Fort Wainwright in Alaska has witnessed the long-awaited opening of a brand new esports center. This state-of-the-art facility is set to become a communal gaming haven for soldiers, marking a significant milestone in military entertainment.

Uniting Soldiers through Esports in the Arctic

Reopening Amidst the Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the esports center had to close its doors. However, with the reopening, it has transformed into a training center initially. Teresa Travers, the business manager of the Warrior Zone, explained that the pandemic situation led to a change in its usage. "Covid kind of turned us into a computer lab instead of a gaming area," she said.This transformation shows the adaptability of the center in the face of challenging circumstances. It also highlights the importance of providing alternative activities for soldiers during these times.

Game Options and Tournaments

Soldiers at the center will have the opportunity to relax and socialize while also competing with each other. There are 30 game pods and a co-op station where they can engage in friendly competitions. Spc. Uriel Brew Riverson, one of the soldiers present at the Friday's ribbon-cutting, is excited about the various tournaments. "It’s going to be fun to see how those matches turn up," he said.These tournaments not only add an element of fun but also serve as a means to bring soldiers together. They help pull soldiers out of their barracks and into the GameLab, fostering a sense of community among them.Furthermore, the tournaments aim to connect the troops at Fort Wainwright with those at Fort Greely. Soldiers from both bases will be able to compete and play with each other, strengthening the military bond.

Expansion Plans

The garrison has aspirations to expand the esports center's reach beyond military personnel. Heather Ney, the Warrior Zone supervisory recreation specialist, mentioned that they have even collaborated with UAF and worked on their esports. "We’ve even gone up to UAF and worked with their esports so we can try and collaborate between the two," she said.This shows the center's potential for growth and its willingness to engage with non-military partners. It opens up new opportunities for military entertainment and collaboration.

Replacing the Outdated Facility

The new esports center replaces a previous gaming area that had become outdated. It took nearly two years to open since its inception and cost nearly $1.5 million. GameLab CEO Tim Dunnigan believes that the long wait and the price tag are well worth it. "The PCs that were put in were state-of-the-art when they were put in 10 or 12 years ago," he said.The investment in the new facility is a testament to the importance placed on providing modern gaming experiences for soldiers. It ensures that they have access to the latest technology and gaming opportunities.

Previous Gaming Center and Its Transformation

Previously, the center had a selection of Xbox One consoles and Alienware PCs. However, it had become more of a training center over time. This shift in focus highlights the center's versatility and its ability to adapt to different needs.The new facility offers a more comprehensive gaming experience, with its advanced game pods and co-op station. It provides soldiers with a dedicated space to enjoy their favorite games and connect with their peers.In conclusion, the opening of the Fort Wainwright esports center is a significant development for military entertainment. It offers soldiers a chance to relax, compete, and build community during the long, cold months of winter in Fairbanks. With its expansion plans and state-of-the-art facilities, the center is set to become a hub of military esports in the region.