Hey there, pinball crew! The 1up Colfax Wick Measuring Contest was a real blast, with 33 players battling it out in a Group Knockout Tournament. With 14 rounds and a Progressive Strikes system, it was a true test of skill and endurance. Players were eliminated after 11 strikes, with four-player groups receiving 1 strike for 2nd place, 2 strikes for 3rd place, and 2 strikes for 4th. In three-player groups, it was 1 strike for 2nd place and 2 strikes for 3rd. The tournament kicked off at 1:00 PM on July 21, 2024, at the 1UP Arcade Bar – Colfax and lasted 14 hours and 15 minutes, ending in the wee hours with some epic pinball action. The weather was cool and drizzly, with light rain and a temperature of 59°F, making it a perfect day to be indoors playing pinball.
The Vibe at 1up Arcade Bar – Colfax
The 1up Arcade Bar on Colfax is a pinball lover’s paradise. Located at 717 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203, this spot is known for its vibrant atmosphere and stellar game selection. The arcade bar is a haven for nostalgia, with a wide array of classic and modern games that bring back childhood memories. The drink menu is top-notch, offering a great selection of draft beers, and you can even add tokens to your bar tab—how convenient is that? The bathrooms are clean and gender-neutral, making it a comfortable space for everyone. Whether you’re there to catch up with friends or compete in a tournament, the friendly staff and lively environment make it a great place to hang out. And let’s not forget the Skeeball with its colorful, mood-lifting setup!
Epic Battle on Deadpool (Pro)
Round 4 featured an unforgettable match on the ever-popular Deadpool (Pro) by Stern. This machine is known for its “Battle Mode,” where players can summon iconic Marvel characters to help them defeat villains. The mode’s unique feature, “Katana-Rama,” lets players lock balls for an exhilarating multiball experience, making it a game-changer in competitive play.
In this match, Walt Wood, David Witucki, Kevin McCarthy, and John Quinn faced off in a thrilling showdown. Walt, the top-ranked player in Colorado, quickly set the tone by expertly navigating the game’s challenging ramps and hitting the “Katana-Rama” shot to lock in the multiball. With balls flying everywhere, it was a spectacle of precision and control. David Witucki, ranked 17th, tried to keep up by engaging in battles against Sabretooth and Juggernaut, but couldn’t quite match Walt’s pace.
Kevin McCarthy and John Quinn both had strong starts, with Kevin ranking 9th in the state and John at 3rd. They each took turns activating the “Little Deadpool” mini-playfield, where hitting the targets could rack up serious points. However, Walt’s mastery of the game’s features, particularly during the “Ninja Multiball,” where ninjas flood the playfield for big scores, ultimately secured its first-place finish. The match was a highlight of the tournament, showcasing the intense competition and the unique thrills that Deadpool (Pro) brings to the table.
Standout Pinball Machines
The tournament featured 19 fantastic machines, each offering its own unique challenges. Some of the standout games included:
- Stranger Things (Premium/LE): Known for its interactive “Telekinesis Ball Lock” and impressive projection mapping, this game brought the Upside Down to life.
- Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Premium): Players rocked out to classic Maiden tunes while navigating the intricate playfield, filled with ramps and loops.
- Monster Bash (Remake LE): This game brought all the classic Universal monsters together for a jam-packed pinball experience.
- Foo Fighters (Pro): A newer addition, this machine features some of the band’s greatest hits and a fun, fast-paced playfield.
- JAWS (Premium/LE): This fresh release had players on edge with its immersive theme and exciting gameplay.
- Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory: A whimsical adventure filled with magical moments and fun features.
- Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE): Players loved the spooky, campy vibe of this classic horror-themed machine.
- Godzilla (Premium/LE): Known for its monstrous gameplay and epic battles, this game is a must-play.
- The Godfather (LE): A new addition that brings the classic movie to life with its detailed playfield and engaging modes.
Shoutout to the Champions
Let’s give a huge round of applause to the top players of the tournament! Walt Wood took the crown, living up to its reputation as the top-ranked player in Colorado and boasting an impressive IFPA rank of 49. Walt’s consistent performance throughout the day, including the standout game on Deadpool (Pro), demonstrated why it’s the player to beat.
Chase Hart’s second-place finish was a pleasant surprise. Ranked 8th in the state and 883rd in the IFPA, Chase showcased tremendous skill and resilience, outplaying several higher-ranked opponents. This result marks a significant achievement, proving that hard work and determination can lead to remarkable outcomes in competitive pinball.
John Quinn, ranked 3rd in the state, secured third place, maintaining his position as one of Colorado’s top players. While he had hoped to finish higher, John’s performance was solid, and his match on Deadpool (Pro) was a testament to his abilities.
Rounding out the top four was Summer Puente, who made a strong showing despite being ranked 53rd in the state and 2636th in the IFPA. Summer’s journey through the tournament was marked by impressive plays and strategic prowess, making her a player to watch in future events.
Overall, the tournament saw some unexpected turns, with Chase Hart’s strong finish being a highlight. The competitive field proved that in pinball, anything can happen, and every player has a shot at glory.
Colorado IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Walt Wood | Englewood | 418.88 |
| 2 | Ryan Altermatt | Denver | 213.49 |
| 3 | John Quinn | Denver | 136.51 |
| 4 | Justin Hinman | Denver | 134.68 |
| 5 | Mat Brundage | Denver | 117.39 |
| 6 | Adam Lefkoff | Longmont | 110.51 |
| 7 | Oliver Baker | 107.23 | |
| 8 | Chase Hart | Denver | 106.09 |
| 9 | Kevin McCarthy | Conifer | 105.09 |
| 10 | Justin Jancarik | 104.71 |
Wrapping It Up
A massive thank you to Deanna Scalf, the amazing organizer, for putting together this fantastic event at the 1UP Arcade Bar – Colfax. The venue provided the perfect setting for a day of intense pinball action, and we couldn’t have asked for a better atmosphere. Thanks to everyone who came out to play, cheer, and enjoy the games. It was a day full of great memories and friendly competition. And let’s not forget the epic showdown on Deadpool (Pro)—what a game! Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and the multiballs rolling!