Campus clubs often involve a lot of responsibilities, extended time commitment, fees, and even added stress. However, the Gamers Conclave club's mission is a fun, free and safe environment to relax and de-stress.

With the upcoming release party for “Guitar Hero II,” an interactive digital game, on Nov. 10, Gamers Conclave members wants to show off their idea of networking through their hobbies as a way for people to make new friends.

The Gamers Conclave club at SF State welcomes anyone who shares a passion for gaming. This includes video games, board games and computer games.

Unlike many other clubs on campus, membership is completely free, even for those who aren’t students.

“San Francisco State is a commuter school,” said club member Barry Figgins, a graduating senior in business. “People come to class, leave and go home because there is no reason to really stick around. This gives people more options to stay on campus, get involved and meet new people.”

With the increasing amount of technology through computer graphics and digital entertainment, gamers now have a wider variety of games and outlets to expand their ways of gaming.

“Traditional board games are fun, but with the technology out there we can do so much more,” said Figgins.

One popular game is “Guitar Hero.” It allows players to jam on a hand held guitar-controller to the sounds of rock and roll, while following notes on the TV screen. It allows for a fun, competitive way to socialize and have a good time.

“People tend to think of gamers as weird and sheltered, playing secretly in their basements,” said Jacqi McKinney, 22, a senior in creative writing. “We really aren’t, we’re just like everyone else. We enjoy spending time with others that share similar interests.”

There are now 300 members on the official mailing list, which has doubled over the year. There are about 30 members who are regulars, although it is growing and becoming increasingly popular.

Club members can also express themselves on their online magazine.

“The club offers so much for those who are creative and wanting to be a part of something,” said McKinney.

With the pressures of school and work, the Gamers Conclave could offer an outlet for people to come together and share their similar passions in a way that also provokes thought and creativity.

“We know there is life outside of gaming,” said Gamers Conclave President Erik Goad, a creative writing sophomore. “Horrible things are happening in our world and playing games offers an escape for people. It is a time for us to chill and relax with friends doing something we enjoy.”

He encourages anyone who is interested in gaming and fun to come to the club’s game nights and see what others, like themselves, are doing.

“We hope to make a fun party out of ‘Guitar Hero II’,” said Figgins. “Everyone is invited.”