[John Carrera]
The Bar Game Authority

Hi, I'm John.

I'm not an AI. I'm a guy who has spent the last 15 years obsessing over slate thickness, sisal density, and arcade buttons. I built this site because most "reviews" are just Amazon summaries. I actually test this stuff.

Why Trust Me?

'10

Joined "West End" Pub League

Started playing competitive darts. Learned the hard way that brass darts are garbage and tungsten is king. Won my first local tournament (C-League, but it counts!).

'15

Built First MAME Cabinet

Sourced a CRT monitor from Craigslist and wired my own Jamma harness. Documented the whole failure-prone process and learned the importance of Sanwa buttons vs generic clones.

'23

Launched TBGA

Decided to publish my notes. My editorial rule is simple: **If I haven't played it, I don't review it.** I buy 90% of the gear reviewed on this site with my own money.

Inside My Garage

The current gear I use daily.

Darts Setup

  • Winmau Blade 6 Dual Core
  • Target Cult 03 Darts (23g)
  • DIY 360° LED Surround

Pool Setup

  • 8ft Olhausen (Restored)
  • Simonis 860 Cloth (Blue)
  • Predator Revo Shaft

Arcade Setup

  • AtGames Legends Ultimate
  • Virtual Pinball (43" 4K)
  • Golden Tee Go