On a brisk November afternoon in Conifer, Colorado, with a clear sky and temperatures sitting at a cool 46°F, Blizzard Mountain Pinball transformed into a bustling arena for the Max Matchplay Tournament. The event, held on November 12, 2023, was not just a tournament; it was a thrilling showcase of skill, strategy, and a deep love for the game of pinball.
A High-Energy Venue for Pinball Aficionados
Blizzard Mountain Pinball, located at 25797 Conifer Rd, is more than just a gaming spot. It’s a vibrant community hub where laughter, cheers, and the occasional bout of gamer rage (all in good fun) fill the air. Kevin McCarthy, the organizer, created an environment where both the seasoned and the new could find excitement. Clean, welcoming, and full of pinball magic, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to dive into the world of pinball.
The Classic and the Contemporary: King Kool and Venom
The tournament saw an impressive lineup of 38 machines, with the 1972 classic King Kool by Gottlieb stealing hearts as the favorite. Meanwhile, Stern’s Venom (Premium), released in July 2023, challenged players with its lengthy gameplay, averaging around 15 minutes per game. These machines, along with others like Ghostbusters (Premium) and Jurassic Park (Pro), created a diverse playground that tested every aspect of the players’ skills.
A Marathon Game on Ghostbusters (Premium)
A remarkable highlight was an 84-minute marathon on Stern’s Ghostbusters (Premium) during the quarterfinals. This epic showdown saw Justin Hinman claim victory in a battle that tested not just skill but endurance and strategy. Robert Slyker, Lewis Ritenour, and Daniel Anderson from Englewood, CO, also put forth commendable efforts, adding to the game’s intensity.
Honoring the Champions
The tournament’s format of 12 games per player and subsequent finals rounds brought out the best in the competitors. Emerging victorious were:
- 1st: Ryan Altermatt with 5 wins – A display of consistent excellence.
- 2nd: Drew Donohue with 6 wins – Showcasing tactical brilliance.
- 3rd: Daniel Anderson from Englewood, CO, with 7 wins – A testament to resilience and skill.
- 4th: Mike Paproski with 5 wins – Proving that strategy is key in pinball.
A Pinball Tournament to Remember
As players left the Blizzard Mountain Pinball, they took with them memories of epic battles, triumphant wins, and the shared camaraderie that defines the pinball community. The Blizzard Mountain November 2023 Max Matchplay Tournament was more than just a competition; it was an exhilarating celebration of the spirit of pinball.
Follow along for more updates from the exciting realm of pinball, where every flipper hit weaves a new story!