Blizzard Mountain’s Max Matchplay: Skill, Strategy, and Surprises

July 14th marked an epic showdown at the Blizzard Mountain Pinball for the Max Matchplay Tournament. With 33 players competing head to head in 12 intense games, the top 16 advanced to the finals, battling through three gripping rounds. Under the overcast skies with a mild 78°F temperature, the tournament lasted 3 hours and 30 minutes, a thrilling spectacle for all who attended.

Discovering Blizzard Mountain Pinball

Located at 25797 Conifer Rd in Conifer, CO, Blizzard Mountain Pinball is a haven for pinball enthusiasts. This spot is loved by both locals and visitors for its friendly atmosphere and flexible pricing options. Players can pay by the hour or opt for a daily pass, making it easy to immerse themselves in pinball fun without constantly feeding quarters into the machines. The owner’s passion for pinball is evident in the well-maintained machines and his helpful presence. Many have spent hours here, often longer than they initially planned, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Pinball Highlights

Firepower by Williams (February 1980)

Firepower stood out with nine games played, making it a favorite among participants. This classic machine is renowned for its fast-paced gameplay and the innovative use of multiball, which was a first for Williams at the time. The machine’s sleek design and engaging features, like the dynamic sound effects and challenging gameplay, have made it a beloved title in the pinball community.

Toy Story 4 (LE) by Jersey Jack Pinball (June 2022)

With the longest average game duration of around 16 minutes, Toy Story 4 captivated players with its vibrant and immersive design. This modern machine brings the beloved characters of Toy Story to life with stunning animations and interactive toys. The game’s depth and variety of modes keep players engaged, and its beautiful LED displays make every game a visual delight.

Featured Machines

Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams (May 1996)

Tales of the Arabian Nights transports players to a magical world with its stunning art and intricate storytelling. The game’s unique features include a spinning lamp, a magic carpet that captures balls, and engaging soundtracks that enhance the mystical theme.

Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern (July 2019)

Jurassic Park combines the thrill of dinosaur adventures with challenging gameplay. The machine features a dynamic T-Rex toy that interacts with the ball, along with multiple ramps and modes that keep players on the edge of their seats as they navigate through the perilous park.

Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy by Bally (September 1975)

A tribute to Elton John, this machine stands out with its colorful design and musical theme. The game features drop targets and a fun layout that reflects the rock-and-roll era, making it a nostalgic favorite for many players.

Fish Tales by Williams (January 1992)

Fish Tales offers a fishing-themed adventure with its engaging playfield and humorous elements. The machine’s talking fish topper and challenging boat ramp shots provide a unique and entertaining experience for players of all skill levels.

Tournament Champions

1. Congratulations to Stepan Mazurov from Boulder, CO, who clinched the first-place title with a thrilling performance on Medieval Madness. Known for his precision and strategy, Stepan’s victory was a testament to his skill and dedication, making his 200th IFPA event a memorable one.
2. Cindy Grote, hailing from Colorado, secured a well-deserved second place. Cindy’s consistency and competitive spirit were on full display, particularly during the intense final rounds. Her 200th IFPA event was marked by impressive gameplay that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
3. Ryan Altermatt from Denver captured third place, showing why he’s one of the top players in the state. With nearly 300 IFPA events to his name, Ryan’s experience and calm under pressure were evident as he navigated through tough matches to secure his spot on the podium.
4. Lewis Ritenour’s fourth-place finish was notable, especially given his relatively fewer IFPA events. His strong performance in the tournament highlighted his growing potential and made him one to watch in future competitions.
5. Local player Kanin Cadam from Conifer delighted the hometown crowd with a fantastic fifth-place finish. Despite having less experience compared to some of the other top competitors, Kanin’s gameplay was remarkable, earning him well-deserved recognition.
6. Kevin McCarthy, the dedicated organizer of the tournament, finished in sixth place. His intimate knowledge of the machines and love for the game were evident as he skillfully advanced through the rounds.
7. Oliver Baker’s seventh-place finish showcased his solid skills and competitive edge. As one of the state’s top players, his performance was impressive, adding another strong showing to his record.
8. Kevin Mitchell from Littleton rounded out the top eight. His surprising run in the tournament demonstrated his ability to compete at a high level, proving that persistence and passion for pinball can lead to great results.

IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up

A big thank you to Kevin McCarthy for organizing such an enjoyable event and to Blizzard Mountain Pinball for providing the perfect location. Your dedication to the pinball community truly shines. Thanks to everyone who came out to play and made this tournament a success. Keep an eye out for more exciting pinball action in the future!