Amidst the blistering Arizona heat of 107°F (though a gentle breeze made it feel like 105°F), the pinball enthusiasts of Mesa and beyond converged on Starfighters Arcade for an afternoon of electrifying competition. The very atmosphere of the venue tingled with the promise of dueling flippers and blinking lights.

Setting the Scene at Starfighters

Starfighters Arcade proved to be the haven for pinball and arcade aficionados, maintaining a cool interior oasis that contrasted sharply with the sun-baked landscape outside. The first-timer’s review said it all: “More people need to know about this place!” With its vast array of cabinets and machines, it was no surprise the venue was picked for such an event.

The Tournament Format: Ruthless Knockouts!

With a staggering 73 players signing up, the challenge was on! The Starfighters Monthly followed a Basic Knockout Tournament format, a ruthless yet exhilarating contest where players were paired in two-player games. The stakes? High! After receiving 3 strikes, you’re out! This format kept everyone on their toes, ensuring suspense hung thick in the air until the very end.

From Monsters to Marvels: The Machines of the Day

While the tournament had a whopping 35 pinball machines at the ready, some drew more attention than others. From the classic Xenon by Bally, which transported players back to 1980, to the wild west showdown of Cactus Canyon (Remake Special), released only two years prior, there was something for everyone. Nostalgia bubbled up with Monster Bash and Cirqus Voltaire, while the adventurous spirits gravitated towards Pirates of the Caribbean and Jurassic Park (Premium). And for the Marvel fans? Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) was the go-to.

The Godzilla Gauntlet

Round 6 proved to be one for the books with a fierce battle on Godzilla (Premium) by Stern. David Gray Jr., with his rank of 3543, proved the underdog story wasn’t just a myth, clinching the top spot. He was closely followed by Stephanie Turner, Miguel Martinez, and Dave Halley, who all gave commendable performances.

The Crowning Champions

The final whistle had the crowd cheering for:

• John Shopple (Mesa, AZ) – IFPA rank 111, with an impressive 357 IFPA Events under his belt.
• Greg Davis (Phoenix, AZ) – IFPA rank 383, veteran of 153 IFPA Events.
• John Magyar (Gilbert, AZ) – IFPA rank 247, boasting 150 IFPA Events.
• Will McKinney (Phoenix, AZ) – IFPA rank 140, a seasoned player with 275 IFPA Events to his name.

Arizona’s Pinball Pioneers

As the dust settled, here’s a peek at where our winners and other pinball aces of Arizona stood:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		672.29
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	588.58
3	John Shopple	Mesa	570.07
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	352.81
5	Kevan Carter	Tempe	321.37
6	Jason Barre	Mesa	312.27
7	Adam Horton	Phoenix	307.64
8	Paul Blanco	Chandler	306.32
9	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
10	Walter Dony	Phoenix	281.39

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Kudos to Kevin Curtis for orchestrating a pinball spectacle that will be talked about for months to come. The Starfighters Monthly was not just another tournament—it was an experience. So, fellow pinball lovers, always remember: Stay flippin’ and tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

The vibrant state of Arizona isn’t just known for its deserts and cacti. It’s also home to some of the most passionate young pinball wizards in the US, as proven by the recent Starfighters Kids Monthly Pinball Tournament. Taking place at the renowned Starfighters Arcade, this event was a testament to the undying spirit of arcade games and the passion of the next generation.

Where the Magic Happened

The 8-hour, 13-minute showdown took place on September 9, 2023, and was organized by the arcade enthusiast, Kevin Curtis. If you’re interested in the intricacies of the event, feel free to explore the official Starfighters website. This competition saw 40 youngsters form groups of four, battling each other in a series of four nail-biting rounds. The desert sun blazed outside with temperatures hitting 102°F, but nothing could heat up the atmosphere more than the intense competition inside the arcade.

Games, Glare, and Monster Bash

One of the most unforgettable moments was during Round 1, where players clashed on the iconic Monster Bash by Williams. Young Anthony P. showcased an outstanding performance, seizing first place and leaving Jason C., Zach S., and Kobe T. in the subsequent positions. With Monster Bash’s Dracula, Wolf Man, and Frankenstein figures flashing and grooving to the rock-n-roll beats, this match will remain in the annals of Starfighters’ history.

Champions of the Day

A huge round of applause goes to:

1. Kenny F. with an IFPA rank of 10781, showing the world that rankings aren’t everything.
2. Anthony P. proving that every game is an opportunity.
3. Jackson S. making his debut in the world of pinball tournaments.
4. Mollie M. an emerging star with a penchant for flippers and flashing lights.

Pinball Paradise

The Starfighters arcade is truly a pinball paradise. With classics like ‘Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure‘ and newer sensations like ‘Cactus Canyon (Remake Special)‘, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention the vibrant ‘Cirqus Voltaire‘ and the hair-raising ‘Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Premium)‘. But the cherry on top was the spine-chilling ‘Monster Bash’.

The Good, the Bad, and the Starfighters

Starfighters Arcade, although located in an industrial office setup, has a unique charm. Their vast array of retro games, combined with the unlimited play offer for just $11, is a steal. The staff is friendly, and there’s a contagious energy in the air. Sadly, you’ll have to satisfy your hunger pangs elsewhere.

Arizona’s Pinball Maestros

Speaking of competition, let’s look at the state’s top pinball aficionados:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.27
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.49
3	John Shopple	Mesa	519.45
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	315.33
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	303.5
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.36
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.28
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.75
10	Andrew Roesch		255.02

The Pinball Journey Continues

This event was a clear testament to the undying passion for pinball among the youngsters. As the flippers reset and the high scores flash, we await the next thrilling chapter in the saga of pinball showdowns. Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

In a world where video games have increasingly gone digital, the allure of the silver ball bouncing around in a well-lit box, replete with sound effects and bonuses, is undying. This was vividly apparent at the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #5 pinball tournament. Held on September 05, 2023, at the legendary Electric Bat Arcade, this competition witnessed drama, unexpected turns, and the legacy of a pinball machine that many hold dear.

Desert Heats and Dracula Beats

In an evening that sizzled at a scorching 98°F, clear skies couldn’t have been more misleading. Inside Electric Bat, a chill of suspense hung in the air. The fifth round played host to a formidable game on the Bram Stoker’s Dracula machine, a classic from Williams crafted in 1993. Henry Hanshaw, ranked 646 by the IFPA, pulled an upset, securing the top spot, leaving behind higher-ranked opponents in his wake. A true testament to the unpredictable magic of pinball!

Who Emerged as the Pinball Wizards?

First and foremost, a bow of respect to Roland Nadeau. Holding the top rank in Arizona with 267 IFPA events under his belt, he lived up to his reputation by clinching the top spot. Not far behind were the likes of Walter Dony, Jard Cassell, and Jay Bondelli. Each brought their unique flair, strategy, and game to the table, making the competition all the more enthralling.

A Machine for Every Player

What is a pinball tournament without a glorious lineup of machines? From the political intrigue of Game Of Thrones (Pro) to the prehistoric adventures in Jurassic Park, and not forgetting the heart-pumping action of Terminator 2: Judgment Day – the machines were as much the stars of the show. Recent additions like James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) only added to the mix, ensuring players had a blend of nostalgia and new challenges.

A Venue Like No Other

One step into the Electric Bat Arcade, and you’re transported. Was this an arcade or a dive bar? The incredible bartenders, food, and functional games made it a haven for both the casual visitor and the hardcore pinball enthusiast. The unexpected surprise? Unique rhythm games from Japan – try playing those after a couple of drinks!

Top Dogs of Arizona

Here’s a look at the crème de la crème of Arizona’s pinball wizards:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.86
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.9
3	John Shopple	Mesa	520.11
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	316.35
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	304.32
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.87
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.35
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282.01
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.82
10	Andrew Roesch		255.21

Electric Bat’s recent tournament stands as a beacon, illuminating the timeless allure of pinball. As the neon lights dimmed and the buzz of the evening faded into the desert night, one thing was clear – in the world of pinball, legends can be born anytime, anywhere.

Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!

With a sizzling 106°F under the clear skies of Mesa, Arizona, the real heat was being generated inside the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade. August 30, 2023, saw the energetic Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 9, taking center stage for over nine hours. Imagine this: blaring punk rock, the whirl of pinball machines, and the buzz of the crowd, all mixed with the aroma of craft beers.

A Dive into B.R.I.’s Ambiance

Right at 213 W Main St, the Taproom & Arcade welcomes patrons into a world that’s half nostalgia and half modern-day hipster haven. While their website flaunts a slew of beer options, it’s the pinball machines and video games that draw the crowd, providing a literal “blast from the past.”

Rookie Triumph in Round 1

The evening began with an unexpected twist. The first round saw a fierce battle on The Walking Dead (Premium) by Stern. Greg Haney, with no previous IFPA rank or events under his belt, shocked everyone by clinching first place. Just goes to show, sometimes the dark horses have the fiercest kicks!

A Feast of Pinball Machines

The competition boasted a range of classic and contemporary pinball machines. Stern’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) and X-Men Magneto (LE) represented the new guard, while the nostalgic allure was maintained by Whirlwind and Terminator 2: Judgment Day. And who could forget Super Mario Bros.? A machine that teleports every 90s kid back to their living room, fervently pressing buttons on their game controllers.

Top Honors

The spotlight of the night fell on Matt Dickson, ranked 2417 by the IFPA. His solid gameplay crowned him champion. Jeff Wegener, an underdog with only four IFPA events to his name, secured second place, reinforcing the idea that in pinball, anything’s possible.

Arizona’s Finest Pinballers

Keeping tabs on the state’s pinball wizards? Here are the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.27
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.49
3	John Shopple	Mesa	519.45
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	315.33
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	303.5
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.36
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.28
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.75
10	Andrew Roesch		255.02

In the world of pinball, the Punk Rock Pinball Tournament showcased that passion, strategy, and a bit of luck can create magic. Until the next tilt, keep those flipper fingers ready!

As summer winds down and Arizona’s heat remains relentless, the local pinball scene finds itself heating up in its own right. This year, the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #4 pinball tournament was nothing short of an electrifying spectacle. Organized by Rachel Bess and hosted at the iconic Electric Bat Arcade, the tournament had everything you could hope for—intense competition, surprising upsets, and machines that could make even a pinball wizard’s head spin.

A Spotlight on Strategy and Skill

Amongst the five rounds of gameplay, a standout moment occurred during Round 4 on the “Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast” by Stern, a machine that has been around since April 1, 2018. The clash featured an impressive array of competitors: Conrad Betti, Adam Horton, Brandon Passey, and Jason Hecht. Conrad Betti from Phoenix, IFPA rank 339, skillfully navigated his way to 1st place. What separated him from the pack? It turns out, Conrad’s strategy was a masterclass in patience and timing, as he adeptly waited for the ideal moments to utilize the game’s ramps and multi-ball opportunities. Adam Horton, IFPA rank 247, followed closely in second, making it a game of almost equals.

Champions of the Night

As the flippers ceased their frenzied flipping and the final ball plunged into the abyss, the overall winners emerged. Taking the top spot was Dave Halley with an IFPA ranking of 749, a veteran with a staggering 351 IFPA events under his belt. Following him were Jon Soares from Phoenix, John Shopple from Mesa, and Keegan Crandall, who managed to nab 4th place despite participating in just six IFPA events so far. The diversity in experience and strategies among the winners showcases the unpredictable beauty of the pinball world.

A Time-Travel Through Machines

Electric Bat Arcade was no slouch in the pinball machine department, offering 59 machines that span decades. Classics like “Hotdoggin’” by Bally, released in December 1979, and “Sinbad” by Gottlieb from May 1978, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with modern gems like “Aerosmith” by Stern. Each machine offered a different flavor of gameplay, a distinct set of challenges, and a unique piece of pinball history.

The Electric Vibe

The atmosphere of Electric Bat Arcade deserves its own spotlight. The venue initially gives off an “am I in the wrong place?” type of vibe, but once you’re in, it’s all smooth sailing. With phenomenal bartenders, delicious food and drinks, and fully functional pinball and arcade machines (including some unique rhythm games from Japan), the Electric Bat ensures a magnetic experience that keeps you coming back for more.

The IFPA Arizona Standings

Before we wrap up, let’s acknowledge the IFPA Arizona Top 10 Standings. The rankings are as follows:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.87
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.91
3	John Shopple	Mesa	520.11
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	316.37
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	304.33
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.89
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.36
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.82
10	Andrew Roesch		255.21

Whether you’re a pinball newbie or a seasoned pro, the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #4 tournament proved that pinball remains an exhilarating and ever-changing game where anything can happen. So, whether you come for the competition or just to relish the ambiance, Electric Bat Arcade should be on your must-visit list. Stay tuned for more updates from the mesmerizing realm of pinball!

🌡️ When the Heat Goes Up, the Balls Drop

It was an inferno outside at 109°F, but the real heat was happening inside Hop Central Brewery on the evening of August 28, 2023. Mark Farina Jr., known to friends as the “Pinball Wizard,” organized this ball-dropping spectacle. The Multiball Monday Tournament consisted of 5 rounds with 12 players, all seemingly unphased by the scorching Arizona temperature.

🦖 Godzilla Strikes in Round 2: The Underdogs Rise

Amidst five intense rounds, one game on a Stern’s Godzilla (Pro) machine stole the show during Round 2. Emily Vanidestine made a valiant effort, but ultimately Greg Mohs from Arizona was the one who roared to victory. Greg was followed by Shianne Brown, an IFPA rank-zero enigma who almost pulled a Mothra-sized upset. Despite her best attempts, Emily landed in third place, while Jason Hecht secured fourth.

🏆 Tournament Titans: Experience vs. Passion

When the flippers stopped flipping and the scoreboard froze, it was Mark Farina Jr. who emerged victorious. Notably, he is also the organizer of this arcade fiesta, making him somewhat of a pinball polymath. Close behind were John Finnegan, Greg Mohs, and Alex Kee, who proved their mettle on machines that ranged from Stern’s James Bond 007 to American Pinball’s Hot Wheels.

Speaking of Alex Kee—participating in only eight IFPA events and yet claiming 4th place? That’s like bringing a spork to a gunfight and coming out unscathed.

🎮 Machine Melee: The Stars of the Show

The tournament was played on an array of machines so varied, it could make even James Bond exchange his Martini for pinball quarters. Speaking of which, Stern’s “James Bond 007” was an espionage-filled extravaganza. “Oktoberfest” and “Hot Wheels” by American Pinball offered something for both beer enthusiasts and car fanatics, while “Foo Fighters” and “Rush” by Stern rocked the room.

🍺 Hop Central Brewery: The ‘Pin’-ultimate Venue

If you’re in Arizona and you haven’t checked out Hop Central Brewery, you’re missing out. Friendly staff, an amazing selection of IPAs and Belgian beers, and of course, pinball machines that can make you forget the scorching Arizona sun.

🌵 Arizona’s Pinball Wizards

Just to remind you who’s flipping what in Arizona, here’s the current IFPA standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.87
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.9
3	John Shopple	Mesa	520.12
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	316.35
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	304.32
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.87
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.36
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.82
10	Andrew Roesch		255.21

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So there you have it—another night of fast flippers, strategic nudges, and unexpected victories. Mark your calendars for the next Multiball Monday, and until then, keep those paddles ready and the balls in play.

The pinball world was alive and flipping on August 26, 2023, at the Starfighter Arcade. “Grumpy’s Arcade Classic Battle” was not just a tournament; it was a trip down memory lane, a celebration of all things shiny, buzzy, and bouncy. Organized by the pinball wizard himself, Kevin Curtis, this epic event brought together 31 pinball enthusiasts for an intense multi-round showdown, culminating in a nail-biting finale.

Spa Day in the Future?

Now, if you’re thinking of a relaxing spa day with soothing music and scented candles, think again. Here, at Grumpy’s, it was all about “Future Spa” by Bally—a vintage pinball gem from 1979. The Semifinals saw a scorching match on this classic, with Kevin Curtis bagging the top spot. It was clear that Curtis not only knew how to organize a cracking tournament but also how to dominate on the playfield. John Shopple, John Finnegan, and Walter Dony were right on his tail, making the match a feast for pinball enthusiasts!

The League of Extraordinary Pinballers

The winners of the tournament were nothing short of pinball wizards. Kevin Curtis claimed his throne, followed by John Shopple, Ken Klawitter, and Paul Blanco. A special shout-out to Ken Klawitter, who despite his 2578th IFPA rank and participation in just 17 IFPA events, showcased some brilliant gameplay to finish third. The underdog story, perhaps?

A Blast from the Past

The tournament showcased a dazzling array of 30 pinball machines, with some absolute classics stealing the spotlight. Machines like “Xenon” by Bally, “Charlie’s Angels” by Gottlieb, and the quirky “Mr. & Mrs. Pac-Man” by Bally took players and spectators on a nostalgia-filled trip back to the golden age of arcades. And let’s not forget “Evel Knievel” – a tribute to the daredevil spirit of the ’70s. Ah, those were the days!

Arcade Heaven at Starfighter

Located at Starfighter Arcade, the atmosphere was nothing short of nostalgia galore. As one visitor exclaimed, “What the mother-flipping-F!!??” this was a trip down the memory lane for many. A visitor even lamented about not knowing the arcade existed until recently despite living nearby for years. With the hum of machines like “Spy Hunter” and “Q*Bert”, it was as though time had wrapped itself around the 80s and brought its charm to 2023.

Arizona’s Finest

The tournament also offered a glimpse of Arizona’s finest pinball players. Here’s the IFPA Arizona Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.86
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.9
3	John Shopple	Mesa	520.11
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	316.37
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	304.33
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.89
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.36
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.82
10	Andrew Roesch		255.21

In the world of pinball, where a perfect combination of skill, strategy, and sometimes sheer luck can lead to victory, this tournament was a reminder of the timeless charm of the game. So, here’s a tilt of the hat to all the players, the organizers, and the machines that make it all possible. Until the next clash of the pinball titans, keep those flippers flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the vibrant realm of pinball!

Pinball enthusiasts flocked to the renowned Electric Bat Arcade on August 22, 2023, chasing victory, thrill, and of course, that sweet, sweet “ding” of high scores. The atmosphere? With a sultry 96°F outside, the inside of Electric Bat Arcade served as a refreshing oasis, clouds scattering above as players gathered beneath the neon lights, eager to test their mettle.

The Tournament: A Dive Into the Details

Organized by the skilled Rachel Bess, the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #3 tournament saw a staggering 109 players, all hungry for the crown. Grouped in teams of four, players zipped, zagged, flipped, and flopped through five intense rounds, each round offering them a chance to earn points and climb that leader board.

An AI’s Humorous Misfire

Highlighting one of the standout games of the tournament—Round 5—threw us for a loop. Here’s the laugh: we couldn’t pull the pinball machine details! So, what did the AI say when it couldn’t find the data? “Guess I tilted!” ?

• Game Results:
  • 1st: Adam Horton (IFPA rank 247)
  • 2nd: Andy Olson (IFPA rank 934)
  • 3rd: Kevin Burns AZ (IFPA rank 1581)
  • 4th: James Bacon (IFPA rank 0)

Masterful Gameplay: The Top Dogs

Taking the crown was none other than Conrad Betti, hailing from Phoenix. Following closely were pinball wizards Gavin Bowman, Greg Davis (also a Phoenix native), and the ever-determined CJ Jensen.

Machines of Legacy

The tournament showcased a whopping 55 pinball machines, with some truly iconic ones that deserve a special shoutout:

• Night Rider by Bally from 1976
• Rush (Pro) by Stern from 2022
• The fiery Firepower by Williams from 1980
• Sinbad by Gottlieb, a 1978 classic
• Hotdoggin’ by Bally from 1979
• The ferocious Jurassic Park by Data East from 1993
• My Son! Jack•Bot by Williams from 1995
• The mighty Godzilla (Premium) by Stern
• Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern, released in 2019

Electric Bat Arcade: The Place to Be

Situated inside the Yucca Tap Room, the Electric Bat Arcade is the go-to spot for arcade aficionados. Packed with pinball games linked to Stern Online, leaderboards displayed high scores for all to see. The cherry on top? A separate bar, teeming with delightful concoctions, ensuring the fun never stops. If arcade games rev up your engines, this place is an unmissable pitstop!

Top of the Pack: IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Roland Nadeau		596.74	20	8
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	517.29	20	15
3	John Shopple	Mesa	513.4	20	9
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	312.57	20	5
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	299.6	20	6
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.89	8	0
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.36	20	8
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282	20	5
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.82	20	1
10	Andrew Roesch		255.21	20	1

Signing Off

Another spellbinding tournament comes to a close, but the excitement of pinball never truly ends. Keep those flippers flipping, and as always, stay tuned for more pinball magic!

Pinballs, Pints, and Unexpected Twists: The Multiball Monday 8/14 Showdown!

On a breezy August evening, pinball aficionados made their way to Chandler’s tranquil oasis, Hop Central Brewery. Little did they know, this Multiball Monday 8/14 pinball tournament would etch itself into the annals of local pinball folklore!

Setting the Stage: Hop Central Brewery

Tucked away at 5055 W Ray Rd #2, Chandler, AZ, Hop Central Brewery isn’t just a taproom with an impressive assortment of brews. This establishment, orchestrated by Mark Farina Jr., turned into an electrifying arena for pinball gladiators. Though primarily known as a sanctuary where one can sip a craft beer with a side of board games, on this fated day, it was all about the silver ball.

Battle on the Bells: Tournament Structure

The tournament’s structure was straightforward yet relentless: 5 rounds, 1 game each round, and groups of four. The mission? Rack up points and climb the leaderboard. But as every pinball wizard knows, the path to victory is never linear.

Drama on “Legends of Valhalla”

Every tournament has its crowning moment, and for Multiball Monday, it was the staggering battle on Legends of Valhalla. Four combatants: John Finnegan (a mystery man from Flipper’s Paradise), Amanda Kennedy from Mesa, Bryan Temen, and Jason Hecht from Chandler locked flippers in an epic showdown. By the end, Finnegan emerged triumphant, reminding everyone why he’s ranked 537 in the IFPA.

The Cream of the Crop

While Finnegan’s performance on Valhalla was praiseworthy, it was Mark Farina Jr. from Gilbert, AZ, who stole the show. Holding an IFPA rank of 1713, Mark proved why he’s the kingpin of pinball in the region. Following closely were John Finnegan (from the aforementioned Flipper’s Paradise), Bob Kennedy of Mesa, AZ, and the starry-eyed Alex Kee from the cosmic lanes of Stardust.

A Parade of Pinball Machines

It wasn’t just about the players; it was a showcase of some of the finest pinball machines. From the festive Oktoberfest to the high-octane Hot Wheels and the chilling chills of “Elvira’s House of Horrors,” the lineup was nothing short of spectacular. For those itching for a deeper dive into the specs and histories of these machines, take a detour to the Internet Pinball Database.

Signing Off:

As the flippers rested and the lights dimmed, the pinball community retreated from Hop Central, leaving behind tales of extraordinary plays, intense rivalries, and machines that, for a night, became legends. Here’s a toast to every player, every bounce, every tilt, and every jackpot. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping!

On August 10, 2023, a unique pinball tournament unfolded at the Tucson Indoor Sports Center, attracting 12 pinball enthusiasts and filling the atmosphere with buzzers, bells, and plenty of flashing lights. Organized by Wayne Saeger, this tournament was not just about high scores; it was a test of endurance, skill, and strategic thinking, epitomized by a game that lasted almost an hour.

The Never-Ending Game

Astonishingly, the longest game of the tournament unfolded during Round 6 on “Godzilla (Premium)” by Stern, a machine that is barely two years old. For 55 minutes and 49 seconds, Wayne Saeger, Ben Clement, Andy Rouse, and Kevin Anderson AZ went toe-to-toe, flipper-to-flipper in a marathon match. Wayne Saeger, the organizer and a participant, snagged first place in this lengthy game, with Ben Clement trailing right behind him. But what was their secret? Long-term concentration and precise aim were the buzzwords of this battle, with each player meticulously calculating each shot to milk the game for all it was worth.

The Final Showdown

Despite the seemingly endless match on “Godzilla,” the tournament came to a conclusion with some expected and some surprising results. Ben Clement from Marana, AZ, emerged as the overall winner, besting even the organizer Wayne Saeger. Ben, holding an IFPA rank of 378 and having participated in 341 IFPA events, proved that experience and composure could reign supreme. Wayne Saeger took the second spot, followed by Derek Jordan and John Finnegan, who rounded out the top four.

The Classic and the Contemporary

The tournament boasted an eclectic array of 11 pinball machines, featuring classics like “Old Chicago” by Bally from April 1976 and modern hits like “The Walking Dead (Pro)” by Stern from October 2014. Each machine offered unique challenges that tested the participants’ adaptability. “Attack from Mars,” released by Bally in 1995, saw players strategizing around its notorious Martians, while “Metallica (Pro)” required a completely different skill set with its complex playfield.

Sports and Pinball: An Unusual Marriage

Now, let’s talk about the venue, the Tucson Indoor Sports Center, usually a haven for hockey enthusiasts. One might say that pinball and hockey are an odd mix, but the venue worked surprisingly well. The staff were welcoming, and the pinball machines felt right at home alongside the hockey tiles. Whether you were a local or, like one reviewer, a San Jose native in Tucson on vacation to play some hockey, the venue promised a great time to all.

The Top Players in Arizona

Before wrapping up, let’s look at the IFPA Arizona Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.27
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.5
3	John Shopple	Mesa	519.46
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	315.34
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	303.5
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.36
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.29
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.75
10	Andrew Roesch		255.02

In the grand scheme of Arizona’s pinball scene, the tournament was a microcosm of the diverse talents and characters that populate this ever-entertaining sport. As the flippers come to a rest and the lights dim for now, the participants and spectators alike can’t help but anticipate what’s next in the realm of Arizona pinball. After all, the only predictable thing about pinball is its unpredictability. Stay tuned!