LAN gaming center
A LAN Gaming Center, also known as an Internet café or cybercafé is a place where one can use a computer connected over a LAN to other computers, primarily for the purpose of playing multiplayer computer games. The oldest existing game center in North America, is Head 2 Head Games, located at 246 Dundas Street London, Ontario, Canada, which opened on July 3, 1995. Use of these computers costs a fee, usually per hour or minute; sometimes one can have unmetered access with a pass for a day or month, etc. It may or may not serve as a regular café as well, with food and drinks being served. Many game centers have evolved in recent years to also include console gaming (Xbox, GameCube, PlayStation 2). Other centers offer computer repair and consulting, custom built computers, web-design, programming classes or summer camps, and many other technology related services.
LAN Gaming Centers can come in various sizes and styles, from the very small (6-8 computers) to the very large (400+ computers). Most have computer systems with higher-end hardware built specifically for computer gaming. Customers can play games with (or against) in-house opponents and most also include a high-speed Internet connection to allow customers to play games with online opponents as well (usually at the same time). Most also host a number of special events such as tournaments and LAN Parties, some lasting throughout the night. Another typical feature is the ability to browse the Web and use instant messaging clients. Often these gaming centers allow customers the option of renting out the whole or part of the store for private LAN parties.
See also
- Video Game Center for information about a more general type of videogame center.
- Internet cafe
External links
- iGames is an international alliance of gaming centers, primarily in the United States.
- IGUK is a non-profit alliance of gaming centers in the UK.
- Lanatomic provides a directory of LAN Centers.
- The Vortex LAN Gaming Center Based in Greenacres, FL USA.
- Gigabits LAN Center Located in Orlando, FL USA.
- Dibbz LAN Gaming Center Located in Metairie, LA USA.
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Photo of The Vortex - LAN Gaming Center
