Amidst the crisp air of a clear Denver day, with temperatures hovering around a cool 37°F, pinball enthusiasts congregated at The 1Up – LoDo for a marathon of a tournament on December 17, 2023. Organized by Deanna Scalf, the 1up Ultimate Pinball Challenge turned into an epic 13-and-a-half-hour battle of skill, strategy, and endurance.
The 1Up – LoDo: A Nostalgic Pinball Haven
The 1Up Arcade Bar – LoDo, known for its retro charm and modern flair, proved to be more than just a venue. It was a trip down memory lane, with a side of delicious pizza and top-notch service. The energy was palpable as players and spectators alike basked in the glow of the pinball machines, each one a gateway to a different world.
The Tournament: A Test of Tenacity and Skill
This Group Knockout Tournament saw 22 players in a fierce competition under the Progressive Strikes system. With 12 rounds of intense play, and players being eliminated after receiving 9 strikes, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Four-player groups fought for top spots to avoid accumulating strikes, while three-player groups had a slightly less daunting challenge.
Spotlight on the Machines
The tournament featured a fantastic array of 11 pinball machines:
- Godzilla (Premium/LE) by Stern: The scene of an epic Round 1 showdown.
- Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory by Jersey Jack Pinball: A sweet trip with every flipper hit.
- Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball: Wacky adventures with every ball launch.
- James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: Espionage and action on the silver ball.
- The Addams Family by Bally: A classic that never fails to draw a crowd.
Round 1 Showdown: Godzilla’s Rampage
The tournament kicked off with a bang on the Godzilla (Premium/LE) machine. Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, took an early lead with an outstanding first-place finish, followed by Snow Galvin, Tim Bruner, and Marissa Furman from Denver.
Celebrating the Pinball Champions
After hours of intense play, the tournament found its victors:
- Walt Wood: Dominating the playfield and proving to be the ultimate pinball wizard.
- Donavan Stepp: A close second, showcasing incredible skill and consistency.
- Justin Hinman: Securing the third spot with deft maneuvers and strategic plays.
- Brian Wonderly: Rounding out the top four with impressive gameplay.
A Day to Remember at The 1Up
As the final flipper was pressed and the last ball drained, The 1up Ultimate Pinball Challenge concluded, leaving players and fans alike exhilarated and already looking forward to the next meet. This tournament wasn’t just a test of pinball prowess; it was a celebration of the community, the joy of gaming, and the enduring charm of pinball.
Stay tuned for more tales and updates from the ever-spinning world of pinball!