Flippers and Fun at Electric Bat Pinball Tournament

The Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, AZ, was buzzing with activity on the evening of April 23, 2024, as it played host to the Electric Bat Season 11 – Series 2 #2 tournament. Organized by Rachel Bess, this event drew a crowd of 100 pinball enthusiasts eager to test their skills over five intense rounds. With clear skies and temperatures reaching 92°F, the arcade provided a cool oasis of spirited competition.

Highlight Reel: Avengers Infinity Quest Showdown

The spotlight shone brightly in Round 4 with a fierce competition on Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern. Mike McClure from Glendale, AZ, skillfully navigated the game to secure first place, followed by Walter Dony from Phoenix. The game also saw strong performances from Katie Mae and Dakota Jeane, making it one of the night’s most memorable matches.

Champions of the Arcade

As the final ball plunged, the tournament winners were celebrated for their outstanding gameplay:

  1. Gavin Bowman from Phoenix – Demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy, clinching first place with an IFPA rank of 969.
  2. John Shopple from Mesa, AZ – Leveraged his extensive experience from 399 IFPA events to secure a solid second place with a notable IFPA rank of 88.
  3. Paul Blanco – Showed great prowess and consistency throughout the tournament, finishing third with an IFPA rank of 300.
  4. Keegan Crandall – Displayed commendable skill and determination, rounding out the top four with an IFPA rank of 956.

Legendary Pinball Lineup

The Electric Bat Arcade featured an impressive array of 68 pinball machines for the tournament, including:

  • Whirlwind by Williams, known for its stormy gameplay mechanics that challenge even the most seasoned players.
  • Scared Stiff by Bally, a fan favorite for its horror-themed antics and engaging multiball events.
  • Attack From Mars (Remake) by Chicago Gaming, which brings classic alien invasion excitement with modern enhancements.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern, offers players high-energy rock and roll pinball action, complete with band-themed missions.
  • Joker Poker by Gottlieb, a throwback to classic pinball with a card game twist that requires both skill and strategy.

Electric Vibes at Electric Bat Arcade

Located at 29 W. Southern Ave, the Electric Bat Arcade isn’t just a place to play pinball; it’s a venue where the community comes together to enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and a plethora of perfectly maintained arcade and pinball machines. The unique rhythm games from Japan and a welcoming bar staff ensure a fantastic experience for both regulars and newcomers.

A Big Thanks to the Heart of the Event

Special thanks go out to Rachel Bess for organizing such a dynamic and engaging event, and to the Electric Bat Arcade for providing a stellar venue that keeps the pinball community coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, the Electric Bat promises an experience worth returning for.

Stay tuned for more action-packed updates from the world of pinball as we continue to follow the silver ball wherever it rolls!

Electrifying Evenings at The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza Event

On the evening of April 23, 2024, The Pinball Lounge nestled within the Oviedo Bowling Center transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts. The Bonanza 4/23/24, organized by Kurt van Zyl, featured a lively contest among 30 competitors over 6 rounds of intense pinball action. As the haze settled around Oviedo, FL, with temperatures holding steady at 70°F, players and spectators alike reveled in nearly four hours of flipper-flipping excitement.

Opening Splash with JAWS (LE)

The tournament kicked off with a standout game on the newly released JAWS (LE) by Stern, captivating players with its thrilling gameplay. Anton Samilian seized the top spot in this inaugural round, followed closely by Brayden DeRazza and Justin Derazza, setting a high bar for competition and showcasing the intense skill levels present.

Honoring the Pinball Champions

As the final balls drained, the top performers emerged, each demonstrating exceptional pinball finesse:

  1. Dawn Ziatyk – Triumphed with notable strategic acumen, despite an IFPA rank of 3159, highlighting her growth and competitive spirit through 59 events.
  2. Tony Reining – A rising star in the pinball community, placed second with an impressive climb considering his rank of 8717 and participation in only 26 events.
  3. Nick Smith from Florida – Showed consistent play and solid tactics to earn third place, with 88 events under his belt.
  4. Anton Samilian – After a strong start in the first round, Anton capped the tournament in fourth place, reflecting his steady improvement in the sport.

Showcase of Legendary Pinball Machines

The Pinball Lounge dazzled with a selection of 37 pinball machines, each with unique themes and mechanical wonders:

  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, a behemoth of the pinball world, challenges players to save cities from the iconic monster’s rampage, featuring destructible buildings and multiple ball play.
  • Batman Forever by Sega, known for its vibrant playfield and gadgets, transports players into the Gotham City of the 90s with dynamic gameplay and digital effects.
  • Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally, brings the basketball court to the pinball arena with fast-paced action and classic sound effects dating back to 1978.
  • Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern, revisits the classic TV series with modern twists, including detailed missions and high-definition displays.
  • Stranger Things (Premium) by Stern, immerses players in the supernatural world of Hawkins with interactive gameplay and scenes directly from the series.

A Night to Remember at The Pinball Lounge

The Pinball Lounge at 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo offers more than just pinball; it’s a venue that combines great food, craft beers, and unlimited pinball sessions on Friday nights for a flat fee. The atmosphere is always buzzing, making it a perfect spot for casual gamers and seasoned flippers alike.

Closing With Gratitude

Special thanks to Kurt van Zyl for organizing a spectacular evening of pinball at The Pinball Lounge. This venue continues to be a cornerstone of the pinball community in Florida, offering a top-notch gaming experience and regular refreshes of their pinball lineup. Keep your eyes on this blog for more exciting tales from the pinball world!

Striking Out at Tik Tok’s Pinball Tournament

On April 22, 2024, Tik Tok’s Workshop in Bremerton, WA, hosted the exhilarating “Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes 4/22” pinball tournament. Richard Godwin masterfully organized this intense Group Knockout competition, featuring 11 skilled players vying for supremacy across 9 grueling rounds. With the Fair Strikes system in play, the competition remained fierce as players dodged elimination by accumulating strikes under a clear 56°F night sky.

The Mandalorian: A Galactic Battle

The tournament’s second round spotlighted The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern, where Donovan Haga from Bremerton showcased his skills by clinching first place. He was closely followed by Conrad Rustad, Nick Schademann, and Gocelyn Morgado, who all displayed commendable prowess on this challenging machine themed after the beloved Star Wars series.

Tournament Triumphs

As the final flippers stilled, the top competitors were hailed for their exceptional performances:

  1. Conrad Rustad from Bremerton, WA, demonstrated his elite skills and strategic depth, which have been honed over 251 IFPA events, earning him the first place with an IFPA rank of 168.
  2. Nick Schademann from Albuquerque showed that dedication and experience could significantly impact performance, securing second place with his 377 IFPA rank.
  3. Donovan Haga, another Bremerton local, proved his mettle by finishing third, an impressive feat given his ranking of 1882.
  4. Richard Godwin, not just the organizer but also a formidable player, rounded out the top four, showcasing their versatility and passion for pinball.

Pinball Playground: Machines of Distinction

Tik Tok’s Workshop featured an impressive lineup of 14 pinball machines, each offering a unique flair:

  • Firepower by Williams is known for its fast-paced play and was a pioneering force in introducing multi-ball play, thrilling players since 1980.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern, a recent addition, challenges players with missions and adventures mirroring the hit TV series, complete with stunning visuals and immersive sound effects.
  • Sharpshooter by Game Plan offers a nostalgic throwback to the late 70s with its sharpshooting targets and classic pinball action.
  • The Wizard of Oz (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball stands out with its technologically advanced features and rich, colorful playfield that brings the iconic movie to life.
  • Cyclone by Williams captures the fun of an amusement park with its whimsical design and engaging gameplay, a favorite since 1988.

A Hub of Fun and Games: Tik Tok’s Workshop

Located at 1216 Sylvan Way, Tik Tok’s Workshop isn’t just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub. Known for its casual, entertaining events like naughty bingo and its excellent selection of drinks, the workshop offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere complemented by a fantastic array of pinball and arcade games.

Closing With Appreciation

Heartfelt thanks to Richard Godwin for organizing such a thrilling pinball tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for continuously providing a fantastic venue for the pinball community in Bremerton. Keep your eyes on this spot for more pin-tastic events and updates from the world of pinball!

High Scores and High Spirits at Player 1 Arcade

The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 3 (#6), held on April 22, 2024, saw 29 pinball enthusiasts gather for a spirited competition in Surprise, Arizona. Organized by Jim Smith, the event unfolded over five rounds, with each participant battling it out in a single game per round. Despite the broken clouds and a sweltering 93°F, the arcade buzzed with excitement as players aimed for their best performances within the 2 hour and 54-minute tournament window.

Spotlight on Rush: A High-Velocity Challenge

Round 3 highlighted the Rush (Pro) by Stern, a game that tests both speed and strategy. Mark Pearson, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 49, took the lead in this round, followed closely by Kevin Ehlers and Del Kyger. The competitive gameplay mirrored the energetic soundtrack of Rush, making it a fan favorite for the night.

Pinball Champions of the Night

The tournament showcased some incredible talent, with the final results reflecting the intense competition:

  1. Lee Ann Scardina from Phoenix – With an IFPA rank of 1421, Lee Ann showed outstanding skill and consistency, topping the leaderboard after participating in 222 events.
  2. Jeremy Reiman from Peoria, AZ – Despite being relatively new to the circuit with only 25 IFPA events, Jeremy’s impressive play earned him a solid second place.
  3. Mark Pearson – Already highlighted in the game spotlight, Mark added another top finish to his record, underscoring his elite status in the pinball community.
  4. Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ – Joel’s performance was notable, securing a commendable fourth place from a competitive field.

Featured Machines of the Tournament

Player One Arcade was packed with 16 pinball machines, each offering unique themes and challenges:

  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, celebrated for its immersive gameplay that pulls players into the epic space saga with missions and characters from the beloved series.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams, transports players to a world of magic carpets and genies with its rich visuals and captivating storytelling mechanics.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern, combines elegance and espionage, offering missions that mirror the thrilling adventures of the iconic spy.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern, brings to life the humor and drama of the superhero team with vibrant art and engaging missions.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern, not only featured in a spotlight game but also admired for its fast-paced playfield and rocking soundtrack that enhances the pinball experience.

The Heart of Surprise’s Gaming Scene: Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade, located at 17239 North Litchfield Road, UNIT 60, has quickly become a local favorite, overshadowing even well-known entertainment venues like Dave and Busters. With its excellent selection of craft beers, friendly atmosphere, and a diverse array of pinball and classic arcade games, it’s no wonder families and gamers alike prefer this spot for a fun outing.

Closing With Thanks

A big thank you to Jim Smith for organizing another successful event in the Player 1 Arcade series, and to Player 1 Arcade for continuing to be an excellent host and a pivotal part of the local gaming community. Keep those flippers ready, and stay tuned for more pinball action from across the United States!

Thrilling Tides at the JAWS Launch Party

On April 21, 2024, the pinball enthusiasts of San Diego gathered at Dyno Bar for the electrifying JAWS Launch Party. Organized by Mark Schulz, this Group Knockout Tournament pitted 23 players against each other across 8 intense rounds. Using the Fair Strikes system, competitors were eliminated upon receiving 5 strikes, making every round critical. The clouds may have been broken above, but the focus inside was unyielding as the players battled amidst a cool 65°F.

Epic Showdown on JAWS (Pro)

The tournament’s grand finale unfolded on the freshly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern, drawing a crowd eager to see this new machine in action. In a gripping conclusion to Round 8, Derek Price emerged victorious, demonstrating why he holds an impressive IFPA rank of 64. Mark Maleko Schulz, also from San Diego, showcased his home turf advantage, securing a commendable second place.

Celebrating the Champions

As the flippers stilled, the tournament’s top contenders were lauded for their pinball prowess:

  1. Derek Price – A seasoned competitor with 406 IFPA events under his belt, Derek’s strategic gameplay and quick reflexes earned him the champion’s title.
  2. Mark Maleko Schulz – With an IFPA rank of 460 and 333 events, Mark’s deep knowledge of the game was on full display, earning him a well-fought second place.
  3. Mike Calcagno – Despite being a relative newcomer with only 34 events, Mike’s remarkable third-place finish proves his rising talent in the pinball world.
  4. Brian Heath – A testament to perseverance, Brian clinched fourth place, adding to his growing experience of 135 events.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was adorned with a stellar lineup of 11 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure:

  • James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern, celebrated for its sleek design and intricate missions that encapsulate the espionage and excitement of the Bond series.
  • Indianapolis 500 by Bally, a fast-paced table that captures the thrill of one of America’s most famous races with high-speed gameplay and challenging loops.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern, offers an adventurous escape to Isla Nublar, where players navigate through dinosaur encounters and terrain obstacles.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern, draws players into the Marvel universe with its vibrant graphics and engaging storyline that mirrors Venom’s dynamic character.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern, the star of the show, brings to life the suspense and danger of the iconic shark hunt with innovative gameplay and a chilling soundtrack.

Dynamic Dyno Bar: The Heart of San Diego’s Pinball Scene

Located at 3367 India Street, Dyno Bar is not just a venue; it’s a cultural hub for adult gamers. This 21+ establishment is renowned for its cool atmosphere and exclusive array of pinball machines and indie arcade games, making it a prime destination for nightlife and entertainment in San Diego.

A Round of Applause

Heartfelt thanks go to Mark Schulz for his impeccable organization of the JAWS Launch Party and to Dyno Bar for providing a perfect setting for this pinball extravaganza. As we continue to explore the vibrant pinball scenes across the nation, stay tuned for more thrilling updates and tales from the silver ball’s journey across America!

Thrills at the Dangerzone Arcade Jaws Launch Party

On April 21, 2024, Dangerzone Arcade in Gilbert, Arizona, became the epicenter of pinball excitement with the Dangerzone Arcade Jaws Launch Party. Organized by Jordan Lamoreaux, the tournament attracted 21 fierce competitors who faced off in a Group Knockout format across 11 heart-pounding rounds. As the Arizona sun blazed at 91°F under clear skies, players aimed to avoid accumulating three strikes to stay in the game, adding an extra layer of challenge and strategy.

Star Wars Showdown: A Round to Remember

One of the tournament’s highlights was the intense battle that unfolded in Round 5 on the “Star Wars (Premium Comic Art)” machine by Stern. Brad Vogus from Phoenix took the lead, followed by Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ, with Greg Mohs and John Finnegan closely trailing. This round was not just a test of skill but also a dramatic display of strategy and precision under pressure.

Celebrating the Pinball Champions

As the dust settled, the top performers emerged victorious, each demonstrating their pinball prowess:

  1. Greg Mohs – Surprising many with his strategic play, Greg clinched the first place with an IFPA rank of 835, showing growth across his 103 tournament participations.
  2. Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ – A veteran in the arena, Jason used his extensive experience from 432 IFPA events to secure a solid second place with his rank of 228.
  3. John Finnegan from Tucson – Known for his consistency, John leveraged his experience from 511 events to take third place with a rank of 538.
  4. Mark Pearson – Despite being the highest-ranked player at 49, Mark faced tough competition and finished fourth, proving that every game is a new challenge.

Pinball Gallery: Machines of Legend and Lore

The venue showcased an impressive lineup of 17 pinball machines, each offering unique gameplay experiences. Notable among them were:

  • Star Wars (Premium Comic Art) by Stern, a visual treat with its vibrant comic artwork and immersive gameplay that brings the iconic saga to life.
  • Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium) by Stern, which captivates players with its rock-themed playfield and energetic soundtrack.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (LE) by Stern, a game that combines deep strategy with Marvel superhero adventures, making it a hit among fans.
  • Venom (LE) by Stern, newly released and already a favorite for its dynamic features and the beloved anti-hero’s storyline.
  • Alien (Remake LE) by Pinball Brothers, offering intense gameplay with a theme that resonates with sci-fi enthusiasts.

A Gamer’s Haven: Dangerzone Arcade

Dangerzone Arcade, located at 614 E Germann Rd in Gilbert, AZ, is celebrated as one of the best places in Arizona to indulge in pinball and indie arcade games. The venue is a paradise for gamers, providing a vast array of multiplayer games, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere perfect for friends and family to gather and enjoy some competitive fun.

Closing With Gratitude

A special thank you to Jordan Lamoreaux for organizing this memorable tournament and to Dangerzone Arcade for hosting an event that went beyond just gaming—it was a celebration of the pinball community. Keep your flippers ready, and stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!

Pinsomniacs Pinball Showdown @ Tepey’s Taps & Tacos

On April 21, 2024, Tepey’s Taps & Tacos hosted the electrifying Pinsomniacs Pinball tournament. This event, curated by Nick Byrd and featured on the Pinsomniacs’ website, drew a focused group of 22 pinball enthusiasts. Competitors battled through 11 rigorous rounds, each playing one game per round. The stakes were high as only the top four scorers advanced to the nail-biting finals, consisting of three additional rounds. All the action unfolded over nearly five hours, beneath the partly cloudy skies of Jacksonville, with temperatures hovering around a warm 80°F.

Avengers Assemble for a Fierce Battle

A notable highlight was the third round, which featured the “Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro)” by Stern. This game, released in September 2020, became the arena for an intense clash. Imre Szollosi led the pack, followed by Tank Koscinski, with Stacey Stafford and Shannon Stafford in close pursuit. The competitive spirit was palpable as each player leveraged their skills to vie for the top spot.

Triumph at Tepey’s

The tournament culminated with outstanding performances from the top competitors:

  1. Shannon Stafford – With an impressive IFPA rank of 133 and a veteran of 295 events, Shannon showcased top-tier skills to claim victory.
  2. Imre Szollosi – Ranked 2583, Imre’s performance across 45 IFPA events has shown a sharp ascent in competitive pinball, securing a well-earned second place.
  3. Stacey Stafford from Orange Park, Florida – Holding rank 1589 and participating in 219 events, Stacey demonstrated resilience and strategic finesse to finish third.
  4. Tank Koscinski – Despite being one of the lower-ranked players at 6732, Tank’s tenacity shone through, proving his potential in his 35th tournament.

A Gallery of Pinball Greats

The venue was decked with 11 unique pinball machines, each adding a different flavor to the tournament. Highlights included:

  • Venom (Premium) by Stern, released in 2023, captivated players with its dynamic design and engaging features that bring the iconic comic book character to life.
  • Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun, also from 2023, offered a magical quest through the Goblin King’s maze with intricate gameplay and detailed art.
  • Elvis by Stern, a classic from 2004, rocked the venue with its nostalgic music and engaging playfield, paying homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
  • The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern, from 2014, thrilled players with its post-apocalyptic theme and intense survival-based gameplay.
  • Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro) by Stern, drew crowds with its superhero antics and complex missions that mirrored the epic tales from the Marvel Universe.

Vibrant Vibes at Tepeyolot Cerveceria

Tepeyolot Cerveceria, more than just a venue, provided a festive backdrop with its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. The pinball area, featuring a mix of classic and new machines, was a hit among guests. The spot offered great value with games priced at $1.00 each or $2.00 for three, except for the special Labyrinth pinball. The food, particularly the tacos and seasoned chips, received rave reviews, making it clear that Tepeyolot Cerveceria is a favorite for both dining and gaming.

A Successful Flip

Thanks to Nick Byrd for orchestrating this fantastic pinball event and to Tepeyolot Cerveceria for hosting us with exceptional service and ambiance. This tournament was a showcase of both pinball mastery and community spirit. Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the dynamic world of pinball across the nation!

Epic Showdown at 1up Colfax Mackinnon Tournament

The 1up Colfax Mackinnon pinball tournament, held on April 21, 2024, at the 1UP Arcade Bar – Colfax in Denver, was a thrilling marathon of pinball prowess. Organized by Deanna Scalf, the tournament featured a grueling Group Knockout format with 39 contenders battling through 11 rounds under the Progressive Strikes system. Players faced elimination after accumulating 11 strikes, intensifying the competition as they vied to stay in the game under clear skies and chilly 33°F weather.

Iron Maiden’s Legendary Duel

Highlighting the intense competition was a remarkable battle during Round 9 on the “Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium)” by Stern. Walt Wood, wielding an impressive IFPA rank of 41, emerged victorious in this round, showcasing skill and strategy that left the audience in awe. Griffin Carr, Rob Tompkins, and Chase Hart rounded out the top four, each delivering a fierce challenge.

Champions of the Arena

The final bell tolled, crowning the valiant warriors of this pinball clash:

  1. Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, commanded the tables with precision, leveraging their vast experience across 299 IFPA events to clinch the top spot.
  2. Mat Brundage, showing great resilience and skill, landed in second place with his solid performance across 161 IFPA events.
  3. Griffin Carr, although ranked 3935, surpassed expectations by securing third place, demonstrating that rankings aren’t always indicative of the final outcome.
  4. David Witucki from Colorado, with fewer tournaments under his belt, made a significant impact by finishing fourth.

Machines of Myth and Might

The tournament was stocked with 23 cutting-edge pinball machines, each adding its own flavor to the mix. Noteworthy among them were:

  • Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium) by Stern, a fan-favorite for its intricate artwork and engaging soundtrack that complements the band’s iconic music.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern, immerses players in intergalactic battles with its dynamic playfield and beloved characters.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, known for its humorous and interactive gameplay that perfectly captures the antihero’s quirky essence.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, challenges players to save cities and battle kaijus in a beautifully rendered Tokyo landscape.
  • The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern, takes players on bounty hunting missions across the galaxy, enriched with detailed missions and storylines from the series.

Retro Gaming at 1up Arcade Bar

The venue, 1up Arcade Bar – Colfax, with its neon lights and energetic atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. Players and spectators enjoyed a mix of nostalgic arcade games and modern pinball machines, complemented by a vibrant selection of drinks from the bar. The environment was lively and welcoming, thanks to the attentive staff and the upbeat background music.

Farewell and Future Flips

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Deanna Scalf for organizing this spectacular event and to the 1UP Arcade Bar – Colfax for hosting. This tournament is just one of many exciting chapters in the ongoing saga of pinball competitions across the nation. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the world of pinball!

Clash of the Titans: SCPL Matchplay Overview

On April 20, 2024, The Game Preserve in Texas became the battleground for the SCPL: Monthly Matchplay, with 23 pinball wizards duking it out over 7 gripping rounds. The format pushed competitors to their limits, leading the top 8 into a nail-biting finals showdown. Despite a backdrop of light rain, the heat was on inside, with players and fans alike captivated by the intense arcade drama.

Marathon Match on the Mighty Paragon

The tournament’s spotlight shone brightly on a legendary game of Paragon, a classic machine by Bally from 1979. This standout game stretched an incredible 66 minutes in the finals, where Craig Squires ultimately triumphed. Nicholas Gustafson, Hunter Reed, and Marc Gammons rounded out the top spots, each demonstrating exceptional skill and determination under pressure.

Pinball Royalty: Celebrating the Champions

Our hearty congratulations go out to the pinball champions of this fiercely contested event:

  1. Craig Squires – Showcased veteran skills to dominate in his 437th IFPA event, despite his rank of 1137.
  2. Nicholas Gustafson – His strategic expertise earned him a well-deserved second place, coming from Spring, Texas with a rank of 939.
  3. Hunter Reed – Displayed tenacity and skill, snagging third place with an IFPA rank of 1263.
  4. Marc Gammons – Finished in a solid fourth place, showing his increasing competence in the pinball arena.
  5. Kyrra Warren – The newcomer impressed all by punching well above her rank of 7094 to place fifth.
  6. David Pollock – Their consistent play proved effective, landing them in sixth place.
  7. Liz Nebeker – Skillfully navigated the tables to finish in the seventh spot.
  8. Travis Hanna – Wrapped up the top eight with strategic gameplay and steady hands.

Spotlight on Stellar Machines

The tournament was adorned with 17 pinball machines, each bringing its own flavor to the fray. Among the standout tables were:

  • The Party Zone by Bally, celebrated for its exuberant party-themed artwork and energizing music that makes every player feel like the life of the party.
  • Tri Zone by Williams, a true testament to the golden era of pinball with its straightforward yet strategic design that challenges both novices and seasoned players.
  • Godzilla (Pro) by Stern, introduced in 2021, features state-of-the-art graphics and innovative gameplay elements, including a cityscape to demolish and monsters to battle, enhancing the thematic experience.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern brings a galaxy of adventure to the playfield with its integration of iconic music and detailed missions drawn directly from the popular film series.
  • Paragon, not only the marathon machine of this tournament but also known for its formidable playfield layout and the challenging “Golden Cliffs” section that tests even the most skilled players.

A Day to Remember at The Game Preserve

The Game Preserve, nestled at 473 Sawdust Road, Spring, Texas, proved to be more than just a venue; it was a pinball haven. With a robust selection of games dating from classic to contemporary, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. Players and spectators alike were treated to a day filled with nostalgia and fierce competition.

Farewell and Future Games

A big shout-out to Space City Pinball for orchestrating such an electrifying event and to The Game Preserve for their fantastic hospitality. This tournament was a testament to the thriving pinball scene, and we look forward to bringing you more tales from the flipper-filled world of pinball tournaments across the country. Stay tuned!

Exciting Rounds at the Belles & Chimes Phoenix Tournament

On April 20, 2024, the Belles & Chimes Phoenix pinball tournament brought together a dynamic group of 22 players for a spirited competition. Organized by Tracy Lindbergh, the event featured six rounds of intense pinball action, each consisting of one game, lasting a total of 2 hours and 44 minutes.

Final Round Thriller on Jurassic Park

The tournament’s standout game occurred in the sixth round on the Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern, released in October 2019. This machine, known for its dynamic playfield and dinosaur-themed challenges, saw Mary Profeta Scardina clinch the first place, closely followed by organizer Tracy Lindbergh, with Terri Boyd and Sandra Garcia also putting up strong performances.

Tournament Champions Shine

The tournament concluded with impressive displays of skill and strategy:

  1. Krisha Shufran from Chandler, AZ, took home the first place with an IFPA rank of 2771, showing remarkable prowess across her 121 tournament appearances.
  2. Cara Eisinger from New River, AZ, demonstrated their growing skill in the pinball community, securing second place with a rank of 3706 over 65 events.
  3. Meghan Bougher from Scottsdale, AZ, earned a well-deserved third place with her consistent play, holding an IFPA rank of 2228 from 61 events.
  4. Tracy Lindbergh, not just the organizer but also a competitor, showcased her extensive experience by finishing fourth, a testament to her 529 tournament participations and a rank of 444.

Highlight Pinball Machines

The competition was supported by a lineup of 11 unique pinball machines, each bringing its own history and challenges to the playfield:

  • Comet by Williams: A classic amusement park-themed table that offers players a nostalgic multiball experience with engaging ramps and loops.
  • Tri Zone by Williams: An earlier generation machine that challenges players with its straightforward yet strategic gameplay.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: This modern machine captivates players with its interactive dinosaur captures and complex play modes.
  • Diner by Williams: Delivers a lively 1950s diner atmosphere, where players rack up points by serving a series of quirky customers.
  • Star Trek (Pro) by Stern: Engages players in the vast universe of Star Trek with missions based on the iconic series, offering a deep strategic experience.

A Word on the Venue

While the specific location for this event was not disclosed in MatchPlay, the enthusiasm and engagement of the participants made it a memorable gathering. We look forward to revealing more about the venue in future posts.

Appreciation for Organization

A special thank you to Tracy Lindbergh for organizing a smoothly run tournament and to all the participants who made the event a success despite the undisclosed location. The Belles & Chimes Phoenix community continues to thrive, bringing exciting pinball action to players and fans alike. Stay tuned for more updates from the pinball world!