I have been to multiple video game tournaments in Buffalo and Syracuse, and they are nothing like the stereotypes that can be seen on television. Tournaments are extremely fun to play in or to spectate. I have been able to meet new people at tournaments, and you don't have to be amazing at the game in order to play.
The demographics are definitely diverse. I have met both males and females who compete ranging from ages 15 to 50. Most people are between the ages of 18 to 30 though, and they come from all walks of life. I have competed against individuals with disabilities, school teachers, college students, and even business owners. Most people are pretty chill, and actually come to improve their skills. These are the types of people that are willing to teach others how to play better, and they don't mind losing because they can learn how to fix their mistakes. Although, there are a few who rage quit by throwing objects and then storming off. Those are the types of gamers that give gaming a bad reputation.
Most tournaments I have attended have had the same games and always have a cash prize. Syracuse Sucker Punch usually has Injustice 2, Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite, Tekken 7, Windjammers, and Street Fighter 5. My favorite game I like to compete in is Injustice 2, and my boyfriend's favorite is Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite. Syracuse Sucker Punch also raffles off prizes, so even if you do not win a cash prize you might still win something.
The larger tournaments like Rumble in the Tundra located in Buffalo, NY usually have the same games as smaller tournaments, but also include other games like Soulcalibur 2, Super Smash Bros, Pokken, King of Fighters 14, Killer Instinct, and Magical Drop 3. Larger tournaments can be intimidating because there are more people in one area, and it can be difficult to see around people when you are spectating a match. This is extremely difficult for me because I am 5'2 trying to move around guys twice my size to see a match. The plus side to larger tournaments is the food because super amazing food trucks are often outside. I had the best cheeseburger of my life at Rumble because K Cafe had a food truck out front!
Additionally, the newest game that is about to enter the tournament world is Dragon Ball FighterZ as it is officially released January 26th, but the Beta version was released January 13th to anyone that preordered the game. The game definitely looks fun from what I have seen, and any gamer that likes fighting games should check it out. Syracuse Sucker Punch is having a launch party the 26th for competitive and casual players so if you don't want to purchase the game just yet come check it out.
Don't be afraid to compete in a video game tournament. If you are unsure, you can spectate for free to see if it is something you would enjoy. Also, don't listen to the stereotypes because anyone can have fun at a tournament with the right game!
