Greetings, pinball enthusiasts! It’s time to dive into the frosty yet fiery world of the PBJ Monthly January ’24 tournament. On January 7th, 2024, under a clear sky with temperatures plunging to a chilly 29°F, Pinball Jones in Fort Collins, CO became the epicenter of a thrilling pinball showdown.

Pinball Jones: A Haven for Pinball Wizards

Pinball Jones is more than just a venue; it’s a sanctuary for those who love the clink of the pinball and the thrill of the game. Imagine a place brimming with classic machines, accompanied by the comforting presence of beers and snacks. Add to that the joy of other vintage games like skeeball, and you’ve got an evening that’s both nostalgic and exciting.

The Tournament: A Test of Skill and Strategy

Organized by the adept Paul Kardell, the Group Knockout Tournament was a gripping affair with 10 rounds of intense competition. Nineteen players were pitted against each other, vying to avoid the dreaded three strikes. The rules were simple yet challenging: avoid being in the bottom two in four-player groups or the last in three-player groups to stay in the game.

The Jurassic Park Showdown

Round 5 witnessed a remarkable battle on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Pro). Clint Reeves, with an IFPA rank of 5043, emerged as the alpha predator, clinching the top spot. David Klausa, Jackson Fry, and Elliott Layne also put up a fierce fight, showcasing their skills on this modern classic machine.

Saluting the Victorious

The tournament culminated with some exceptional performances:

• 1st: Clint Reeves – Showed unmatched prowess, rightfully earning his top spot.
• 2nd: Tai Tran – Demonstrated strategic brilliance in each round.
• 3rd: Jackson Fry – A consistent player who navigated the rounds with skill.
• 4th: Aidan Lancaster – Displayed resilience and adaptability throughout the tournament.

Machines That Made the Magic

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 35 pinball machines. Highlights included:

• Star Wars (Premium) by Stern – A journey to a galaxy far, far away.
• The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams – A fast-paced adventure from the ’90s.
• White Water by Williams – Rapid, wild, and thrilling.
• Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory by Jersey Jack Pinball – A delightful trip down memory lane.
• The Big Lebowski by Dutch Pinball – A tribute to the cult classic film. The Dude abides.

Wrapping Up

The PBJ Monthly January ’24 tournament at Pinball Jones was a testament to the enduring charm and excitement of pinball. As players battled it out in the cozy warmth of the venue, it was clear that the spirit of pinball is alive and well, even on the coldest of nights.

Stay tuned for more tales from the realm of pinball, where the flippers never stop, and the fun never ends!

On a chilly January evening in Denver, where overcast clouds loomed and the temperature steadfastly held at 32°F, a battle of pinball prowess unfolded at The 1Up LoDo. This wasn’t just any ordinary night; it was the night of the Pinball Lions Superbowl tournament, meticulously orchestrated by Deanna Scalf.

The 1Up LoDo: A Retro Haven in Modern Times

The 1Up Arcade Bar – LoDo is a place that seems to defy time, a perfect mix of past and present. Its basement setting is reminiscent of a classic 80s/90s arcade, yet it boasts the luxury of a full-service bar. With a wide array of games spanning from beloved console classics to a vibrant selection of pinball machines, it’s a sanctuary for those looking to immerse themselves in nostalgia while enjoying a quality brew (PBRs included).

Tournament Mechanics: A Test of Endurance and Skill

The tournament’s format was both rigorous and unforgiving. Spanning a marathon 11 hours, 22 players engaged in 9 grueling rounds of Group Knockout. Employing the Progressive Strikes system, players in four-person groups received 0 to 3 strikes based on their finishing position, while those in three-player groups got 0 to 2 strikes. Seven strikes, and you were out.

A Godzilla Showdown

In Round 3, the spotlight fell on Stern’s Godzilla (Premium), a modern classic from 2021. This game became the arena for an intense showdown, with John Quinn from Denver reigning supreme, followed by Brian Wonderly, Marshall Weasel, and Shawn Savageau.

Acknowledging the Victors

After hours of intense play and strategic maneuvering, four players emerged as the champions:

1. John Quinn: Demonstrating a blend of skill and composure, he clinched the top spot.
2. Elyza Brillantes: With steady hands and a focused mind, she secured second place.
3. David Witucki: Showed great tenacity, earning a well-deserved third place.
4. Marshall Weasel: His strategic gameplay garnered him a spot in the top four.

Pinball Machine Highlights

Of the 12 pinball machines present, these were the stars:

• Rick and Morty by Spooky Pinball: A wild adventure into the multiverse.
• Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory by Jersey Jack Pinball: A sweet journey of imagination.
• The Simpsons Pinball Party by Stern: Bringing Springfield’s chaotic charm to life.
• Scooby-Doo (SE) by Spooky Pinball: A spooky and fun-filled mystery.
• Venom (Pro) by Stern: A recent hit, combining superhero action with pinball excitement.

A Night of Fun

As the tournament drew to a close, players and spectators left with memories of a night filled with excitement, camaraderie, and the timeless joy of pinball. The 1Up LoDo once again proved itself as not just a venue for gaming, but a space where the past and present converge for an unforgettable experience.

For those who revel in the thrill of the silver ball, stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the world of pinball!