Branton Williams, 7, and Boine Suh, 10, play “Super Smash Bros.” in May 2023 during the Lobo Game Fest at Foster Middle School in Longview. (Michael Cavazos/Longview News-Journal File Photo)

From staff reports

The Greater Longview United Way, in partnership with LANFest, has scheduled the inaugural East Texas Gamer Con for March 28-29 at Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center.

“Gaming has the power to bring people together, and through ETX Gamer Con, we’re channeling that connection into meaningful community support,” said Dr. Evan Dolive, GLUW executive director. “When you participate in this event, you’re not just playing games — you’re helping provide meals to families in need, supporting after-school programs for our youth and ensuring our neighbors have access to vital health services.”

Activities planned at ETX Gamer Con include:

High school esports tournaments sanctioned by TexSef, featuring “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” and “Rocket League”;

Throwback Throwdown tournament celebrating classic gaming;

Tabletop gaming experiences including Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering;

Interactive Kid’s Zone for family entertainment;

Event-wide scavenger hunt;

Free play area; and

Vendor marketplace featuring gaming gear and collectibles.

“This innovative fundraising approach reflects how our United Way is evolving to meet our community where they are,” said Heather Stevenson, director of development of GLUW. “By combining the excitement of gaming with our mission of community service, we’re creating new ways for people to engage with and support vital local programs while having fun with their families and friends.”

The convention will be open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. both days. Tickets are $10 for Friday only; $15 for Saturday only; and $20 for a weekend pass. VIP packages are $50 and include tickets for both days, raffle ticket, social media shoutout and exclusive swag. Children younger than 10 are admitted for free. Additional fees apply for tournament participation.

VIP packages are limited and early registration is encouraged. Tickets are available at bit.ly/ETXGamerCon.

“Every ticket purchased for ETX Gamer Con directly supports Greater Longview United Way’s mission to mobilize communities to action so that all can thrive,” according to a statement from GLUW. “The proceeds will help fund 32 essential programs across 19 local nonprofit organizations, focusing on three critical areas: health services, which ensure access to medical care and mental health resources; educational initiatives, which support early childhood development and youth mentoring; and financial stability programs, which provide job training and emergency assistance to families in need.”

For information about ETX Gamer Con and its community impact, visit longviewunitedway.org.