The former place of worship was transformed into hub video game for a third time in as many years. The doors were open to the public from noon and the gamersexperienced and curious, were quick to invade space to discover a fascinating world, free of charge and in all forms.
This version promised to be very entertaining from the announcement of its programming. Nostalgic people — some accompanied by their young children — indulged in rétrogaming with the oldest consoles on one side of the room. As for fans of new technologies, they could attend virtual reality demonstrations and immersive experiences.
This year, four tournaments were held. At the passage of The Voice of the Eastenthusiasts of Guitar Hero and of Beat Saber competed for great honors. We then planned games of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and of Super Smash Bros Ultimate.
“We are happy to see all the people, not just young people, but entire families. Parents introduce their children to activities that marked their own youth. It’s a moment of sharing for all generations, including toddlers and adolescents,” said Mélanie Morin, events coordinator for Cultural and Community Life (VCC) of Granby.
Every event is bound to evolve over time. This year, guests took advantage of an open space to observe tournaments, workshops and other games. A formula applauded by the people met at the start of the afternoon.
“We see all the possible plays. One person wins at one place? We can see the scene better from further away, moving around. The playing field is big!”
— Mélanie Morin, representative of VCC Granby
An overview of the site installed Saturday at the Notre-Dame Center. (VCC Granby/Taken from Facebook)
Electronic fever
A visit of a few minutes was enough to get the bug and soak up the atmosphere. Upon entering the site, your humble servant was invited to register for one of the organized tournaments. A very interesting proposition, but refused in the face of stiff competition. Instead, we spoke with fans of gaming…
“I have always loved the fair! There are a lot of people, we meet great people. I have been playing games since I was young and have been playing on the computer ever since. But it must be said that I also had a Super Nintendo console,” said Kevin Robert-Trépanier, owner of Flash Informatique, a Granby company.
“I’m a big fan too! As far back as I can remember, it all started with the SEGA console. It must be said that I am in my forties! Then, the PlayStation 1 and 2. Then, I adopted the Xbox consoles. And my daughter shares this same passion with her PlayStation 5,” added Yohan Bourel, a colleague and friend.
A fun question to conclude this beautiful conversation. What are the best video games?
Kevin Robert-Trépanier’s favorite games: Baldur’s Gate 3, Call of Duty et Diablo
Yohan Bourel’s favorite games: Far Cry 6 et Forza 5
Little ones and wiser ones had fun! (VCC Granby/Taken from Facebook)
Renewed success
The event had barely started and the organizers were already declaring victory. This video game fair was organized again this year with the collaboration of VCC Granby, NoReset, Salon Tanuki and the City of Granby.
“It’s a great start, there’s a lot of action! We are very satisfied with the registration for the new tournaments. We have already exceeded certain expectations. Overall, the different themed stations are well filled. With the organization and the traffic, we haven’t yet had the chance to visit everything. There is in particular virtual reality, a growing technology, which always attracts curiosity,” admitted Alysson Gince, owner of Salon Tanuki in Granby.
Alysson Gince’s favorite games: League of Legends, Ark: Survival et Terraria
Alysson Gince is the owner of Salon Tanuki, specialized in the field of gaming. (Stéphane Champagne/Archives La Voix de l’Est)
Dimitrios Lianopoulos is the founder of NoReset and the main organizer of the Video Game Fair. When met, he worked on the smooth running of tournaments and the operation of electronic equipment in the retro section.
Yes, he had “the brow in his forelock”. But the game was worth it. “To see the reaction of people, parents with their children: it’s mission accomplished! The new PC zone is very popular. Retro and modern games alike. It is our ambition, that of discovering the gaminga very universal thing, and to bring people together around the theme,” he shared.
Its basic principle is to continue the adventure with a view to improvement. “Still better than the most recent one, but worse than the next time,” he concluded with a smile.
Dimitrios Lianopoulos’ favorite game: Super Metroid
Dimitrios Lianopoulos, gaming enthusiast and founder of NoReset. (Archives La Voix de l’Est)
In short, another day marked by creativity, competition and entertainment in Granby. Given the attendance, the organizers will certainly have the chance to continue on their path next year.
In conclusion, the journalist’s favorite games: Mario Kart 64, The Sims et EA NHL.
