What started out as a group of friends playing a computer game together became an enjoyable and exciting activity taking place across Miami University's campus. I'm talking about esports. For those who are unaware, esports is a form of competition revolving around video games, whether you're are part of a team or participating individually.
For quite some time now, the esports community has been looked down upon and considered overrated compared to all the other organizations Miami University has to offer. Miami's current esports team consists of over 100 people while still accepting newcomers. The esports league here on campus focuses on playing games such as League of Legends, Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Hearthstone, Overwatch, Rocket League, and more. Just recently, Miami's League of Legends team won a 2-1 game against The Ohio State University's esports team.
For those who do try out and don't make the team, the esport program has what's called the Hatchery program. In simpler terms: the JV program. Even though they are not on the same level as the varsity team, the program provides players a chance to hone and refine their skills and prepare for the next tryouts. The esport league uses the Gaming Lab located on the ground floor in King Library for their practice sessions.
If the esport league is too competitive, Miami has other organizations that provide a much more casual environment, such as Miami Electronic Gaming Association (also known as MEGA), Fighters Guild, and MUSmash. Each club has a goal of being a welcoming community to everyone on campus. I've actually attended a few of these club meetings myself and instantly detected a completely different vibe compared to Miami's esport league. It was more laid back, and it was clear that everybody was having a good time. It was like a little family was created between them all. I can see a bright future for the gaming community at Miami University.
Interviewees
Phil Alexander- Esports Advisor
+1 (513) 593-5116
Jaden Low- MUSmash Vice President
+1 (734) 680-6233
Mega president- Jeff McLain
+1 (513) 896-0792
Matt Danielson- Fighters Guild President
(937) 760-1197
Christian Heiberg- Varsity Esport Player
Aileen Bodine- Mega Member
Mu Smashes first tournament held in their new Arena Newgate. Fall Damage II
Fight Night Tournament held by the Fighters Guild
Practice session being held by MuSmash Club
Interviewee Christian Heiberg Commentating a tournament match
Some of the equip MuSmash Lends to players During tournaments
Weekly tournament pictures from MU Smash
Mu smash's weekly meetings take place on Wednesdays, from 7-10PM in BEN 207
MuSmashs Newly acquired Esports Arena Newgate Arena
Location of the Miami University Gaming Lab. Practice sessions for Esports League are held here.
