Windsor’s The Summoning Convention Draws Hundreds of Gamers

Hundreds of collectors and gamers gathered for the second annual The Summoning event in Windsor, Ontario, on October 21, 2023. Held at St. Clair College’s Saints Esports Nexus Arena, the convention featured a diverse range of activities including esports competitions, trading card games, and robotics demonstrations.

Co-host Jeremy Richard emphasized the importance of community growth, stating, “It’s all about having fun, it’s all about getting new people into it.” Richard, a parent of four, noted that such events create opportunities for families to engage in gaming culture, something he wished had been available during his childhood.

Windsor is emerging as a notable hub for gamers, with Richard commenting that it can compete with larger cities like London in terms of participation and skill level. He highlighted that approximately $11,000 was awarded in prizes for Trading Card Games (TCGs) during the event.

Inclusive Environment for All Ages

The convention sought to foster an inclusive atmosphere for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers. Richard expressed a desire for families to explore various aspects of the event, including robotics and historical presentations. “We want families to experience the robotic side of it,” he said, inviting those unfamiliar with video games or TCGs to enjoy the diverse offerings available.

Attendees participated in a variety of gaming experiences, from interactive video games and board games to robotics challenges. The event also featured esports tournaments and cosplay contests, providing several avenues for engagement.

New this year were interactive robot coding challenges organized by Genio Tech Robotics and FIRST Robotics, which aimed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of robotics in a fun and engaging way.

Historical Immersion and Community Engagement

Upon entering the convention, visitors were greeted by members of the Essex Medieval Heritage Society and the Rósstad Norsefolk Viking group, offering an immersive historical experience. This unique aspect of the event added depth, allowing participants to explore history alongside modern gaming culture.

Overall, The Summoning showcased Windsor’s growing status as a destination for both tabletop and virtual gaming communities. With its impressive turnout and diverse offerings, the convention not only celebrated gaming but also highlighted the importance of community engagement within this vibrant culture.

For more information about future events and initiatives, interested parties can contact the organizers at St. Clair College.