Pinball Magic at Player 1 Arcade: A Thrilling Showdown

July 15, 2024 – The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 (#4) pinball tournament was a blast! We had 28 contenders showing off their skills, precision, and maybe a bit of luck. With clear skies and a blazing 107°F outside, the cool haven inside Player 1 Arcade was the perfect escape for this fierce competition. The tournament ran for nearly three hours, filled with non-stop excitement.

An Electrifying Atmosphere at Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade is the go-to spot in Surprise, Arizona. Located at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, this place is a true gem for gamers of all ages. The atmosphere here is a mix of nostalgic charm and modern excitement, making it a haven for pinball enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. The walls are adorned with vibrant artwork, and the game selection is top-notch, featuring classics like Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and Donkey Kong. Even though it was scorching hot outside, the bright spirits inside the arcade made it the perfect place for a fun and competitive tournament.

Pinball Machines That Stole the Show

The tournament featured 18 amazing pinball machines, each offering its own unique challenge. Here are some of the standouts:

Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern (2017) This machine takes you on a galactic adventure with its intricate playfield and captivating artwork. The dynamic soundtrack and voiceovers from the movie cast make it an immersive experience. Key features include a Groot bash toy that locks balls and a Rocket kickback lane that keeps the action unpredictable.

James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern (2022) Inspired by the legendary spy, this machine combines sleek design with thrilling gameplay. The rotating Aston Martin DB5, jetpack multiball, and meticulous details transport players into the world of espionage. The high-definition LCD display enhances the storytelling aspect, making every play an adventure.

Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern (2023) Rocking out on this machine is a treat for fans of the band and pinball alike. With a custom soundtrack featuring Foo Fighters hits, players are tasked with lighting up concert modes and hitting the various ramps and targets. The kinetic energy of the game mirrors the high-octane spirit of a live concert.

Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern (2018) A fan favorite, this machine blends heavy metal music with intricate gameplay. Players journey through different worlds, guided by Eddie, the band’s mascot. The machine’s four flippers, multiple ramps, and challenging modes ensure non-stop action, while the epic soundtrack keeps the adrenaline pumping.

Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams (1996) This classic transports players to a magical realm with its stunning artwork and immersive storytelling. The Genie toy, spinning lamp, and magnet-flipper combination add layers of excitement. Its intricate playfield and engaging modes make it a timeless favorite, capturing the essence of Arabian folklore.

Battle of the Bands: Round 5 on Foo Fighters (LE)

Round 5 was a real highlight, featuring a spectacular match on Stern’s Foo Fighters (LE) pinball machine, released in March 2023. The game’s rock-and-roll theme set the stage for an epic clash. Mike McClure from Glendale, AZ, ranked 43rd in the state, brought their A-game, channeling the energy of a Foo Fighters concert into every flip and nudge. McClure’s precision and timing were key to their victory, securing first place in a thrilling showdown. They outperformed Christian Paustian, ranked 214th in the state, who put up a strong fight but couldn’t keep up with McClure’s pace. Michael B Cameron from Phoenix, AZ, ranked 32nd in the state, took third place with remarkable skill and determination. Angie Suckow rounded out the top four, adding to the excitement with her spirited play.

Congratulating the Champions

1. Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix took first place with her impressive skills. Ranked 97th in the state and 1616th in the IFPA, Lee Ann has participated in 228 IFPA events, showcasing why she’s such a formidable competitor. Her consistent and calculated gameplay earned her the top spot.
2. Mike McClure claimed second place, adding another accolade to their name. With a state rank of 43rd and an IFPA rank of 1371, McClure’s experience in 145 IFPA events was evident, especially with their stellar performance on Foo Fighters.
3. Mark Pearson secured third place. Ranked 2nd in the state and 70th in the IFPA, Mark hails from Phoenix and has 600 IFPA events under his belt. His high ranking reflects his dedication and skill in the world of competitive pinball.
4. Christian Paustian, although newer to the scene with only 6 IFPA events, managed to capture fourth place. Ranked 214th in the state, Christian’s performance was remarkable, showing great potential for future competitions.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up

The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 (#4) was an unforgettable event, bringing together the best of Arizona’s pinball talent for a night of intense competition and camaraderie. From the electrifying atmosphere to the standout performances, every moment was a testament to the passion and skill of the pinball community. For more details and upcoming events, make sure to check out Player One Arcade’s Facebook page. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual fan, there’s always something exciting happening at Player 1 Arcade!