The Bat Belt Finals may have been a small gathering, but the competition was fierce! Held on January 5, 2025, at an undisclosed location somewhere in Arizona, this 3-round tournament packed intense pinball action into just 2.5 hours. Rachel Bess organized this tight-knit event, bringing together four skilled players to battle it out on a trio of standout machines.
The Mystery Location
We wish we could give you the inside scoop on where this epic showdown took place, but alas, the location remains a mystery. Someone should remind Rachel Bess to add the venue details to MatchPlay next time! Until then, we can only imagine the atmosphere where flippers clacked and multiballs raged.
Spotlight Match: Monsters and Mayhem on Creature from the Black Lagoon
Round 1 delivered a thrilling clash on Bally’s Creature from the Black Lagoon. This game transports players straight into a 1950s drive-in movie, blending classic monster horror with dazzling pinball action. Roland Nadeau, known for his strategic play, tackled the lagoon’s lurking dangers with precision. Nicholas Zachry and Ty Bull chased closely behind, each battling through whirlpool ramps and those tricky snack bar targets. In the end, Roland’s calculated shots and timely multiballs submerged the competition, leaving the others grasping for air. It was a match worthy of a midnight double feature!
Machines That Made the Magic Happen
John Wick (Pro) by Stern
Stern’s John Wick pinball machine, released in May 2024, throws players into the high-stakes world of the iconic assassin. Designed by Elliot Eismin, this machine introduces a groundbreaking AI system that controls enemy lights on the playfield, making each game dynamically challenging. Unlike traditional machines, the enemies adapt to player behavior, demanding quick reflexes and strategic thinking. Fast ramps, complex shot sequences, and brutal missions mirror John Wick’s relentless action, making every ball feel like a fight for survival.
James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern
Celebrating six decades of the world’s most famous spy, Stern’s James Bond 007 60th Anniversary Limited Edition brings classic espionage to life. Released in January 2023 and limited to only 500 units, this Keith Elwin-designed machine features callbacks to all 25 Bond films. Players take on iconic villains, navigate high-speed missions, and interact with Oddjob’s kinetic spinning hat. The blend of retro aesthetics with modern gameplay makes it a collector’s dream and a player’s ultimate test of skill.
Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally
A timeless classic, Bally’s Creature from the Black Lagoon from 1992 immerses players in a nostalgic 1950s drive-in movie. Designed by John Trudeau, the game is famous for its innovative holographic Creature, which lurks beneath the playfield during multiball. This hologram, crafted by Polaroid, adds an eerie depth that makes every game feel cinematic. Its combination of thrilling multiball modes and thematic storytelling remains a fan favorite decades later.
Champions of the Lagoon
Congratulations to Roland Nadeau from Phoenix, AZ, for securing first place! Ranked 49th in the IFPA with an impressive 330 events under his belt, Roland showed why he’s a top-tier competitor. Ty Bull, despite being ranked 326th, clawed his way to second place—a fantastic leap for someone with just 58 events. Nicholas Zachry from Gilbert claimed third, demonstrating his growing prowess with 106 events and a solid 317 ranking. John Shopple, a seasoned player from Mesa with 436 events and a 96th ranking, rounded out the group. Each player brought their A-game, but Roland’s consistency and experience ultimately led him to victory.
Wrapping Up the Action
The Bat Belt Finals proved that even small tournaments can deliver big thrills. Congratulations again to Roland Nadeau on his well-earned win! Hopefully, next time we’ll have more details about the elusive location—until then, keep those flippers warm and stay tuned for more pinball updates. Follow along for more pinball news and past event highlights!
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