Sun Devils played Super Smash, Jackbox and more for charity at Gamecon 2021
Gamecon is an annual gaming event for charity. This year, due to the challenges posed by COVID-19, students attended online via Discord as well as at various outdoor activities on the Polytechnic campus.
Hannah Stirewalt, a student coordinator for Changemaker Central and a senior studying applied biological sciences, said that Gamecon was a good opportunity to make new friends with similar interests.
Changemaker Central @ ASU Change Agent Cecilia Alcantar
“This is so important right now in the current state of the pandemic, because most of the games offered at this event, and most video games in general, can be played online with others in a safe and socially distanced manner,” Stirewalt said.
“This means that anyone can participate and can have a stress-relieving social experience and meet new friends without having to worry about in-person safety precautions.”
Gamecon was held the evening of Feb. 25. Despite the difficulties of the pandemic, the event was a chance not only to connect but also to support Valley of the Sun United Way.
Online, students participated in gaming tournaments of popular games such as Super Smash, FIFA 2K, Rocket League, Among Us, Jackbox and Call of Duty. There were also anime drawing tutorials, free snacks, giveaways, Just Dance and dodgeball.
In person, Gamecon offered soccer darts, archery, various strength competitions and Dungeons and Dragons. Students were encouraged to donate to United Way and could also bid for some items in an auction.
Cecilia Alcantar, a change agent for Changemaker Central and a second-year student studying mechanical engineering systems, said that Gamecon is one of Poly’s largest student-led events of the year and that their team enjoyed planning it for Sun Devils.
“I absolutely loved this event last year. … Our team has been working very hard to come up with things both in-person and online for students,” Alcantar said. “Plus, United Way is a great organization, doing so much for our community.”
Stay connected with Changemaker Central for other great student events.