Pinball Action Under the Desert Sky: A Night at Level 1 Arcade Bar

Hey there, pinball enthusiasts! August 14, 2024, was another sizzling evening in Gilbert, AZ, but that didn’t stop nine passionate players from gathering at the Level 1 Arcade Bar for Week 5 of the Stern Army pinball tournament. With the temperature outside at a blistering 103°F, inside, the competition was even hotter. Over the course of just under an hour and a half, these players battled it out across four intense rounds, with plenty of thrilling moments and surprises. Let’s dive into the highlights of the night!

A Perfect Spot for Pinball Fun

Level 1 Arcade Bar is the kind of place that makes you want to stick around long after your game is over. Located on West Vaughn Ave, this spot is a perfect blend of retro gaming nostalgia and modern comfort. The atmosphere is just what you’d hope for—plenty of classic arcade games, a laid-back vibe, and staff that knows how to make you feel at home. Whether you’re in for a marathon gaming session or just dropping by for a quick drink and a few rounds, Level 1’s got you covered.

Monster Bash Steals the Show

Round 2 had everyone on the edge of their seats with a showdown on the Monster Bash (Remake LE). This game is all about bringing together the Universal Monsters to form a rock band, and the players in this round played like they were trying to join the band themselves. Henry Hanshaw, ranked 1047th in the world, rocked the table, taking first place by mastering the “Monsters of Rock” mode, where you have to collect all the instruments for the band. Robert Sedano, unranked but clearly not lacking in skill, claimed second, showing that rankings don’t always tell the full story. Mitch Reisler from Tempe, holding a ranking of 13495th, rounded out the podium, proving that dedication and love for the game can bring out some truly epic performances.

Pinball Machines That Brought the Heat

The tournament lineup featured an impressive roster of nine pinball machines, each bringing its own unique flavor to the night. Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern captivated players with its nostalgic nods and thrilling Demogorgon battles. Star Wars (Premium) and Deadpool (Premium), both Stern classics, provided fast-paced action that tested players’ reflexes and strategy. Jersey Jack’s Elton John (CE), a newer addition to the pinball world, dazzled with its vibrant design and engaging music integration, while Venom (Premium) and JAWS (Premium) by Stern kept the adrenaline pumping with their dynamic gameplay and immersive themes. Of course, no one could overlook the timeless appeal of Jurassic Park (Premium), Batman: The Dark Knight, and the spotlight game Monster Bash (Remake LE), each offering its own unique challenges and moments of glory.

Celebrating the Tournament Winners

A huge congratulations to Jocelyn Bowers, who claimed the top spot in this heated competition. Ranked 306th in the state, Jocelyn’s performance showed why she’s a rising star in the pinball scene. Kevin Burns, who snagged second place, is no stranger to the podium, with 171 IFPA events under his belt and a solid 118th state ranking. Gregg Hopwood, ranked 316th, battled his way to third place, proving that persistence pays off. And let’s not forget Henry Hanshaw, who not only dominated in Round 2 but also secured fourth overall—no small feat given the level of competition.

Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Night

This tournament was one for the books! A huge shoutout to Scott Goldsmith for organizing such a fantastic event, and to Level 1 Arcade Bar for providing the perfect backdrop for a night of pinball fun. Congrats once again to Jocelyn Bowers for taking home the win. We can’t wait to see what the next round of tournaments will bring—stay tuned for more pinball action and updates!