John Alex Nunnery
Entertainment Editor
Tabletop games have been a staple of entertainment for thousands of years. They have evolved alongside the people who play them, leading to newer, more revolutionary ideas and a wider variety of possibilities. However, with the increased interest in other models of entertainment, the question remains as to whether there is still a space for traditional board games on a college campus.
There has been a surge of new game concepts in recent years. Games like Betrayal at House on the Hill and Cards Against Humanity dominate the board game scene with their creative concepts that immerse the players. These games have rules that vary greatly from games of the past with concepts that focus on humor or teamwork building.
Games are a common occurrence at events on campus. Many places advertise board games or party games to draw attention to their events on campus. However, none of them are the center of the organization and are more just used to draw attention to the event itself. The official Mississippi University for Women website confirms this by listing more than 60 student organizations but none of which involve games as a primary opportunity. However, several organizations on-campus enlist the help of board games to connect with new students.
“For sure board games can connect people on campus like we have game nights in Jones Hall, and we’ll bring out board games and meet different people every single time,” said Arpana Upadhyay, a senior biology major. “I think (MUW) should definitely encourage a board game club because there is such a big community of players; it would help people get to know others with similar interests.”
Board games have traditionally been proven to help critical thinking skills as well as be a relaxing break for the mind after studying. Having a club or program that encourages people to get into tabletop games would help students to build these skills in a fun way.
While MUW may not have an official club for playing games, the Writer’s Forum does offer an alternative. The Writer’s Forum plays Dungeons & Dragons every Friday night in Painter Hall. This activity is open for people to enquire about and join if they are interested. You can contact them through the official MUW website under student organizations.