An energetic and competitive spirit took hold of Johnson Hall on Friday evening, as students and many of their parents took part in the hall sponsored event, “Level Up.” 

Inspired by the video games of past and present, “Level Up” took on both a literal and figurative meaning, as the students and families who participated could find games such as karaoke, Galaga and life-size Tetris. Also available were snacks and drinks served on both the basement and the higher first floor of Johnson Hall. 

Shirley temples were handcrafted by staff member Randy Catterson and served with a smile, while other staff dished snack foods including candy, popcorn and pretzels. 

The Johnson Hall staff created an entertaining, joyful and competitive environment. 

Gamers were found competing in these games not only for fun, but also for the chance to win prizes including a Nintendo Switch, a Sega Genesis Classic console, a Nintendo DS and a Roku TV.

Participants could enter to win the above prizes by first obtaining red tickets from coming in the top three spots in games such as Mario Kart or participating in other activities.

Gamers could also choose to redeem their tickets for more coins to play more games. Once participants had won red tickets they could enter the casino for a fee of two red tickets in order to play blackjack for a better chance to win the prizes. 

Sarah Nehama attended “Level Up” along with both of her parents and she explained she had been having a great time dominating in her games. She wore a slew of red tickets she had already won even though the event had just kicked off. 

Available video games, found in the main lounge, included Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. In addition to the digital selection, one could find more retro games, such as board games and a casino. 

This event was not limited to only Johnson Hall residents and their families as Colleen Sewall, Emily Yarbrough and Jill Soggs, residents and RAs of other residence halls attended. 

Much like Nehama, Yarbrough and other game winners flaunted their skills by parading through the event adorning themselves with sleeves of red tickets, as if they were dazzling jewelry.

Photo by Hannah Leonard | The Oswegonian