On Aug. 26, Binghamton University officially opened its new Launch Point gaming center located in Mountainview College’s Appalachian Collegiate Center.

Residential Life and Information Technology Services collaborated to create the new space-themed on-campus gaming center, designed to be accessible to student gamers of all experience levels. The center includes several high-tech amenities for students who want to game in the new space and features space-themed lighting, frosted windows for privacy and a light-up mural.

“Launch Point stands as more than just a successful departmental collaboration,” said Casey Wall, director of residential life and housing. “It shows what’s possible when we prioritize student input and design spaces based on what students genuinely want to see, making Binghamton truly feel like their home.”

There are 12 gaming PCs, three TV screens and PlayStation, XBOX and Nintendo consoles readily accessible for students. Launch Point acts as a year-round local area network party, using the local network to connect gamers in the center to the same game.

“Having lived in the original, now ‘Old’, Dickinson for four years as a student, I know firsthand that Binghamton is a home away from home,” said Genevieve Vallerga, director of technology support services at ITS. “Creating a space where our students can make memories beyond the classroom has been incredibly meaningful, and I can’t wait to see them enjoy it.”

The center also functions as a new social hub outside of the dorms and classrooms to connect students, regardless of where they live on campus. The center offers access to a large variety of games, including classic 8-bit games, party games, adventure campaigns and competitive games on a first come, first served basis. The center is open to student recommendations for acquiring additional games and already has plans to acquire Grand Theft Auto VI.

The center is the result of a year and a half of “preparation, student interviews, work groups, test groups, interviewing software companies,” according to Carla Dancer, assistant director of client support services at BU. In particular, acquiring the equipment was a long and expensive process.

“The price range was not solid at all,” said Dancer. “It was way up there. And then there was the wait time to get these machines in. So, we did have to wait for a while. Luckily, they came in right when we needed them to get them set up and get all the games loaded on them.”

Launch Point could provide space for the BU Residential Life Co-Rec program to host competitions, leagues and game launch parties for students.

“The Launch Point Gaming Lounge is going to play an important role in community building and strengthening a sense of belonging,” said BU President Anne D’Alleva. “I was impressed by the technology and the space on my recent visit, and I thank the staff in Residential Life and Information Technology Services for bringing this project to life. I’m excited for our students, knowing that they have a great place to get together and connect over a common interest, enhancing their college experience.”