Hello, flipper friends! If you’re looking for a tournament that combines craft beer, competitive flipper action, and a laid-back atmosphere, then the Locavore Beer Works August Pinball Tournament was where you should have been. Held on August 17th, this tournament brought together 20 pinball wizards ready to battle it out for the top spots, all while enjoying some seriously good brews and the occasional whiff of BBQ from the food truck outside.
A Brewery with a Vibe
Let’s talk about Locavore Beer Works for a sec. Nestled (okay, maybe I use that word too much) right in the heart of Littleton at 5950 South Platte Canyon Road, this spot is everything you’d want in a local hangout. The place is buzzing with people who appreciate a good craft beer, and with choices like their Red Ale and Hazy IPA, it’s no wonder this brewery has its loyal fans. The space itself? Think a perfect mix of cozy and vibrant, with plenty of seating to kick back and enjoy your drink. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get to chat with Alex behind the bar, who apparently knows how to keep those glasses full and the vibes high. It’s no surprise that the locals can’t wait to come back!
Navigating the Galaxy: Star Wars Game Guide
Let’s dive into the game that had everyone talking—the epic Star Wars (Premium) by Stern. If you thought navigating the galaxy was tough, try doing it for an intense 106 minutes like these semifinalists did! Here’s how you can conquer this machine and maybe, just maybe, avoid turning a round into a mini-marathon.
First things first, picking your character is key. Whether you’re all about those quick multipliers with Han or you prefer the balanced approach with Leia, make your choice count. Early on, focus on those Tie Fighter targets. Victory Multiball is your friend, and hitting the Force targets will get you those juicy multipliers.
When it comes to modes, go easy on yourself at the start—Naboo is a great pick. Stack it with multiballs, especially Planet Multiball, and watch your score soar. If you’re feeling daring, the Death Star shots are tough but oh-so-rewarding. Just make sure to crank up those multipliers before you go for it.
And don’t forget about the action button! Mastering it will let you move and lock in multipliers exactly when you need them. Aim for a 40X or even 60X multiplier during high-value shots like a Death Star hit or a multiball jackpot for some truly out-of-this-world scores.
As you edge closer to the endgame, aim for the mini wizard modes like Lightsaber Duel and Battle Above Endor. Keep your head cool, extend those ball saves, and focus on those high-value shots to finish strong. Remember, in the galaxy of pinball, it’s not just about survival—it’s about dominating.
Machines That Made the Magic
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 11 pinball machines, but a few of them really stood out:
- James Bond 007 (Premium): If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner 007, this machine lets you live the spy life. With fast-paced gameplay and cool gadgets, this machine is all about sleek design and quick reflexes.
- Stranger Things (Pro): Get ready to battle the Demogorgon in this nostalgia-packed game. The Upside Down is lurking behind every corner, and with its eerie lighting and eerie music, this machine pulls you right into Hawkins.
- Godzilla (Premium): This machine is a beast—literally. With towering skyscrapers and destructive gameplay, you’re not just playing a pinball machine, you’re taking part in Godzilla’s rampage. Multiballs are where this game shines, so get ready to unleash the chaos.
- Medieval Madness: A classic that never gets old. Joust with trolls, storm castles, and enjoy some of the best ramps in pinball history. It’s a game that combines humor with challenging gameplay, making it a fan favorite.
- Venom (Premium): The latest addition to Stern’s lineup, this game is all about fast-paced action and smooth shots. The symbiote theme is executed perfectly, with the game’s features reflecting the chaos and intensity of Venom himself.
The Tournament Champions
A huge round of applause to the champions who showcased some serious pinball prowess:
- Walt Wood from Englewood took home the gold, as expected from Colorado’s top-ranked player. With 320 IFPA events under its belt and a solid rank of 51 globally, Walt’s victory was well-deserved.
- Lewis Ritenour clinched second place. Ranked 10th in the state and 1315 globally, Lewis showed that persistence pays off, especially with 94 events of experience.
- Donavan Stepp snagged third place, proving that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination. With a rank of 79 and nearly 600 events, Donavan’s skill was on full display.
- Mike Paproski rounded out the top four, battling through some stiff competition to secure his spot. Ranked 56th in the state, Mike’s performance was impressive, especially with the challenges this lineup of machines presented.
Colorado IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Walt Wood | Englewood | 432.71 |
| 2 | Ryan Altermatt | Denver | 221.95 |
| 3 | John Quinn | Denver | 136.48 |
| 4 | Justin Hinman | Denver | 134.65 |
| 5 | Chase Hart | Denver | 130.09 |
| 6 | Mat Brundage | Denver | 117.37 |
| 7 | Kevin McCarthy | Conifer | 111.15 |
| 8 | Adam Lefkoff | Longmont | 110.49 |
| 9 | Oliver Baker | 107.85 | |
| 10 | Lewis Ritenour | Denver | 106.46 |
Wrapping it All Up
All in all, the Locavore Beer Works August Pinball Tournament was a hit. Kudos to Jason Smith for organizing such a fun and competitive event, and to Locavore Beer Works for hosting us in such a welcoming space. The tournament wrapped up just as the scattered clouds started to thin out, making way for a perfect Colorado sunset. And hey, if you’re ever in the area, why not stop by the nearby South Platte Park? Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the scenery, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of pinball.
Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights—stay tuned, and keep those flippers sharp!