Desert Duel: Intense Competition at Player 1 Arcade’s 2024 Series

Another round of competitive pinball action hit Surprise, Arizona, this past Monday at the Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 6 (#4) tournament. Under the clear skies and a blazing 102°F temperature, 35 players battled it out over five rounds, each facing a new machine every match. With intense gameplay lasting nearly three hours, the competition was fast-paced, keeping everyone on their toes.

The event brought players of all skill levels together for an evening of pinball excitement. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, it was anyone’s game as players vied for the top spot. Organizer Jim Smith kept things running smoothly, providing a great night for all. Let’s dive into some of the highlights from this unforgettable tournament.

Getting to Know Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade is the perfect spot for both seasoned pinball enthusiasts and casual players alike. Tucked away in Surprise, AZ, the arcade boasts a great mix of pinball machines and classic arcade games. With its inviting, retro vibe, it’s easy to get lost in the nostalgia of games like Mortal Kombat and Donkey Kong while still enjoying newer titles.

What makes Player 1 stand out is its laid-back atmosphere. Despite being an arcade bar, it’s not overwhelmingly loud or crowded, making it a comfortable place to kick back with a drink and enjoy some friendly competition. The walls are lined with fantastic artwork, adding a unique flair to the space. Plus, the token prices are easy on the wallet, which is always a bonus for arcade-goers. For a quiet night of gaming or an intense pinball tournament, Player 1 Arcade has it all.

Iron Maiden Dominates in Round 1

One of the most thrilling games of the night took place on Stern’s Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast during Round 1. This machine, with its fast-paced gameplay and unique “Power Pyramid” feature, challenged the best of the best.

Jeremy Reiman, who hails from Peoria, AZ, pulled off a stunning first-place win on this machine, using the Power Pyramid multiball to outlast the competition. With his rank of 166th in the state, Jeremy’s victory over the highly ranked Mark Pearson (3rd in AZ) turned some heads. Pearson, though a dominant force on most machines, couldn’t quite find his rhythm this time around and had to settle for second. Rounding out the group, Rob De La O and Cara Eisinger held their own but were edged out in the game’s final moments.

Pinball Machines in the Spotlight

Player 1 Arcade’s selection of pinball machines gave players plenty of variety to test their skills. Here’s a quick look at some of the standout machines from the tournament:

• Metallica (Pro) by Stern (April 2013): Based on the legendary heavy metal band, Metallica is packed with fast, frantic gameplay, featuring the band’s most iconic songs. Players get to unleash chaos with Sparky, the electric chair captive, whose electrocution triggers multiball mayhem. The playfield is littered with ramps, drop targets, and magnets that hold the ball for added unpredictability, making every game a hard-hitting thrill ride.
• Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (July 2019): This machine captures the excitement of the Jurassic Park films, putting players in charge of containing runaway dinosaurs while navigating a treacherous island. The moving T-Rex head adds an element of suspense as it chomps down on the ball, and the Raptor Pen is a key feature that triggers high-scoring multiball modes. For players who love immersive themes, this machine offers strategic depth and high-stakes moments.
• Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern (March 2023): The Foo Fighters machine combines rock and roll energy with chaotic pinball action. Players follow the band through an alien invasion storyline, taking on alien overlords in various cities across Earth. With powerful audio and light shows that sync to Foo Fighters hits, this machine creates a high-octane environment where quick reflexes and careful shot selection are essential.
• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (September 2021): A fan-favorite, Godzilla takes players into the world of giant monster battles. The innovative Mechagodzilla playfield toy, collapsing buildings, and destruction-themed multiball modes offer tons of excitement. Players must strategically navigate the city, destroying tanks and buildings while battling other kaiju to score big. With dynamic modes and satisfying shots, it’s no wonder Godzilla has become a staple in competitive pinball.
• Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): Fans of Quentin Tarantino’s cult classic film will love the homage in this pinball adaptation. With its gritty, 90s aesthetic and dialogue straight from the movie, Pulp Fiction is packed with references to iconic scenes and characters. The machine’s fast-paced, unpredictable gameplay features multiple mission modes, bringing out the film’s irreverent spirit and keeping players engaged with its retro charm.

These machines were just a few of the 18 that players rotated through, making for an exciting and unpredictable evening of competition.

Celebrating the Top Performers

The competition was fierce, but in the end, only one could claim victory. Jim Smith, who organized the tournament, managed to snag the top spot with some impressive gameplay. Hailing from Phoenix, AZ, and ranked 17th in the state, Jim put on a clinic with his mastery of the machines.

Not far behind was Scott Ping, taking second place. Despite having fewer IFPA events under its belt, Scott showed a steady hand in the clutch moments. In third, Vincent De La O made his presence felt, followed by the always consistent Mike McClure rounding out the top four. Here’s the full breakdown of the top players:

1. Jim Smith (Phoenix, AZ)
2. Scott Ping (Arizona)
3. Vincent De La O
4. Mike McClure (Glendale, AZ)

Arizona’s Top 10 Pinball Rankings

The pinball scene in Arizona is thriving, and here’s a look at the current top 10 IFPA rankings:

Keep an eye on these players as they continue to dominate the Arizona pinball scene!

Wrapping Things Up

All in all, the Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 6 (#4) was another fantastic event. Congratulations again to Jim Smith on his victory, and kudos to all the players for making it such a competitive and exciting tournament. If you’re ever in the Surprise, AZ area, be sure to check out Player 1 Arcade for some great pinball action. You can learn more about their events and offerings on their Facebook page.

Until next time, keep flipping those flippers and follow along for more updates on the Arizona pinball scene!