High Scores & Close Calls: The Best Moments from Level 1’s Showdown in Mesa

On February 26, 2025, at 7:00 PM, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Level 1 Arcade Bar in Mesa, Arizona, for the “Level One-February 26th-Week 4” tournament. This event featured four rounds, each with a single game, bringing together 11 players for a thrilling 1.5-hour competition.

Level 1 Arcade Bar: Where Nostalgia Meets Modern Fun

Located at 48 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201, Level 1 Arcade Bar is a go-to destination for gamers and pinball wizards alike. With a vast selection of classic arcade games and pinball machines, it offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Guests rave about the reasonable token prices and the impressive variety of games available. The bar also boasts a superb selection of food and drinks, including a notable array of craft beers on tap. It’s a family-friendly environment (with supervision), making it a perfect spot for both adults and kids to enjoy.

Godzilla Showdown: When Monsters and Players Collide

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Round 4, played on Stern’s Godzilla (Premium/LE) machine, released in September 2021. This game transports players into the heart of a city under siege by the iconic kaiju. Featuring innovative magnetic ball locks, an interactive skyscraper that collapses, and an upper playfield designed for fast-action shots, this machine quickly became a tournament staple.

Shawn Barnett was on fire during this round, showcasing his ability to control the chaos of the battlefield, skillfully using the Heat Ray button to rack up massive destruction jackpots. His strategic multiball play kept his score soaring, solidifying his win. Kevin Burns AZ gave him a run for his money, managing to activate Godzilla Power-Ups for critical bonus points, but ultimately fell just short of first place. Meanwhile, Chris Vanloon and Luke Hulsey—both unranked players—held their own, proving they weren’t just filler in the bracket. Chris had an impressive sequence of destruction targets that kept him in the game longer than expected, while Luke navigated the city destruction modes with determination. Though they didn’t clinch a top spot, they left the round with some well-earned battle scars and valuable tournament experience.

A Closer Look at the Machines: Five Icons of Pinball

The tournament featured 13 pinball machines, each with its unique charm. Let’s dive into five standout titles:

Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Williams (July 1991)

One of the most iconic machines of the early ’90s, Terminator 2 was the first pinball machine to introduce a player-controlled cannon shot, setting the stage for interactive features in later games. Designed by the legendary Steve Ritchie, this game was based on the blockbuster film and featured voiceovers from Arnold Schwarzenegger himself. The fast ramps, habitrails, and a gripping ruleset made it a must-play for tournament competitors who thrive on speed and precision.

Whirlwind by Williams (January 1990)

Nothing captures the chaos of storm chasing quite like Whirlwind. This game introduced spinning disks on the playfield that physically alter the ball’s trajectory—an innovation that makes every game unpredictable. The fan on the backbox actually blows air at players during gameplay, enhancing the immersive experience. With Pat Lawlor at the design helm, this machine remains a favorite among players who enjoy a challenge with ever-changing dynamics.

No Fear: Dangerous Sports by Williams (May 1995)

For adrenaline junkies, No Fear offers a taste of extreme sports, capturing the energy of motocross, skydiving, and other high-octane thrills. What makes this machine unique is its ability to keep the action flowing—there are no traditional outlanes, and the game continuously directs the ball back into play. With ramps that launch the ball at lightning speed and a talking skull that delivers wisecracks, this game is a perfect fit for aggressive playstyles.

The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992)

One of the most beloved pinball machines of all time, The Addams Family is a true masterpiece. This machine introduced the now-iconic “Thing Flip,” where the game automatically makes a flipper shot for the player—an early example of pinball AI. Designed by Pat Lawlor, it became the best-selling pinball machine ever, with over 20,000 units produced. Its deep ruleset and engaging callouts from Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston make it a must-play at any tournament.

The Munsters (Premium/LE) by Stern (January 2019)

Bringing the classic TV family to life, The Munsters pinball machine offers vibrant artwork, interactive toys, and an accessible yet deep playfield. The lower playfield, exclusive to the Premium and LE models, gives players a mini-pinball experience within the game, adding layers of strategy. The smooth flow of shots and fun animations make it a standout in modern pinball design.

Congratulations to the Champions: A Creature Feature Finale

The tournament culminated with a thrilling match on Bally’s Creature from the Black Lagoon, a game that transports players to a 1950s drive-in theater, complete with classic monster movie vibes. The game’s standout feature is its holographic lagoon, which reveals the Creature mid-game. Players must complete the “Find the Creature” mode, battling through ramps and multiballs, to capture the beast. The final results were:

1. Kevin Burns AZ: His extensive experience, with 204 IFPA events under his belt, shone through as he navigated the murky waters of the lagoon to emerge victorious.
2. Shawn Barnett: With 183 events to his name, Shawn showcased resilience and skill, securing a well-deserved second place.
3. Jocelyn Bowers: In her 49th event, Jocelyn’s strategic play earned her a spot on the podium, highlighting her rapid ascent in the pinball community.
4. Chris Vanloon: Despite being unranked, Chris’s performance throughout the tournament was commendable, marking him as a player to watch in future events.

Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Here’s a snapshot of the current top 10 pinball players in Arizona:

Wrapping Up: A Night to Remember

Kudos to organizer Scott Goldsmith for orchestrating such a seamless and exhilarating tournament. Level 1 Arcade Bar proved once again why it’s a premier destination for pinball aficionados. As the night concluded, players and spectators alike left with memories of epic plays and friendly camaraderie. Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights!