AMES — The rise of gaming among college students has turned video games into a competitive outlet, and Iowa State students have found a place to connect through the university’s Gaming and Esports Club.
The club gives students opportunities to play competitively and casually across multiple platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices. Members can compete in 10 featured games: “Apex Legends,” “Call of Duty,” “Counter-Strike 2,” “Hearthstone,” “League of Legends,” “Overwatch 2,” “Rainbow Six Siege,” “Rocket League,” “Super Smash Bros.” and “Valorant.”
“We meet for hours each week, working together as a group to get better, competing against other colleges and organizations,” “Valorant” coach Griffin Yocum said.
In addition to competitive play, the club hosts local area network (LAN) parties and online events throughout the year. Members are encouraged to bring video games and board games to play together during the gatherings.
The club also organizes game nights at Beyer Hall, where students vote on which game to play. Online game nights are available for students unable to attend in person.
Club president Dylan Topic said the organization has created a strong sense of community for its members.
“I think if I could go back to myself three years ago, I would do it all again,” Topic said. “This club has meant everything to me.”
The club also participates in charitable efforts through gaming-related fundraising.
“We helped raise $630 for a charity named Gamers Outreach, which is a nonprofit organization that helps restore joy to hospitalized kids,” esports coordinator Kaden Butrick said.
Students interested in joining the club can contact Topic at [email protected] or vice president Que Padilla at [email protected].