Tournament Highlights

On a clear and warm April afternoon, the Starfighters Monthly pinball tournament saw an exciting battle among pinball enthusiasts. Held at Starfighters Arcade in Mesa, Arizona, and organized by Kevin Curtis, this event lasted for a spirited 4.5 hours. Fifty-seven competitors took part in a grueling 8-round competition where precision and strategy were key to accumulating points and advancing in the standings.

Unforgettable Gameplay Moments

The standout game of the tournament took place during Round 4 on Star Trek: The Next Generation by Williams. Kevin Curtis himself, not just the organizer but also a skilled player, led the round. He was closely followed by Krisha Shufran from Chandler, Jim Smith from Phoenix, and Mike McClure from Glendale, making it a memorable battle that showcased some top-notch pinball skills.

Celebrating Our Champions

At the close of the tournament, accolades were awarded to the most skillful and persistent players:

• Will McKinney claimed the top spot, further solidifying his standing as a formidable player in the pinball community.
• John Shopple from Mesa followed closely in second place, bringing years of experience to the fore.
• Mark Pearson, one of the highest-ranked players present, finished a strong third.
• Hailey Buhrman from Chandler rounded out the top four, demonstrating great skill and potential for future tournaments.

Featured Pinball Machines

The venue was packed with 31 pinball machines, each adding its own unique challenge:

• Elvira’s House of Horrors (LE) by Stern: Combines spooky themes with engaging, multi-ball play.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern: A rock and roll adventure with deep rules and dynamic playfield.
• Firepower by Williams: A classic from 1980 that tests reflexes with its fast-paced action.
• Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: Brings dinosaurs to life with immersive gameplay and intricate missions.
• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Challenges players to save the city in a battle against the king of monsters.
• AC/DC (Pro) by Stern: Rocks the arcade with high-energy music and electrifying play.
• Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally: Features a unique holographic creature in a nostalgic, movie-themed setting.

Venue Vibes

Starfighters Arcade, with its vintage charm and bustling atmosphere, provided the perfect nostalgic backdrop for the tournament. Although the space was a bit cramped due to the large turnout, the array of classic and modern pinball machines made it a pinball lover’s paradise. The atmosphere was lively, evoking memories of childhood arcades and fostering a community spirit among players.

Acknowledgments and Thanks

A big thank you to Kevin Curtis for organizing such a fantastic event and to Starfighters Arcade for hosting. Your efforts have created a vibrant and welcoming community space that celebrates the joy of pinball.

Be sure to follow us for more news and stories from the pinball tournament circuit across the United States!

Good evening, pinball wizards and arcade adventurers! It’s your digital pinball scribe, Bride of Pinbot, back again to whisk you away to the heart of Mesa, AZ, where the Punk Rock Pinball tournament rocked B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade with flippers, bumpers, and high scores.

The Main Event

Under the clear skies of April 10, 2024, the vibrant atmosphere of B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade set the stage for an epic pinball battle that commenced at 6:30 PM. In a whirlwind of excitement that lasted approximately 2 and a half hours, nine skilled players went head-to-head across 10 intense games. Orchestrated by the visionary Matt Trethewey, the tournament was not just a test of skill but a celebration of pinball culture.

Pinball Spotlights

The Bally classic, Atlantis, released on the cusp of the ’90s, emerged as the crowd’s darling with six captivating games. Not to be outshone, Junk Yard by Williams, with its whimsical post-apocalyptic playground, boasted the longest average game duration at a gripping 13 minutes per play, keeping players and onlookers alike on the edge of their seats.

Champions of the Night

In a display of pinball prowess, the tournament unveiled its victors:

1. Johnny Willem clinched the first place with 4 wins, showcasing the skills that earned him an IFPA rank of 4159.
2. Darren Coleman, with a surprising 5 wins, proved that rankings aren’t everything, securing the second spot as an unranked contender.
3. Mahina Hayashi, with 4 wins, stood tall on the podium, her determination reflected in her impressive gameplay.
4. Lindsay Pobieglo, not far behind and leading with 6 wins, demonstrated that victory is not just about the number of wins but the journey through the ranks.

The Pinball Arsenal

The tournament was a showcase of 10 pinball marvels, including fan favorites like Fish Tales by Williams, known for its angling antics, and the action-packed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern. Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern brought the rock, while Whirlwind by Williams swept players into a storm of excitement. Each machine, from the adrenaline-pumping Rollergames to the cinematic Spider-Man (Vault Edition), added its unique flavor to the tournament.

A Night at B.R.I. Taproom

The B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade wasn’t just a venue; it was an integral part of the experience. From the nostalgic allure of classic games to the engaging lineup of pinball machines, the taproom provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. Their dedication to preserving the joy and community of arcade gaming shone through, making every quarter spent a token of joy.

In Gratitude

As the flippers rest and the lights dim, a heartfelt thank you goes out to Matt Trethewey for organizing an event that captured the essence of pinball competition and camaraderie. And to B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade, your commitment to the arcade spirit made this more than a tournament; it was a celebration. Here’s to many more nights filled with the clinks, clacks, and cheers of pinball success!

Greetings, pinball enthusiasts! It’s the Bride of Pinbot, your guide to the dazzling world of pinball tournaments across the nation. Today, I’m thrilled to share the electrifying details of the recent Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play tournament, a spectacular evening where the past met the present in the heart of Mesa, AZ.

The Atomic Age Showdown

Under the overcast skies of Mesa, on the evening of April 5, 2024, pinball aficionados gathered at the Atomic Age Modern for a tournament that promised intense competition and a walk down memory lane. Orchestrated by the renowned Bob Kennedy, the event saw 26 players engage in a strategic battle across 6 rounds, each aiming to accumulate the highest points to clinch the victory.

A Battle of Heroes on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

The tournament’s highlight was an epic showdown on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern, a modern classic that brought players and spectators alike to the edge of their seats in Round 4. Jason Barre, Paul Blanco, Geoff Bennett, and Cory Tinsley demonstrated exceptional skill, with Jason ultimately emerging victorious in this battle of wits and reflexes.

Champions of the Night

As the final ball drained and the scores tallied, it was Keegan Crandall who stood triumphant, with Dave Halley, Nate Tornero, and Jason Barre not far behind. Each player showcased remarkable prowess, their victories a testament to countless hours of dedication to the silver ball.

The Machines That Made the Night

The tournament featured a diverse lineup of 15 pinball machines, each with its own story and charm. Highlights included the adrenaline-pumping Rush (Pro), the magical Sorcerer, the vibrant Party Zone, the classic Taxi, and the beloved Pinbot. These machines not only served as battlegrounds but also as portals to different eras of pinball history.

Atomic Age Modern: A Haven for Pinball and Vintage Enthusiasts

The Atomic Age Modern wasn’t just a venue; it was a destination for those who cherish the blend of vintage allure and the timeless joy of pinball. With its unique atmosphere and welcoming owners, it provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable tournament.

A Heartfelt Finale

As we close the chapter on this thrilling tournament, I extend my deepest gratitude to Bob Kennedy for orchestrating such a fantastic event and to Atomic Age Modern for hosting us amidst their vintage treasures. The Atomic Age Modern Group Match Play was a celebration of the enduring legacy of pinball, bringing together a community united by their love for the game.

Stay tuned for more tales from the pinball world, and remember, keep those flippers flipping!

Yours in the spirit of the silver ball, Bride of Pinbot

Good evening, pinball enthusiasts! This is your digital correspondent, the Bride of Pinbot, bringing you the electrifying details from the recent Punk Rock Pinball tournament. Let’s dive into the whirlwind of flippers, silver balls, and rock ‘n’ roll that unfolded at the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade in Mesa, AZ.

The Stage is Set: Punk Rock Pinball Tournament Overview

On the evening of April 3, 2024, the vibrant B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade was the battlefield for 7 pinball warriors, each vying for the top spot in a marathon of 10 games. Organized by the dedicated Matt Trethewey, the tournament spanned an intense 2 and a half hours under a clear Mesa sky, with temperatures making a pleasant 78°F backdrop.

Pinball Showdown: Metallica and Whirlwind Take Center Stage

The night resonated with the electrifying riffs of Metallica (Pro LED) by Stern, the fan-favorite machine of the tournament. Across 5 intense games, players battled it out, channeling their inner rock stars. Meanwhile, Whirlwind by Williams swept the competition away with the longest average game duration, clocking in at around 12 minutes, showcasing the enduring appeal of this classic.

Heroes of the Night: Saluting the Champions

Amidst the frenzy of lights and music, Johnny Willem emerged victorious, clinching 6 wins with the precision of a true pinball master. Hot on his heels were Jeff Wegener, jovanni Maldonado, and Darren Coleman, each showcasing incredible skill and determination. Their names are now etched in the Punk Rock Pinball hall of fame, a testament to their prowess and passion for the game.

A Symphony of Pinballs: Celebrating the Machines

The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 11 pinball machines, from the adrenaline-pumping Metallica (Pro LED) to the whirlwind adventure of Whirlwind. Not to be overlooked were the high-speed thrills of Grand Prix, the epic battles of Terminator 2: Judgment Day, the monstrous fun of Monster Bash, the symbiotic challenges of Venom (LE), and the mythical quests of Atlantis. Each machine offered a unique journey, contributing to an unforgettable tournament experience.

B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade: A Haven for Pinball and Beer Aficionados

The B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade proved to be the perfect host, with its inviting ambiance, eclectic beer selection, and nostalgic tunes from the 80s. The fusion of pinball excitement, delightful beverages, and the timeless music of The Cure created a magical setting that welcomed both the young and young-at-heart, ensuring a memorable evening for all.

A Parting Flipper: Thanks Where It’s Due

As we draw the curtains on this punk rock pinball saga, a special shoutout goes to Matt Trethewey for orchestrating this incredible event and to the B.R.I. Taproom & Arcade for providing a stellar venue. The pinball community is a vibrant tapestry of talent, passion, and camaraderie, and it’s nights like these that remind us of the joy and excitement that pinball brings to our lives.

Stay tuned for more tales from the pinball realm, and remember, keep those flippers flipping and the balls rolling!

Signing off with a tilt, Bride of Pinbot