On a clear and cool December evening in Tempe, Arizona, the Electric Bat Arcade buzzed with the excitement of the Season 10- Series 1 #3 pinball tournament. As the clock struck 6:30 PM on December 26, 2023, 85 players were ready to face off in a fast-paced, skill-driven showdown, organized by Rachel Bess.
Electric Bat Arcade: A Pinball Player’s Delight
Located at 29 W. Southern Ave, the Electric Bat Arcade is a treasure trove for pinball enthusiasts. Offering a vast selection of machines, it’s a haven where everyone, from casual players to seasoned pros, finds something to enjoy. The adjacent Yucca Tap Room adds to the experience, serving up a variety of good, reasonably priced drinks. However, be prepared to spend a bit on gameplay, as some machines cost $1.00 per play.
The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy
The tournament’s format was straightforward yet challenging, consisting of 5 rounds with one game per round. Players’ skills were put to the test, as they navigated through the rounds, earning points based on their finishing positions. The goal was clear: accumulate the most points to emerge victorious.
Round 3 Highlight: Joker Poker Showdown
In Round 3, the spotlight was on Joker Poker, a classic Gottlieb machine from 1978. This round saw a fierce competition, with Brandon Passey seizing the first place. Hot on his heels were Jeff Barthold, Josh Tornow, and Brodie Moore, each demonstrating remarkable pinball prowess.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament concluded with four players standing out for their exceptional gameplay:
- Amber Valdivia: A stellar performance throughout the rounds crowned her the tournament champion.
- Greg Drewes: With consistent play, Greg secured a well-deserved second place.
- John Shopple from Mesa, AZ: Showed great skill and focus, landing him in third place.
- Mike Fishell: Rounded out the top four with his strategic gameplay.
Pinball Machine Showcase
Among the 60 pinball machines available, these were some of the highlights:
- Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: A modern marvel that brings the giant monster to life.
- The Godfather (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Released in 2023, it’s a new favorite blending cinematic themes with pinball action.
- Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams: A timeless classic that continues to thrill players.
- Medieval Madness (Remake) by Chicago Gaming: A beloved machine that combines fantasy with challenging gameplay.
- Night Rider by Bally: For those who love a touch of nostalgia in their pinball experience.
A Memorable Evening at Electric Bat
As the tournament wrapped up, players left with memories of a night filled with exciting rounds, strategic plays, and the joy of pinball. Whether you’re a pinball fanatic or just looking for a fun night out, Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, AZ, is definitely worth a visit.
Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the world of pinball!