It was game on for a team of 49 students in the Game Development program as they participated in Extra Life – a 25-hour gaming marathon – held on November 9 and 10. Led by Professor John Goodwin, the team raised $6,200 for the Children’s Miracle Network.

Held in Durham College’s state-of-the-art Game Development labs, the students, Goodwin and another professor spent more than a full calendar day playing console, PC, tablet and phone games, as well as traditional board games and cards.

“Despite the long hours, I am amazed by the energy, support and spirit of generosity from students from all years of the program,” said Goodwin. “Together, with their family and friends, our students generously donated time, money and sleep, supporting each other and our cause in what I can only describe as an inspiring show of dedication and camaraderie.”

Launched in 2008, Extra Life invites gamers from across the world to play any game on any platform at the location of their choice and raise money through pledges or through a one-time gift.

All funds raised go to the Children’s Miracle Network and toward purchasing toys, books, movies and video games for local hospitals. The hospital beneficiary of their fundraising is The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, Ont.

“We had such a great time that, despite the sheer exhaustion that set in on Sunday morning, the students were already talking about doing this again next year,” added Goodwin. “I can’t wait!”