Introduction

Over the past few years, THG has covered various parts of the LAN party scene across North America and, as of this year, other parts of the world. The series "How to host your own LAN party" was introduced to help those looking to start their own events. (Yes, I know it has been a while... I am currently working on part two.) However, one aspect of the LAN gaming scene that you have not seen in-depth yet is the LAN gaming center.

Some people don't have access to a high-end gaming system at home or might want to try out a game before they buy it. Still others just want the convenience of walking in the door, spending a few dollars and enjoying the thrill of gaming against the people right next to you. Gaming venues, just like LAN parties, come in all shapes and sizes. Some locations combine LAN gaming, Internet café and office productivity center all wrapped into one. This was the style of center that I covered Abit's ACON 4 London, Ontario from Head2Head Games. Other centers focus on gaming alone. Both types of centers allow people to gain some of the experiences of a LAN party combined with freedom to play as they please.

Temporary BYOC meets the permanent LAN center PC's.

Establishments like CyberJocks in Buffalo, New York, embody most closely the atmosphere and feel of a LAN party. The great thing about centers like CyberJocks is that they give you the best of both worlds. Join THG as we look into the heart of one of the premier LAN gaming centers in North America.