The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 6 (#2) pinball tournament brought together 41 skilled players on the evening of August 19, 2024. The event, held at the ever-popular Player 1 Arcade in Surprise, Arizona, was a fast-paced affair, wrapping up in just under three hours. With the temperature outside a scorching 106°F, the competition inside was just as heated, as players faced off across five intense rounds, each featuring a single game.
A Top-Notch Pinball Paradise
Player 1 Arcade, nestled in the heart of Surprise, is more than just a pinball venue—it’s a pinball lover’s dream. Located at 17239 North Litchfield Road, this arcade is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, a stellar collection of classic and modern games, and a welcoming vibe that caters to both seasoned players and newcomers alike. Visitors rave about the unique artwork and the ability to enjoy a drink while playing everything from retro favorites like Donkey Kong to the latest pinball machines. Whether you’re a competitive pinball player or just looking for a fun night out, Player 1 Arcade hits the mark every time.
Guardians of the Galaxy: A Battle Among the Stars
Round 3 of the tournament saw players go head-to-head on Stern’s Guardians of the Galaxy, a game that blends thrilling gameplay with the beloved Marvel universe. As Star-Lord and the Guardians faced off against Ronan the Accuser, players Kevin Ehlers, Mark Pearson, Retro Ralph, and Frankie Estrella navigated the game’s intricate features and epic soundtrack. Kevin Ehlers, ranked 72nd in the state, played like a true hero, channeling his inner Star-Lord to claim first place in this round. Mark Pearson, the state’s number two player, followed closely, while Retro Ralph and Frankie Estrella fought valiantly but ultimately landed in third and fourth, respectively.
Pinball Machines That Stole the Show
The tournament featured 16 outstanding pinball machines, but a few stood out from the rest. Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams, released in 1996, captivated players with its magical theme and mesmerizing spinning lamp feature. Meanwhile, Stern’s John Wick (Pro), a recent addition from May 2024, offered intense action, reflecting the relentless spirit of the film series. Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast and Jurassic Park (Pro), both by Stern, provided a thrilling mix of challenging shots and immersive themes. And of course, Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming delivered a retro cinematic experience, perfect for fans of the iconic film.
Celebrating the Champions
Congratulations to Nicholas Van Doren for taking first place in this fiercely competitive tournament. With a state ranking of 101st and an IFPA rank of 2213, Nicholas proved that persistence pays off, climbing to the top after 43 IFPA events. Close on his heels was Mary Profeta Scardina, whose impressive record of 350 IFPA events speaks to her experience and skill. Rob De La O secured third place, continuing to build his competitive resume, while Scott Ping, ranked 90th in the state, rounded out the top four with a strong performance that reflects its growing presence in the Arizona pinball scene.
Arizona IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 834.02 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 783.26 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 773.53 |
| 4 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 379.02 |
| 5 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 334.11 |
| 6 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 308.59 |
| 7 | Jard Cassell | Scottsdale | 308.28 |
| 8 | Andrew Roesch | 307.28 | |
| 9 | Nicholas Zachry | Gilbert | 299.78 |
| 10 | Ben Clement | Marana | 297.98 |
Wrapping Up a Stellar Event
The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 6 (#2) was a night to remember, full of excitement, competition, and, of course, incredible pinball action. Kudos to Jim Smith for organizing another successful event and to Player 1 Arcade for providing the perfect setting. With Nicholas Van Doren taking home the victory, the tournament concluded on a high note. For more details on upcoming events, be sure to check out Player 1 Arcade’s Facebook page here. Stay tuned for more pinball updates and stories!