WePoker Club Chronicles: From Idea to Fellowship
Magic the Gathering, the infamous trading card game, has become a social phenomenon that unites players from all over the world. The game has expanded into the digital space, with popular online platforms like MTG Arena and Tabletop Simulator keeping the community active during lockdowns and physical distancing measures. Yet, even with these modern conveniences, many Magic enthusiasts still feel a void when it comes to face-to-face connections. Enter wpk Club Magic, the “magic” that has filled this gap, promoting camaraderie, friendship, and competition that go beyond the gaming table.
WePoker Club Magic is a Magic the Gathering group based in Fayetteville, Arkansas that has been around since September 2019. It was founded by a group of friends who wanted to create an inclusive community that celebrated the game’s competitive aspect while fostering personal connections centered around the shared hobby. Meetings take place once a week at a local game store, as well as casual gatherings hosted by members throughout the week. The club has grown from an initial group of six to over thirty members, with new players of all levels welcome to join in the games.
The main event of WePoker Club Magic is, as the name suggests, poker games. At the start of a meeting, players draw a card and are assigned a corresponding table number. These groups play poker for fifteen minutes, then shuffle around to a new table and play a Magic game with players that have the same number. At the end of the night, players tally their winnings and a prize is awarded to the highest earner. The format encourages mingling and friendly competition while keeping the night moving and engaging for all involved.
Aside from the WePoker games, the club also holds a Draft Party once a month. Members pool together funds for a box of booster packs, which are drafted and played with, giving players the chance to build new decks and challenge themselves in a different way. Additionally, the club has organized trips to out-of-town tournaments, fostering bonds between members as they travel and face competition together.
WePoker Club Magic’s focus on inclusivity and accessibility aims to foster a community that is welcoming to all. Club member Rachel explained, “We all come from different walks of life and have different beliefs, but one thing we all have in common is Magic. The game tends to get a bad reputation for being nerdy or too complicated, but we’ve found a way to make it inviting and fun.” This sentiment is echoed by other members of the group, who have found friendship and support through the club.
The COVID-19 pandemic has, of course, affected WePoker Club Magic’s operations, with players unable to meet in person for the foreseeable future. However, the club has worked to maintain virtual gatherings and activities, including Discord channels for chatting and playing games, as well as Webcam Magic events that mirror the face-to-face meetings the club usually has. They’ve even hosted tournaments with an online platform that have attracted players from outside of Arkansas, expanding the reach of the community.
Conclusion:
WePoker Club Magic is a testament to the power of shared hobbies in fostering friendship and social connection. The club’s inclusive ideals, fun formats, and emphasis on community have galvanized its members and brought people from all backgrounds together. With the transition to virtual activities, the club has proven that even in times of hardship and distance, shared passions can still bring people closer together. Whether through the WePoker games, Draft Parties, or just casual gatherings, WePoker Club Magic is a shining example of how tabletop gaming can forge lasting relationships.
