A Peek into the Tournament
The pinball enthusiasts’ arena was set ablaze on the evening of March 24, 2024, at The 1UP Arcade Bar in Greenwood Village. The event, organized by Donavan Stepp, witnessed 39 sharpshooters from across the country battling it out in the “1up Greenwood March Madness Monthly.” This Basic Knockout Tournament spanned 11 intense rounds, where players were paired off in two-player games, facing elimination upon receiving three strikes. Despite the light rain and chilly 39°F weather making it feel more like 30°F outside, the inside atmosphere was heated with excitement and competition that lasted over four adrenaline-pumping hours.
Game Spotlight: Venom Takes Center Stage
The tournament kicked off with an electrifying match on the Venom (Pro) machine by Stern, a recent addition to the pinball world as of July 15, 2023. The game between Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, and Kanin Cadam from Conifer, Colorado, was nothing short of spectacular. Wood, with an impressive IFPA rank of 41, clinched victory in this round, setting the pace for the tournament’s high level of competition.
Celebrating the Victors
The tournament concluded with the crowning of its champions, whose skill and perseverance set them apart:
- Walt Wood: Standing at the pinnacle with an IFPA rank of 41, Walt’s victory in a pool of 293 IFPA events is a testament to their prowess in the pinball world.
- Mark Abbott: Securing the second spot with an IFPA rank of 518, Mark’s performance in his 127th IFPA event was remarkable.
- Justin Hinman: With a rank of 1446, Justin’s third-place finish in his 211th event showcases his growing dominance.
- Nathan Johnson: Hailing from Denver, Nathan’s journey to fourth place, with an IFPA rank of 1910 in just 74 events, hints at a promising pinball future.
Pinball Machine Highlights
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of 21 pinball machines, each with its own charm. Among them, notable mentions include:
- Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern: This machine, with its quirky design and engaging gameplay, transports players to the whimsical world of ghost hunting.
- James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern: A recent hit that immerses players in the thrilling espionage adventures of the iconic spy.
- Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: Offers an enthralling experience with its innovative design that captures the essence of the popular TV series.
- Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) by Stern: A marvel of pinball engineering that brings the epic superhero saga to life.
- Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun: This captivating game, based on the classic fantasy film, stands out for its intricate artwork and engaging gameplay.
The Venue: A Hub of Fun and Excitement
The 1UP Arcade Bar in Greenwood Village, with its friendly staff, great food and drinks, and an awesome atmosphere, proved to be the perfect host for the tournament. The venue’s lively yet comfortable setting provided an ideal backdrop for both the competitors and the audience, ensuring an unforgettable pinball experience.
Heartfelt Appreciation
As we wrap up this thrilling account of the “1up Greenwood March Madness Monthly,” a special thanks goes out to Donavan Stepp for orchestrating such a fantastic event and The 1UP Arcade Bar for their unparalleled hospitality.
Stay tuned for more exhilarating updates from the dynamic world of pinball tournaments across the United States!