Carnage and Chaos: The 1up Colfax Texas Chainsaw Launch Party
On June 16, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at The 1up – Colfax for the 1up Colfax Texas Chainsaw Launch Party, a Group Knockout Tournament that kept everyone on their toes for a staggering 11 hours and 34 minutes. Thirty-three players entered the fray, each vying for pinball supremacy, but only a few emerged victorious in this grueling test of skill and endurance. With the Progressive Strikes system in play, tension ran high as players faced elimination after accumulating 11 strikes. The atmosphere was charged, the competition fierce, and the camaraderie unmistakable.
A Dive into the Den of Pinball: The 1up Arcade Bar – Colfax
The 1up Arcade Bar on Colfax is a haven for gamers and pinball wizards alike. Located at 717 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203, this retro-inspired venue offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern flair. The surrounding neighborhood is bustling with eclectic shops and vibrant street art, reflecting the creative spirit of Denver. Inside, the atmosphere is electric, with the clinks and clanks of pinball machines creating a symphony of excitement. One of the most charming features of this arcade bar is its acceptance of tokens as payment for drinks—an unusual but delightful twist that adds to the fun. This place truly understands the needs of its patrons, making sure every visit is memorable.
Magic and Mayhem: Round 4 on Jim Henson’s Labyrinth
Round 4 of the tournament saw an epic clash on Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, a game that transports players into the fantastical world of goblins, mazes, and magic. The players were as varied as the characters in the movie, each bringing their own style and strategy to the table. Justin Hinman, ranked 1113 by the IFPA and 4th in Colorado, navigated the twists and turns with precision, claiming the top spot. Eric Bateman, Griffin Carr, and Jeremy Simon also put on a remarkable display, their skills reflecting the game’s whimsical yet challenging nature. It was a round filled with unexpected turns and delightful surprises, much like the labyrinth itself.
Showcasing the Stars: Standout Machines
The tournament featured a stellar lineup of 24 machines, each with its own unique allure. Stranger Things (Premium/LE) by Stern, released in December 2019, captivated players with its eerie atmosphere and mind-bending challenges. Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern, from March 2023, rocked the house with its high-energy gameplay and music-themed excitement. The Sopranos by Stern, a classic from January 2005, brought a touch of mob drama to the mix. Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally, a December 1992 gem, combined vintage horror with innovative design. And who could forget Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium) by Stern, an April 2018 release that blended heavy metal with pinball thrills. Each machine added its own flavor to the tournament, keeping players engaged and entertained.
Victors of the Day: Celebrating the Champions
The top players of the tournament displayed exceptional skill and determination. Here are the champions of the day:
- Walt Wood from Englewood, CO, IFPA rank 43 and 1st in Colorado, dominated the competition with remarkable prowess.
- Mark Blehm from Denver, CO, IFPA rank 1634, showcased impressive skill and strategy throughout the tournament.
- Eric Bateman, IFPA rank 4320, put on a solid performance, earning him a well-deserved third place.
- Griffin Carr, IFPA rank 3102, rounded out the top four with a strong and consistent showing.
Walt Wood’s top-tier play reflected why it’s ranked first in Colorado, while Mark Blehm and Eric Bateman demonstrated the depth of talent in Denver. Griffin Carr’s performance added to the excitement, making the top four a group to watch in future competitions.
Colorado’s Finest: IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Walt Wood | Englewood | 372.1 |
| 2 | Ryan Altermatt | Denver | 177.45 |
| 3 | John Quinn | Denver | 124.09 |
| 4 | Justin Hinman | Denver | 123.33 |
| 5 | Adam Lefkoff | Longmont | 110.22 |
| 6 | Chase Hart | Denver | 94.21 |
| 7 | Kevin McCarthy | Conifer | 84.34 |
| 8 | Stepan Mazurov | Boulder | 81.43 |
| 9 | David Johnson CO | Aurora | 78.72 |
| 10 | Ross Unruh | Littleton | 76.05 |
Signing Off: A Day to Remember
A huge thank you to Deanna Scalf, the organizer, and The 1up – Colfax for hosting such a fantastic event. The 1up Arcade Bar provided the perfect backdrop for a day filled with excitement and friendly competition. To all the players, both seasoned and new, we hope you had a blast! Special well wishes to all the fathers who spent their Father’s Day with us. Keep honing your skills and stay tuned for more updates from the pinball universe. Until next time, may your flippers be swift and your scores high!