Flippers Flying at 1Up Colfax: Women’s League Battles for Glory

Clear skies and crisp winter air set the scene for the 1up Colfax Women’s League – Winter 2025 #4 tournament, where 20 players faced off in two rounds of pinball action. Over 9.5 hours, flippers fired, multiballs raged, and skill shots landed as competitors vied for the top spots in this fiercely contested event. Hosted at the ever-popular 1Up Arcade Bar – Colfax, the tournament, organized by Deanna Scalf, delivered excitement from start to finish.

Classic Arcade Vibes with a Side of Pinball

Situated in the vibrant Colfax Avenue district, 1Up Arcade Bar – Colfax is a staple of Denver’s gaming scene. More than just a bar, it’s a full-fledged arcade packed with retro cabinets, modern pinball machines, and an atmosphere that blends vintage gaming with a lively social setting.

Players in this tournament enjoyed not just the pinball action but also a well-stocked selection of drinks and pizza, keeping them fueled for the long night ahead. The location is a mix of old-school arcade charm and modern touches, offering everything from classic coin-ops to the latest pinball releases. It’s a place where you can chase high scores while sipping a cold beer, all under neon lights that flicker with the energy of decades of arcade history. Whether you’re a Denver local or just passing through, 1Up Colfax is a must-visit for arcade and pinball enthusiasts alike.

A Merciless Battle on Deadpool

The longest match of the night took place on Deadpool (Pro) in Round 2, where players battled for an incredible 75 minutes of chimichanga-fueled chaos. This modern Stern classic, known for its snarky humor and battle-centric gameplay, pushed players to the limit.

Maybe Woodhouse, an unranked wildcard, emerged victorious, proving that unpredictability is part of pinball’s charm. Erin Elzi (IFPA #25175) put up a fight, using precision shots and strategic multiballs to claim second place. Lauren Condiff (IFPA #26512) followed in third, while Stephanie Koutavas (Colorado State Rank #62, IFPA #2081) rounded out the group, showing why she’s one of the higher-ranked competitors in the tournament. A grueling match like this isn’t just about skill—it’s about endurance, and these four players proved they had both.

Tournament Standouts: A Mix of Horror, Heroes, and Mayhem

The tournament lineup featured 25 machines, and several stood out as player favorites:

• Stranger Things (Premium/LE) (Stern, 2019) – This machine plunges players into the eerie world of Hawkins, Indiana, with an interactive Demogorgon bash toy and a unique UV kit that illuminates hidden artwork on the playfield. The game’s multiple multiball modes and dramatic telekinetic ball lock create an immersive and suspenseful experience that kept players on their toes.
• The Addams Family (Bally, 1992) – One of the most beloved pins of all time, The Addams Family boasts an incredibly fun layout with features like the electric chair, Thing’s hand, and the ever-popular “Seance” mode. Players navigated mansion modes and tried to rack up jackpots, making it a classic choice that still holds up after decades.
• The Uncanny X-Men (Pro) (Stern, 2024) – A fresh entry to the lineup, this machine takes players through battles with Marvel’s iconic mutants. The game’s kinetic layout and team-up modes allowed players to strategically pair heroes for high-scoring opportunities. The fast-paced gameplay made it an exciting challenge for competitors trying to master the newest addition to the pinball world.
• Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium/LE) (Stern, 2019) – Players entered a B-movie horror mansion filled with hilarious callouts and cinematic moments. The interactive crypt, multiple ramps, and various haunted modes made this game a standout. With deep rules and a campy horror theme, it was a perfect fit for players looking for both challenge and entertainment.
• Godzilla (Premium/LE) (Stern, 2021) – A towering presence in the tournament, this game’s building destruction mechanism and monster battles set it apart. The chaos of Tokyo being destroyed with each multiball mode created dramatic and exciting moments, keeping players engaged with every flipper flip.
• The Godfather (Jersey Jack Pinball, 2023) – With its deep rule set and cinematic integration, this pin immersed players in the world of mafia politics. Featuring high-risk/high-reward gameplay, strategic multiball stacking, and lavish artwork, it was a favorite for those who enjoy complex gameplay that rewards careful planning.
• Attack From Mars (Remake LE) (Chicago Gaming, 2017) – A fan-favorite, this game had players blasting UFOs and saving the world from Martian invasion. The open playfield, tight orbits, and humorous animations made it a hit, while the challenging ramp shots kept competitors on edge.

A Night to Remember: Tournament Winners

After a night of close matches and clutch moments, Brittanie Stepp (IFPA #5395) claimed first place, adding another strong finish to her record of 74 IFPA events. Kelli Raisler (IFPA #19364), a well-known competitor from Denver, secured second, demonstrating consistent performance over 84 IFPA tournaments. Summer Puente (Colorado State Rank #31, IFPA #2385) fought her way to third, proving that experience—195 total IFPA events—pays off. Rounding out the top four, Marissa Furman (Denver, IFPA #7085) put in a strong showing, leveraging skills honed over 67 IFPA competitions.

Colorado IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

The Final Tilt

The 1up Colfax Women’s League – Winter 2025 #4 tournament brought out the best in every competitor, offering a thrilling night of skill and strategy. Huge thanks to Deanna Scalf for organizing the event and to 1Up Arcade Bar – Colfax for providing an amazing space to play. Congratulations to Brittanie Stepp on her hard-fought victory!

With more tournaments on the horizon, pinball in Colorado is heating up—so stay tuned for the next big showdown!