Whether you’re meeting up in person or virtually, gaming together is a great way to connect with others. Camaraderie can extend beyond physical locations and boost social interactions using advancements in technology. It’s nothing new for gamers to meet up for local area network (LAN) parties, gathering with PCs or consoles in a shared space.
For years, too, people have played online games, connecting with friends new and old through voice chat, PVP, and co-op missions. Now, there is a convergence of the two that involves meeting up in the metaverse to play. Let’s dive into how these community gaming setups differ and how to choose the right one for you to get involved with.
LAN Parties vs. Metaverse Meetups
LAN parties have traditionally brought people together in small or large groups to game together. Each person has their own screen and is able to connect to the game via the same network and play together. This can be on a small scale or in the form of giant meetups sponsored by gaming brands that promote esports, tech gear, or even the games themselves.
While the allure of LAN parties remains strong, a digital shift has given rise to an evolution of the gaming landscape. The virtual realm offers an enticing escape, where gamers can transcend geographical barriers and connect in ways previously unimaginable. With the increasing amount of power these virtual worlds hold, there will likely be more and more meetups to game online in lieu of physical spaces. There are benefits and drawbacks of both types of meetups.
Physical Places
LAN parties stand as a testament to the significance of human interaction. Although gamers are more likely to be introverts by their own admission, it’s still crucial to development and healthy social functioning to have positive interpersonal experiences. The screams of victory, the friendly taunts, and the spontaneous discussions that arise during breaks foster connections that are more than just virtual. A LAN party is not just about the games — it’s about the people and the memories woven into the fabric of each event.
Food for Fuel
No gaming event, whether in the metaverse or a LAN party, is complete without fuel to keep the excitement alive. Food has an incredible way of building communities, and gaming events are no exception. Good food transforms a mere gathering into an experience that lingers in the mind long after the screens have gone dark.
Just like you would for a potluck or get-together for any other occasion, folks attending LAN parties bring — or are served, at bigger events — food to share. This gathers people around a communal watering hole, so to speak. There are typically refreshments, sodas, energy drinks, pizza, burgers, and other typical party foods. Bringing something themed around the game or that gets people talking is a great way to connect and break the ice while not hooked up and playing.
LANs, Wires, and Gamers, Oh My
The quintessential LAN party is known for its bundles of wires crossing the room and chairs set up in every which way — sometimes even gamers duct-taped to the ceiling. Even with a small amount of attendees, it can start feeling a bit overcrowded when everyone brings their gear. However, large events like the OG DreamHack LAN Party are well-oiled machines, providing everyone with slick setups and neatly organized cables.
All sizes of LAN parties can be organized with a little prep. Whether you’re hosting a party for adult gamers, teens, or kids, quality party organization can keep the night from going haywire. Remember to:
- Establish clear rules and boundaries: These can be first established in virtual invitations and should be reiterated before the party starts. Rules can involve anything from off-limits areas in the host’s space to shut-off time to go to bed.
- Hire a professional: If you’re hosting a bigger event, it may be advantageous to bring in someone with event planning experience. If they have experience running gamer events, they will understand some of the nuances necessary to make the event run smoothly.
- Have some structure: To prevent things from getting out of hand, have a schedule for various games and food breaks.
- Have objectives and challenges: To keep things interesting and further add to the structure of the night, set up game-specific challenges for a little healthy competition. It gives attendees goals to work toward. You can even have prizes to give out to the winners.
Of course, things could always go awry. There could be inclement weather that causes a power outage. People could get too amped up over a game and get into a physical fight. Sometimes, it’s not possible for gamers living with mobility issues or disabilities to travel to a LAN meetup. These concerns are all but solved when meeting up to game in an online space.
Online Spaces
Virtual spaces in the metaverse have the potential to bring the spirit of LAN parties to the digital realm. This allows gamers to create avatars and interact in virtual spaces that replicate the ambiance of physical gatherings — from the comfort of their normal gaming setup. This provides more accessibility and the freedom for anyone to join a party and connect with like-minded gamers.
This blend of reality and imagination is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of gaming culture. As of 2023, society has one foot in the metaverse, meaning that there are likely going to be more prevalent metaverse offerings in the future. Virtual gaming meetups take the aspects of online gaming that people love and splice them with the appeal of meeting up in person. By simulating in-person meetups via a VR headset and other body sensors, gamers of all kinds can enjoy the benefits of social connection.
How To Choose the Right Community Gaming Space for You
Although the metaverse market is surging, in-person LAN parties are still a viable option. Often, people crave the familiarity and nostalgia of simpler times. However, you can save money and still experience valuable gaming connections by entering the metaverse. The choice is yours.
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