranked 119th in the state, put on a remarkable performance, finishing second. His experience in over 170 IFPA events shone through, but he just couldn’t edge out Wiley in the final round.
3. Jeff Wegener – IFPA Rank: 665
   Jeff, with a solid state ranking of 15th, showed why he’s considered a formidable opponent. His third-place finish was well-earned, though a few missed shots kept him from advancing further.
4. John Finnegan (Tucson, AZ) – IFPA Rank: 608
   John’s strong showing, including his win on Godzilla, secured him a fourth-place finish. With over 500 IFPA events under his belt, John’s experience was evident, though this time, the competition was just a bit too stiff.

Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Night

The Stern Army – Starbase 120 @ Taproom-120 was an exciting showcase of pinball talent, with Wiley Bumtail rising above the competition to take home the win. A big thank you to Olivia Helm for organizing such a smooth and enjoyable event, and to Taproom-120 for providing the perfect backdrop for an evening of pinball. If you’re ever in the area, make sure to check out Taproom-120, whether it’s for the games, the atmosphere, or just a great night out. You can find more about upcoming events and updates on their Facebook page.

Look forward to more exciting pinball updates and stories coming your way soon!