Starfighters Arcade Hosts an Epic SPF 25 Division C Clash

Under the clear Arizona skies, with temperatures hovering around a crisp 60°F, the SPF 25 Division C Qualifying pinball tournament unfolded at the renowned Starfighters Arcade in Mesa on February 22, 2025. This event drew 36 passionate players, each vying for a coveted spot in the finals. With a diverse lineup of pinball machines spanning decades of design and innovation, competitors had their skills put to the test across a mix of vintage classics and modern marvels.

Stepping into Starfighters Arcade: A Retro Odyssey

In the unassuming building at 4840 E Jasmine St #102, Mesa, AZ 85205, Starfighters Arcade is a sanctuary for classic gaming aficionados. Beyond its unassuming exterior lies an expansive space, adorned with nostalgic decor and housing an impressive collection of over 160 vintage arcade and pinball machines. Visitors often marvel at its vastness and the diverse array of games that cater to enthusiasts of all ages. The arcade’s commitment to preserving the magic of the ’80s is evident, offering both seasoned players and newcomers a chance to relive or discover the golden age of gaming. The venue also boasts an affordable snack bar, making it a comfortable place to spend hours immersed in flashing lights and mechanical soundtracks.

The Tournament Unfolds: Flippers, Bumpers, and High Stakes

The competition kicked off at 9:00 AM, spanning approximately eight and a half hours. Players engaged in four intense rounds, each comprising three games. The stakes were high, with only the top eight advancing to the finals. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the symphony of flippers, bells, and the occasional groan or cheer from competitors. With a lineup of machines that challenged both accuracy and endurance, players had to navigate everything from brutal outlanes to deep rule sets.

Semifinal Showdown: A Stellar Battle on ‘Stars’

In a nod to its 47th anniversary, the classic ‘Stars‘ pinball machine by Stern Electronics took center stage during the semifinals. Released in March 1978 and designed by Steve Kirk, ‘Stars’ is a game that, at first glance, appears simple but quickly proves otherwise. Players must strategically aim for five star targets, each lighting up an individual insert. Completing all five unlocks the special, but with unpredictable pop bumper action and unforgiving outlanes, the game can end in heartbreak just as quickly as it can reward precise shooting.

The semifinal match on Stars was a nail-biter. Warren Brown from Arvada, CO, showcased precision and calm under pressure, clinching first place. Larry McDonald, known for his aggressive style, secured second. Mollie Stoltenberg’s consistent performance earned her third, while Canada’s Eric Moore displayed resilience, rounding out the top four.

Spotlight on Iconic Machines: The Titans of the Tournament

The tournament featured a curated selection of 70 pinball machines, each offering a different kind of challenge. Some of the standout games included:

• Old Chicago by Bally (April 1976): A charming electro-mechanical (EM) classic, Old Chicago embraces a gangster-era aesthetic with hand-drawn artwork of fedora-clad mobsters and jazz-filled streets. The playfield presents a symmetrical design with a mix of stand-up targets and rollovers that require sharp nudging skills to maximize bonuses.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern (April 2018): A high-speed, multi-ramp experience, this machine is a dream for players who love looping shots and stacking multiballs. With a soundtrack featuring legendary Iron Maiden tracks, the game’s unique flipper layout encourages precision. Players must collect Eddie’s different incarnations while battling the Beast for high-scoring rewards.
• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (September 2021): One of the most celebrated modern pinball machines, Godzilla offers a deep ruleset, satisfying shots, and one of the most exciting toys in pinball: a moving, building bash toy that locks balls and shakes as if the city is crumbling under the might of the kaiju. The Premium model’s Mechagodzilla spinner adds another element of skill-based shot control.
• Pinball Magic by Capcom (January 1995): A hidden gem of the pinball world, Pinball Magic leans into its theme of stage illusions, featuring a levitating ball trick, a disappearing ball effect, and a set of flipper buttons that double as a magician’s wand to activate spells. It’s a game that rewards both strategic planning and whimsical fun.
• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) by Stern (October 2020): Designed by Keith Elwin, this pinball masterpiece takes players on a journey to gather all six Infinity Stones. The complex layout features a spinning disc, tight ramp shots, and a portal lock mechanism that teleports balls across the playfield. Its deep ruleset makes it a favorite for tournament play.
• Stars by Stern Electronics (March 1978): A reminder that simple can still mean brutally challenging, this game’s reliance on drop targets and multipliers forces players to balance risk and reward. Missing a shot can spell disaster as the ball careens toward the outlanes.
• Cosmic Gunfight by Williams (June 1982): A mix of sci-fi and old Western aesthetics, this machine features three flippers and a rule set that requires precise upper-playfield shooting. The game’s vibrant backglass art makes it a standout in any arcade.
• Iron Man by Stern (April 2010): A game famous for being fast and relentless, Iron Man’s shorter ball times demand perfect control. The Iron Monger bash toy rises from the playfield, setting up multi-ball opportunities that can make or break a player’s score.
• Bronco by Gottlieb (April 1977): This Western-themed EM machine focuses on bonus building and shot accuracy. It’s a slower-paced game compared to modern tables, but its unpredictable ball movement ensures that every game feels like a fresh challenge.

Celebrating the Champions: Masters of the Silver Ball

1. Larry McDonald walked away with the top prize, proving that persistence and shot accuracy can carry a player through even the most brutal playfields. Climbing the ranks from 146th in the state, Larry’s sharp decision-making on machines like Godzilla and Iron Maiden set him apart from the competition.
2. Henry Hanshaw’s second-place finish showcased his ability to handle a variety of machines with ease. With 319 IFPA events to his name, his experience showed in his confident multiball management and risk-reward decisions.
3. Stephanie Koutavas made Colorado proud with her third-place finish, executing tight flipper control on Pinball Magic and finding hidden scoring opportunities others overlooked.
4. Warren Brown rounded out the top four with a measured and methodical style that shined particularly on Stars, where patience and timing were rewarded.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite: The Top 10 Standings

Til Next Time, Keep Flipping!

With the final scores tallied and another tournament in the books, SPF 25 Division C at Starfighters Arcade was a resounding success. A huge shout-out to tournament organizer Kevin Curtis and the entire Starfighters team for creating a top-tier competitive experience. Congratulations again to Larry McDonald for taking the crown, and to all the players who brought their best to the flippers. Until next time, keep practicing those plunges, fine-tuning those flipper skills, and as always—keep flipping!