If you’re a gamer, Durham College (DC) is the place to be.

The Esports Gaming Arena is now open. Located in the Student Centre at the Oshawa campus, the arena is home to the DC’s Lords Esports varsity team, which competes against schools from Canada and the United States in the New England Collegiate Conference and the North American Collegiate Conference. Only the most talented gamers can represent the green and gold at the varsity level, but like any student athletes, they must prioritize their studies and maintain good grades.

Unlike more ‘traditional’ sports, gaming is open to everybody, no matter their age, gender or level of athleticism. Whatever your chosen game, if you’re good enough, there’s a place for you on the team.

“I call Esports the great equalizer, because it’s very inclusive. We encourage everybody to participate and be a part of the community,” said Esports general manager Bill Ai. “I want more students to understand what Esports and gaming culture is.”

Though tryouts were held earlier this month, Ai is always on the lookout for new talent.

“We want to field the most competitive team possible,” he said. “We always encourage people to keep practicing and keep trying, because we want the best.”

You don’t have to be an elite gamer to take advantage of the arena. All students are free to drop in, pick up a controller and have fun with their friends, Monday to Friday, 12:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Throughout the month of September, full-time DC students can play for free, while part-time students, employees and alumni pay $4 per hour (plus tax).

An extensive catalogue of gaming platforms and titles is available, including;

• 30-plus gaming PCs with League of Legends, Valorant, Rocket League, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and more.
• One Nintendo Switch console with Mario Kart 8, Super Smash Bros Ultimate, Mario Tennis Aces, Mario Golf, Mario Strikers, Mario Party Superstars, Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack classic game catalogue.
• Six PlayStation 5 consoles with PlayStation Plus Premium Game Catalogue and EA Play Game Catalogue.
• Five Xbox Series S Consoles with Game Pass Ultimate Catalogue.

All students are welcome, whether they’re an experienced gamer or picking up a controller for the very first time. Booking inquires can be made to DCSAEsports@durhamcollege.ca, and drop-ins are also welcome.