Showdown at Punk Rock Pinball Tournament

As the mist gently settled over Mesa, Arizona, adding a mystical aura to the evening, the Punk Rock Pinball tournament kicked off at the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, transforming the venue into a battleground for pinball wizards. Organized by Matt Trethewey, the event saw eight determined players clashing flippers over the course of a thrilling 2.5 hours, each aiming to claim the title of pinball champion.

Venue Vibes: More Than Just a Game

Nestled at 213 W Main St, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade isn’t just a venue; it’s a sanctuary for arcade aficionados. With its vibrant atmosphere, it perfectly encapsulates the essence of punk rock spirit merged with the nostalgia of arcade classics. Imagine the scene: the air filled with the sound of clinking glasses, laughter, and the electrifying buzz of pinball machines, each player deeply engrossed in their game, their supporters cheering them on, creating an ambiance that’s both exhilarating and heartwarming.

The Machines That Stole the Show

Among the nine pinball machines that stood proudly, two captured the players’ hearts and skills: Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro). The former, a gem from 1993 by Williams, proved to be the crowd’s favorite, witnessing six intense games. Its allure lies not just in its challenging gameplay but in the legacy it carries, a piece of pinball history that continues to captivate. On the other hand, Stern’s TMNT, with its 12-minute average game duration, tested the players’ endurance and strategy, making each match a nail-biting spectacle.

Clash of the Titans

The tournament was more than just a game; it was a narrative of passion, strategy, and unexpected twists. Shawn Barnett emerged victorious, showcasing a blend of skill and calm under pressure, a testament to his experience in 80 IFPA events. Hot on his heels was John Magyar, the local hero from Arizona, whose consistent performance and strategic mastery were a sight to behold. Not far behind, Matt Dickson and Lindsay Pobieglo displayed incredible prowess, challenging their opponents at every flip and turn, making the competition fierce and unpredictable.

More Than Just Winners

While the spotlight shone brightly on the winners, the true essence of the tournament lay in the spirit of the community. Each player, regardless of their rank or experience, brought something unique to the table, contributing to a tapestry of stories that will be told and retold within the walls of B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade.

As the night drew to a close, the players stepped away from the machines, but the echoes of laughter, the clatter of flippers, and the joy of shared passion lingered in the air. The Punk Rock Pinball tournament was a testament to the timeless charm of pinball, and a reminder that sometimes, in the midst of our busy lives, it’s the simple joys that bring us together.

Stay tuned for more tales from the pinball world, where every flipper hit tells a story, and every game is a new adventure.

Electric Bat: A Showcase of Pinball Prowess

The Electric Bat Season 10- Series 2 #1 pinball tournament, held on January 23, 2024, at the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona, was a whirlwind of flippers and silver balls. Organized by Rachel Bess, this event drew a crowd of 105 players who competed in 5 rounds of intense pinball action, lasting just under 3 hours. Despite the overcast skies and a cool 54°F, the atmosphere inside was charged with excitement and competition.

Round 4 Highlight: Avengers Assemble on Infinity Quest

In the spotlight of Round 4, players battled on Stern’s Avengers: Infinity Quest (Pro), a fan-favorite since its release in September 2020. Kevan Carter from Tempe, showcasing his skills with an IFPA rank of 246, clinched the top spot. Close on his heels were Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ (IFPA rank 314), Roland Nadeau from Phoenix, AZ (IFPA rank 49), and the unranked Brett Brandeburg, making for a thrilling round of play.

The Champions of the Electric Bat

The tournament culminated with stellar performances from the top players:

  1. Jard Cassell (Arizona, USA): Demonstrating his pinball mastery with an IFPA rank of 708 and 50 events.
  2. Jay Bondelli: A skilled player with an IFPA rank of 1739, participating in 101 events.
  3. John Magyar (Arizona): Showcasing his expertise with an IFPA rank of 291 and 194 events.
  4. Katie Adler: An emerging talent in the pinball world, holding an IFPA rank of 7800 over 7 events.

Pinball Machine Galore

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 59 pinball machines, providing a diverse range of challenges:

  • Medieval Madness (Remake) by Chicago Gaming (2016): A modern twist on a beloved classic.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (2018): Combining superhero antics with engaging gameplay.
  • Sorcerer by Williams (1985): A throwback to the classic era of pinball.
  • Freefall by Stern Electronics (1981): A game that tests players’ reflexes and precision.
  • Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball (2017): A modern machine with a retro feel.
  • Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern (2016): Bringing the iconic TV series to the pinball world.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022): A rock and roll journey with the band Rush.
  • Meteor by Stern Electronics (1979): A classic that has stood the test of time.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern (2023): The latest addition, bringing superhero action to the arcade.

The Electric Bat Experience

The Electric Bat Arcade, attached to the Yucca Taproom, is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. Offering a wide array of pinball machines in one location, it’s the perfect place for both casual and competitive play. With tournaments every Tuesday for just $1 plus coin drop, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for fun and competition.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball. Whether you’re a seasoned player aiming for high scores or a newcomer ready to hit your first jackpot, the vibrant community and thrilling tournaments await you. Keep those flippers flipping, and see you at the next pinball showdown!

Pinball and Puddles: The Player 1 Arcade Side Finals

A Wet and Wild Journey to Pinball Glory

On the way to the Player One Arcade in Surprise, AZ, for the much-anticipated Player 1 Arcade Series1 2024 Side Finals, we couldn’t help but chuckle at the desert dwellers navigating the roads in light rain. It’s a well-known fact that a drop of rain can turn the usually calm streets into a scene from a slip-n-slide!

An Evening of Pinball Mastery in Surprise, Arizona

Despite the weather’s best efforts on January 22, 2024, pinball enthusiasts, undeterred by the 56°F and light rain, converged at the Player One Arcade. The event, brilliantly organized by Jim Smith, spanned approximately 2 and a half hours of intense, skillful play.

Star Wars Showdown: A Galactic Battle on the Pinball Front

The tournament’s highlight was undoubtedly the fifth round on the Star Wars (Premium) pinball machine by Stern, a fan favorite since its release in August 2017. Tommy Bizzi, boasting an IFPA rank of 5474, emerged as the master of the galaxy, clinching the first position. Christy Kohtz, from Phoenix, AZ, with a rank of 3070, claimed the second spot, showcasing her force in the pinball universe. Brittany Daniel and Moto secured the third and fourth positions, proving their mettle in the pinball world.

Celebrating the Pinball Prodigies

The tournament concluded with exceptional performances from the top players:

  1. Tommy Bizzi – IFPA rank 5474, demonstrated exceptional skill across all rounds.
  2. Juan Silvagnoli – An underdog with an IFPA rank of 12387, amazed everyone with his second-place finish.
  3. Catcher Knapp – IFPA rank 4911, showed strategic prowess to earn a well-deserved third spot.
  4. Dave Halley – A seasoned player with an IFPA rank of 602, rounded off the top four.

A Parade of Pinball Machines

The tournament featured a diverse array of 14 pinball machines, each offering a unique experience:

Player One Arcade: A Pinball Enthusiast’s Dream

Player One Arcade, with its fantastic array of games and pinball machines, was more than just a venue; it was a haven for gaming enthusiasts. The electric atmosphere, accentuated by live gameplay on TVs, made it a delightful experience for everyone involved.

Next Up: More Pinball Adventures

As the tournament wrapped up, players and fans departed with stories of triumph and near misses, reminiscent of our own adventurous drive to the venue. The Player 1 Arcade Series1 2024 Side Finals not only celebrated the skill of the players but also the enduring charm of pinball. Stay tuned for more updates from the vibrant world of pinball tournaments across major cities in the U.S.!

Strikes, Flippers, and High Scores at the Dangerzone Arcade Monthly Knockout

A Pinball Marathon in Gilbert, Arizona

On a cool, overcast day with the temperature hovering around 57°F, the Dangerzone Arcade in Gilbert, AZ, transformed into a battleground for pinball wizards. The Dangerzone Arcade Monthly Knockout, organized by Jordan Lamoreaux, kicked off at noon on January 21, 2024. For nearly 5 hours, the arcade echoed with the sounds of pinball machines and the buzz of competition.

This Group Knockout Tournament featured 10 intense rounds. 14 players vied for supremacy in a format where resilience was key: players were eliminated after receiving 3 strikes. In four-player groups, the top two escaped unscathed while the bottom two received strikes; in three-player groups, only the last player received a strike.

Godzilla Unleashed: A Showdown to Remember

Round 1 spotlighted the Godzilla (LE) machine by Stern, a recent fan favorite since its release in September 2021. John Schollmeyer, who is unranked, emerged as the king of monsters. Lexi Tornero, ranked 12655, claimed a well-fought second place. Nick Goegan, another enigmatic player without an IFPA rank, and Nicholas Zachry from Gilbert, ranked 745th, battled fiercely for the third and fourth spots.

Saluting the Pinball Champions

The tournament culminated with exceptional performances from the top players:

  1. Nicholas Zachry from Gilbert, a skilled player claimed the first spot.
  2. Nate Tornero from Chandler, Arizona, finished strong at second.
  3. Greg Mohs from AZ, secured the third place with consistent gameplay.
  4. Nick Goegan, a newcomer to the IFPA, surprised everyone with his fourth-place finish.

Pinball Paradise: A Diverse Collection

The tournament showcased an impressive lineup of 18 pinball machines, each offering unique gameplay and themes:

The Venue: A Pinball Enthusiast’s Dream

Dangerzone Arcade, an awesome addition to Uncle Bears, provided the perfect setting for this tournament. With great pinball machines and the option to have dinner in the arcade, it offered a full evening of entertainment and competition for players and spectators alike.

Stay Tuned for More Pinball Action

As the day wound down, players and fans left with stories of triumph, near misses, and the thrill of competition. The Dangerzone Arcade Monthly Knockout showcased not just the skill of the players, but also the enduring charm of pinball. Keep an eye out for more updates from the exciting world of pinball tournaments across the United States!

Electric Bat Arcade: A Night of Pinball Showdowns and Rivalries

Hello, pinball enthusiasts! It’s Bride of Pinbot here, bringing you an exhilarating recap of the Electric Bat Season 10 – Series 1 #6 Pinball Tournament. This event turned an ordinary Tuesday evening into a spectacle of flippers, lights, and excitement at the Electric Bat Arcade in Tempe, Arizona.

The Stage is Set

On January 16, 2024, as the evening air in Tempe settled at a comfortable 59°F under a sky with just a few clouds, 87 pinball players gathered for a showdown at the Electric Bat Arcade. Organized by the ever-dedicated Rachel Bess, the tournament consisted of five intense rounds of pinball action, with each player battling to accumulate the most points.

Round 4 Spotlight: Deadpool Dominance

In the fourth round, the Deadpool (Pro) machine by Stern, a 2018 release, took center stage. Greg Davis from Phoenix, with an IFPA rank of 252, showcased his outstanding skills, claiming first place. Hot on his heels were Jason Hecht from Chandler, AZ, Serge Sicular, and Courtney Hall from Mesa, AZ, each delivering top-notch performances on this fan-favorite machine.

Pinball Champions Crowned

At the end of the night, it was Greg Davis who emerged victorious, adding another triumph to his already impressive pinball career. Close behind were Jason Barre from Mesa, AZ, Andrew Roesch, and Walter Dony from Phoenix, each displaying a masterful blend of skill and strategy throughout the tournament.

Players Spotlight: Barre vs. Davis

The tournament also highlighted the ongoing rivalry between some top IFPA players Jason Barre and Greg Davis, a dynamic duo whose competitive edge has fluctuated over several encounters in the last year. Their pinball battle history is filled with moments of brilliance, from Barre’s lead in the Electric Bat League Season 9 to Davis’s triumph in the Starfighters Monthly and beyond. This rivalry added an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, keeping the spectators on the edge of their seats.

The Machines of the Moment

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of 59 pinball machines, with several standouts:

The Electric Bat Experience

The Electric Bat Arcade, a gem for pinball lovers, provided the perfect backdrop for this tournament. The venue’s vast selection of machines and the cozy ambiance of the attached Yucca Tap Room made it a haven for players and spectators alike. Check out more information on their website.

Wrapping Up

The Electric Bat Season 10 – Series 1 #6 was a celebration of skill, strategy, and the timeless joy of pinball. Players left with memories of flashing lights, ringing bells, and the thrill of competition. Stay tuned for more captivating stories from the realm of pinball!

Rock Festival at Player 1 Arcade in Surprise

Overview: Player 1 Arcade Tournament

The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 1 (#6) pinball tournament, organized by Jim Smith, was a showcase of skill and strategy. Held at Player One Arcade in Surprise, Arizona, on January 15, 2024, this event brought together 25 players for a 2.5-hour battle across 5 rounds. The competition was fierce, with players vying for the top position based on points earned in each round.

Standout Game of the Tournament

The climax of the tournament was witnessed in Round 5 on the Rush (Pro) machine by Stern, released in January 2022. This game became a battleground for the top players, with Mark Pearson leading the pack. Mike McClure, Lance Schulze, and Taryn Newlove followed, each demonstrating their pinball prowess on this challenging machine.

Celebrating the Winners

Scott Ping emerged as the champion, with a remarkable performance that earned them the top spot. Following closely were Mark Pearson, Mike McClure, and Joel Daniel, each showcasing exceptional skills throughout the tournament and earning their respective ranks.

Featured Pinball Machines and Their Allure

The tournament featured 14 pinball machines, each with its unique artwork and gameplay:

  1. Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: This machine, released in September 2021, captivates players with its dynamic artwork and design inspired by the iconic monster movie. The gameplay involves city destruction and monster battles, offering an immersive experience.
  2. Rush (Pro) by Stern: A highlight of the tournament, this machine, with its fast-paced gameplay, pays homage to the legendary rock band Rush. Players are treated to an audio-visual spectacle, with classic Rush tracks accompanying the gameplay.
  3. Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern: Another all time great, released in March 2023, this machine celebrates the iconic band with stunning artwork featuring band members and electrifying concert scenes. The gameplay is as intense as the band’s music, offering a high-energy pinball experience.
  4. Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: Rounding out our music festival tour, a tribute to the legendary rock band, this machine with its psychedelic artwork and Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits, transports players back to the golden era of rock. The gameplay focuses on song-based missions, making it a hit with music and pinball enthusiasts.
  5. Cyclone by Williams: A classic from February 1988, Cyclone captures the essence of a funfair, complete with a Ferris wheel and rollercoaster-themed artwork. The gameplay is nostalgic yet challenging, appealing to both veteran and new players.

Other notable machines included Star Wars (Premium) and Venom (LE) by Stern, and my husband Pinbot by Williams, each bringing their unique themes and engaging gameplay to the tournament.

The Venue: Player 1 Arcade

Player 1 Arcade isn’t just a venue; it’s a pinball paradise. With a wide array of pinball machines and classic arcade games, it offers an inclusive experience for all ages. The bar’s diverse selection adds to the atmosphere, ensuring that every visit is not just about gaming but also about enjoying the community vibe. This local business stands out as a must-visit location in Surprise, Arizona, for its commitment to providing quality entertainment.

Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball!

Greetings Starfighter. You have been recruited by the Star League…

The Starfighters Monthly pinball tournament, held on January 13, 2024, at Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, was a fight to defend the frontier against Xur and the KoDan armada. The event, expertly organized by Kevin Curtis, spanned over 6 hours and featured a unique Group Knockout format. In this intense competition, 79 players faced off across 14 rounds, with eliminations occurring after accumulating 3 strikes. The format added an extra layer of strategy, as players in four-player groups aimed to avoid being in the bottom two to dodge strikes, while in three-player groups, the last place was more perilous.

A Jurassic Showdown

In Round 2, the spotlight shone brightly on the Jurassic Park (Premium) machine by Stern. Released in October 2019, this machine transported players to a prehistoric world filled with challenges. Jon Soares from Phoenix, emerged victorious in this round. He was followed by Greg Mohs from Arizona, Nick Goegan from Chandler, AZ, and Kevin Curtis himself, demonstrating the high level of competition.

The Pinball Champions

The tournament culminated with remarkable performances from some the top players in the state:

  1. Roland Nadeau: IFPA rank 55, with 288 IFPA events under his belt.
  2. Mark Pearson: IFPA rank 43, a veteran of 556 IFPA events.
  3. Nate Tornero: IFPA rank 1310, with 23 events to his name.
  4. Ben Clement: IFPA rank 311, having participated in 357 IFPA events.

A Diverse Array of Challenges

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 36 pinball machines, each bringing its unique flair to the competition. Some notable mentions include:

  • Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams (1993): An adventure-filled machine that takes players on an archaeological journey.
  • Halloween (CE) by Spooky Pinball (2021): A recent addition that brings a spooky twist to the pinball experience.
  • Doctor Who by Bally (1992): A classic that takes players on a time-traveling adventure with the famous Time Lord.
  • Airborne by Capcom (1996): Offering high-flying excitement and dynamic gameplay.
  • Fathom (Mermaid) by Haggis Pinball (2022): A deep-sea exploration game with a modern touch.
  • White Water by Williams (1993): A wild ride through rapids and waterfalls.
  • Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams (1993): An interstellar journey with the beloved Star Trek crew.
  • Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Premium) by Stern (2019): A battle against the fearsome Black Knight.
  • Heavy Metal by Stern (2020): Rock and roll meets pinball in this energetic game.

Nostalgia and Fun at Starfighters Arcade

Starfighters Arcade is not just a venue; it’s a nostalgic journey back to the ’80s and ’90s arcade culture. For less than $13, players get unlimited playtime, surrounded by over 100 arcade and pinball games. The place buzzes with excitement, yet it never feels too crowded to enjoy a game. With a snack section, drink machines, and friendly staff, the arcade also serves as a perfect spot for birthday parties. It’s a place where both kids and adults can have a blast, often leaving adults wondering who had more fun.

Stay tuned for more updates from the vibrant world of pinball! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just discovering the joys of pinball, there’s always something new and exciting in this dynamic and skillful sport. Keep flipping those flippers, and who knows, you might be the next name in the spotlight at a future tournament!

Starfighters Kids Monthly: A Pinball Tournament for Gen Alpha

On January 13, 2024, the Starfighters Kids Monthly pinball tournament unfolded at Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, Arizona. This event, organized by Kevin Curtis, brought together 24 up and coming players for a spirited competition that lasted just over an hour. It was a perfect blend of skill, strategy, and community spirit.

Star Trek Pro: Galactic Battles in Round 2

Round 2 of the tournament was a galactic adventure on Stern’s Star Trek (Pro) machine, released in October 2013. This round turned into an epic space battle where Jason, Kenny, Graham, and Miles navigated the cosmos as Captain Kirk. The Star Trek machine was an immersive journey with high-definition artwork, cosmic LED lighting, and adrenaline-filled battles against the U.S.S. Vengeance. Jason led the pack in this round, followed closely by Kenny, with Graham and Miles trailing behind.

Tournament Champions: Celebrating Skill and Precision

The tournament concluded with Zac clinching the top spot, showcasing exceptional skill and precision. Kenny, consistent and sharp, secured second place, while Blake took third with tactical gameplay. Jason, despite a strong showing in the Star Trek round, finished fourth overall.

The Machines That Made History

The tournament featured a lineup of 11 pinball machines, each offering a unique gaming experience. Highlights included:

Starfighters Arcade: A Portal to Pinball Nostalgia

Starfighters Arcade, the venue for this event, is more than just a gaming space. It’s a vibrant celebration of arcade culture, filled with a rich variety of pinball and cabinet video games, retro art, and even modern favorites like Guitar Hero and DDR. This genuine arcade atmosphere, combined with the staff’s passion for gaming culture, made the tournament an unforgettable experience.

As we continue to explore the exciting world of pinball, we invite you to stay tuned for more updates. Whether it’s a dramatic showdown of top talent or a place to introduce your kids to a fun game, the pinball universe is always brimming with thrilling stories. Keep flipping those flippers, and we’ll see you at the next tournament!

Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play

The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play Pinball Tournament, held on January 12, 2024, at 140 W Main St, Mesa, AZ, was a spectacular event. Organized by Bob Kennedy and spanning approximately 3.5 hours, this tournament saw 51 players engage in 6 rounds of intense competition, each playing one game per round. Points were awarded based on finishing positions in each round, leading to a grand culmination where the player with the most points emerged victorious.

Round 3 Showdown: Foo Fighters Premium

In the third round, played on the Stern’s Foo Fighters (Premium) machine, four players stood out with their exceptional skills. Alex Cardwell, with an IFPA rank of 731, claimed first place, followed by Shawn Barnett (IFPA rank 3183). Mesa’s Amanda Kennedy (IFPA rank 4495) and Rachel Bess from Electric Bat (IFPA rank 1129) secured the third and fourth positions, respectively.

Celebrating Pinball Excellence: Top Contenders of the Tournament

The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play saw a thrilling display of skill and rivalry, especially between Greg Mohs and Greg Drewes. Their rivalry has become a staple in recent tournaments, with each encounter marked by closely contested skills. In this meeting Drewes narrowly edged out Mohs, continuing their pattern of alternating victories. Their previous encounters, including Atomic Age Modern tournaments on July 13th and August 24th, 2023, saw Drewes outperform Mohs. However, Mohs had his moments of triumph, finishing ahead of Drewes on July 27th and in subsequent events at North Mountain and Tilt Studios. This ongoing rivalry between the Greg’s added an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, though the other winners also deserve recognition for their impressive gameplay:

  1. Greg Drewes: IFPA rank 643, participated in 102 IFPA events.
  2. Greg Mohs: From Arizona, IFPA rank 1318, with 79 event participations.
  3. Jason Barre: From Mesa, Arizona, IFPA rank 298, a veteran of 396 events.
  4. Keegan Crandall: Holding an IFPA rank of 1276, Crandall has been part of 26 IFPA events, showcasing rising talent in the pinball arena.

The Stars of the Show: Pinball Machines in the Limelight

The tournament was a feast for pinball enthusiasts, featuring a selection of 13 machines. Key highlights included:

  • The Party Zone by Bally (1991): This classic brought a vibrant and energetic atmosphere to the tournament.
  • Night Rider (EM) by Bally (1976): A throwback machine that offered a nostalgic experience.
  • Gilligan’s Island by Bally (1991): This machine provided a unique challenge with its island-themed playfield.
  • Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern (2023): A modern machine that was the star of the standout game in Round 3.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming (2021): This remake brought a fresh twist to the classic gameplay.
  • Taxi by Williams (1988): Always a crowd-pleaser with its fast-paced action.
  • Flight 2000 by Stern Electronics (1980): This machine added a dose of vintage charm to the mix.
  • Rush (Pro) by Stern (2022): A recent addition that brought modern pinball dynamics to the forefront.
  • Pinbot by Williams (1986): This game is known for its engaging playfield and challenging objectives

The Venue: Atomic Age Modern’s Dual Charm

The Atomic Age Modern, with its distinctive character, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament. By day, it operates as a quaint thrift store, but as night falls, it transforms into a lively pinball arcade. This unique atmosphere, combined with the competitive spirit of the tournament, created an immersive and unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of pinball!

Thrilling Moments at the Tucson Timed Match Play Pinball Tournament

High Stakes at Tucson Indoor Sports Center

On a cool January evening, the Tucson Indoor Sports Center at 1065 W Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ, buzzed with excitement as 16 skilled pinball players gathered for the Tucson Timed Match Play @TISC. Wayne Saeger orchestrated this spectacular event on January 11, 2024, starting at 6:00 PM and spanning just over 3 hours. The clear skies and a temperature of 47°F set a perfect backdrop for the intense competition inside.

Godzilla Showdown: A Round to Remember

In the sixth and final round, players were treated to a riveting match on the Godzilla (Premium) machine by Stern. Derek Jordan, ranked 2592nd in the IFPA, clinched first place, showcasing remarkable skill. He was closely followed by Ben Clement from Marana, AZ, ranked 311th, and Thomas Urban from Portland, OR, ranked 2297th, taking second and third places respectively. Bob Bodman, ranked 9404th, also put up a strong performance, finishing fourth.

Celebrating the Champions

The top players of the tournament were celebrated for their exceptional skill and dedication:

  1. Ben Clement: Hailing from Marana, AZ, and ranked 311th in the IFPA, Ben led the pack with his incredible performance across 357 IFPA events.
  2. Mike LaHaie: From Tucson, AZ, and ranked 4610th in the IFPA, Mike demonstrated great skill, with participation in 255 IFPA events.
  3. Wayne Saeger: The organizer himself, ranked 1365th, showed his expertise on both sides of the event, securing the third spot.
  4. Andy Nicholls: With an IFPA rank of 3114, Andy showcased his growing prowess, marking his 118th event.

Pinball Extravaganza: A Showcase of Classics and Modern Marvels

This tournament was a pinball enthusiast’s dream, featuring a total of 10 machines, each bringing its unique challenge and history. Highlights included F-14 Tomcat by Williams, a classic from 1987, and the recent hit Godzilla (Premium) by Stern. Fans also enjoyed the vintage charm of Lost World by Bally, released in 1978, and the modern vibes of Metallica (Pro) by Stern from 2013. Ghostbusters (Pro), another Stern creation, Stars from Stern Electronics, Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast, and The Walking Dead (Pro) added to the diverse and engaging lineup.

A Perfect Setting for Pinball Enthusiasts

The Tucson Indoor Sports Center, more than just a venue, provided an ideal atmosphere for the tournament. Known for its excellent indoor hockey facilities, the center also impressed with its casual dining options – the chicken basket was a particular favorite among players and spectators alike.

As the pinball world continues to thrive with such exciting events, we look forward to bringing you more updates from this dynamic and exhilarating realm. Keep flipping, and stay tuned for more pinball adventures!