If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that pinball is unpredictable. This was evident in the recent IFPA Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #1 pinball tournament. Held at the iconic Electric Bat Arcade on August 8th, 2023, this competition, organized by the indomitable Rachel Bess, showed us why pinball remains a game of skill, luck, and pure thrill.

Venue Vibes:

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage. The Electric Bat Arcade, located inside Yucca Tap Room, is not your ordinary arcade. With pinball games connected to Stern Online, monthly leaderboards are showcased on the TVs inside. The ambiance? Simply electric! Whether you’re there for the top-notch bar or the mesmerizing lineup of arcade games, this is one joint every arcade enthusiast needs to experience. Don’t take our word for it – check out their website!

Machines of Legacy:

Among the 55 pinball machines present, a few deserve a special mention. Demolition Man, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and Terminator 2: Judgment Day from Williams take us on a nostalgic trip back to the 90s. But it’s not just about the classics. Stern’s latest additions, like the Foo Fighters (Pro) and James Bond 007 (Premium), showed that innovation in pinball design is alive and well. And for the true pinball geeks among us? You can dive deep into the specifications and histories of these legendary machines at the Internet Pinball Database.

The Game That Stole The Show:

Let’s talk about that exhilarating game in Round 2 on Godzilla (Premium) by Stern. Mark Pearson (from the illustrious “Pinball Palace of the Peculiar”), clinched the top spot, followed by Jason Barre (hailing from “Bumper Bayou”), and Brandon Passey (representing “Flippers’ Fantasy Land”). A special shout-out to Jard Cassell from Arizona, USA, for giving them a tough competition.

Tournament Titans:

But who took the crown at the end of this pinball extravaganza? Wesley Worosello, from the mysterious “Arcade Archipelago,” emerged as the victor. Mike Fishell, representing “Multiball Mountain,” took the second spot. Our Arizona natives, John Magyar and Greg Davis from Phoenix, secured the third and fourth positions, respectively. Their ranks and participation in IFPA events were a testament to their prowess and dedication to the sport.

The pinball world is ever-evolving, filled with exciting turns, flips, and unexpected victories. This tournament was a reminder of why so many of us are enchanted by those shiny metal balls and the flashing lights.

To all pinball wizards out there, keep those flippers flipping, and stay tuned for more electrifying updates from the realm of pinball!

It’s not every day you walk into Player 1 Arcade, and your ears are immediately graced by the beautiful cacophony of pinball machines and the cheers of avid fans. But on August 5th, 2023, the arcade was alive in a new, exciting way, thanks to the riveting Belles & Chimes Phoenix pinball tournament!

The Venue: More Than Just Machines

Nestled at 17239 N Litchfield Rd, Surprise, AZ, Player 1 Arcade isn’t just a hub for gaming. It’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts and arcade aficionados alike. Whether you’re 7 or 70, stepping into this arcade is like traveling back in time to the golden era of gaming. With an impressive lineup of vintage arcade games and a vast selection of drinks that cater to every palate, this place knows how to mix nostalgia with modern fun. Still skeptical? Drop by on a Saturday night, and you’ll be converted!

Godzilla Roars, and Players Respond!

Arguably the most intense game of the day was Round 6 on Godzilla (Premium). Lasting an astonishing 31 minutes and 18 seconds, it had everyone on the edge of their seats! Cara Eisinger from New River, AZ, showcased impeccable skills, clinching the top position. Kudos to Casey Halley and Terri Boyd for their thrilling gameplay, hailing from the legendary “Flippers’ Folly” and “Bumper Bay,” respectively. Not to forget, Bobbi Wambach, representing “Multiball Mountain,” for her fierce competition.

Pinball’s Glittering Line-Up

From Star Wars (Premium), evoking the memories of the galaxy far, far away, to The Mandalorian (Pro), bridging the gap between generations, the machines were the unsung heroes of this event. The recent addition, Foo Fighters (LE), stood out, proving that rock music and pinball is indeed a match made in heaven. For those craving more details, the Internet Pinball Database is your treasure trove!

Meet The Stars!

A standing ovation for Tracy Lindbergh! Not only did she organize this stellar event, but she also emerged victorious, proving why she’s one of Arizona’s pinball gems. With an impressive IFPA rank of 479 and 477 total IFPA events under her belt, she’s a force to be reckoned with. Mollie Stoltenberg secured the second position from the distant “Tilted Towers.” Cara Eisinger took the third spot, while the enigmatic Hailey Buhrman, hailing from the legendary “Arcade Abyss,” surprised us all by clinching the fourth position in her debut tournament.

In the realm of pinball, every tournament is a story, a blend of competition, camaraderie, and pure, unbridled fun. The Belles & Chimes Phoenix 8-5-23 was no different. We can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds. Until then, keep those flippers flipping and dreams soaring!