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:
- John Quinn: Demonstrating a blend of skill and composure, he clinched the top spot.
- Elyza Brillantes: With steady hands and a focused mind, she secured second place.
- David Witucki: Showed great tenacity, earning a well-deserved third place.
- 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!