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:
- Walt Wood (Englewood, CO): A formidable presence in the pinball world with an IFPA rank of 46 and participation in 279 events.
- Ryan Altermatt: Demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill, boasting an IFPA rank of 419 and 266 events.
- Stephen Russello: The dark horse of the tournament, proving that rankings aren’t everything with his unranked status.
- 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!