Beer and gaming go hand in hand, and an oasis that sees a marry-ment of both is soon approaching! For the third year running BrewDog Brewery & Taproom at Murrarie, will host Australia’s highest-attended competitive pinball and classic arcade events as part of the Brisbane Pinball and Arcade Collective: Thunder and Lightning 2023 Showcase. From Friday July 14 to Sunday July 23, over 70 pinball machines and 40 plus arcade games will populate the brewing floor, converting the space into a haven for gamers of all ages, with an expected turnout of over 500 individual competitors. If you’re not yet a master of the game, not to worry, those with all skill sets are welcome to compete, so secure your spot and get down to business as D-day fast approaches. While the competitive bunch opt in, those who prefer sitting sideline with a foamy cold one in hand can enjoy free entry and witness the spectacle that is – the BPAC showcase. The calendar of events is jam-packed and sees no day un-catered for. Once doors open and kick-off qualifying begins, the event highlights to follow include the biggest Knock Off event in the world, and the Ultimate Punch: Radical Edition taking place from Saturday July 15–16. The Under 16 Junior Kong Off and Under 16 Pinball Competition is on Sunday July 16, while the Australian Women’s Pinball Championship unite over 50 local, interstate, and international cis, trans, non-binary, and self-identifying women as they go head-to-head in attainment for pride and glory. You don’t want to miss the all-star show as the top-notch and most high-flying pinball players come together on Sunday July 23–24, for one of Australia’s most prestigious pinball tournaments, attracting over 200 of the world’s best players. Those who want to just partake in the fun (there’s loads of it) can enjoy three full days of free-play from Monday July 17–19 where $10 will unlock your day’s bliss of uninterrupted play, with access to over 100 pinball and arcade games. Along with these events (and many, many more), BPAC 2023 welcomes its newest Nintendo 64 competitions, hosted by YouTube gaming superstar Karl Jobst. Time to sharpen those reflexes – let’s play ball. For the full 10-day program, visit the Brisbane Pinball and Arcade Collective website.