A Tribute to The Last Starfighter: Starfighters Monthly Tournament

The Starfighters Monthly pinball tournament brought together 87 enthusiastic players in a heated Group Knockout Tournament. Held on July 13, 2024, the competition saw participants battling it out over 14 rounds at the iconic Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, AZ. With clear skies and a sweltering 107°F, it was a day of intense gameplay and camaraderie. This week also marks the 40th anniversary of The Last Starfighter, adding a nostalgic layer to the event, as players channeled their inner Alex Rogan, striving to make their mark in pinball history.

A Gamers’ Paradise: Starfighters Arcade

Starfighters Arcade, located at 4840 E Jasmine St #102, Mesa, AZ, is a mecca for gaming aficionados. This vibrant arcade is packed with a fantastic collection of games and pinball machines, making it a hotspot for local and visiting gamers alike. With a modest entry fee of $11, patrons can enjoy three hours of non-stop gaming bliss. However, for those sensitive to noise, earplugs might be a wise addition to the gaming kit as there are a lot of machines and people.

Round 6 Thriller: Cirqus Voltaire

The sixth round of the tournament on Cirqus Voltaire by Bally was a thrilling display of skill and strategy. Cirqus Voltaire, with its vibrant circus theme, challenges players with a mix of dazzling lights, taunting ringmasters, and complex shots.

Phillip Mazur took center stage, skillfully navigating the chaotic circus atmosphere to claim the top spot. His performance was a testament to his precise aim and calm under pressure. Craig Bolton followed closely, demonstrating his steady hand and tactical prowess amidst the game’s vibrant chaos. Greg Drewes, known for his top-tier skills, put on a strong performance but found the pressure of the moment a bit overwhelming, landing him in third place. Paul Blanco rounded out the group, showing impressive skill but ultimately being outpaced by his competitors.

Pinball Machines: A Closer Look

The Starfighters Monthly Tournament showcased an impressive lineup of 65 pinball machines, each offering unique features and gameplay experiences. Let’s dive into some of the most memorable machines that added excitement and challenge to the competition:

The Addams Family by Bally (1992)

A fan favorite, The Addams Family pinball machine is known for its intricate design and engaging features. With a playfield inspired by the eccentric Addams family mansion, it includes toys like Thing’s hand and the electric chair. The machine’s unique “Thing Flips” feature, where the game controls the flipper to make a shot, adds an element of surprise and excitement.

Pinball Magic by Capcom (1995)

Pinball Magic captures the essence of a magician’s world, complete with illusions and tricks. The game features a levitating ball and a disappearing ball trick, which keeps players on their toes. Its captivating artwork and interactive magic wand make it a visually stunning and entertaining machine.

F-14 Tomcat by Williams (1987)

Inspired by the iconic fighter jet, F-14 Tomcat is a fast-paced pinball machine with exhilarating gameplay. The machine boasts a unique multi-ball feature, where players can launch up to four balls simultaneously. Its military-themed design, complete with flashing lights and sounds of air combat, provides an immersive experience.

AC/DC (Pro) by Stern (2012)

AC/DC (Pro) offers rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts a high-energy pinball experience, featuring the band’s greatest hits. The game includes a lower playfield, various ramps, and a TNT detonator, enhancing its dynamic gameplay. The integration of AC/DC’s music with the game mechanics creates a thrilling atmosphere for players.

The Shadow by Bally (1994)

Based on the 1994 movie, The Shadow pinball machine features intricate ramps and unique ball-locking mechanisms. The machine’s distinctive battlefield and mini-playfield challenge players with complex shots and strategic play. The game’s dark and mysterious theme is enhanced by its captivating artwork and audio.

Celebrating the Champions

The Starfighters Monthly tournament showcased some of the finest pinball talent in Arizona. Let’s give a round of applause to our top four players, who navigated through 65 machines and outlasted over 80 competitors.

1. Roland Nadeau from Phoenix, AZ, took home the gold. With a state rank of 1st and an impressive IFPA rank of 32, Roland is no stranger to the podium. His extensive experience, having competed in 310 IFPA events, clearly paid off as he skillfully maneuvered through the challenges, showing why he’s the top player in the state.
2. Greg Drewes secured second place, demonstrating why he’s ranked 4th in the state and 325th in the IFPA. Known for his strategic play and consistency, Greg’s participation in 125 events has honed his skills, making him a formidable opponent. His performance in this tournament solidified his reputation as one of Arizona’s best.
3. Connor Kennedy came in third, a remarkable achievement for someone ranked 53rd in the state and 1588th in the IFPA. Connor’s tenacity and passion for the game shone through, proving that even those ranked lower can rise to the occasion and challenge the top contenders. His journey through 70 IFPA events has clearly sharpened his competitive edge.
4. John Magyar from Arizona rounded out the top four. With a state rank of 7th and an IFPA rank of 261, John’s extensive experience, marked by 259 IFPA events, was evident in his gameplay. His ability to stay composed under pressure and his deep knowledge of the machines helped him secure his spot among the elite players of the tournament.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Starfighters Monthly Tournament

The Starfighters Monthly tournament was a fantastic showcase of skill, strategy, and community. As mentioned, it is the 40th anniversary of The Last Starfighter, a film where a young gamer’s prowess at an arcade game leads to interstellar heroics. Just like Chris Columbus, the Wright Brothers, and Geloca before him, Roland Nadeau triumphed in the ugly face of adversity. Thanks for joining us for the Starfighters Monthly tournament! Keep following for more exciting pinball news and events!