FORCECON Returns to San Antonio, Uniting Military Branches Through Gaming
On the heels of previous successful iterations, FORCECON is once again setting the stage for a unique blend of military prowess and competitive gaming. This year’s event, hosted on May 11 at the Boeing Center at Tech Port, promises a thrilling showcase of skill as the six U.S. military branches gather to compete in the Armed Forces Esports Championship for “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023).” This federally-endorsed gathering is not only a competition but also a celebration of the bonds formed through gaming among the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force.
Gaming as a Bridge in the Military Community
Air Force Gaming, an initiative connecting over 40,000 service members across various branches and bases, has transformed into a pivotal element of military camaraderie. TSgt Justyn Guthier of Air Force Gaming shared, “We are united by service, but we can be even more connected by gaming.” This sentiment underscores the dual purpose of FORCECON: to foster competitive spirit and to enhance the interconnectedness of service members through their shared passion for video games.
A Public Event with a Festival Flair
The public is invited to witness this display of competitive spirit free of charge, with doors opening at 9:30 am CT. The event kicks off at 10 am CT, culminating in the finals at 6 pm CT. Apart from the main competition, the day will be packed with activities that include open tournaments, a retro lounge featuring arcade games, and exhibits from leading industry partners. These activities aim to facilitate networking among the forces and provide the public with a deeper understanding of the military community through gaming.
Tech Meets Tactical at the Boeing Center
The Boeing Center at Tech Port, renowned as the nation’s largest venue built specifically for competitive video gaming, offers a high-tech backdrop to the esports championships. With its state-of-the-art facilities, including a 60-station LAN gaming center and a 60-foot LED screen arena, the center is perfectly equipped to host the high-stakes competition. Additionally, the venue boasts top-speed Internet infrastructure to ensure that fans globally can stream the games live, capturing every moment of the intense action.
Streaming Live for Global Fans
For those unable to attend in person, the entire event will be broadcast live on the official Air Force Gaming Twitch channel, allowing global fans to partake in the excitement and cheer on their favorite military teams from anywhere in the world.
Rally Cry: Inclusive Gaming Experiences
Overseeing the event’s production is Rally Cry, a tech firm known for crafting inclusive gaming experiences suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. The Rally Cry platform is notable for its support of crossplay across major gaming systems including PC, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation, ensuring a seamless and inclusive experience for all participants.
A Cultural Convergence at FORCECON
As FORCECON enters its third year at the Boeing Center, it continues to stand as a testament to the growing synergy between the esports community and the U.S. military. This year’s event is poised to further this legacy, spotlighting the transformative power of gaming within both the military and public spheres.
