Anne Carlsen Center video game club aims to make gaming accessible to everyone

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (KFYR) - Some people love video games, others hate them. There’s no denying it’s a popular pastime for a lot of people. But sometimes, it’s not a very accessible hobby for those with disabilities.

In 2019, Henry Hobert and Onyx Gourneau started the video game club at the Anne Carlsen Center in Jamestown. Both boys loved playing video games before, but being able to make new friends while playing made them even better. They told me what their favorite part about gaming clubs is.

“Probably just hanging out,” said Onyx.

Gaming isn’t always accessible to everyone. Some people might have trouble using a traditional controller. Assistive Technology manager Marcy Szarkowski said that’s why the Center has invested in adaptive controllers; for one of them, you move the jack to choose which button the controller acts as.

Onyx can use buttons mounted around his head as well.

Szarkowski said parents sometimes worry about their children’s safety when playing video games since the online space isn’t always known for being friendly, but she said they’re able to use specific controls to protect the team members.

Henry and Onyx say their favorite games to play are: any of the LEGO games, It Takes Two, Rocket League, Unraveled and more. Mainly, they like cooperative games.

“It’s just fun,” said Onyx.

“Yeah, it’s just fun. You get to meet people online and stuff,” said Henry.

Szarkowski said gaming club is about more than just video games. She said it’s a way for the members to practice socializing.

“I think the importance about it is the social aspect of it, and for our kids to be able to engage in an activity like any other kid, and just be able to have that platform to do it,” said Szarkowski.

The team put their skills to the test earlier this year when they competed in an e-sports competition at West Fargo High School. They won and brought back a trophy. Henry said the club’s interested in forming an official e-sports team in the future.