HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton students are going head-to-head in a gaming tournament Wednesday as part of the city's initiative to turn several community centers into state-of-the-art gaming zones.
Hampton's Parks and Recreation Department was previously granted funding from the city council to transform four local community centers into gaming centers. The centers transforming into gaming centers are Fort Monroe Community Center, Northampton Community Center, North Phoebus Community Center and West Hampton Community Center.
Although all four gaming zones will open their doors at 4 p.m. Wednesday, the city is holding the grand opening at the Northampton Community Center where the tournament will be underway.
The new centers, dubbed "Tap In" Zone for Gamers, feature state-of-the-art virtual and video gaming equipment that gamers of all ages can enjoy. Virtual Oculus Play, PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and PC Battle Stations are among the available systems.
"We aim to provide an immersive virtual experience for all citizens, especially youth and teens," according to a release from the city. "Every day, young visitors eagerly ask, 'When will the game room be open?' We are thrilled to announce our opening before the holiday season."
The city plans to host coding classes/camps, STEM camps and more gaming tournaments at these centers.
