Young Flippers Take on JAWS and More at Starfighters Arcade

The Starfighters Kids Monthly tournament was a hit! Taking place on July 13, 2024, at Starfighters Arcade, the event saw 30 young pinball wizards battling it out in a swift and exciting competition. With clear skies and a scorching 104°F temperature outside, the arcade was the perfect escape for some indoor fun. The tournament, organized by Kevin Curtis, featured four intense rounds of gameplay and wrapped up in just an hour and a half.

A Retro Arcade Experience

Located at 4840 E Jasmine St #102, Mesa, AZ, Starfighters Arcade is a nostalgic haven for pinball enthusiasts of all ages. For just $11, you can enjoy unlimited gameplay from 7 PM to 11 PM. The snack bar offers affordable treats, making it a family-friendly destination. Whether you’re a fan of classic games like Ms. Pac-Man or modern favorites, there’s something for everyone. The arcade’s impressive collection and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout spot for tournaments like this one. For more details, check out their website.

Spotlight on the JAWS Game

The highlight of the tournament was the intense showdown on JAWS (Premium) by Stern, a recent release from January 2024. As the players faced off, the atmosphere was electric with tension and excitement. The JAWS pinball machine, themed around the iconic shark movie, brought the thrilling terror of the deep sea to the arcade. In the final round, Kenny F. showcased incredible skill and focus, navigating the treacherous waters of the playfield. He expertly hit the ramps and targets, avoiding the dreaded shark attack to rack up an impressive score. Mason P., Beckett S., and Weslyn P. put up a valiant fight, but Kenny’s mastery of the game mechanics and strategic play earned him the top spot. The immersive experience of battling the Great White Shark added a unique and exhilarating twist to the tournament, making Kenny’s victory all the more impressive.

Pinball Machines on Display

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 10 pinball machines. Here are reviews of five standout games:

  • Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (2021): This machine captures the chaos and excitement of a city under siege by the mighty Godzilla. With its dynamic playfield and incredible light show, it’s a fan favorite.
  • Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams (1993): A true classic, this game takes you on an adventure with Indiana Jones. The playfield features iconic movie scenes and challenging ramps that keep players on their toes.
  • Iron Man by Stern (2010): Fast-paced and action-packed, Iron Man is all about keeping up with the rapid-fire gameplay. The magnets and Iron Monger toy add to the thrilling experience.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern (2019): Step into Jurassic Park and face off against dinosaurs in this exciting game. The intricate playfield and interactive T-Rex toy make it a standout.
  • Lord of the Rings by Stern (2003): Embark on a quest through Middle-earth with this epic pinball machine. The game features multiple modes and deep rules, providing endless entertainment.

Celebrating the Winners

With 30 participants, the competition at Starfighters Kids Monthly tournament was fierce and full of energy. The young players demonstrated impressive skills and sportsmanship, making it a memorable event for everyone involved. Kenny F., ranked 244th in the state, showcased his experience and determination to clinch the top spot. This victory marks his 13th IFPA event, adding another achievement to his growing pinball career.

Mason P., although unranked, showed exceptional talent and potential, securing second place in a highly competitive field. His performance was a pleasant surprise and a testament to the rising stars in the pinball community. Third place went to Nixon F., who, despite being new to the IFPA rankings, displayed remarkable skill and composure throughout the tournament. Fourth place was claimed by Finn F., whose enthusiasm and passion for the game were evident in every round.

The presence of so many unranked players making it to the top four is a great sign for the future of pinball. It shows that new talent is continually emerging, promising exciting times ahead for the sport. The tournament wasn’t just about winning; it was a celebration of the growing community of young pinball enthusiasts, their love for the game, and their bright futures in the world of competitive pinball.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Roland Nadeau 794.05
2 Mark Pearson Phoenix 748.2
3 John Shopple Mesa 685.88
4 Greg Drewes Mesa 348.88
5 Jason Barre Mesa 321.53
6 Nate Tornero 279.78
7 John Magyar Gilbert 275.22
8 Andrew Roesch 258.29
9 Ben Clement Marana 256.02
10 Cody Winant Tempe 253.5

Wrapping Up

A big thank you to Kevin Curtis for organizing such a fantastic event and to Starfighters Arcade for hosting. Your efforts made this tournament a memorable experience for everyone involved. Congrats again to Kenny F. for his impressive win on JAWS! Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps. For more information about Starfighters Arcade, visit their website. Until next time, keep flipping those flippers!

Night of Pinball Madness at Player 1 Arcade!

The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 (#2) IFPA pinball tournament took place on July 1, 2024, drawing 34 eager competitors to Player One Arcade. With broken clouds overhead and a scorching temperature of 104°F, the action inside was even hotter. Organized by the seasoned pinball enthusiast Jim Smith, this fast-paced event spanned five rounds, each featuring one intense game. The tournament wrapped up in just two hours and 30 minutes, leaving everyone buzzing with excitement.

Pinball Paradise at Player 1 Arcade

Located at 17239 North Litchfield Road, UNIT 60, in Surprise, AZ, Player 1 Arcade is a gem for pinball enthusiasts. This spot is perfect for hanging out with friends, enjoying a beer, and diving into nostalgic pinball action. The atmosphere is relaxed yet charged with excitement, and the owner’s welcoming demeanor adds to the charm. With a diverse collection of pinball machines, every visit feels like a step back in time. For more information, check out their website.

Godzilla Showdown: Round 3 Highlights

Round 3 saw a memorable showdown on Stern’s Godzilla (Premium) from September 2021. This game, with its chaotic cityscape and monstrous battles, perfectly set the stage for a high-stakes pinball clash. Joel Daniel, hailing from Surprise, AZ, harnessed his inner kaiju to dominate the game, toppling the competition with precision and flair. Kevin Ehlers put up a fierce fight, but ultimately, it was Joel’s mastery of the mayhem that led him to victory.

Game Results:

  1. Joel Daniel, from Surprise AZ, IFPA rank 4128
  2. Kevin Ehlers, IFPA rank 1880
  3. Rudy Roundhouse, IFPA Unranked
  4. Ethan Satterley, IFPA rank 3649

Spotlight on Pinball Machines

The tournament featured 17 remarkable pinball machines. Among them:

  • Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): This machine captures the essence of Tarantino’s cult classic with unique gameplay elements and immersive storytelling.
  • James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern (September 2022): With sleek design and thrilling missions, this machine lets players step into the shoes of the legendary spy.
  • John Wick (Pro) by Stern (May 2024): Bringing the action-packed world of John Wick to life, this machine offers fast-paced gameplay and stunning visuals.
  • Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams (May 1996): A fan favorite, this machine enchants with its intricate playfield and magical themes.
  • Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019): Dive into the Upside Down with this machine, featuring iconic scenes and characters from the hit series.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (July 2019): This machine is a dino-lover’s dream, with thrilling chases and stunning effects.
  • Deadpool (LE) by Stern (August 2018): Combining humor and action, this machine is a riot of fun with its quirky gameplay.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern (November 2017): Embark on a galactic adventure with the Guardians, featuring a vibrant and engaging playfield.
  • Cyclone by Williams (February 1988): A classic favorite, Cyclone offers nostalgic charm with its carnival-themed gameplay.

Applauding the Champions

Winning he Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 (#2) was no small feat, featuring 34 skilled competitors vying for the top spots. Each participant brought their A-game, making the tournament a thrilling spectacle. Our champions had to navigate through a gauntlet of formidable opponents, showcasing their exceptional pinball prowess and strategic acumen.

  • 1st Place: Jim Smith from Phoenix, AZ. Ranked 15th in the state and 387th nationally, with a remarkable 540 total IFPA events under his belt, Jim proved why he’s a top contender. His victory is a testament to his experience and skill, outplaying the field with precision.
  • 2nd Place: Shaun Ping, whose persistence and skill earned him a well-deserved second place. Ranked 177th in the state and 3831st nationally, Shaun’s journey through 39 IFPA events has been impressive, battling through tough matches to secure his spot.
  • 3rd Place: Joel Daniel from Surprise, AZ, ranked 119th in the state and 4128th nationally, made a significant mark with his strategic play. Joel’s ability to stay cool under pressure against higher-ranked players was key to his success.
  • 4th Place: David Sanders, ranked 382nd in the state and 21349th nationally, brought enthusiasm and talent to the competition despite being relatively new with just three IFPA events. His performance shows great potential for future tournaments.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Mark Pearson Phoenix 731.97
2 Roland Nadeau 653.31
3 John Shopple Mesa 606.1
4 Jason Barre Mesa 316.34
5 Greg Drewes Mesa 260.44
6 John Magyar Gilbert 250.26
7 Andrew Roesch 246.76
8 Nate Tornero 243.21
9 Ben Clement Marana 235.81
10 Cody Winant Tempe 227.91

Wrapping Up the Action

The Player 1 Arcade 2024 Series 5 (#2) was a spectacular showcase of pinball talent and excitement. Congratulations to Jim Smith for his outstanding victory! Player 1 Arcade continues to be a prime location for pinball enthusiasts, providing a fantastic environment for both casual and competitive play. Follow along for more pinball news and past events!

For more about Player 1 Arcade, be sure to visit their Facebook page