Gamers compete for the good of the GSPCA

Guernsey Gaming Fest 2018 was held at the Digital Greenhouse, where plenty of people turned up to take part in three different tournaments, raising money for the GSPCA.

Having managed to donate over £1,000 for the Guille-Alles Children’s Library at a similar event last year, the hosts, Guernsey Gaming for Good, were hoping to attract similar numbers at this year’s event.

One of nine event organisers, Ali Hadley, said: ‘Last year we had around 120 people throughout the day, which is quite mad.

‘So we hope we’ll have about the same amount this year.’

Entry was free, but competitors were charged to enter the two vs two tournaments playing games Gang Beasts, Rocket League and Halo 2, with all proceeds going to the charity.

Slightly intimidated by the playing skill of some of the entrants, but contemplating taking part, was Joshua Hadley–Bougove.

‘I’ve come because it’s a charity event, said Mr Hadley–Bougove.

‘It’s always good to help out local charities, and I love animals so the GSPCA just really works for me.’

‘I’m here now to play Gang Beasts but I will definitely be back later to play Halo 2.’

Guernsey Gaming for Good have been raising money for charity since they were set up in 2014, donating over £7,000 in the process.

Mr Hadley explained why he and the eight other organisers host the events as a hobby.

‘We are just a group of mates organising events to raise money for local charities,’ he said.

‘James Ogier was the founder of the idea, he wanted to get a load of people together and raise money by playing video games, which we’ve now been doing since 2014.

‘We play tournaments, challenge events, 24-hour live streams, all that sort of thing.

‘It’s fun for local gamers to take part. We like to keep it friendly, but have a competitive atmosphere. We aren’t playing any games that would make someone rage out.’