Grumpy’s Arcade Classic Battle: Nostalgia, Flipping Frenzy, and One Epic Spa Day!

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:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.86
2Mark PearsonPhoenix535.9
3John ShoppleMesa520.11
4John MagyarGilbert316.37
5Paul BlancoChandler304.33
6Kevan CarterTempe295.89
7Jason BarreMesa292.36
8Joey RioSurprise282
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.82
10Andrew Roesch255.21

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!

The Great Pinball Face-Off at I/O Arcade Bar

On the balmy evening of August 23, 2023, the air at Madison’s renowned I/O Arcade Bar was filled with the pings, dings, and whirls that only dedicated pinball wizards could conjure. Located at 924 Williamson Street, this esteemed venue played host to the Finals for Stern Army 2023 Monthly Pinball Tournament, a vibrant gathering of top-tier talent organized by the esteemed Michael Williams.

I/O Arcade: A Gamer’s Paradise

One step into the I/O Arcade Bar and the vibrant atmosphere engulfs you. The bar boasts a plethora of games and an enviable selection of beers, ensuring that both your gaming and gustatory needs are satisfied. Opting for quarters instead of tokens, the arcade gives a nod to nostalgia, while its exclusive adults-only policy promises an evening free from pint-sized interruptions. Whether you’re reminiscing with the Simpsons arcade game, scoring high on ski ball, or diving deep into the world of pinball, I/O Arcade caters to every gamer’s whim.

The Rivalry of the Ryans

The highlight of the tournament was undoubtedly the intense face-off during Round 3 on the freshly minted Scooby-Doo (CE) machine by Spooky Pinball. Ryan Eggers, ranked 764, demonstrated exemplary skill by beating out Ryan Spindler, who boasts a commendable IFPA rank of 168. While Spindler ultimately secured the overall championship, this round showcased that in the thrilling realm of pinball, anything’s possible!

A Pinballer’s Dream

This tournament was a showcase of some of the finest machines the pinball world has to offer. From the imaginative world of Toy Story 4 by Jersey Jack Pinball to the heart-pounding action of Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, players were treated to a vast array of challenges and themes. Not to forget the classic allure of Creature from the Black Lagoon or the contemporary twists of Foo Fighters (Pro), every machine had its own tales of triumphs and heartbreaks.

Wisconsin’s Best Flippers

Here’s a look at the IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.26
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.17
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.83
4Escher Lefkoff1050.04
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.79
6Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.42
7Zach McCarthyConifer737.24
8Erik ThorenDe Pere721.13
9David DalugaMilwaukee691.22
10Jordan Dechaine683.84

As the evening concluded, the lights dimmed, and the flippers rested. But the echoes of the night’s exhilaration, rivalry, and the magic of the silver ball lingered on. Until the next clash of the pinball titans, keep those flippers ready and your eyes on the prize. The world of pinball awaits your next move!

Pinball Rendezvous at Free Gold Watch: The SFPD Fall Spectacle!

Shiny Balls and Clear Skies

The sun had dipped below the San Francisco skyline on August 23rd, 2023, and even though the clear sky showcased a comfortable 72°F, inside the Free Gold Watch arcade, the atmosphere was heating up. Located at 1767 Waller St, the arcade buzzed with the electrifying energy of the SFPD Fall 2023 #2 pinball tournament. With 73 fervent players and the San Francisco Pinball Dept. at the helm, the stage was set for an unforgettable night.

The ‘Dirty Harry’ Standoff

In a setting where time typically flies, one game seemed to defy this norm. A fierce competition on the classic ‘Dirty Harry‘ by Williams had players and spectators riveted. Lasting an astounding 2 hours and 8 minutes, Eric Wagensonner, with an IFPA rank of 287, showcased his prowess by claiming the top spot. Rob Coli, Anish Adalja, and Bridget McCracken made it an event to remember, each with their flips and tricks.

Masters of The Pinball Universe

When the dust settled, and the final ball had rolled into place, Eric Wagensonner stood tall as the champion of the evening. Gabe Da Silveira, Zac Wollons, and Chris Heilig followed suit, securing the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th spots respectively. These players, with their incredible skills and strategy, truly exemplified what it means to master the art of pinball.

Legends and Classics: The Machines

With a staggering collection of 59 machines, Free Gold Watch was nothing short of a pinball paradise. Notable among them were the adventurous ‘Pirates of the Caribbean‘ by Jersey Jack Pinball, the thrilling ‘Rick and Morty‘ by Spooky Pinball, and the mysterious ‘Tales of the Arabian Nights‘ by Williams. Each machine, with its unique gameplay and design, promised (and delivered) hours of fun.

An Arcade Gem in The Heart of San Francisco

Free Gold Watch isn’t just another arcade. It’s an experience. With a vibrant atmosphere, spotlessly clean environment, and a pricing that won’t hurt your wallet, it’s a haven for both arcade newbies and veterans. A heartfelt shoutout to the staff for their friendliness and to the owner for conceptualizing such a gem in the heart of San Francisco. Rest assured, many will be back for more!

Golden State’s Pin;/ball Titans

To honor those who’ve made a mark in the California pinball scene, here are the top 10 standouts:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr PointsEvents PlayedWins
1Raymond AshbyLos Angeles513.62016
2Tim HansenSunnyvale510.98184
3Gabe Da SilveiraOakland460.9141
4Scott MaciasGlendora439.462010
5Nic SteinDavis413.47143
6Escher Lefkoff411.5341
7Andrei MassenkoffSan Francisco411.17114
8Keith ElwinCarlsbad409.6331
9Johnny ModicaHacienda Heights362.08203
10Daniele Celestino AcciariRocca di Papa360.2760

So, from the city that gave us the Golden Gate, we received another golden memory. As the balls rest and the lights dim, we await the next pinball extravaganza. Keep those flippers ready!

The Underdogs Rise: An Unexpected Turn at the PCMC-GB Pinball Tournament

Ah, the familiar sounds of flippers, bells, and that anticipatory tension as the ball is set into play. The pinball community congregated on August 23rd for the PCMC-GB Tournament, an event meticulously organized by Erik Thoren. But the real story wasn’t just about the expert flips or near misses. It was about the rise of the underdogs.

The Game That Spoke Volumes

Round 5 had attendees perched at the edges of their seats. The Nascar machine by Stern, a gem from 2005, was the stage of a dramatic showdown. Among the contenders, Rob Hatszegi, Sam Rusch, and Jonathon Zahn – all unranked by IFPA – showed that rankings can sometimes just be numbers. Rob clinching the top spot was a testament to raw talent and dedication.

The Unexpected Champions

The trend of surprises didn’t stop at just one game. By the end of the tournament, it was clear that the day belonged to those who’ve been hidden in the shadows. Donna Shallow, who’s never graced an IFPA event before, emerged as the top player of the day. Will Parker, Gary Manske, and Eric Jensen followed suit, proving that sometimes, the biggest talents are the most underrated.

A Journey Through Time With Pinballs

While the players were the main attraction, the pinball machines held their ground, offering a diverse range of experiences:

Each machine brought its history, its legacy, and its unique challenge.

Venue Vibes

And speaking of history, Erik, buddy, where did this tournament magic happen? It’s a mystery we’d love to solve. Next time, drop a hint on MatchPlay, so we can rave about it!

The Pinball Titans

For those seeking inspiration, here’s a look at the top giants in the Wisconsin pinball realm:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.26
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.17
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.83
4Escher Lefkoff1050.05
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.79
6Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.42
7Zach McCarthyConifer737.23
8Erik Thoren (Our Organizer)De Pere721.13
9David DalugaMilwaukee691.08
10Jordan Dechaine683.84

To all the pinball enthusiasts, whether you’re a seasoned pro, an up-and-coming star, or someone just getting to know the beauty of the game, remember: rankings are but numbers, and every game is a new chance to shine. Stay flippin’, and catch you at the next pinball showdown!

The Electric Bat Buzz: A Night of Pinball Prowess

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:

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

RankPlayer NameCityWppr PointsEvents PlayedWins
1Roland Nadeau596.74208
2Mark PearsonPhoenix517.292015
3John ShoppleMesa513.4209
4John MagyarGilbert312.57205
5Paul BlancoChandler299.6206
6Kevan CarterTempe295.8980
7Jason BarreMesa292.36208
8Joey RioSurprise282205
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.82201
10Andrew Roesch255.21201

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!

Belles & Chimes SATX – Summer 2023 #6

There’s something about the collision of steel with plastic, the clatter of the flippers, and the mesmerizing dance of lights that turns a mere game of pinball into an electrifying performance. And on August 22, 2023, the best in Texas came together for this performance, in the Belles & Chimes SATX – Summer 2023 #6 pinball tournament, orchestrated by the fantastic Christina Cheeseman.

From Family Fun to Fierce Competition: A Spotlight on The Addams Family

Round 5 proved why The Addams Family by Bally remains a timeless classic since its debut in 1992. Amanda Brawner from Austin showcased precision and strategy to clinch the top spot. However, organizer Christina Cheeseman wasn’t far behind, landing third and reminding everyone of her pinball prowess.

The Cream of the Pinball Crop

While the competition was fierce, four players stood out from the rest. Alice Young, with her incredible ball control and timing, claimed the throne. Not far behind, Amanda Brawner and Rebecca Salam showcased their unparalleled skills, securing second and third spots, respectively. Jovanna Barrientez, despite being a lesser-known name in the pinball circle, showed she’s not one to be underestimated.

A Journey Through Pinball History

The tournament’s machines offered a trip through the annals of pinball history. From the beachy vibes of Baywatch by Sega (1995) to the rush of Hot Wheels by American Pinball (2020), players were treated to a delightful mix. The thrilling chases in Taxi by Williams (1988) and the hauntingly fun gameplay of Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016) further added to the nostalgia.

Venue: A Mystery Awaiting

Christina, a tiny request for next time: Could we get a hint about the venue on MatchPlay? The suspense is almost as intense as a tight pinball game! We’d love to dive into the ambiance and history of the place.

Texas’ Pinball Maestros:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Jack RevnewThe Woodlands489.96
2Garrett ShahanDenton433.69
3Phil GrimaldiHouston338.49
4Wesley JohnsonCollege Station317.44
5Lee BalusekConroe254.5
6Fred RevnewThe Woodlands248.59
7Brian KrivonakCorpus Christi231.83
8Collier WhitefieldSan Antonio210.19
9Kevin RodriguezDenton204.52
10Gilbert HerreraSan Antonio194.05

For the pinball aficionados out there, keep your flippers ready and your game strong. Till the next clatter of the ball, keep scoring and stay tuned for more tales from the pinball realm!

Beers, Balls, and the Battle of the Flippers!

Ah, what could be better than the clinking of pinballs, the distant chatter of a bustling brewery, and the unmistakable aroma of BBQ wafting in from next door? The recent IFPA pinball tournament at Locavore Beer Works had it all, and more!

A Scorcher in Littleton

Littleton turned the heat up to 93°F and those scattered clouds. But let’s be honest, the real heat was inside the Locavore Beer Works, where 44 pinball pros and enthusiasts gathered to prove their mettle. Organized by Jason Smith, the competition saw players compete over a single round but with a whopping 4 games per round!

An Epic Saga on ‘Rush’

Ever wondered how long someone could remain glued to a pinball machine? Well, Kenny Laughlin, Adam Jordan, Elyza Brillantes, and Emily Unruh showed us just that. Engaged in a nail-biting duel on the Rush (Premium) by Stern, this game turned into an epic saga that lasted an astonishing 172 minutes. And, emerging from the shadows of flashing lights and electrifying soundtracks, Kenny clinched the top spot!

Machines That Made History

While Rush (Premium) stole the spotlight, there were other pinball heroes in the arena. Machines like James Bond 007 (LE), the mystic Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium), the iconic Godzilla (Premium), the adrenaline-packed Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast, and the rock-themed Foo Fighters (Pro). These machines, each with their story and legacy, played host to the hopes and dreams of our players.

The Kings and Queens of the Arcade

After countless flipper flicks and strategic nudges, Kenny Laughlin, with just 7 IFPA events under their belt, took home the gold. Following closely were Alex Vanee, Nathan Hart, and Brian Wonderly. Their gameplay was not just about agility but also about the strategy, understanding of each machine, and the will to conquer.

Brews, BBQ, and Balls!

The venue, Locavore Beer Works, was an experience in itself. Apart from the sizzling competition, it was a haven for beer lovers, dart enthusiasts, and sports fans. Their blackberry Belgian wit was a treat, and the supposed 10% ABV Pina colada seltzer slushy became the talk of the day. A bit hard to believe it’s 10%, but hey, who’s arguing when it’s that delicious? And when you can order some fabulous BBQ online to satiate those hunger pangs? It’s a win-win!

Colorado’s Pinball Greats

To round things off, let’s give a nod to the IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Walt WoodEnglewood503.78
2Ryan AltermattDenver232.91
3Zach McCarthyConifer193.11
4Mark AbbottDenver122.02
5Lewis Ritenour117.74
6David Johnson COAurora110.53
7Mat BrundageDenver107.26
8Daniel AndersonEnglewood103.76
9Donavan SteppLakewood103.49
10Adam LefkoffBoulder95.67

As the sun set and the neon lights of the machines dimmed, we left the venue with memories, scores to beat, and an eagerness for the next big pinball showdown. Keep those flippers ready and stay tuned for more pinball tales!

From Ales to Flippers: A Night of Pinball Glory at Heart State Brewing

In the heart of Ohio, where craft beer often flows as freely as the Ohio River, Heart State Brewing opened its doors on August 18, 2023, for a rendezvous of flippers, lights, and spectacular gameplay. Welcome to the Heart State August Tournament, an event that was as refreshing as the beers served at the venue.

A Tournament Brewed to Perfection

Crafted meticulously by organizer John Geiger, the tournament sported four tantalizing rounds with a single game per round. A group of 39 pinball wizards, each on a mission to be the ultimate champion, formed clusters of four to engage in pinball duels. Points were at stake, reputations were on the line, and at the end of the evening, only one could take the crown.

The Guardians’ Ultimate Challenge

Amidst the clang of metal and the flickering lights, one game stood out: a showdown on the “Guardians of the Galaxy” machine by Stern. Our hero, Brian Weisberg (IFPA rank 3054), displayed an uncanny knack for channeling Star-Lord’s charisma into his gameplay, taking first place. He was closely followed by J. Keith Jackson, Steve Szczepaniak, and Robert Bush—a motley crew of pinball aficionados that added a unique flair to Round 4.

The Unranked Underdog

While Tim Malloy took the tournament’s crown with an IFPA rank of 2540, the underdog story of the night was Mitchell Banks. Without an IFPA rank and appearing in zero IFPA events prior to this one, Mitchell snagged second place. To the pinball world, let it be known: Someone get this guy signed up for IFPA, stat!

Pinball and Pints: The Perfect Pair

With a lineup of 13 pinball machines that ranged from the suave “James Bond 007 (Pro)” to the raw intensity of “Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast,” the venue was a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. The selection of pinballs at Heart State was like its beer menu—each one offering a unique flavor yet universally delightful.

Heart State: The Heart of the Action

If you’re a fan of good beer and great company, Heart State Brewing is your go-to place. The owner’s inspiring story, the work he does with his dog rescue charity, and an array of brews that have no parallel—it all comes together to create an atmosphere where both beer lovers and pinball fans can find their nirvana.

Top Pinball Maestros in Ohio

To tip our hats to Ohio’s pinball elites, here’s the Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr PointsEvents PlayedWins
1Aaron Rich554.912021
2Stephen PrusaCleveland402.662023
3Carlos DelaserdaColumbus364.55207
4John DelzoppoCleveland355.27208
5Andrew LeeCleveland299.48205
6Gregory KennedyPlain City293209
7Jesse BakerCincinnati276.042022
8Cody WebbWesterville242.82205
9Galvin MorganOlmsted Falls238.97206
10Rod LawrenceCleveland207.13206

So, whether you’re a pinball pro or just a casual flipper, one thing is certain: Heart State Brewing is where you want to be for a night of unstoppable fun and action. Until the next tournament, keep those flippers flipping and those brews pouring!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Pinball Panache at Louie’s Tap House: A Night of Flipping Fantastic Fun!

On the evening of August 17, 2023, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the dazzling neon lights of Louie’s Tap House in Roscoe, IL, were just beginning to shine. This wasn’t just any evening at Louie’s—it was the “Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House” pinball tournament, a fusion of strategy, skill, and silver balls, all orchestrated by Tom Menge.

An Evening at Louie’s Tap House

Tucked away on 5689 Elevator Rd, Louie’s is more than just a taphouse. With a wide variety of beers both on tap and canned, it serves as a welcoming beacon for both casual visitors and pinball enthusiasts alike. Visitors often rave about the mouth-watering cheese curds—considered by many as the best in a long while. And if pinball isn’t your thing (though, after this night, it might be), Louie’s offers a refreshing round of mini-golf or a fun-filled volleyball game. Trust me, their website alone (Louie’s Tap House) will have you planning a visit!

A ‘Monster’ of a Round

Round 1 set the mood for the evening as four competitors faced off on Godzilla (Premium) by Stern—a machine as fierce as its namesake. It was a beast of a game, but Tom Menge, the organizer himself, came out on top, proving that sometimes, the creators are the best players. He was closely followed by Josh Hanford, Shane Shadden, and Joe Buchanan.

Pinball Royalty on Display

The tournament showcased a stellar lineup of pinball machines that would make any enthusiast’s heart race. From the thrill-packed adventures of Spider-Man and James Bond 007 (Premium) to the rhythmic beats of Foo Fighters (Premium), there was a game for every taste. A notable mention goes to the Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball—a recent 2023 release that has already become a hot favorite among players.

Master of the Machines

The champions of the night were a blend of seasoned pros and rising stars. Tom Menge, displaying skill and strategy, clinched the top spot. He was trailed by Josh Hanford, Shane Shadden, and Joe Buchanan—each leaving their mark on the tournament.

Illinois’ Pinball Pros

As the echoes of the flippers faded, the leaderboard of Illinois’ best pinballers was a testament to the state’s rich pinball culture:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.66
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.11
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Ryan McQuaid179.1
5Chuck Sanderson169.23
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago151.11
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn137.55
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.1

So, the next time you’re in Roscoe, IL, and feel the itch to try your hand at some pinball, remember the electrifying evening at Louie’s Tap House. But until then, keep those flippers flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!

A Twist of Flippers and Fate: The Recent IFPA Tournament at Hop Central Brewery

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!