The Arizona pinball scene was sizzling—literally and figuratively—as 25 sharp-shooters gathered for the Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play tournament. With the temperature outside soaring to a blistering 103°F, the action inside was equally heated. The event, held on August 9, 2024, kicked off at 6:30 PM and spanned nearly three hours, filled with thrilling moments, dramatic comebacks, and some serious flipper action. Bob Kennedy, the event’s organizer, ensured that every round packed a punch, making this one tournament players won’t soon forget.
Nostalgia Meets High-Tech: Atomic Age Modern
The tournament was hosted at Atomic Age Modern, a gem tucked away at 140 W Main St in Mesa, AZ. This location is a true pinball enthusiast’s paradise, blending retro vibes with a modern twist. From vintage furniture to a stunning array of pinball machines, Atomic Age Modern offers more than just a place to play; it’s a full-on experience. The venue is famous not only for its impressive pinball collection but also for its welcoming atmosphere, with regulars raving about the friendly owners and the nostalgic energy that fills the space. Whether you’re there to compete or just to relax in one of their famously comfy chairs, Atomic Age Modern has something for everyone.
The John Wick Showdown: Round 3 Highlights
Round 3 saw the players face off on John Wick (Pro), a pinball machine that has quickly become a fan favorite since its release by Stern in May 2024. Known for its fast-paced gameplay and adrenaline-pumping features, this game demands precision and skill. The battle was fierce, with Shawn Barnett, ranked 96th in the state, taking first place. His deft use of the “Baba Yaga” multiball mode gave him the edge, leaving John Magyar, Arizona’s 6th-ranked player, trailing in second. Dave Halley, ranked 39th, claimed third place, while Phoenix’s own Gavin Bowman, ranked 72nd, rounded out the group in fourth. The competition was as intense as the theme itself, with each player pushing their limits on this action-packed machine.
Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show
Atomic Age Modern’s lineup for the tournament was nothing short of spectacular, with 19 machines that ranged from classic to contemporary. A few standouts included:
- Firepower (Williams, 1980): A true classic, this machine is renowned for being one of the first to feature lane change and multi-ball, keeping players on their toes with its strategic gameplay.
- Flight 2000 (Stern Electronics, 1980): This vintage beauty offers a unique mix of sounds and a captivating space theme, making it a favorite among those who love a bit of nostalgia with their pinball.
- Rush (Pro) (Stern, 2022): A newer addition to the Stern lineup, this machine celebrates the legendary band Rush, with music, light shows, and challenging shots that resonate with both music and pinball fans alike.
- Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) (Chicago Gaming, 2021): A modern remake of a beloved classic, this machine brings a Wild West theme to life with updated features that keep the gameplay fresh and exciting.
- Elvira’s House of Horrors (LE) (Stern, 2019): A spooky and fun machine, this one is packed with campy horror elements and humor, perfect for players who enjoy a good scare along with their pinball.
Celebrating the Champions: A Hard-Fought Battle
The final game of the night on Foo Fighters (Premium) was nothing short of electrifying, with Bob Kennedy emerging as the tournament’s champion. Known for his strategic play, Bob, who usually sits at a comfortable state rank of 37th, demonstrated why he’s a force to be reckoned with. His experience across 131 IFPA events paid off, particularly during the “Overlord Multiball” feature, where his calm under pressure allowed him to secure the victory. Bob’s win at his home base of Mesa, AZ, was a testament to his deep understanding of the game’s nuances and his ability to perform when it matters most.
Challenging him was John Magyar, one of Arizona’s top competitors, ranked 6th in the state and 277th in the nation. John’s aggressive playstyle and sharp reflexes kept him in the running throughout the tournament. His close finish in second place shows just how competitive the top tier of Arizona pinball truly is. With 267 events under his belt, John’s consistency and skill make him a familiar face on the podium.
Coming in third was Jason Barre, another Mesa local who is no stranger to the winner’s circle. Ranked 5th in the state and with an impressive 465 IFPA events to his name, Jason’s deep experience and tactical play helped him navigate the tricky shots on Foo Fighters. Though he couldn’t clinch the top spot, his performance was a reminder of why he’s one of Arizona’s most respected players.
Rounding out the top four was Gavin Bowman from Phoenix. With a state rank of 72nd, Gavin was the underdog among the finalists, but he didn’t let that stop him from putting up a strong fight. His journey through the tournament was marked by steady improvement and a fearless approach, proving that rankings aren’t everything when it comes to the high-stakes world of competitive pinball. Gavin’s ability to hold his own against higher-ranked players speaks volumes about his potential to rise even further in future tournaments.
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 It Up: A Night to Remember
The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play tournament was a roaring success, thanks to the excellent organization by Bob Kennedy and the stellar location at Atomic Age Modern. The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the thrilling competition on the John Wick machine, where players gave it their all. A big thanks to everyone who came out to play and those who followed the action from afar. Stay connected for more pinball tournament excitement and game info! For those looking to dive into the world of pinball, be sure to check out Atomic Age Modern’s website for more upcoming events: https://www.atomicagemodern.com/pinball.