Pins, Pirates, and Californian Skies: Inside the Showdown at Captain’s Arcade Showroom

It was a sizzling Friday evening in Anaheim, with clear skies above and the temperature a balmy 80°F. Inside the Captain’s Arcade Showroom, however, things were even hotter. The venue buzzed with the electrifying energy of pinball enthusiasts, both seasoned veterans and eager newcomers. The occasion? The much-anticipated Pins & Pirates League Season 2 – #1 pinball tournament.

The Legendary Venue:

Nestled at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, the Captain’s Arcade Showroom isn’t just a haven for pinball fanatics. It’s also a place that exudes passion for the game, where customers aren’t just buying a machine; they’re investing in memories.

Machine Majesty:

With an impressive roster of 61 pinball machines, it was hard to pick just a handful of standouts. Still, some that resonated with the evening’s crowd were:

  • Hokus Pokus by Bally: A mesmerizing classic that took players back to ’75.
  • Wizard! by Bally: Another ’75 favorite with its magical gameplay.
  • Deadpool (Pro) by Stern: A recent machine that brought comic-book antics to life.
  • Led Zeppelin (Pro) by Stern: A melodious adventure released in 2020.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming: A 2021 marvel, it transported players to the wild, wild west.

Spotlight Showdown:

The standout game of the evening was a thrilling face-off on ‘Rush (Pro) by Stern’. Robert Potter clinched the top spot, followed by Fran Irwin, Dave DiFranco, and Hillary Jacobson, making it one of the most exhilarating matches of the night.

Golden Gamers of the Night:

Dennis Eichhorn emerged as the winner, marking another jewel in his pinball crown. Brian Sutherland, a surprise package with an IFPA rank of 0, secured the second position. Robert Potter and Erica Oursland also made their mark, taking the third and fourth spots respectively.

California’s Pinball Titans:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale599.77
2Gabe Da SilveiraOakland553.26
3Escher Lefkoff532.3
4Raymond AshbyLos Angeles520.25
5Scott MaciasGlendora461.57
6Nic SteinDavis435.99
7Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights420.6
8Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
9Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
10Leslie Ruckman408.04

With another thrilling tournament wrapped up, the pinball world’s eyes are already set on the next challenge. So whether you’re an avid player, a budding enthusiast, or just curious, join us in this exhilarating journey. The realm of pinball awaits!

Speakeasy Free Play 10-6-2023: Pinball, Passion, and Pouring Rain

On a drizzly October evening, with the unmistakable sound of pinball machines blending with the patter of raindrops, Fraser, Michigan became the epicenter of the pinball world.

When The Clock Struck 7:30

Free Play – Pinball Arcade, with its neon signs and the nostalgic hum of vintage games, threw its doors open for the Speakeasy Free Play 10-6-2023 pinball tournament. Organized by Joe Wade, this event attracted 30 pinball aficionados who battled it out in 5 grueling rounds.

In the Heart of the Action: Game Spotlight

As the night unfolded, and strategies were tested, round 4 emerged as the most nail-biting of all. Taking place on the newly-released James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern, players engaged in a clandestine war of flippers and flashing lights. Jon Lents, with his keen eye and precise shots, emerged victorious, leaving Jake Piornack, Tim Carpenter MI, and Jeff Gordon in the wake of his pinball prowess.

The Rain-Soaked Champions

As the rain intensified outside, the stakes got higher inside. By the end of the tournament, the leaderboard featured:

  • Jake Piornack: The master of maneuvering, stealing the top spot.
  • Ryan Jurado from Ann Arbor: A close second, showcasing impeccable strategy.
  • Jeremy Bell: The wild card, proving it’s not about how many events you’ve attended, but how well you play.
  • Joe Wade: The organizer showing he’s not just good behind the scenes but also at the flippers.

Machines of Legend

Among the pinball machines lighting up the arena, these stood out:

Where Magic Happened

Free Play Pinball Arcade, with its timeless charm, was more than just a venue. For many, like Vince, it’s a haven of nostalgia and camaraderie. Offering unbeatable value, it’s the kind of place where you enter in the morning and leave only when the night reminds you.

IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Sterling MitoskaBrooklyn458.29
2Rodney MinchGrand Rapids450.01
3Rick KnopikEvansville402.07
4Dominic LabellaBay City328.69
5Matthew StacksGrand Rapids313.85
6Alex HarmonSpring Lake301.12
7Jason HumphreyJackson276.37
8Ethan Magnum—257.11
9Sean BurkeWaterford Township220.49
10Philip SalminenMidland212.94

With the rain wrapping up the event like a curtain drop, the night in Fraser proved that passion for pinball shines, come rain or shine. We’ll be back with more from the world of pinball. Until then, keep the balls rolling and the scores soaring!

Flippin’ Friday Showdown at District 82 Pinball!

When the temperature outside drops and the clouds hang heavy, pinball enthusiasts find solace in the shimmering lights, captivating soundtracks, and strategic gameplay that only a pinball machine can offer. And, the recent Flippin’ Friday 10/6 Qualify pinball tournament at District 82 Pinball was the epitome of such an event.

Setting the Stage

Hosted at the iconic District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin on a cool October evening, 24 dedicated players arrived, ready to face off. Organized by the passionate Erik Thoren, the event saw players battle through 4 intense rounds, with each round comprising 2 nail-biting games.

An Ode to Dolly Parton

Round 2 had players rallying around the Dolly Parton pinball machine, a Bally classic celebrating its upcoming 45th anniversary. Released in November 1979, this machine boasts a 7-star rating, featuring a medley of flippers, pop bumpers, and unique targets. Dave Christensen’s art captures Dolly’s transition from country to pop, a shift reflected in her meticulous input on her pinball portrayal.

As scores skyrocketed, John Zalewski mastered Dolly’s playfield, claiming the top spot. Not far behind were Eddie Smith, Joe DeCleene, and Jacob Geurts. This round was a harmonious blend of nostalgia and competition, making the Dolly Parton machine the star of the evening.

The Unshakeable Champions

As flippers rested and the final tallies were counted, four players emerged as the undisputed masters of the night:

  • Nathan Zalewski, showing finesse and skill, walked away with the gold.
  • Gerald Morrison, demonstrating consistency and strategy, earned the second spot.
  • Danny Bronny and Chris Gerwing followed, grabbing the third and fourth positions, respectively.

A Pinball Paradise

District 82, with a whopping total of 116 pinball machines, is truly a pinball enthusiast’s dream. Among the plethora of machines, some noteworthy ones include the thrilling Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, the adventurous Jurassic Park, the mystical Lost World, and of course, the space opera Star Wars (Pro).

A Community Like No Other

One step into District 82 Pinball, and you immediately sense the camaraderie and passion. The venue isn’t just a place to play; it’s a haven where strategy meets fun, and where players, whether rookies or veterans, come together as a community. The atmosphere? Welcoming, energetic, and pulsating with excitement.

Wisconsin’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.34
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.22
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.64
4Escher Lefkoff—1050.06
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.76
6Erik ThorenDe Pere741.03
7Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.45
8Zach McCarthyConifer737.25
9David DalugaMilwaukee728.6
10Jordan Dechaine—683.87

District 82’s Flippin’ Friday was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of pinball, strategy, and the vibrant community. We eagerly anticipate the next showdown and, until then, keep those flippers flippin’!

When Time Warped: The SFPD Fall 2023 #5 Pinball Tournament

On a balmy evening, with temperatures hanging around a comfortable 72°F, the heart of San Francisco pulsated with a different kind of energy. On October 04, 2023, at 7:30 PM, the pinball wizards of the West converged at the iconic Free Gold Watch, ready to face off in the much-anticipated SFPD Fall 2023 #5 pinball tournament.

Venue Vibes: Free Gold Watch

Free Gold Watch wasn’t just another arcade. The retro lighting, the clattering of the pinball machines, and the excited murmurs created a symphony, making it the perfect place for dates, friendships, and of course, some serious pinball action.

A Game That Bent The Fabric of Time

In a peculiar and somewhat humorous turn of events, one game in particular, the Snow Derby by Gottlieb (circa 1970) seemed to stretch the very fabric of time. Clocking in at a mind-boggling 150 minutes, this game magically outlasted the entire tournament’s duration. Whether it was a rift in the space-time continuum or just some very intense gameplay, we might never know.

A hearty shoutout to the players of this marathon match:

  • Josh Campoverde: Leading the pack with the calm composure that comes with an IFPA rank of 3688.
  • Eric Wagensonner: A close second and a force to be reckoned with given his rank of 308.
  • Mikey Lee Barton: Third on the Snow Derby but first in enthusiasm with a rank of 7398.
  • Dominic DiPalantino: Completing the quartet with a respectable fourth position, showcasing his skillset ranked at 4681.

The Crowning Glories of the Evening

Amidst the echoes of flippers and bells, emerged some clear victors:

  1. Zac Wollons: Dominated the evening, backed by his impressive track record with 362 IFPA events.
  2. Jon Oberto: Made a mark despite his relatively newcomer status, landing a proud second.
  3. Jared Garvey: This Berkeley local clinched third with style, leveraging his experience from 277 IFPA events.
  4. Josh Lehan: Another force from Castro Valley, finishing the night strong in fourth place.

The Machines That Made The Night

A stellar line-up of 63 machines entertained the crowd, with some standouts like:

Golden State’s Pinball Giants

While the evening celebrated individual games, it also acknowledged the prowess of California’s finest pinball players:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale599.79
2Gabe Da SilveiraOakland553.28
3Escher Lefkoff–532.32
4Raymond AshbyLos Angeles520.25
5Scott MaciasGlendora461.57
6Nic SteinDavis436.01
7Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights420.6
8Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
9Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
10Leslie Ruckman–408.05

As flippers rested and lights dimmed, the SFPD Fall 2023 #5 came to a close, leaving attendees with memories, stories, and a palpable excitement for the next gathering.

Stay locked on San Francisco Pinball Dept for more adventures in the world of pinball!

Punk Rock Pinball Tournament: A Mesa Marvel

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:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau671.64
2Mark PearsonPhoenix598.17
3John ShoppleMesa592.13
4Adam HortonPhoenix352.69
5John MagyarGilbert351.78
6Kevan CarterTempe320.85
7Jason BarreMesa313.21
8Paul BlancoChandler309.72
9Joey RioSurprise309.24
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

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 Electric Ambience of Texas Pinball: A Recap of the Space City Pinball Tournament

The quiet evening of October 4th was soon to be lit up with a blaze of neon lights, resonant “dings”, and fierce competition. The Space City Pinball: Belles and Chimes League at the LOWer Level #4 pinball tournament kicked off at 7:00 PM sharp. Within the industrial-chic confines of Low’s Sound Lab, an undisclosed location somewhere deep in the heart of Texas, 16 pinball wizards formed groups, eager to face off in a whirlwind tournament that lasted just a bit over 2 hours.

Game Highlights:

Among the 18 gleaming pinball machines present, five particularly stood out, not just for their rich legacy but for the gameplay they hosted during the evening:

  • Taxi by Williams: An old-school beauty that took players on a whirlwind ride.
  • Cactus Canyon (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming: A relatively newer model that had everyone hooked with its sharp graphics.
  • Diner by Williams: The star of the evening, more on this in a moment!
  • AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: A rock-fest that had many head-banging in between shots.
  • Funhouse by Williams: As quirky and fun as the name suggests.

One could argue the highlight of the night was the intense game on “Diner.” Liz Nebeker, a humble player from Houston with an IFPA rank of 3023, took the lead, closely followed by Dawn Freedkin and Dawn Hayes, with Emily Hoffman rounding out the quartet. The table was surrounded by an eager crowd, with every flipper move eliciting gasps or cheers.

The Night’s Champions:

Kudos to the champions who dominated the evening:

  • Gina Low, with 149 IFPA events under her belt, clinched the top spot.
  • The dynamic duo, Miette Dronet and Elizabeth Dronet, grabbed the 2nd and 3rd spots respectively.
  • Annabeth Dronet made it a family affair by taking the 4th position.

How Did the Texas Top 10 Fare?

A peek into the IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands501.1
2Garrett ShahanDenton442.78
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.48
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station327.53
5Fred RevnewThe Woodlands255.08
6Lee BalusekConroe254.5
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi246.12
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio227.23
9Jim MuellerHouston222.34
10Kevin RodriguezDenton219.12

Although none from the top 10 took the crown this time, their stellar past performances are a constant reminder of the evolving landscape of Texas pinball.

This night was an homage to both the old and the new – a celebration of the undying love for pinball. As we wind down, remember, it’s not just about the flippers and the score. It’s about the memories we make, the strategies we employ, and the friends we meet along the way. So, stay tuned and keep those pinballs rolling!

A Night to Remember at the Pinball Gallery: Ball Busters’ Battle Royale!

Amidst the rhythmic hums and dazzling lights, on October 4th at 6:30 PM, the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA transformed into a veritable coliseum of pinball warfare. The Ball Busters Pinball League was in full swing for its 2023 Season #5 Week 5 tournament.

Stage Set for Thrills and Spills

With Bill Disney taking the reins of the event, 12 fervent players went flipper to flipper, vying for glory across 5 nail-biting rounds. The crisp, clear evening was no match for the electric atmosphere inside the gallery.

Air Guitars & Pinballs

But the talk of the tournament was the epic face-off in Round 2 on Aerosmith (Premium) by Stern. Amy McManus, unranked and under the radar, dazzled the competition, clinching the top spot, leaving behind veterans like Stephanie Savy and Jamme Thomas. Charissa Wiley, though valiant in her attempts, stood fourth.

Honoring the Masters of the Machines

As the echoes of the pinballs faded, the champions emerged:

  1. Kim Smith reigned supreme, her experience across 72 IFPA events clearly shining through.
  2. Anita Thallmayer clinched the second spot, proving her prowess.
  3. Terri Morton followed closely in third, showcasing her impeccable gameplay.
  4. The night’s underdog, Stephanie Savy, also found herself among the pinball elite.

Machines of Legacy and Lore

From the 12 magnificent pinball machines present, a few commanded special attention. Earthshaker by Williams transported players back to 1989 with its seismic themes. Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern provided medieval thrills, while the Oktoberfest machine made sure there were ‘cheers’ all around. Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally took players on a cinematic journey and, of course, Aerosmith kept the rock spirit alive and kicking.

An Experience Beyond Points

Visiting the Pinball Gallery isn’t just about the tournament. With a plethora of games and an amazing atmosphere, it’s no surprise attendees leave with an urge to come back for more, as one visitor raved about their fantastic experience and the sheer variety the gallery offers.

Pennsylvania’s Pinball Titans

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Cryss Stephens—191.32
2Jared SchmidtPittsburgh156.6
3Lewis BevansPittsburgh141.79
4Aleksander Kaczmarczyk—136.8
5Bob ChoatePhiladelphia115.15
6Stephen LeChesterbrook110.04
7Corey HulseSchwenksville100.8
8Matt GuslerPhiladelphia95.64
9Tony MakowskiLansdale88.05
10Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village74.72

In the ever-evolving world of pinball, the titans of Pennsylvania continue their quest for glory. From Cryss Stephens at the pinnacle to Raymond Davidson completing the top ten, their competitive spirit remains unyielding.

So, as we tilt away from this week’s competition, the buzz is far from over. The Pinball Gallery and the Ball Busters League promise more thrills, more spills, and of course, more pinballs in action.

Keep flipping, folks!

Under the Clear Washington Sky: An Evening of Flips and Fame!

As the day’s twilight descended and the temperature settled at a cool 57°F, pinball enthusiasts gathered at the unique venue known as Tik Tok’s Workshop on October 3, 2023. Little did they know that they were about to witness one of the most thrilling tournaments of the season.

Tik Tok’s Workshop: More than Just a Venue

Nestled at 1216 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA, Tik Tok’s Workshop is no ordinary arcade spot. Beyond the flashing pinball machines lies a heartwarming story of dedication. An unnamed rockstar bartender was the hero of the evening, juggling mixed drinks, servicing machines, and whipping up delicious bites—all while wearing an infectious smile and sporting a memorable beard. His efforts not only ensured the games ran smoothly but also that every guest felt valued and cared for.

A Classic Battle in the Ring: Round 3 Spotlight

It’s not every day you get to see pinball and wrestling collide! The Legends of Wrestlemania by Stern took center stage during Round 3, and boy, was it a nail-biter. Daniel Trobare clinched the first place, while the event’s organizer, Richard Godwin, secured the second spot. Anna Francolini, though not far behind, settled for the third place.

Titans of Tik Tok’s Tournament

Emerging from the fierce competition were the top pinball wizards of the evening:

  1. Rachel Kahalekulu: Her mastery and experience from 425 IFPA events shone bright.
  2. Daniel Trobare: Having dominated in Round 3, he showed consistent prowess throughout the event.
  3. Jared Doss: A rising star with potential, marking his territory in the pinball realm.
  4. Richard Godwin: Beyond organizing, he showcased why he’s a force to be reckoned with on the pinball floor.

Pinball Pantheon: Machines of Legacy and Lore

From classics to the latest releases, the tournament’s arsenal boasted a versatile lineup:

Washington’s Pinball Elite

Washington’s IFPA Top 10 Pinball Players stood as follows:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Germain MariolleRedmond636.3
2Lonnie LangfordSeattle540.38
3Richie TerrySeattle498.12
4Sean IrbySeattle469.67
5Jarrett GaddySeattle464.78
6David ChernicoffSeattle436.46
7Dave StewartCarnation399.95
8Neal JoslynBremerton364.7
9Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village364.68
10Zach McCarthyConifer325.09

As the Flippers Rested…

With the clattering of the machines fading and the night setting in, Tik Tok’s pinball tournament etched its mark in the annals of pinball history. And as the stars twinkled above Bremerton, WA, the pinball community eagerly awaited their next challenge.

Keep those flippers ready, and stay in the loop for more pinball escapades!

Emporium Hi-Scorium Oct 3

In the heart of San Francisco, where the fog meets the neon lights and the echo of flippers, the Emporium Hi-Scorium Oct 3 pinball tournament took place. Players and fans gathered on October 3, 2023, starting at 7:00 PM for an action-packed event that would last almost two hours.

The Setting

The Emporium Arcade Bar on Divisadero St provided the perfect backdrop, with the hint of a few clouds in the sky and a crisp 63°F temperature. Organized by the esteemed Myriad Pinball, this showdown saw 20 participants locked in a fierce competition, spread across four qualifying rounds. After which, the top four contenders advanced to the nail-biting finals.

Turtles Take The Spotlight

One of the most thrilling moments of the night was during Round 1 on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern. Clocking in at a staggering 75 minutes, this game kept everyone on the edge of their seats. The ever-resilient Jackie Olson from San Francisco claimed the top spot, with Rob Coli, Gabriel Jensen, and Josh Campoverde following in her tracks.

Tournament Titans

It’s always a pleasure to witness sheer pinball prowess. And this evening was no different. The final rankings had Rob Coli leading the pack. Josh Campoverde, with his unique style, clinched the second spot. Gabriel Jensen’s strategic play earned him the third, while Jackie Olson’s remarkable skills landed her the fourth position.

Arcade Arsenal

A plethora of machines adorned the venue, with a selection of both vintage and latest releases. Some noteworthy machines included:

The Vibe

Emporium Arcade Bar is more than just a gaming hub; it’s an experience. With a delightful frozen raspberry margarita in hand, players could indulge in a bit of nostalgia with some of the slightly older games or challenge themselves on the newer ones. And here’s a little secret – the pool tables are free! So, shhh…

California’s Pinball Pros

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Tim HansenSunnyvale599.78
2Gabe Da SilveiraOakland553.28
3Escher Lefkoff—532.31
4Raymond AshbyLos Angeles520.25
5Scott MaciasGlendora461.58
6Nic SteinDavis435.99
7Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights420.6
8Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco415.03
9Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.63
10Leslie Ruckman—408.04

San Francisco’s pinball scene continues to grow and shine. It’s evenings like these that showcase the passion, strategy, and community spirit that keeps the game alive. So whether you’re an enthusiast or a novice, the world of pinball awaits. Stay flippin’, and see you at the next tournament!

Electric Bat Arcade Lights Up Arizona’s Pinball Scene

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

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau—671.63
2Mark PearsonPhoenix607.43
3John ShoppleMesa591.99
4Adam HortonPhoenix377.73
5John MagyarGilbert351.77
6Paul BlancoChandler341.29
7Kevan CarterTempe320.85
8Jason BarreMesa313.19
9Joey RioSurprise309.16
10Walter DonyPhoenix280.56

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!