How to Host a Video Game Tournament

Last Updated: May 26, 2021 References

Have you ever tried to host a video game tournament, but it just didn't work out? You may have put many attempts into this before, but failed every time. Read on to learn the secrets, or key parts, of a video game tournament, that will keep everyone interested.

Steps

1
Hit up some friends or people that like to play video games, and set out a designated date that is good for everyone.^{[1]
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2
Figure out a game that everyone agrees on, and make sure it is "tournament approved". Here are some things a game must include for it to be "tournament approved":
- A fun multiplayer mode, with scores ("kills" and "deaths" are acceptable).
- Preferably a 4 player multiplayer, 2 & 3 player is okay only if you have about 5-6 people, any more and you want 4 player.
- It must have excitement and have a theme or subject everyone understands.
- The matches, races, songs, games, or whatever you play in the game must not drag on forever! People lose interest after a while.
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3
Some examples of "tournament approved" games: Guitar Hero (the oldest one you should use can only be Guitar Hero 3: Legends of Rock), Call of Duty (Modern Warfare, World at War, or Modern Warfare 2), Rock Band, Mario Kart (no older than the GameCube version), FIFA, Halo and Formula One.^{[2]
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4
Gather all supplies needed; snacks, beverages, game console, controllers, video game. At this time you should also organize the tournament, whether you randomize or strategize the matches, get it all together.^{[3]
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5
As the guests (or contestants) arrive, greet them nicely and show them to where the tournament is being held. Show them where the snacks are and if they have any stuff take it for them and put it in a room you won't be using, this will be your room for guests' coats and items. Sit down with them and chat calmly, this way it is easy to leave and greet incoming guests without being rude.^{[4]
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6
Keep everyone under control and introduce them to the system of your tournament. Explain how it is going to work and make sure each individual fully understands the process. If you are randomly organizing (such as drawing out of a hat) get that done at this time.^{[5]
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7
Enjoy the tournament!

Community Q&A

Question

What is the best way to host a video game tournament for a fundraiser?

Community Answer

Ask people to pay for admission, just a small fee like $5 or $10. You can also have food and drink stalls and use the proceeds from these sales towards your fundraiser.
Question

I want to host a big event with over 20 random people. How can I advertise it on a university campus?

Community Answer

Posting or distributing flyers would probably be the most effective method. You could also utilize social media to spread the word, even by creating a unique/fun hashtag.
Question

"Make sure the tournament system is fair and organized in a fashion everyone agrees on." Can you expand upon this? What things should I look out for, what is the best format?

Community Answer

Make sure the match-ups for opponents are fair, and that everyone agrees on the rules.