Video game competition lights up Sonoma Community Center

Vintage game skills put to the test for cash prizes.|

Sonoma Community Center is hosting video game nights again this summer and the first begins at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 1. The cost is $5 per entry and $5 for the venue. Spectators are welcome. Players must register in advance.

The night offers vintage video game enthusiasts a chance to try their hand at a fun night of friendly competition with tournaments in Super Smash Bros: Melee.

“I have enjoyed these tournaments since I was a teenager and we are always looking for interesting programming,” said Jesse Irving, who organized the competition for the Community Center.

“This appeals to a younger audience than some of our other programming and the first one we did in January was much more successful than we imagined,” Irving added. “The gamers seemed to love it and they were amazed that we were offering something for their age group in this 100 year old building.”

Almost 70 players competed in the Community Center’s last game night and only around half were from Sonoma, according to Irving. Close to 50 percent were under 18, and the rest in their mid-20s. The event is open to all ages, but youth 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult guardian. No child care is available.

Players are asked to bring their own controller. Concessions will be available for purchase during the event.

The night is in part a fundraiser for the Community Center. $5 from every ticket benefits the Community Center. $5 from every ticket will be split between the top three placing competitors.

Look forward to more events in June, July, August, September, November and December.

To register, visit the box office of sonomacommunitycenter.org.

Registration is open online until the event begins on Saturday night.

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