In the heart of Surprise, Arizona, with a clear sky and the sun bidding its fiery goodbye at a soothing 90°F, Player One Arcade became the nucleus of a colossal clash of pinball enthusiasts on October 9th, 2023.

The Setting: Player One Arcade

Located strategically at 17239 North Litchfield Road, Player One Arcade isn’t just another game arcade—it’s a pinball haven! The feedback from regular patrons is evident: Monday nights transform into pinball paradise. With machines that resonate like the heartbeat of a true pinball fan and a convivial crowd, it’s the mecca for many. Add to this tantalizing scenario the lure of tacos and sushi from neighboring establishments, and you’ve got yourself a perfect evening!

The Machines That Stole The Show

Of the 14 luminous machines that adorned Player One Arcade, these were the crown jewels:

• Rush (Pro) by Stern: Echoing the legendary band’s beats since 2022.
• Venom (Pro) by Stern: A recent entrant from 2023 that’s already making heads turn.
• Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: An interstellar journey dating back to 2017.
• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: Recreating the eerie ambience of Hawkins since 2019.
• Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern: A roaring dino-adventure machine from 2019.

Guardians of the Pinball Galaxy

Round 4 etched an unforgettable narrative as players confronted the Guardians of the Galaxy machine. Christy Kohtz, ranked 3030, stood tall, securing the numero uno position. Kevin Ehlers and Andrew Kohtz followed in quick succession, while Lee Ann Scardina bagged the fourth place.

Arizona’s Pinball Pioneers

While every player exhibited an exemplary spirit, the top dogs of the night were:

1. Mark Pearson: Holding an enviable IFPA rank of 36, Mark’s experience of 535 events was unmistakably visible.
2. Mike McClure: Punching well above his IFPA rank of 1249, Mike clinched the second spot.
3. Mary Profeta Scardina: Showcasing her prowess, Mary secured the third position.
4. Jim Smith AZ: Not just the organizer, but also one of the top players, sealing the fourth position.

Arizona’s Pinball Powerhouses

The IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 standings post-tournament shimmered as follows:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		672.25
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	607.84
3	John Shopple	Mesa	592.62
4	Adam Horton	Phoenix	377.81
5	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.78
6	Paul Blanco	Chandler	342.12
7	kevan carter	Tempe	321.36
8	Jason Barre	Mesa	313.26
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.16
10	Walter dony	Phoenix	281.38

Flipping Forward

With the clatter of the silver ball now a mere echo, Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3B #2 came to its grand conclusion. But remember, the pinball universe never really rests. So, get those flippers ready and stay dialed in for more updates from the radiant realm of pinball!

As dusk descended upon Mesa, Arizona, on October 4th, 2023, and the temperature held at a balmy 86°F, pinball enthusiasts began to gather at the famed B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for an evening of camaraderie, competition, and chilled brews. The Punk Rock Pinball 4th Quarter 2023 #1 Tournament, organized by the renowned Matt Trethewey, was about to kick off.

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade: More Than Just Another Bar

Nestled at 213 W Main St, the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade isn’t just any watering hole. Here, a vast assortment of beers meet vintage video games and pinball machines, whisking patrons back to simpler times. The sheer nostalgia of the arcade is sure to tug at the heartstrings of anyone who’s ever flipped a pinball or smashed a joystick.

Machines of Legend and Legacy

Among the eight legendary pinball machines, a few stood out:

• Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams: A 1993 classic that took players on a blood-curdling adventure, earning its spot as the tournament favorite.
• Grand Prix by Stern: The thrill of the F1 race was encapsulated in this 2005 release, which also boasted the tournament’s longest game duration.
• X-Men Magneto (LE) by Stern: A 2012 tribute to the mutant saga.
• The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams: Zoom through the city streets with this 1992 hit.
• Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally: Dive deep into the mysterious waters with this 1992 masterpiece.

The Grand Showdown

12 players. 10 games each. The atmosphere was charged as the competitors took their positions. While all participants showcased their A-game, the top 4 truly stood out:

1. Jeff Wegener: With only 8 IFPA events under his belt, Jeff’s skill and focus surprised many, securing his spot at the top.
2. Shawn Barnett: A seasoned player, Shawn’s experience from 61 IFPA events was evident in his gameplay.
3. Jim Smith AZ: The Phoenix maestro, with a whopping 457 IFPA events to his name, clinched the third spot with his usual flair.
4. Mahina Hayashi: Mahina, with only 4 IFPA events to her name, proved that sometimes, passion trumps experience.

The Crème de la Crème of Arizona’s Pinball Scene

As the evening wrapped up, the latest IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 standings were:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		671.64
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	598.17
3	John Shopple	Mesa	592.13
4	Adam Horton	Phoenix	352.69
5	John Magyar	Gilbert	351.78
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	320.85
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	313.21
8	Paul Blanco	Chandler	309.72
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.24
10	Walter Dony	Phoenix	280.56

Until Next Flip!

As the lights dimmed and the pinballs came to rest, the 17-hour-long marathon (or so it seemed!) drew to a close. A night of fierce competition, new friendships, and old rivalries renewed came to an end. Mesa’s pinball enthusiasts departed with memories of a night to remember and the promise of more adventures to come.

Stay plugged in for more from the electrifying world of pinball. Play on, Arizona!

The Big Play

On a clear evening with temperatures comfortably hovering around 83°F, the vibrant heart of pinball in Tempe, Arizona came alive at the Electric Bat Arcade. The Electric Bat Season 9 Series 1 #3 pinball tournament kicked off at 6:30 PM on October 3, 2023. Over the course of nearly 3 electrifying hours, 94 players clashed, forming dynamic groups that would compete over 5 adrenaline-pumping rounds. The goal was clear: earn the most points and claim the coveted title.

Music, Rockstars, and… Pinball?

Amidst the myriad of pinball games that the tournament hosted, an iconic match stood out. Round 4 showcased the riveting Aerosmith by Stern, a tribute to the legendary rock band. Matt JohnsonAZ from Mesa led the pack, with Walter Dony from Phoenix trailing close behind. Amber Valdivia and Katie Carey put up a valiant fight, securing the 3rd and 4th spots respectively.

The Pinball Titans of the Night

As the tournament concluded, four players emerged victorious:

1. John Shopple from Mesa, with his sharpshooting strategies, seized the first position.
2. Nicholas Zachry demonstrated deft skills, landing the second spot.
3. Mark Pearson, hailing from Phoenix, showed why he’s among Arizona’s finest, securing third place.
4. Paul Blanco, with a notable track record, clinched the fourth position.

Machine Majesty

A wide array of 56 pinball machines adorned Electric Bat Arcade. Notable mentions included the spine-chilling Scared Stiff by Bally, the nuclear-themed Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball, the iconic Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern, the country-inspired Dolly Parton by Bally, and the newly-released James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern.

Venue Vibes

Electric Bat Arcade offered more than just pinball. Visitors were treated to scrumptious food, delightful drinks, and classic arcade games. The atmosphere? A perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flair, making it a must-visit spot for anyone in the vicinity.

IFPA Arizona Pinball’s Crème de la Crème

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau	—	671.63
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	607.43
3	John Shopple	Mesa	591.99
4	Adam Horton	Phoenix	377.73
5	John Magyar	Gilbert	351.77
6	Paul Blanco	Chandler	341.29
7	Kevan Carter	Tempe	320.85
8	Jason Barre	Mesa	313.19
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	309.16
10	Walter Dony	Phoenix	280.56

Arizona’s pinball community continues to thrive, with every tournament showcasing immense talent, nail-biting matches, and an undying love for the game. Until next time, keep flipping and may your scores soar high!

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! 🌵