Let the Esports Games Begin!
posted by Law | November 6, 2020 | In NewsFor Fayetteville State University gamers and esports fans alike, Rosenthal Hall is now home base for the new E-Sports Initiative, or electronic sports center, outfitted with fifteen Alienware computers, headsets, mice, keyboards, and gaming chairs.
What’s the price tag on a collegiate game room? Over $60,000 was dedicated to this computer lab.
Esports is competitive video gaming using single players or teams of players that compete for prizes – sometimes for large cash prizes.
“We are not making use of the wireless network because you want more stability during tournaments. We are using wired mice, wired keyboards, and will use wired Xbox controllers for Madden and other games that can use them,” said Dr. Todd Frobish.
While the hardware in the room is the star of the show, another $26,000 was allocated for the renovations to the room, which included electrical work, carpentry, painting, new lights, carpeting, and glass doors. There was an additional cost for furniture for a spectator area, $1,200 for membership dues to the National Association for Collegiate Esports, and $2,000 for signage for the room.
COVID-19 safety countermeasures been put in place to continue to protect against spread of virus. Requirements include cleaning and sanitizing wipes for keyboards and mice, and social distancing. A lab manager and work study students will work to maintain these practices.
A Zoom meeting is expected to happen within the few months in order to form teams from those interested students, and then start practice sessions with those teams in the evenings to prepare for tournaments in the spring semester. In the meantime, the room is open during the morning and early afternoon for students who wish to play some games. Don’t forget your face mask.
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