Night of Flippers and Strikes at the 1up Greenwood

On a crisp evening with just a few clouds overhead, the 1up Arcade Bar in Greenwood Village, Colorado, buzzed with the energy of pinball enthusiasts gathered for the 1up Greenwood January Monthly tournament. Organized by Donavan Stepp, the event on January 28, 2024, saw 46 competitors engage in a Basic Knockout Tournament that lasted over 4 thrilling hours.

The Final Showdown: Batman 66 Takes Center Stage

The tournament’s climax in Round 11 was nothing short of cinematic, with a face-off on the Batman 66 (Catwoman Signature Edition) by Stern. In this nail-biting round, Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, showcased exceptional skill and strategy, securing a first-place finish with a commendable IFPA rank of 46. Right on Wood’s heels was Ryan Altermatt, ranked 419th, turning the game into a memorable battle of wits and reflexes.

Tournament Titans: The Victors Emerge

As the dust settled, the champions of the night were crowned, each with their unique journey through the ranks:

  1. Walt Wood (Englewood, CO): A formidable presence in the pinball world with an IFPA rank of 46 and participation in 279 events.
  2. Ryan Altermatt: Demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill, boasting an IFPA rank of 419 and 266 events.
  3. Stephen Russello: The dark horse of the tournament, proving that rankings aren’t everything with his unranked status.
  4. Nathan Hart: With an IFPA rank of 770, Hart’s strategic gameplay over 295 events has made him a respected competitor.

The Machines That Made the Night

The tournament featured an eclectic collection of 24 pinball machines, each adding its flavor to the competition:

  • Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: A journey to a galaxy far, far away that tested players’ strategic skills.
  • Deadpool (LE) by Stern: Brought humor and action to the tournament with its vibrant gameplay.
  • Red & Ted’s Road Show by Williams: A classic road trip adventure that offered a nostalgic throwback.
  • Toy Story 4 (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Enchanted players with its family-friendly theme and cutting-edge technology.
  • The Addams Family by Bally: Remained a fan favorite with its iconic theme and engaging playfield.
  • The Godfather (CE) by Jersey Jack Pinball: Introduced a new level of strategy and storytelling to the pinball scene.
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern: Brought together players with its dynamic gameplay and beloved characters.
  • Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: Offered a prehistoric challenge that tested even the most seasoned players.
  • Batman 66 (Catwoman Signature Edition) by Stern: The star of the final showdown, captivating players with its themed challenges and immersive gameplay.

A Night to Remember at The 1UP Arcade Bar

The 1up Arcade Bar – Greenwood Village provided the perfect backdrop for this pinball showdown. With delicious drinks, a variety of classic arcade games, and a collection of pinball machines, it was an ideal setting for both competition and camaraderie. Despite the tight aisles, the vibrant atmosphere made for an unforgettable date night and a testament to the enduring appeal of arcade culture.

A heartfelt thank you to Donavan Stepp for organizing such a fantastic event and to The 1UP Arcade Bar for hosting. The world of pinball continues to thrive with each flipper pressed and every silver ball launched. Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the pinball universe!

Electrifying Showdown at the Next Level Qualifier

Pinball Wizards Gather at Next Level

The Next Level Championship 2023 qualifier transformed an ordinary Sunday into a pinball extravaganza. Nestled in the heart of Hillsboro, Oregon, the Next Level Pinball Museum became the arena for a thrilling 3 hours of competitive play, where 33 contenders battled under a sky of broken clouds and a mild 61°F.

The Thrill of the Game

With 10 games on the line for each participant, the tournament was a true test of endurance, skill, and strategy. The atmosphere was electric, with players from all walks of life sharing a common goal: to claim victory and etch their names in the annals of pinball history.

Spotlight on the Classics

“Demolition Man” by Williams, a beloved machine from 1994, emerged as a crowd favorite, challenging players with its futuristic gameplay. Meanwhile, “High Roller Casino” by Stern captured attention with the longest average game duration, turning each play into a high-stakes gamble.

Champions of the Day

The tournament’s victors stood out not just for their wins but for their journey in the world of competitive pinball:

  1. Sean Goller from Portland, OR – 6 Wins, IFPA Rank 3814: Showcased remarkable skill and resilience, leading the pack with his strategic plays.
  2. Mathew Peterson from Portland, Oregon – 4 Wins, IFPA Rank 266: A seasoned player known for his deep understanding of pinball mechanics and tactics.
  3. Vincent Poudrier from Portland – 5 Wins, IFPA Rank 4360: Demonstrated his competitive edge, rising through the ranks with each game.
  4. Jeff Monroe – 4 Wins, IFPA Rank 1622: Brought his A-game, proving that experience and consistency are key to pinball success.

A Pinball Haven

The Next Level Pinball Museum, with its staggering collection of 108 pinball machines, provided a perfect backdrop for the tournament. From the adventure-filled “White Water” by Williams to the iconic “Disney TRON: Legacy” by Stern, the museum offered a diverse playground for all pinball enthusiasts.

Next Level: More Than Just a Venue

Beyond the competition, the Next Level Pinball Shop & Museum stood out for its welcoming atmosphere and passionate staff. The venue’s dedication to maintaining a top-notch collection and providing a great experience made it a beloved destination for both players and spectators.

Wrapping Up

The Next Level Championship 2023 qualifier was more than a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit, bringing together individuals united by their love for the game. Congratulations to all the players, and a big thank you to the organizers for creating an unforgettable pinball experience.

Stay tuned for more heart-stopping pinball action from across the nation!

Ladies Shine at Belles and Chimes League at The Pinball Lounge

A Day of Pinball Empowerment in Oviedo

The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center was the vibrant setting for the Belles and Chimes – Ladies of the Lounge League 2024 – #1 tournament on January 28, 2024. Amidst overcast skies and a pleasant 69°F, 22 players embarked on a nearly 5-hour pinball journey, showcasing skill, strategy, and camaraderie.

Fierce Competition in a Supportive Environment

Organized by Kurt van Zyl, the tournament was structured across 10 rounds, with players vying for points in head-to-head matches. The energy was palpable as each round unfolded, highlighting the players’ dedication and the inclusive spirit of the pinball community.

Round 1 Highlight: A Deadpool Showdown

The tournament kicked off with an intense game on Stern’s “Deadpool (Pro),” a favorite for its engaging gameplay and humor. Ailsa Riddell from Tampa led the pack, setting a high standard for the rounds to follow.

Celebrating the Victorious Players

The tournament culminated with a celebration of the top players, each bringing their unique strengths to the table, underscored by their IFPA rankings:

  1. Jenn Marino – IFPA Rank 7407, Total IFPA Events 50: Demonstrated exceptional skill, marking a significant achievement in her pinball career.
  2. Sierra Lieffort – IFPA Rank 1615, Total IFPA Events 110: Showcased her seasoned experience and competitive spirit.
  3. Mariana Corrales – IFPA Rank 40518, Total IFPA Events 4: A newcomer making an impressive mark on the tournament scene.
  4. Dani Blair – IFPA Rank 8351, Total IFPA Events 25: Brought her growing expertise to the forefront in a tough competition.

A Pinball Paradise at The Pinball Lounge

The tournament featured 15 meticulously maintained pinball machines, offering a diverse range of themes and gameplay experiences, from the strategic depth of “Jack•Bot” to the wild west adventures of “Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE).”

The Pinball Lounge: A Hub of Pinball Excellence

The Pinball Lounge, known for its top-notch games and exceptional customer service, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament. The welcoming atmosphere, coupled with great food and a passion for pinball, made it an unforgettable day for players and spectators alike.

In Conclusion

The Belles and Chimes – Ladies of the Lounge League 2024 – #1 tournament was not just a competition; it was a celebration of women’s growing presence and achievements in the pinball world. It underscored the community’s commitment to inclusivity and the joy of pinball.

Stay tuned for more exciting stories from the pinball universe!