The final total is in: SpecialEffect’s GameBlast21 charity weekend raises over £228,000
The total raised for GameBlast21, the UK’s largest charity gaming weekend, has been confirmed at £228,300 ($317,800). It’s more than double the original fundraising target for the event and one of the biggest totals in its eight-year history.
Gamers across the UK and beyond took on gaming marathons and game-themed events over the weekend of 26-28 February to raise money for the charity, which helps people with physical disabilities to experience the fun and inclusion of video games.
As well as the hundreds of individual gamers and communities who took part, many major names in the games industry supported the event, including Twitch, EA DICE, Mediatonic, SEGA Europe, Unit 2 Games, Fanatical, Insert Coin Clothing and Turn 10 Studios, alongside a host of esports teams and popular streamers.
In addition, several other companies including HyperX, Noblechairs, Fierce PC, and Big Potato Games, showed their support by creating some awesome limited-edition products and running giveaways to reward people for taking part.
“We’d hoped to raise £100,000 this year,” said Becky Frost, the GameBlast Event Coordinator, “so we’re amazed and humbled by the final figure. To have the support of so many gamers is a huge boost for the charity, and we’ve been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of everyone involved. As a result of their generosity, many hundreds of people will be able to enjoy the magic of video games for many years to come. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part.”
The dates for GameBlast22 have been announced as 25-27 February 2022.
