The latest pinball action at the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona, was nothing short of electric! With 105 eager participants ready to flip, nudge, and tilt their way to glory, the Electric Bat Season 12-Part 2 #6 tournament offered intense competition in a fast-paced format. The event kicked off on August 13, 2024, at 6:30 PM, running for nearly two and a half hours under the warm desert evening with temperatures at a sizzling 104°F. With Rachel Bess at the helm, this tournament was bound to be one for the books!
Electric Bat Arcade: Where the Action Never Stops
If you’re a pinball enthusiast in Arizona, Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe is where you want to be. Located at 29 W. Southern Ave, this arcade is renowned for its vast collection of pinball machines, which are meticulously maintained to ensure top-notch gameplay. Whether you’re there at 6 AM or 2 AM (because yes, they’re open almost all day, every day), you’re bound to have an incredible experience. The arcade’s retro vibe, complete with old-school tokens and a friendly, knowledgeable staff, makes it a haven for both seasoned players and newcomers alike. And with 63 pinball games to choose from, including both classic and modern machines, there’s no shortage of entertainment here.
Shaken, Not Stirred: A Showdown on James Bond 007
One of the most memorable matches of the night took place during Round 4 on the sleek James Bond 007 (Premium) machine by Stern. As the players took their positions, it was clear that this game would be a test of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. Mike McClure, with a state rank of 42nd, had their sights set on the top spot. They navigated through the game’s “Moonraker” mode with precision, hitting all the right shots to rack up a solid score. Jobie, hailing from Piney Flats, put up a strong fight, but ultimately fell short in the final moments, securing second place. John Adams and Geoffrey Dorsey also gave it their all, but the night belonged to Mike McClure, who proved that their state ranking was well-deserved.
Pinball Machine Highlights: Old Classics and New Favorites
With a collection of 63 machines, Electric Bat Arcade offered something for every pinball aficionado. From the nostalgia of Hotdoggin’ (Bally, 1979) with its iconic ski theme and thrilling wide-body design, to the adrenaline-pumping action of Venom (Pro) (Stern, 2023), players were treated to a diverse lineup. Scared Stiff (Bally, 1996) was another fan favorite, with its spine-tingling gameplay designed by the legendary Dennis Nordman and art by Greg Freres. For those who love a bit of old-school charm, Eight Ball (Bally, 1977) provided a classic experience, while Batman 66 (Premium) (Stern, 2016) delivered a dose of modern pinball fun. Whether you’re into the dark fantasy of Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Stern, 2018) or the intense strategy of John Wick (Pro) (Stern, 2024), there was a machine to match every player’s style.
A Round of Applause for the Winners
After battling through a field of 105 participants, only a few could emerge victorious. Congratulations to Bob Kennedy from Mesa, AZ, who clinched the top spot. With a state rank of 37th and an IFPA rank of 1463, Bob’s performance was nothing short of stellar, proving his pinball prowess in a highly competitive tournament. Right on his heels was Jeff Barthold, who secured second place. Jeff’s experience, with 259 IFPA events under his belt, showed in his consistent play. Adam Horton, ranked 21st in the state, took third place, displaying why he’s a force to be reckoned with in the pinball community. Rounding out the top four was Ty Bull, who fought hard to earn his place among the tournament’s best. Well done to all the players who competed in this thrilling event!
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 814.1 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 755.11 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 717.14 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 359.51 |
| 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 Up the Electric Bat Experience
This tournament was a blast from start to finish, showcasing the best of what Arizona’s pinball scene has to offer. Hats off to Bob Kennedy for his stellar performance and to all the participants who made this event unforgettable. Electric Bat Arcade once again proved why it’s the go-to spot for pinball in the state. If you’re in the area, make sure to drop by and see what all the buzz is about. And don’t forget to follow along for more pinball news and updates on past events!