Pinball Showdown in Tempe: Recapping the Electric Bat Season 12-Part 2 #5

What’s up, pinball fans? It was another thrilling night at Electric Bat Arcade for the Electric Bat Season 12-Part 2 #5 tournament. With 105 players ready to show off their flipper skills, the competition was fierce. The tournament format was simple: five rounds, one game per round, and every shot counted. As the sun set on Tempe, the temperature stayed at a toasty 101°F, but inside the arcade, it was all about the cool precision of the players.

Where the Magic Happens: Electric Bat Arcade

If you haven’t been to Electric Bat Arcade yet, you’re missing out on one of the coolest spots to play pinball in Tempe, AZ. Located at 29 W. Southern Ave, this place is a true gem. The vibe here is electric (pun intended) with a great mix of classic and modern pinball machines, all meticulously maintained. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll feel right at home. And let’s not forget its prime location right next to the legendary Yucca Tap Room, making it a perfect hangout spot for a night of fun. The folks who run this place are some of the nicest around, always ready to help you out if you need a hand with the games.

Spotlight Game: Rush (Pro) by Stern

Round 4 brought us one of the most exciting matches of the night on Rush (Pro) by Stern. Released in January 2022, this game is packed with energy, much like the legendary band it’s themed after. The players were all set to rock out with modes like “The Spirit of Radio” keeping them on their toes. Ty Bull, ranked 36th in the state, clinched first place by strategically navigating the challenging shots during this mode. Cale Bess Hernandez, ranked 33rd in the state, gave Ty a run for his money but had to settle for second. Dante Fishell, representing Electric Bat Arcade, showed some serious local pride by landing third place, and Carl Sadowski from Phoenix rounded out the group in fourth. It was a game filled with tight maneuvers and intense moments, truly worthy of the Rush theme.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament at Electric Bat Arcade featured an impressive lineup of 61 pinball machines, but a few truly stood out for their unique designs and gameplay that had players coming back for more. Here’s a look at some of the highlights:

• Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball (2017):
  This game is a modern throwback with a retro vibe, and it’s all about speed, precision, and adrenaline-pumping action. Total Nuclear Annihilation takes you on a mission to destroy nuclear reactors before they melt down, with each reactor acting as its own mini-game. The intense soundtrack adds to the excitement as you build up reactors and then blow them up in a rush of lights and sound. The simple yet addictive gameplay loop makes this machine a fan favorite, especially for those who love the thrill of fast-paced pinball.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern (2018):
  Iron Maiden is more than just a pinball machine; it’s an epic journey through the universe of Eddie, the band’s iconic mascot. Players are challenged to battle beasts, collect power-ups, and conquer different worlds, all set to the backdrop of classic Iron Maiden tunes. The game’s fast-flowing shots and deep strategy options keep players on their toes, with the need to hit combos, complete modes, and stack multiballs. It’s a machine that rewards both skill and strategy, making it a top pick for those who love a complex and challenging game.
• Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern (2016):
  Batman 66 brings the campy charm of the classic TV show to life in a way that’s both nostalgic and engaging. The game is packed with modes based on different episodes, where players must capture and defeat iconic villains using gadgets like the Batphone and Batcave. Strategic planning is key as you work to lock balls for multiball, complete episodes, and rack up big points. The blend of colorful visuals, iconic sound bites, and clever gameplay mechanics makes Batman 66 a standout machine that’s as much fun to watch as it is to play.
• The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern (2021):
  Step into the Star Wars galaxy with The Mandalorian, a machine that captures the essence of the hit series. The gameplay is centered around completing missions, bounties, and encounters, with key shots advancing the storyline. The flow of the game is smooth, combining challenging shots with fun objectives that make you feel like you’re right alongside Mando and Grogu. Managing multiballs and collecting Beskar adds layers of strategy to the game, ensuring that there’s always something new to master.
• Firepower by Williams (1980):
  Firepower is a classic from the early ’80s that introduced groundbreaking innovations like lane change and a multiball system. Despite its straightforward ruleset, the gameplay is fast and challenging, requiring precise shots to light up targets, lock balls, and keep the action going. It’s a game that emphasizes skill over gimmicks, with a timeless design that has kept it popular among pinball enthusiasts for decades. Firepower’s raw, skill-based nature is a reminder of what makes pinball so enduringly fun.

These machines are just a taste of the incredible selection at Electric Bat Arcade, each offering a unique experience that keeps players engaged and coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced action, deep strategy, or classic gameplay, there’s something here for everyone.

Celebrating the Champions

A big congratulations to the top players of the night! Dave Halley, ranked 39th in the state, took home the top spot, proving once again that consistency pays off with his impressive IFPA rank of 689 over 460 events. In second place was John Shopple, from Mesa, AZ, currently ranked 3rd in the state and 94th in the world—no small feat with 414 IFPA events under his belt. Joe Soares, who holds a state rank of 150th, snagged third place, showing that determination and skill can propel anyone to the podium. Finally, Wesley Worosello, ranked 65th in the state, rounded out the top four with a solid performance.

Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up a Great Night

All in all, the Electric Bat Season 12-Part 2 #5 tournament was a huge success, thanks in large part to Rachel Bess for organizing such a smooth event and the fantastic location at Electric Bat Arcade. With its killer lineup of machines and the welcoming vibe, it’s no wonder this place continues to be a hot spot for pinball action in Tempe. Don’t miss out on the next tournament—you never know when the next pinball wizard might rise to the top! And if you need a breather between rounds, you can always take a stroll down to the Yucca Tap Room for a cold one. Until next time, keep those flippers ready!