As the Arizona sky showcased its clear, starry expanse, with temperatures at a comfortable 79°F, the bustling atmosphere of HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom in Chandler, AZ, was heating up with the thrill of competition. The Multiball Monday 11/6 pinball tournament, held on November 06, 2023, was not just a display of pinball prowess but a celebration of community and craft beer.
HOP Central Brewing Co: More Than Just a Brewery
HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom set the stage for this exciting event. More than a standard brewpub, it’s a haven for craft beer enthusiasts and pinball wizards alike. The venue’s impressive selection of house brews, Arizona-brewed options, and a surprisingly vast array of Belgian imports make it a standout in the local scene. Coupled with the inviting atmosphere of pinball machines clinking and buzzing, it’s a hub for good times and great games.
The Godzilla Showdown
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Round 2 on Stern’s Godzilla (Pro). This machine, a crowd favorite since its release in September 2021, witnessed a fierce battle among the players. Henry Hanshaw emerged as the top player in this round, with Alex Cardwell and Amanda Kennedy from Mesa closely tailing him. Jason Hecht from Chandler, AZ, also put up a commendable performance.
Saluting the Pinball Champions
The tournament saw an impressive array of talent across its 5 rounds:
- 1st: Mark Farina Jr from Gilbert, Arizona – A consistent performer who knows the ins and outs of the game.
- 2nd: Alex Cardwell – Showcasing skillful plays throughout the tournament.
- 3rd: Austin Wolfe – A rising star in the pinball world.
- 4th: Greg Mohs from AZ – Demonstrating strategic finesse and quick reflexes.
A Parade of Pinball Greats
The event featured a variety of pinball machines, each adding its unique flavor to the tournament:
- James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: A spy-themed adventure that kept players on their toes.
- Foo Fighters (Premium/LE) by Stern: Combining rock music with pinball action.
- Venom (Pro) by Stern: Bringing the iconic Marvel character to life in pinball form.
- Hot Wheels by American Pinball: A nostalgic trip down the fast lane.
- Rush (Pro) by Stern: A perfect blend of rock music and high-speed pinball gameplay.
Verdict
As the night concluded, the winners basked in their well-deserved glory, and the other participants left with experiences to cherish. Multiball Monday 11/6 at HOP Central Brewing Co wasn’t just a tournament; it was a testament to the thriving pinball culture, a perfect blend of competition, craft beer, and community.
Stay tuned for more from the exhilarating realm of pinball, where every flipper hit tells a story!