Pinballs, Rivalries, and One Intense Game of Pool Sharks!

The hum of pinball machines, the twinkling of neon lights, and the adrenaline in the air. No, this isn’t a Las Vegas casino; it’s the LOWer Level #1 pinball tournament organized by Space City Pinball at Low’s Sound Lab in Houston, TX. Here’s a rundown of an unforgettable night of pinball passion!

Setting The Stage

The secrecy of the undisclosed location added a touch of mystique to the evening. With a generous 7+ hour run-time, 16 competitors took to their stations, ready to prove their mettle across 2 rounds and 3 games per round. The stakes? Glory, recognition, and the claim to being Houston’s top pinballer.

Drama on the “Pool Sharks” Table

Every tournament has its crown jewel moment, and this one came in the form of an intense battle on the Pool Sharks machine. Lasting an unbelievable 65 minutes, it had the crowd biting their nails, drinking copious amounts of beverages, and honestly wondering if they should have brought a sleeping bag. In the end, Gina Low emerged triumphant, followed closely by Miette Dronet, Emily Hoffman, and Dawn Freedkin. Kudos to all for enduring!

Machines of the Hour

Speaking of pinball machines, LOWer Level #1 boasted a collection to die for. The classic vibe of Diner met with the high-octane energy of The Getaway: High Speed II. The dark allure of Bram Stoker’s Dracula contrasted with the roaring beasts of Jurassic Park. The newly introduced James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern was another standout, offering a touch of suave sophistication to the mix.

The Triumph of Tactics

The night’s ultimate victors exhibited both skill and strategy. The surprise win came from Liz Nebeker, taking the crown with their strategic gameplay. Following them were Annabeth Dronet, Maritza Chirichigno, and Gina Low. A huge round of applause for their tenacity and unmatched pinball prowess!

Texas Top 10 Pinball Wizards

It wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the maestros of Texas pinball. Here’s a quick peek:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands490
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.76
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station320.83
5Lee BalusekConroe254.5
6Fred RevnewThe Woodlands248.59
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio223.13
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio211.3
10Kevin RodriguezDenton206.72

Until the Next Ball Drops

What a night! The LOWer Level #1 pinball tournament was a whirlwind of emotions, strategy, and some downright unbelievable pinball action. To all the competitors, audience, and of course, the iconic pinball machines, we tip our hats to you.

Keep those flippers flipping and see you at the next epic pinball showdown!

Punk Rock Pinball: Headbangs & Flippers

On September 13, 2023, just as the sun began its descent and the evening turned a balmy 90°F, the heart of Mesa, AZ pulsated with energy. The reason? The electrifying Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Week 11. An affair where pinballs rolled and punk rock souls soared.

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade: Mesa’s Pinball Palace

Located at 213 W Main St, B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade wasn’t just another location. With tantalizing ales, guest taps, and the freedom to bring your food, the venue became a haven for pinball enthusiasts and punk rock fans. It wasn’t just a tournament; it was a party downtown Mesa style.

An Electrifying Pinball Face-Off

With 9 ardent players, the tournament unfurled a sextuple round robin, with 3 games simultaneously buzzing and blinking. Each player was geared to play 10 nerve-wracking games, making the atmosphere thick with anticipation.

The Battle of Balls and Bells

Amidst the array of 8 classic and contemporary machines, here’s a glimpse at some that stood out:

  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern (2020): Players were taken back to sewers of New York, with this game boasting the longest average game duration of 12 minutes.
  • Whirlwind by Williams (1990): The darling of the evening with 8 games played. There’s nothing like the rush of chasing after those twisters!
  • The Walking Dead (Premium) by Stern (2015): For those with a knack for the undead.
  • Red & Ted’s Road Show by Williams (1994): A journey with the titular duo, this machine was an ode to adventure lovers.
  • Bram Stoker’s Dracula by Williams (1993): For participants with a bite for classic horror!

Pinball Punk Rockstars

The night crowned some true pinball maestros:

  1. Jim Smith AZ: Rising from the depths of Phoenix, AZ, he claimed the throne with 5 wins and an added twist of a 5-point adjustment.
  2. Nick Goegan: Hailing from Chandler, AZ, he also bagged 5 wins, a phoenix rising in the pinball world.
  3. Geoff Bennett: A newbie in the scene with only 3 IFPA events, yet he stood tall with 5 wins. Watch out for this one!
  4. Mahina Hayashi: With her spirited gameplay, she clinched the fourth spot with 4 wins, marking her third IFPA event.

Arizona’s Pinball Prestige

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

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau660.87
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.61
3John ShoppleMesa570.08
4John MagyarGilbert352.83
5Kevan CarterTempe321.39
6Jason BarreMesa312.27
7Adam HortonPhoenix307.65
8Paul BlancoChandler306.34
9Joey RioSurprise282
10Walter DonyPhoenix281.41

Rolling To The Future

While the echoes of the flippers might have faded, the spirit of Punk Rock Pinball remains eternal. As pinballs ricocheted and points racked up, downtown Mesa once again proved its mettle as a hotspot for pinball aficionados.

Keep those eyes peeled and flippers ready for more updates from the pinball world!

Ball Busters & Bond: A Pinball Night to Remember

The stars aligned on September 13, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the world of pinball, bringing together the crème de la crème of players for a captivating event – The Ball Busters Pinball League – 2023 Season #5 Week 2. Set against a clear sky with the temperature gently caressing at 76°F, Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA became the battleground for an evening of flippers, bumpers, and unadulterated fun!

James Bond and the League of Novices

Round 1 opened with a cinematic twist, setting the stage on the recently released James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern. The game, younger than a year, showcased an unexpected tableau – Ana Dult, Becky Kisling, Linda Slodki, and Kathy Furlong. With each player yet to secure an IFPA rank, it was the wild west, and any novice could emerge as the sharpshooter. The surprise? Ana Dult took the top spot in a fierce bout that kept spectators on their toes.

Machines that Made the Night

While the league had 10 glittering machines, here are five that deserve a spotlight:

Unsung Heroines of the Night

While the James Bond machine saw novices shine, the overall winners were seasoned players.

  1. Kim Smith – Holding an IFPA rank of 4987, her record of 71 IFPA events showcased her seasoned approach.
  2. Terri Morton – With a rank of 2496 and 107 IFPA events under her belt, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
  3. Jennifer Gold – Even with fewer events (25), Jennifer’s gameplay shone bright.
  4. Emilia Choate – IFPA rank 4680 with a whopping 148 IFPA events! Emilia’s flair and skill were palpable.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Powerhouses

Pennsylvania’s pinball prowess isn’t just restricted to this one evening. Here are the state’s top guns:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens180.56
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh152.25
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.78
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk136.81
5Stephen LeChesterbrook109.02
6Bob ChoatePhiladelphia98.16
7Matt GuslerPhiladelphia94.96
8Tony MakowskiLansdale76.73
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72
10Jay Robinson70.23

Pinball Gallery: The Gem of Malvern

For those unfamiliar with Pinball Gallery, it’s not just an arcade – it’s an experience. With a variety that caters to all ages and a pricing system that’s a steal, it’s no wonder a first-timer left with a sentiment, “So many fun games, and lots of great variety! Can’t wait to come back for more!!”

With another exhilarating evening in the annals of pinball history, the Ball Busters Pinball League left attendees and players eagerly awaiting the next. Until then, keep those flippers flippin’ and the silver ball zippin’!

“All Strikes and No Quarters” – The Tale of Colorado Pinball Pub Tournament 9/13

The Longest Night in Colorado Pinball History

It’s a brisk Wednesday evening on September 13, 2023, and something electric is in the air at the Colorado Pinball Pub in Littleton, CO. No, it’s not just the overcast sky or the buzz from the whiskey bar; it’s the unmistakable energy of a Basic Knockout Pinball Tournament, where 20 of Colorado’s finest players have gathered to go head-to-head in a battle for arcade supremacy.

An Epic Showdown on Godzilla (Premium)

Picture this: Round 9, the air gets a little thinner, and it’s Walt Wood IFPA rank 37, versus Marshall Weasel, IFPA rank 1876. The machine? “Godzilla (Premium)” by Stern, a table released just two years prior. Walt Wood executed a masterful strategy, securing first place and cementing their status as a local legend.

The Champions Crowned

  • 🥇 Walt Wood: A force to be reckoned with. A player who’s been to 245 IFPA events and ranked 37 globally.
  • 🥈 Marshall Weasel: Though not as experienced, Marshall’s gameplay in this tourney proves he’s a rising star.
  • 🥉 Kevin McCarthy: A veteran of 429 IFPA events, yet this time he had to settle for bronze.
  • 🏅 Laura Mitchell: A newcomer with a mere three IFPA events under her belt, Laura finished a respectable fourth place.

An Array of Arcade Marvels

The pinball aficionados were treated to a broad selection of machines, from vintage gems to the latest thrillers:

  1. Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: The newest machine on the block and undeniably a crowd-pleaser.
  2. Pirates of the Caribbean by Stern: A trip through treacherous waters.
  3. Iron Maiden by Stern: Taking it back to the ’80s!
  4. Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: An intergalactic showdown.
  5. Medieval Madness by Williams: A fantasy quest featuring jousts and jesters.

Whiskey and Quarters

No quarters were needed at the Colorado Pinball Pub, allowing players to seamlessly transition from one machine to the next. Oh, and the whiskey? Top-notch. Just what you need to get in the zone.

IFPA’s Colorado Top 10

How did our contenders line up in the larger context? Here are the IFPA’s current Top 10 players in Colorado:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood506.53
2Ryan AltermattDenver232.92
3Zach McCarthyConifer193.11
4Mark AbbottDenver122.02
5Lewis Ritenour120.7
6Donavan SteppLakewood110.68
7David Johnson COAurora110.54
8Mat BrundageDenver107.26
9Daniel AndersonEnglewood103.76
10Adam LefkoffBoulder95.67

So what did we learn from this 9-hour, 13-minute pinball extravaganza? That in the world of Colorado pinball, legends are made one flipper at a time.

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

Tik Tok’s Matchplay: A Pinball Extravaganza Amid Karaoke Classics!

Greetings, pinball wizards and weekend warriors alike! Let’s journey together through a night of clinks, clangs, and of course, some sing-alongs. We’re diving into the Tik Tok’s Matchplay 9/12 pinball tournament, held on a notably chilly evening at Bremerton’s very own Tik Tok’s Workshop.

A Jamboree of Joy

The event kicked off precisely at 7 PM and extended its magical grip over us for almost 9 and a half hours. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re absorbed in a mesmerizing game. Though if you are here on a weekend, Karaoke could be echoing in the background, perhaps motivating some players and…distracting others? (or, truth be told, waiting for that Dirty and Dry cocktail – patience is a virtue on a busy Saturday night!).

Let the Games Begin!

With eight gripping rounds, each player was given a shot at glory with every game. The scoring method was straightforward: outplay your fellow pinballers in your group and climb the ladder. And speaking of games, a standout performance in Round 1 on Monster Bash (Remake) deserves a special mention. Organizer Richard Godwin didn’t just organize; he showcased his prowess by clinching the top spot, with Rachel Kahalekulu, Brandon Saludares, and Caleb Stickley hot on his trail.

Machine Mania

The machines, with their bright lights and enthralling designs, deserve their own applause. The aforementioned Monster Bash (Remake) was an audience favorite, and other notable pinball machines included the vintage Icarus, Sharpshooter, and the action-packed Terminator 2: Judgment Day. And let’s not forget the quirky Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons. Yes, that’s a real pinball game!

Rising to the Challenge

When the silver ball settled and scores were tallied, it was Richard Godwin who emerged as the reigning champion. Followed by Caleb Stickley, Brandon Saludares, and Rachel Kahalekulu – all of whom showcased grit, strategy, and of course, impeccable hand-eye coordination.

Local Pinball Standouts

Just a quick side-note for those of you keeping score at home. Here’s the cream of the crop when it comes to Washington’s pinball elite:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond626.48
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle533.12
3Richie TerrySeattle498.6
4Sean IrbySeattle470.06
5Jarrett GaddySeattle444.55
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.53
7Dave StewartCarnation387.32
8Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village365.81
9Neal JoslynBremerton364.77
10Zach McCarthyConifer326.43

To conclude, as we cherish these memories of skillful plays, quirky pinball names, and melodious (or perhaps not-so-melodious) karaoke, remember: there’s always another game, another shot, another chance to play and slay.

Catch you next time for more updates from the thrilling realm of pinball! Until then, keep those flippers flippin’!

Electric Excitement at the Electric Bat Season 8!

On a balmy evening in Tempe, Arizona, with broken clouds and the mercury nudging 93°F, pinball enthusiasts flocked to the Electric Bat Arcade, an unsuspecting gem amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. It was time for the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #6 pinball tournament, a monumental clash of flippers, balls, and lights.

Dive Into the Arcade Vibe!

For many, Electric Bat Arcade might seem a tad bit confusing at first. It doesn’t scream ‘arcade’ from the entrance, and yet when you dive in, it’s a veritable oasis of nostalgia and excitement. With amazing bartenders, delectable food and drink, and a pinball collection to die for (literally every game in working condition!), the venue is a haven for aficionados and newbies alike. Those Japanese rhythm games though? A hilarious challenge after a few drinks!

From Meteor to Godzilla – Pinball Machines that Steal the Show

With a staggering 57 pinball machines, selecting a few favorites is a Herculean task. Yet, some stand out due to their legacy and charm:

  1. Demolition Man: Taking us back to 1994, it’s Williams at its best.
  2. Terminator 2: Judgment Day: A plunge into 1991 with action-packed sequences.
  3. Diner: A 1990 classic that makes you yearn for simpler times.
  4. Godzilla (Premium): The youngest of the lot from 2021, it’s monstrous fun!
  5. Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast: With its 2018 release, it’s as legendary as the band itself.

The Godzilla Showdown

Speaking of Godzilla, the Round 4 face-off on this machine was nothing short of epic. Up-and-comer Cody Winant defied expectations by beating seasoned player Adam Horton, leaving the crowd in awe. Krisha Shufran and Cale Bess Hernandez gave commendable performances, but it was Cody who roared that round!

Pinball Wizards of the Tournament

At the end of the electrifying showdown, Mark Lindbergh clinched the top spot with Mark Pearson not far behind. Roland Nadeau and Greg Drewes rounded off the top four with their stunning gameplay.

The Best in Arizona

Arizona’s love for pinball isn’t new. Check out the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.88
2John ShoppleMesa546.74
3Mark PearsonPhoenix535.9
4John MagyarGilbert337.66
5Paul BlancoChandler304.33
6Jason BarreMesa300.35
7kevan carterTempe295.89
8Joey RioSurprise282
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.99
10Andrew Roesch255.2

Pinball, for many, isn’t just a game. It’s a passion, an obsession, a dance of fingers and flippers. The Electric Bat Season 8 was not just a tournament, but a celebration of this love. Stay tuned, pinball wizards, for there’s much more to come from the luminous realm of pinball!

Tilt’n Tuesday Triumphs: Pinball Wizards Gather at District 82!

Ahoy, pinball enthusiasts! Let’s rewind to September 12, 2023. The air was crisp, and with just a few clouds hovering above, the atmosphere at District 82 Pinball was electric. Fans from across Wisconsin (and some from beyond) gathered to witness the spectacular Tilt’n Tuesday pinball tournament.

The Stage Was Set

Located in the heart of De Pere, District 82’s massive collection of 113 pinball machines were primed for the tournament. Organized by the renowned Erik Thoren, the tournament drew 67 players, all vying for the coveted top spot. The tournament went on for a thrilling 8 hours, but who’s counting when you’re immersed in a pinball galaxy?

Game On!

One of the many highlights of the evening was the intense face-off in Round 4 on Eight Ball Champ by Bally. This classic from 1985 saw Steve Fabry demonstrating why he’s a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Shawn McDonald, Brian Leuthner, and Kel McBrair made sure to keep him on his toes. The action was intense, and the flippers never rested.

A Salute to the Champions

When the dust settled and the last ball drained, Nathan Zalewski emerged as the reigning champ, followed closely by Drew Geigel, Michael Reiman, and the man of the hour, Erik Thoren himself. Kudos to these pinball warriors for their stellar gameplay.

Pinball Spotlight

From the vast array of pinball machines, some notable ones were:

More Than Just Pinball

As any regular will tell you, District 82 isn’t just a pinball arcade, it’s an experience. The ambiance is a solid 5-star, blending nostalgia with state-of-the-art setups. And while the games are all set for Tournament Play, it’s all part of the adrenaline-packed experience.

But here’s the catch: Intermediate players, you’ll notice the challenge levels are amped up with extreme table tilts and conservative settings. As the old adage goes, “It ain’t easy being a pinball wizard.”

Wisconsin’s Best

For those keeping score at home, here’s the latest IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.33
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.21
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.64
4Escher Lefkoff1050.04
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.81
6Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.44
7Zach McCarthyConifer737.26
8Erik ThorenDe Pere732.12
9David DalugaMilwaukee691.23
10Jordan Dechaine683.87

Final Thoughts

A massive shoutout to all participants and attendees. Pinball, at its heart, is a game of skill, strategy, and sometimes a smidgen of luck. And in Wisconsin, the passion for pinball burns brighter than ever. Until next time, keep those flippers flippin’ and stay tuned for more pinball updates!

Pinballs and Java Jolts: The Belles & Chimes SATX Showdown

It’s not every day you find a venue that melds the buzzing energy of pinball with the aromatic allure of freshly roasted coffee. But on September 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM, that’s precisely what was brewing at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters in San Antonio, Texas.

Coffee, Machines, and a Little Competitive Spirit

Over the course of approximately 2.5 hours, 14 passionate pinball players faced off, darting between 46 pinball machines, each round fueled by the café’s exquisite coffee. Organized by the dynamic Christina Cheeseman, the Belles & Chimes SATX – Fall 2023 #1 pinball tournament had the perfect blend of competition and camaraderie.

A Joker’s Wild Throwback

The highlight reel moment? Round 2’s game on the vintage Joker Poker machine by Gottlieb, a throwback from January 1978. Alice Young, with an impressive IFPA rank of 2385, outperformed the competition, leaving Kelsea Gass and Valli Irvine in her wake. Joker Poker might be a game from yesteryears, but it proved that in the world of pinball, old is indeed gold!

Top Players and Timeless Machines

By the end of the evening, the cream of the crop emerged. Alice Young clinched the top spot, followed closely by Melody Zisman and Hope Love. Valli Irvine, hailing from Austin, TX, also made her mark by securing the 4th position.

The venue was replete with machines ranging from classics to new-age marvels. “Centaur” by Bally, “Evel Knievel” by Bally, “Champion Pub” by Bally, and “James Bond 007 (Pro)” by Stern were just a few that stood out. Whether players fancied the heroics of James Bond or the raw thrill of No Fear: Dangerous Sports, there was a game for every taste.

More Than Just a Coffee Shop

What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters isn’t your typical caffeine haunt. The ambiance screams innovation, from the transparent process flavor experimentation to the symphony of coffee beans teasing your curiosity. The real icing on the cake? An astounding collection of pinball machines, striking a balance between the inner child and the mature coffee connoisseur in every visitor. It’s a crescendo of flavors, sights, and sounds – a future trendsetter in the realm of coffee shops.

Texas’s Top Pinballers

The Lone Star State’s pinball scene is nothing short of electric. Here’s a glimpse of Texas’s pinball prowess:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands490
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.76
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station320.83
5Lee BalusekConroe254.5
6Fred RevnewThe Woodlands248.59
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio223.13
9Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio211.3
10Kevin RodriguezDenton206.72

In a world where pinball and premium coffee collide, the Belles & Chimes SATX tournament was more than just a competition. It was an experience, an aromatic journey filled with flashing lights, clinking flippers, and the soft murmur of excited conversations.

Stay flipping fantastic, and catch you at the next update from the radiant realm of pinball!

The Pinball Lounge – An Evening of Flashbacks and Fierceness!

With a backdrop of clear skies and the Florida humidity making 86°F feel like a scorching 98°F, pinball aficionados descended upon The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo, Florida. The clock marked 7 PM, and over the next 3 and a half hours, the deafening dings, lights, and competitive roars filled the air.

Embryon Extravaganza!

The real action crescendoed during Round 5 on the vintage Embryon by Bally, dating back to 1981. Garrett Smoke, despite his IFPA rank of 3417, defied all expectations by landing the top spot. Hot on his heels was the seasoned John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida, followed by Justin Derazza and Nick Smith. As the ball rolled, plunged, and ricocheted, it wasn’t just a game. It was history meeting the present, both in terms of the players and the machine.

A Gallery of Gaming Greatness

The Lounge boasted 30 pinball machines, an impressive repertoire for the aficionado and the amateur alike. While each had its own charm, a few deserved a special mention:

  • Cyclone by Williams: Taking players on a ride since 1988.
  • Funhouse by Williams: Known for Rudy, the talking dummy head – don’t be startled!
  • Guardians of the Galaxy (Premium) by Stern: A star-studded space saga dating back to 2017.
  • Paragon by Bally: With a beastly allure since 1978.
  • Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: All the mysterious happenings of Hawkins town, right from 2019.

The Conquerors of The Lounge

While every player put forth a spirited fight, the leaderboard had its champions. Garrett Smoke smoked the competition, followed closely by Justin Derazza, and John Moschella. John Osborne rounded off the top four with some spectacular gameplay, despite his comparatively higher IFPA rank.

The Lounge Experience

For those unfamiliar with The Pinball Lounge’s allure, it’s not just about the games. A visitor’s testament speaks volumes: “Visiting Orlando and chanced upon this haven. Skipped the drinks, but the massive selection of pinball kept us engrossed for hours. A must-visit for every pinball enthusiast.”

Florida’s Flipper Fanatics

Let’s have a peek at where Florida’s finest pinball players stand:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park321.21
2Eric StoneFort Myers305.25
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale262.96
4Sebastian Bobbio236.21
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg195.15
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace142.14
8David Miller FLTampa133.26
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary109.63
10John MoschellaWinter Springs108.87

With another tournament wrapped up, the world of pinball continues its eternal dance of lights, sounds, and silver balls. For fans, newbies, and everyone in between, stay flipped on for more updates from this enthralling realm!

Mysteries, Galaxies, and Epic Showdowns: Pinball Magic in the Arizona Desert!

As the sun began to dip on September 11, 2023, at 6:30 PM, a select group of pinball enthusiasts were drawn to an undisclosed location somewhere in the heart of Arizona. The reason? To partake in the Player 1 Arcade 2023 S3A #5 pinball tournament, a clandestine contest of skill, strategy, and a dash of luck.

Under the Arizona Sky: Where?

Organized by the mysterious Jim Smith, the exact venue remains unknown to the general populace. Perhaps it was a secret underground lair, a cactus grove, or even atop a mesa. One thing’s for sure: next time, we’re hoping Jim updates MatchPlay with the location, so we’re not left in suspense!

The Arcade Lineup: Old Meets New

The machines present at the tournament were a mix of classics and new kids on the block:

  • Black Pyramid by Bally: A throwback to 1984, where the pyramids, pharaohs, and ancient deities ruled.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern: Space adventure and superhero drama combined in this 2017 release, also the spotlight of the tourney’s Round 5.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: A relatively new game from 2022, filled with espionage and adrenaline-pumping chases.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: An electric ride with one of the world’s most iconic rock bands, from 2020.
  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Last but not least, the giant monster unleashed in 2021!

Guardians of the Round 5 Universe

In the standout game of Round 5, it was all about navigating the vastness of the universe on the Guardians of the Galaxy machine. Ryland Knapp took the lead, followed by Kevin Ehlers, and then the event’s very own organizer, Jim Smith AZ from Phoenix. Robert Paluc completed the top four.

Desert Kings and Queens of Pinball

A huge shout-out to the tournament’s pinball prodigies:

  1. Joey Rio: Surprising the crowds with his stellar gameplay, earning the top spot.
  2. Mark Pearson: With an experience of 527 IFPA events, he showed why he’s among the best.
  3. Mary Profeta Scardina: Precision and finesse got her to third place.
  4. Kevin Ehlers: After his performance in Round 5, he cemented his place in the top four.

Arizona’s Best Pinball Virtuosos

Behold, the IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau660.87
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.61
3John ShoppleMesa570.08
4John MagyarGilbert352.83
5Kevan CarterTempe321.39
6Jason BarreMesa312.27
7Adam HortonPhoenix307.65
8Paul BlancoChandler306.34
9Joey RioSurprise282
10Walter donyPhoenix281.41

Until We Flip Again

With the balls resting and the lights dimming, another exciting chapter of pinball in Arizona came to a close. Wherever the next hidden location may be, we’re eager to be part of the magic once again.

Keep those fingers nimble and eyes peeled for more pinball news and updates!