Retro Magic and Pinball Mastery at Starfighters Monthly

August 10th saw the latest round of pinball wizards gathering at the iconic Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, for the Starfighters Monthly tournament. With scattered clouds shielding the blistering 106°F heat, 71 players stepped into the air-conditioned haven to compete in an intense 8-round, 1-game-per-round format. The tournament, organized by Kevin Curtis, zipped by in just over four hours, leaving plenty of time for everyone to hit the snack bar and relive their youth with Starfighters’ extensive collection of retro games.

Where Retro Lives On: Starfighters Arcade

Located at 4840 E Jasmine St #102 in Mesa, Starfighters Arcade is a blast from the past, offering a lineup of games that cater to every generation. Stepping through the doors, you’re instantly transported to the golden age of gaming, with classics from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s lining the walls. From shooters and racing games to the ever-popular Dance Dance Revolution, Starfighters offers something for everyone. With an all-night pass costing just $12, it’s not only a paradise for gamers but also a wallet-friendly experience. Whether you’re there with kids or on your own, Starfighters guarantees a night of fun and nostalgia.

Cirqus Voltaire Takes Center Stage

Round 8 brought the circus to life with Bally’s Cirqus Voltaire, a pinball machine that whisks players into a futuristic world of neon lights, daring acts, and creative challenges. This game, released in 1997, is a fan favorite in tournaments, and it’s easy to see why. Craig Bolton, hailing from Tempe, AZ, took on the challenge with finesse, navigating the vibrant playfield that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is a test of skill.

Craig’s victory was nothing short of spectacular. He expertly handled the game’s innovative features, including the notorious pop-up ringmaster, whose taunts only fueled his focus. His precision in triggering the interactive backbox cannon and completing the various circus acts, from sideshow frenzy to the high-wire multi-ball, showcased his deep understanding of the game’s mechanics. The culmination of his efforts was reaching the wizard mode, “Join the Cirqus,” where he executed his final shots with precision, sealing his win in a game that blends artistic flair with strategic depth. Craig’s performance on Cirqus Voltaire was a masterclass in how to dominate a machine that rewards both creativity and control.

Standout Pinball Machines: A Closer Look

With 66 machines on offer, there was no shortage of variety for competitors. Here’s a peek at some of the most memorable ones from the lineup:

1. Godzilla by Sega (Released January 1998):
   Godzilla brings the iconic monster to life in a chaotic pinball experience filled with roaring action. Released in 1998, this machine challenges players to protect the city from Godzilla’s wrath, combining fast-paced gameplay with a dynamic playfield that captures the thrill of the classic kaiju films. Expect multi-ball mayhem and a chance to take down the king of monsters in an epic showdown, making it a nostalgic favorite for tournament play.
2. Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern (Released May 2011):
   TRON: Legacy immerses players in the digital world of the Grid with a sleek design and captivating light show. Launched in 2011, this machine features unique elements like the illuminated ramp and a motorized Recognizer, creating an electrifying experience. The game’s deep rule set and exciting multi-ball modes make it a staple in tournament play, where precision and timing are key to mastering the challenges of the digital frontier.
3. Flash Gordon by Bally (Released May 1980):
   Flash Gordon is a challenging classic that has stood the test of time since its release in 1980. Known for its brutal difficulty and fast-paced gameplay, this machine demands sharp reflexes and strategic shot selection. The split-level playfield and the punishing outlanes make every game a nail-biting experience, solidifying its reputation as a tournament favorite where only the most skilled players thrive.
4. Scared Stiff by Bally (Released January 1996):
   Scared Stiff brings the spooky fun of Elvira’s world to life with humor and horror in equal measure. Released in 1996, this machine is packed with fun modes like “The Stiff-O-Meter” and interactive toys that entertain while challenging players to rack up points. The straightforward yet engaging gameplay makes it a crowd-pleaser in tournaments, where players aim to complete all the creepy objectives and light up the Stiff-O-Meter for the big payoff.
5. Taxi by Williams (Released January 1988):
   Taxi is a fun and fast-paced machine that takes players on a wild ride through a city filled with famous passengers like Dracula and Santa Claus. Released in 1988, this game is beloved for its quirky theme and addictive gameplay. The objective is simple but challenging: pick up all the passengers and drop them off to score big. Its straightforward rules and fast play make Taxi a favorite in tournaments, where quick reflexes and precision shots are the keys to victory.

Champions of the Cosmic Gunfight

In the final showdown, the players faced off on Cosmic Gunfight, a game known for its dual-level playfield and fast-paced gameplay. Conrad Betti, a Phoenix local, proved that his experience in 189 IFPA events paid off. He held steady under pressure, using the game’s unique slingshot mechanics to outmaneuver his opponents. Phillip Mazur gave a commendable performance, especially considering his relatively low event count, while John Shopple’s strong finish was expected, given his top-tier ranking.

1. Conrad Betti – Hailing from Phoenix, Conrad’s calm demeanor and sharp skills earned him the top spot. His victory on Cosmic Gunfight was a testament to his strategic gameplay and experience.
2. Phillip Mazur – Despite being a newer face with only 18 events under his belt, Phillip showed he’s a rising star in the pinball world, taking second place with impressive accuracy and focus.
3. John Shopple – Mesa’s own, John, didn’t disappoint. Known for his high ranking, he battled fiercely to secure third place, proving once again why he’s one of Arizona’s best.
4. Kenny Chan – With only four events to his name, Kenny’s fourth-place finish was nothing short of remarkable, hinting at a promising future in the competitive scene.

Top 10 Arizona IFPA Pinball Standings

Wrapping Up the August Tournament

As the dust settles on another thrilling Starfighters Monthly tournament, we raise a virtual glass to the champions who made their mark. Conrad Betti’s skillful navigation of Cosmic Gunfight proved that experience and strategy are key to mastering the game. For those who haven’t yet visited Starfighters Arcade, it’s more than just a location—it’s a journey back in time. With a plethora of retro games and pinball machines, there’s always something new (or old) to discover. For more information about upcoming tournaments or to plan your own visit, check out their website at Starfighters Arcade.

Stay tuned for more pinball action and tournament recaps. Until next time, keep those flippers hot and those scores high!