The scorching Arizona sun wasn’t the only thing bringing the heat on August 3, 2024, at the Tilt Women’s John Wick Consolation Tournament. Held at the ever-popular Tilt Studio, this event served as a thrilling follow-up to the main John Wick Women’s Launch Tournament we previously covered. As a side tournament, it allowed players who didn’t quite make it to the top in the main event to get a second shot at pinball glory. With a Basic Knockout format, nine fierce competitors duked it out over eight rounds of pinball mayhem. With a swift pace, the tournament wrapped up in just under two hours, but those 108 minutes were jam-packed with intense action. Players were paired up in two-player games, battling to avoid receiving two strikes that would end their journey. This was pinball at its finest—short, sweet, and full of surprises.
Tilt Studio: Where Pinball Dreams and Arcade Memories Collide
Nestled inside the Arizona Mills Mall in Tempe, Tilt Studio offers a vibrant mix of modern and retro gaming experiences. It’s not just a place for pinball enthusiasts but also a haven for anyone looking to relive the golden days of arcades. Though the abundance of claw machines might be a bit much for some, they add a carnival-like charm to the atmosphere. Upstairs is where the magic happens—dozens of pinball machines await, alongside a bar and restaurant for those needing a break from the flippers. While service can be slow, especially when the place is buzzing, the wood-fired pizzas are worth the wait. Add in some reasonably priced drinks, and you’ve got yourself the perfect spot to unwind after a day of arcade action.
Epic Showdown on Metallica: Round 3 Highlight
The third round saw one of the most electrifying matchups of the day on Metallica (Pro). Imagine the scene: Casey Halley, ranked 169th in the state, going head-to-head with Terri Boyd, who holds the 160th spot. As the game progressed, it felt like a Metallica concert come to life, with the pinball machine’s wild energy and heavy metal soundtrack adding to the intensity. The “Crank It Up” mode was a game-changer, as both players raced to maximize their score, hitting the Sparky target, Coffin, and Snake. Casey’s strategic use of the “Fade to Black” mode gave them the edge, but it was a close call right until the final ball drained. In the end, Casey emerged victorious, but both players walked away with their heads held high, knowing they had given it their all.
Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show
Tilt Studio’s collection of pinball machines made this tournament a true test of skill and strategy. Here’s a look at some of the standout machines:
Godzilla (Pro) by Stern (2021)
The king of monsters roars to life in this action-packed game. With its destructible buildings, innovative bridge mechanism, and multiple ramps, Godzilla demands both precision and creativity. The cityscape-themed playfield and dynamic modes, like “Godzilla Multiball,” keep players on their toes, making every game feel like a blockbuster showdown.
Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern (2017)
Players are transported to the cosmos with this machine, which captures the humor and high stakes of the Marvel universe. The Orb and Rocket Raccoon figures are not just decorative—they’re integral to gameplay, creating a fast-paced, unpredictable experience. The soundtrack, featuring hits from the movie’s Awesome Mix, adds to the immersive feel.
Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016)
This machine is a nostalgic nod to the 1984 classic, filled with ghost-trapping, proton-packed action. The “Slimer” bash toy, Ecto-1 target, and Stay Puft Marshmallow Man make for an engaging playfield. The game’s use of voice clips and theme music brings the ghost-hunting adventure to life, making it a favorite among fans.
Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (2018)
Deadpool brings his signature irreverence to this machine, filled with quirky humor and chaotic fun. The playfield is a playground of pop culture references, with modes like “Battle Modes” where players face off against ninjas, zombies, and more. The Katana ramp and Chimichanga truck add layers of strategy, making every game unique.
Metallica (Pro) by Stern (2013)
This fan-favorite captures the essence of heavy metal with its fast gameplay and intense modes. The “Crank It Up” feature, where players can select their favorite Metallica song to play during multiball, adds a personal touch. The mix of spinners, ramps, and bash toys creates a relentless pace that keeps players coming back for more.
Champions of the Consolation
Congratulations are in order for the top performers of the Tilt Women’s John Wick Consolation Tournament!
Mary Profeta Scardina proved that her 137th state ranking is no fluke, storming through the competition to claim first place. With an impressive 345 IFPA events under her belt, Mary’s experience and skill shone through, showing why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the Arizona pinball scene.
In second place, Casey Halley demonstrated resilience and strategic mastery. Ranked 169th in the state, Casey’s performance at this event is sure to boost their standing and add to their already impressive 306 IFPA event tally.
Kelly Mohs took third place, showing why they are ranked 131st in the state. With 109 IFPA events to their name, Kelly’s steady play and ability to handle high-pressure situations paid off, earning them a well-deserved spot on the podium.
Rounding out the top four, Janel Valdez continued to impress with a strong showing. Ranked 185th in the state, Janel’s performance in this tournament reflects her growing prowess in the pinball community, and her 212 IFPA events are a testament to her dedication to the game.
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 814.1 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 748.22 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 711.53 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 358.61 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 323.95 |
| 6 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 301.63 |
| 7 | Ben Clement | Marana | 297.96 |
| 8 | Jard Cassell | Scottsdale | 291.5 |
| 9 | Nate Tornero | 280.19 | |
| 10 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 264.45 |
Wrapping Up the Tilt Women’s John Wick Consolation
As the dust settled and the final scores were tallied, it was clear that this tournament was one for the books. A big shout-out to Tracy Lindbergh for organizing a flawless event at the always entertaining Tilt Studio. And of course, a huge congratulations to Mary Profeta Scardina for her outstanding performance. Stay tuned for more pinball action, tournament coverage, and all the latest news from the world of flippers and ramps!