In popular culture, the hardcore video game enthusiast is often portrayed as a sort of recluse who would rather get lost in a virtual storyline than go out for a night of dancing or drinks with real people.

However, in Kitchener-Waterloo there is a growing scene of gamers who meet monthly for friendly competition at local pubs. Known as “Let’s Play KW”, the events have been around for just over a year and are growing in popularity.

“I love competitive gaming and I work in the bar industry, so I was like, 'How can I combine my two interests?'” said Brody Moore, the event’s organizer. “We have a Facebook group where I put up polls and I let everybody vote on what game we’re going to play next.”

Kicking it old school

Popular choices include hit games such as Super Smash Brothers, Guitar Hero and Super Street Fighter IV.

One big reason these games are on demand from the local scene is because multiple competitors can play on the same television screen and console the old fashioned way.

David MacDonald, who is ranked the number one Super Smash Brothers player in Canada and based in Toronto, says not being able to compete online has distinct benefits.

David MacDonald, also known by his gamer name 'KirbyKaze', is ranked the number one Super Smash Brothers player in Canada. He says he finds the tournament scene in Kitchener-Waterloo the most fun to visit. (Matthew Kang/CBC)

“If I go around this room, I can recognize faces of people that I’ve seen at other tournaments,” said MacDonald. “You get a really strong sense of community from having to go to the same venue.”

MacDonald added the Kitchener-Waterloo scene always offers the most fun in Super Smash Brothers tournaments.

“Different regions have different styles of play, and I find that KW players are very smart.”

At a recent gathering in February, it was a full house at McCabe's Irish Pub & Grill.

Players can vote on Let's Play KW's Facebook page to decide what games they would like to see at upcoming events. (Matthew Kang/CBC)

Steven Arnott, a local gamer who often attends Let's Play KW events, says he is very appreciative that the pub is fine with accommodating a large crowd of loud and excited players.

“I always wonder what the normal bar patrons think of us,” said Arnott with a laugh. “There’s some people that are just trying to enjoy a calm drink, and then there’s this screaming horde of people doing something they can’t understand.”

To hear the gamers, click on Matthew Kang's piece below.