The sun might have set at 79°F with a clear sky in Surprise, AZ, but inside Player 1 Arcade, the temperature was rising. As pinballs clinked and buzzers buzzed, enthusiasts gathered for the anticipated Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3B #1 pinball tournament.

Player 1 Arcade: More Than Just An Arcade

Positioned cozily at 17239 North Litchfield Road UNIT 60, Player 1 Arcade isn’t just any arcade; it’s a time capsule that captures the golden era of arcade gaming. From the myriad of 80’s-90’s arcade games to the strategically placed pinball machines, it’s a paradise for gamers of all ages. And for those seeking a reprieve from the action? A well-stocked bar quenches thirsts with an assortment of beverages.

The Tournament: Where Strategy Meets Skill

Under the guidance of the seasoned organizer, Jim Smith, 30 participants grouped and battled it out over five adrenaline-pumping rounds. The standout match was on the Led Zeppelin (Pro) machine by Stern during Round 4. Mark Pearson, given his impressive IFPA ranking, didn’t surprise many by clinching the top spot, but Joey Rio’s impressive performance turned quite a few heads!

The Crème De La Crème: IFPA Arizona’s Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau	Not Specified	671.64
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	598.14
3	John Shopple	Mesa	592.14
4	Adam Horton	Phoenix	352.69
5	John Magyar	Gilbert	351.78
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	320.85
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	313.2
8	Paul Blanco	Chandler	309.72
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.24
10	Walter Dony	Phoenix	280.56

These players, with their impeccable gameplay and strategies, have solidified their place among the best in Arizona.

Machines: The Soul of the Game

With a staggering 14 machines at the venue, here are some that truly elevated the night:

• Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) by Stern, 2020: A recent addition with gameplay as captivating as the Marvel Universe it’s based on.
• Venom (Pro) by Stern, 2023: A slick machine that brought players into the tangled web of Venom’s world.
• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, 2021: An absolute classic, challenging even for the pros.
• The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern, 2021: Taking players on a galactic journey, this one was a crowd favorite.
• Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, 2017: A timeless masterpiece, echoing the legacy of the beloved franchise.
• Cyclone by Williams, 1988: Its retro charm was irresistible.
• Rush (Pro) by Stern, 2022: Modern, captivating, and a testament to the evolution of pinball.

Until Next Time

With an elapsed time of just shy of 3 hours, the tournament came to a thrilling close. As the lights dimmed at Player 1 Arcade, the echoes of flippers and buzzers slowly faded, but the memories of this electrifying event are sure to linger.

Here’s to more flips, tricks, and pinball magic! Stay tuned for more from the pinball realm!

In the heart of Mesa, Arizona, when the sun was beginning to set and the temperature was a sweltering 94°F, pinball enthusiasts from all corners converged for the ‘Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play’. On September 28, 2023, at 6:30 PM, Atomic Age Modern, located at 140 W Main St, became the epicenter of pinball excitement.

Setting the Scene at Atomic Age Modern

Atomic Age Modern is not just a venue for pinball. Walking in, one is greeted with an eclectic blend of antiques ranging from furniture to housewares, interspersed with the rhythmic clinking of pinball machines. The ambiance is something of a vintage dream, making it easy to get lost in time. A shopper’s paradise by day, and a gamer’s by night.

The Mighty Rush (Pro) Showdown

If there were a game that had people perched at the edge of their seats, it was in Round 2 on the ‘Rush (Pro)‘. Mark Farina Jr. from Gilbert, Arizona, took the top spot, showcasing some stellar gameplay. Close on his heels was Chris Peseri, followed by Denise Peseri and Brigg Sabol. The game became a fascinating dance of strategy, skill, and just a touch of luck.

Saluting the Champions

Out of the 25 fierce competitors, a few stood tall:

• Connor Kennedy: A star player holding an IFPA rank of 2030.
• Stephen Shufran: Representing Chandler, he’s proved his mettle time and again.
• Mark Farina Jr.: Besides winning the spotlight round, he clinched the third spot.
• Brandon Passey: His gameplay ensured he secured a position amongst the top four.

Pinball Par Excellence

The tournament showcased a mix of classic and contemporary pinball machines. Highlights include:

• Godzilla (Pro) by Stern: An electrifying game that came alive in 2021.
• Rush (Pro) by Stern: Fresh from its 2022 release, it’s already a favorite.
• Gilligan’s Island by Bally: Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale, a tale dating back to 1991.
• Night Rider (EM) by Bally: Dating back to 1976, it’s an oldie but goldie.
• Sorcerer by Williams: Unleashing magic since 1985.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite

The evening also gave us a glimpse of Arizona’s top pinball players:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		672.27
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	589.29
3	John Shopple	Mesa	570.05
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.79
5	Adam Horton	Phoenix	331.45
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	321.36
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.26
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.24
9	Paul Blanco	Chandler	306.33
10	Walter Dony	Phoenix	281.38

The tournament, organized meticulously by Bob Kennedy, was not just about the competition. It was about reliving nostalgia, making new memories, and celebrating the enduring charm of pinball. Until the flippers come alive again, here’s signing off from the world of pinball! Stay tuned for more exciting updates.

Mesa, Arizona came alive with the sound of pinball bells and buzzers on the evening of September 27, 2023. At precisely 6:30 PM, amidst a clear sky with a warm temperature of 95°F, B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade transformed into a battleground for the ‘Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 13’.

Fast Flips and Frenzied Fingers

With Matt Trethewey orchestrating the event, the tournament saw 10 players going head-to-head, playing 10 games each. The goal? Simple: Rack up those points and reign supreme.

Creature’s Call and Walking Dead’s Thrall

Two machines drew significant attention:

• Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally, a classic from December 1992, saw its flippers flipped a whopping 7 times.
• The Walking Dead (Premium) by Stern, kept players enthralled, boasting the longest average game duration at about 10 minutes. Zombies, as it turns out, make for slow but intense gameplay!

Masters of the Machine

As the dust settled and the scores tallied:

• 🥇 Jeff Wegener showcased his knack for the game, leading with 5 wins despite having only 8 events under his belt.
• 🥈 Paul Pickett, with a total of 6 wins, gave a tough competition to all.
• 🥉 Mahina Hayashi showed her pinball prowess with 4 impressive wins.
• 🏅 Jim Smith AZ from Phoenix, despite having a whopping 454 events experience, finished fourth but showcased some mesmerizing gameplay.

Arcade’s Arsenal

The venue boasted a stellar lineup of pinball machines. The tournament highlights included:

1. Bram Stoker’s Dracula – A gothic challenge for players.
2. Creature from the Black Lagoon – The undeniable favorite of the evening.
3. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) – A recent addition but a sure-fire hit.
4. Junk Yard – Reminding players of the good old days.
5. Whirlwind – A gusty challenge for all.

Beers, Ballers, and B.R.I.

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, with its official website, isn’t just a haven for pinball players. It’s a place where vintage video games meet a tantalizing variety of beers. And while they don’t serve food, patrons are welcome to bring their own or enjoy meals from the occasional food truck outside.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		672.28
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	589.29
3	John Shopple	Mesa	570.08
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.82
5	Adam Horton	Phoenix	331.5
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	321.39
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.26
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.24
9	Paul Blanco	Chandler	306.34
10	Walter Dony	Phoenix	281.4

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With another successful event in the books, pinball enthusiasts left B.R.I. Taproom with both nostalgia for the games of yesteryears and anticipation for future showdowns. In the realm of pinball, the game never truly ends; it just waits for the next coin drop.

The searing heat of Arizona’s sun might have been unrelenting, but inside the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, a different kind of heat was generating – the competitive fire of 107 pinball enthusiasts. On September 26, 2023, these players clashed flippers in a fierce battle that lasted almost 11 hours.

An Epic Venue

The Electric Bat Arcade, a vintage gamer’s paradise, once again hosted a major pinball showdown. With a range of games from Tekken to Dolly Parton’s 1978 classic pinball, the arcade is every gamer’s wonderland. Not just limited to games, the attached bar and accessible restrooms ensure you can take strategic breaks between matches. And if you’re driving in? Ample parking ensures you won’t be circling the block.

The Game that had everyone Talking

Round 4 was a nail-biter as players faced off on Godzilla (Premium), Stern’s 2021 hit. Notably, Mark Pearson (with an impressive IFPA rank of 34) claimed the top spot in that round, beating out competitors with far lower rankings. It’s these underdog moments, where lesser-known players challenge the veterans, that make the sport so unpredictable and thrilling.

Crowning the Champions

At the end of a day filled with flippers, flashing lights, and frenzied excitement, the top spots were claimed by:

1. Peter Schatzer – Proving that you don’t always need the lowest IFPA rank to come out on top.
2. John Shopple – A local hero, making Mesa proud.
3. Henry Hanshaw – A testament to consistency and skill.
4. Roland Nadeau – Further cementing his position as one of Arizona’s top players.

Machines that Made a Mark

With 62 machines to choose from, players had a variety of eras and styles at their fingertips. Some of the standout tables included classics like Sorcerer, Creature from the Black Lagoon, and WHO dunnit. The newest addition, Scooby-Doo (CE), released earlier this year by Spooky Pinball, added a touch of modern flair to the vintage lineup.

State of the State

Here’s the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings as of now:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau	Phoenix	672.27
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	589.29
3	John Shopple	Mesa	570.05
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.79
5	Adam Horton	Phoenix	331.45
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	321.36
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.26
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.24
9	Paul Blanco	Chandler	306.33
10	Walter dony	Phoenix	281.38

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From retro arcades to modern machines, the Electric Bat Season 9 Series 1 #2 pinball tournament showcased the diverse and passionate world of pinball enthusiasts. The excitement doesn’t end here, though. As every pinball player knows, there’s always another game, another challenge, another high score to chase.

Till next time, keep those flippers flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the electrifying world of pinball!

Quick Flips and High Scores in Chandler, Arizona

A hot 95°F evening in Chandler wasn’t the only thing making the pinball players sweat on September 25, 2023. Inside HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom, the sizzle of competition was even fiercer as 13 players descended for the Multiball Monday tournament, organized by the very talented Mark Farina Jr. The tournament website multiballmonday.com captured the highlights, but let’s dive deeper into the flips, tricks, and some jaw-dropping pinball tactics!

The Battle of the Best on “Rush (Pro)”

Round 1 set the tone for the entire evening, with the spotlight shining brightly on “Rush (Pro)” by Stern. Mark Farina Jr, ranked 1794, demonstrated why he’s not just an excellent organizer but also a formidable player, seizing first place in the game. But the competition was intense with Alex Cardwell and Walter Dony coming in a close second and third, respectively.

From Silver Balls to Golden Crowns

The leaderboard told a tale of agility, strategy, and a sprinkle of luck:

• 🥇 Alex Cardwell: Dominating with a global rank of 682 and an impressive 192 IFPA events under his belt.
• 🥈 Mark Farina Jr: Showcasing both his prowess as an organizer and a player.
• 🥉 Walter Dony: A significant player in the Arizona pinball scene, Walter’s rank of 331 reflects his skill.
• 🏅 Amanda Kennedy: With zeHir unique style, Amanda secured the 4th spot against some tough competitors.

A Pinball Paradise

Pinball aficionados were treated to a slew of incredible machines, ranging from vintage classics to modern masterpieces:

1. Foo Fighters (Premium/LE) by Stern: Rocking out with every flip and score!
2. James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Engaging players in a world of espionage and high-stakes action.
3. Venom (Pro) by Stern: A new kid on the block, already making waves.
4. Hot Wheels by American Pinball: Taking players on a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
5. Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: Mixing humor, action, and some excellent pinball mechanics.

HOP Central: Not Just About Beer!

The HOP Central Brewing Co and Taproom not only boasts a delicious range of brews but also an electric atmosphere perfect for a pre-dinner flight and some serious pinball competition.

Arizona’s Pinball Royalty

The state’s top talents lined up as follows:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		672.28
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	589.29
3	John Shopple	Mesa	570.08
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.82
5	Adam Horton	Phoenix	331.5
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	321.39
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.26
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.24
9	Paul Blanco	Chandler	306.34
10	Walter Dony	Phoenix	281.4

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So, as the flippers rested and the lights dimmed at HOP Central, the memories of Multiball Monday continued to echo. In the world of Arizona pinball, one thing is clear: the game is on, and it’s spectacular.

Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball! 🌵🔥

It was a typical Arizona evening, with the temperature teasing at 95°F but surprisingly feeling cooler than usual. Player One Arcade, Arizona’s own pinball haven, braced itself for an electrifying event: the Player 1 Arcade S3A Side Finals. Organized by the diligent Jim Smith, this tournament promised fierce competition and gripping gameplay.

The Tournament of Tilt

36 pinball aficionados went head to head, maneuvering their way through five intense rounds. Each player aimed to score the highest points in their group, but as the silver ball raced across the playfield, some dreams of victory soared while others, well…tilted. As the minutes ticked on, with a total tournament time of about two and a half hours, a clear winner emerged: Mary Profeta Scardina, an IFPA-ranked powerhouse, took the crown!

Shiny Silverball Spotlight

One game that had everyone on the edge of their seat was during Round 3 on “Rush (Pro)” by Stern. This 2022 machine delivered suspense, drama, and thrill, all wrapped into a 3-ball game. Mary Profeta Scardina dominated, securing 1st place, followed by Timm Shere, Diane Smith, and Joana Delvalle.

Legacy in Machines

Player One Arcade’s stellar collection of pinball machines was the real star. The spotlight shone bright on:

• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: A journey into the Upside Down.
• James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: The ultimate spy mission.
• The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern: Bounty hunting across the galaxy.
• Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: Reliving the timeless battle of the dark and light side.
• Cyclone by Williams: A whirlwind adventure from 1988, bringing in the nostalgia.
• …and of course, the latest addition, Venom (Pro) by Stern, which has been spewing venomous fun since July 2023.

Player One’s Pizzazz

For anyone unfamiliar with Player One Arcade, a quick visit to their website would do the trick. But for those who’ve been there, they know it’s more than just an arcade. Especially on a Saturday night with a 7-year-old, the array of pinball machines and 80s-90s arcade games, paired with a drink (maybe an IPA or cider), creates hours of cherished memories. A local treasure that’s so much more than just flashing lights and high scores.

Arizona’s Pinball Pros

Here’s how the top players in Arizona’s pinball scene stack up:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		672.28
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	589.29
3	John Shopple	Mesa	570.08
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.82
5	Adam Horton	Phoenix	331.5
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	321.39
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.26
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.24
9	Paul Blanco	Chandler	306.34
10	Walter dony	Phoenix	281.4

As the flippers rest and the lights dim on this memorable evening, one thing remains evident: the pinball community in Arizona is stronger than ever. The silver ball will roll again soon, so stay tuned for more exciting updates from the pulsating realm of pinball!

A Desert Afternoon of Flicks, Flips, and Fantastic Pinball

When 20 top-tier pinball players assemble under the scorching Arizona sun, you can expect the competition to get fiery. The “Belles & Chimes Phoenix” tournament, organized by the pinball aficionado Tracy Lindbergh, kicked off at 1:00 PM on September 23, 2023, at an undisclosed Arizona location. For nearly 3 hours, these pinball wizards tested their mettle in a grueling 6-round showdown.

A Blackwater Battle for the Ages

Among the day’s highlights was an intense game in Round 2 featuring “Blackwater 100” by Bally, a table that debuted on March 1, 1988. Olivia Helm, ranked 931st in IFPA standings, took first place, fending off formidable opponents Diane Smith, Krisha Shufran, and Valerie Doucette. This face-off proved that when it comes to pinball, the thrill of the game transcends the machine itself.

The Champions of the Day

• 🥇 Olivia Helm: Not only dominated “Blackwater 100” but also the tournament, boasting a total of 213 IFPA events under her belt.
• 🥈 Stephanie Turner: A local from Chandler, AZ, with an IFPA rank of 1063, showcased her skills through consistent gameplay.
• 🥉 Kathy Lovato: An emerging talent with a penchant for racking up points.
• 🏅 Tracy Lindbergh: The woman behind the curtain, ranked 491 and the event’s organizer, made it to the top four. That’s multitasking at its finest!

The Tables that Talked

While “Blackwater 100” stole the spotlight, let’s not overlook the other magnificent machines that hosted our gladiators:

1. Space Shuttle by Williams (1984) – A voyage into space minus the G-force.
2. Stellar Wars by Williams (1979) – Your ticket to interstellar glory.
3. Sorcerer by Williams (1985) – Where magic and pinball collide.
4. Transporter the Rescue by Bally (1989) – A nostalgic trip back to late ’80s pop culture.
5. Genesis by Gottlieb (1986) – Embark on a creation journey of points and combos.

IFPA Arizona’s Best

Before we wrap up, let’s look at the IFPA’s Arizona Top 10 to see how our competitors measure up:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		672.29
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	588.59
3	John Shopple	Mesa	570.07
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.81
5	Kevan Carter	Tempe	321.37
6	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.26
7	Adam Horton	Phoenix	310.32
8	Paul Blanco	Chandler	306.33
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	282.01
10	Walter dony	Phoenix	281.39

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In the world of pinball, you are only as good as your last game, and for those who played in the Belles & Chimes Phoenix tournament, that last game was exceptional. We can’t wait to reveal the next undisclosed location where pinballs will fly and dreams will either be made or shattered.

Until then, keep flipping!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball! 🌵

Picture this: the sun sets over Mesa, Arizona, the desert heat starts to subside, and the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade lights flicker on, signaling the start of an underground revolution. But instead of mosh pits and guitars, the stars of the show are pinball flippers and bumpers. Yes, it’s the Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 12, and if you think pinball can’t rock, well, buddy, you haven’t been to a tournament organized by Matt Trethewey.

The Tournament Where Everyone Was a Rockstar

As the clock hit 6:30 PM, 13 players stepped into the proverbial ring, going head-to-head in 10 frenzied games each. For an electrifying 2 hours and 25 minutes, participants were not just competing against each other but also racing against the clock. It was raw, it was intense, and it was most definitely punk rock.

X-Men Magneto (LE) Takes the Stage

Even in a sea of high-speed, intense games, X-Men Magneto (LE) by Stern stood out, becoming the undisputed fan-favorite with nine games played. The machine had participants hooked with its magnetic features (pun totally intended), challenging them to bring their A-game. Following closely behind was Whirlwind by Williams, with the longest average game duration at around 10 minutes, making it the “Stairway to Heaven” of pinball games for the night.

An Unexpected Win for the Underdog

The winner of the night was none other than Jeff Wegener, who boasts an IFPA ranking of 4163 and has only participated in eight IFPA events. Despite his rookie status, he racked up 5 wins, showing that even in the world of pinball, punk rock’s underdog ethos is alive and well.

A Vibrant Venue with a Twist

If you’re wondering about the venue, let’s just say B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade is a true pinball haven. But it’s not just the games that have people talking; it’s the ales and the atmosphere. With a variety of beers and an open policy on outside food, it’s a venue that offers a complete experience. And if you’re in the mood to mix it up, there’s always downtown Mesa just a flipper’s flick away.

Arizona’s Pinball Elite

Just to set the scene a little more, here’s a snapshot of Arizona’s Pinball Top 10:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		671.68
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	588.17
3	John Shopple	Mesa	569.41
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	351.79
5	Kevan Carter	Tempe	320.85
6	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.19
7	Adam Horton	Phoenix	310.26
8	Paul Blanco	Chandler	305.5
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	282.01
10	Walter dony	Phoenix	280.57

For all the pinball aficionados out there, it’s worth mentioning that Jim Smith AZ, with an IFPA rank of 455 and 452 total IFPA events, couldn’t break past 4th place. It just goes to show, in the world of punk rock pinball, anything can happen.

In true punk rock fashion, the night was a testament to the spirit of fun, competitiveness, and community that lives in the heart of pinball culture. And if this is how Week 12 went down, just imagine what future weeks hold. So, stay tuned for more updates from the electrifying world of pinball.

Picture this: It’s a blazing 90°F, the sun’s rays piercing through a clear sky, casting a bright glow on the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, AZ. Inside, the atmosphere is electric (pun intended!), contrasting the warmth outside with the cool competitive spirit that is about to take over for the next ten and a half hours.

An Epic of Flipping Proportions

Organized by the indomitable Rachel Bess, the Electric Bat Season 9 Series 1 #1 pinball tournament kickstarted with the battle cry of 98 contenders on September 19, 2023. These pinball wizards formed groups, took to the machines, and played their hearts out over five thrilling rounds.

Bond… James Bond Takes Center Stage

Among the heroes of the day, a standout performance in Round 2 saw Paul Blanco, a Chandler native, outshine all on the James Bond 007 (Premium). He was closely tailed by Gavin Bowman and Mark Kelber. And let’s not forget Rachel Buck, who despite having an IFPA rank of 0, played her way into the round. This Bond certainly had its share of players both shaken and stirred!

Pinball Palace Par Excellence

The Electric Bat Arcade is a treasure trove of pinball machines. The alluring pull of “Game Of Thrones (Pro)” by Stern, the roaring thrill of the recently released “Godzilla (Premium)“, the mystique of the classic “Twilight Zone“, and the action-packed sequences of “Demolition Man” and “Johnny Mnemonic” kept players and spectators hooked.

Champions of the Day

When the flippers stopped flipping, it was Greg Davis from Phoenix who rose as the undisputed champion, followed by Nicholas Zachry, John Shopple, and Cody Winant. Their consistent performance over multiple games solidified their standings, reminding everyone of the dedication it takes to reign supreme in the pinball world.

Arizona’s Top Pinball Maestros

The tournament wasn’t just a one-day wonder. It reflected Arizona’s rich legacy of pinball enthusiasts:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		671.68
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	588.16
3	John Shopple	Mesa	569.41
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	351.79
5	Kevan Carter	Tempe	320.85
6	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.2
7	Adam Horton	Phoenix	307.57
8	Paul Blanco	Chandler	305.5
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
10	Walter dony	Phoenix	280.57

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Beyond the Game

For those who ventured into Electric Bat for the first time, it was more than just a pinball arena. The venue served as a delightful respite where one could grab a bite, sip on a refreshing drink, and indulge in arcade memories. To quote a visitor, “this is the first place I have been where all the games actually worked; all the buttons functioned.”

Whether you’re a pinball pro, an arcade aficionado, or someone looking to relive some cherished memories, Electric Bat Arcade offers something for everyone. This tournament might have ended, but the echoes of the games played, the laughter shared, and the competition faced will linger on.

Until next time, keep those balls rolling and stay tuned for more updates from the exciting realm of pinball!

In a place where the sun meets the desert and cacti reign supreme, pinball enthusiasts converged on an undisclosed location in Arizona. The date? September 18, 2023. The time? 6:30 PM. The mission? Victory at the ‘Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3A #6’ pinball tournament!

The Venue – A Mystery Worth the Hype

When we say “undisclosed location,” we mean it. Jim Smith, the brilliant mind behind the event, left everyone intrigued about the venue. Here’s a challenge for you, dear reader – ask Jim to spill the beans for next time! Your curious writer wants to know as much as you do.

The Play-by-Play: Tournament Highlights

With 37 passionate players battling through 5 rounds, strategy and split-second decisions ruled the evening. The goal was simple yet compelling – earn the most points across all rounds to be crowned the pinball wizard of the night.

One particular face-off became the talk of the evening. Round 3 on ‘James Bond 007 (Premium)‘ saw Mike McClure, a seasoned player from Glendale, claiming victory. But what caught everyone’s attention was the wild card, Juan Gonzalez. Despite having an IFPA rank of zero, Gonzalez finished a close second, proving that in the game of pinball, anything is possible!

Machines of the Hour

Among the 13 pinball machines that graced the floor, some stood out not just for their gameplay but also their legacy:

• ‘James Bond 007 (Premium)‘ by Stern – a new release that’s already a fan favorite.
• ‘Stranger Things (Pro)‘ – who doesn’t love the mix of the Upside Down and pinball?
• ‘Foo Fighters (LE)‘ – the latest addition, bringing rock ‘n roll to the pinball scene.
• ‘Black Pyramid‘ by Bally – an oldie but goldie, transporting players back to 1984.
• ‘The Mandalorian (Pro)‘ – where Baby Yoda (Grogu, if you’re a purist) meets flippers and steel balls.

Top Dogs of the Tournament

While every player showcased outstanding skills, a few stole the show:

1. Joey Rio from Surprise, Arizona, clinched the top spot. With an IFPA rank of 390 and 55 IFPA events under his belt, Rio is no stranger to the pinball elite.
2. Kevin Ehlers followed in second place, showcasing that experience matters with 73 total IFPA events.
3. Vincent De La O, a newcomer with an IFPA rank of zero, shocked everyone by grabbing the third spot. Talk about an underdog story!
4. Rob De La O wrapped up the top four, proving that pinball might just be in the De La O genes.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		671.68
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	588.16
3	John Shopple	Mesa	569.41
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	351.79
5	Kevan Carter	Tempe	320.85
6	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.2
7	Adam Horton	Phoenix	307.57
8	Paul Blanco	Chandler	305.5
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
10	Walter dony	Phoenix	280.57

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The silver balls have stopped rolling, the scores are set, but the memories of the night linger. Here’s to more flippers, tilt warnings, and high scores! Arizona, keep those pinball machines buzzing! 🌵🔮