Purdue Memorial Union to celebrate grand opening of Boiler Game Mine

The Purdue Memorial Union is preparing to celebrate the grand opening of its new premier esports gaming facility, Boiler Game Mine. Esports, which is short for electronic sports, is organized competitive video gaming. Union leaders are excited to provide this new opportunity for students, faculty, staff and visitors of the West Lafayette campus.

Boiler Game Mine is located in the basement across from the Union Rack and Roll bowling center. The grand opening event will be held on Friday (Nov. 18). Beginning at 3 p.m., guests can enjoy free game play, gaming tournaments and refreshments. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will start at 4:30 p.m. Once the ceremony is completed, free game play, tournaments and refreshments will continue through 7 p.m.

“The Boiler Game Mine will provide an environment that expands the social community on campus, allowing people to connect, engage and further develop their passion for gaming,” says Luke Versprille, union director of operations and events. “Additionally, the Purdue Memorial Union, in conjunction with the Campus eGaming Committee, look forward to opening the space as a learning laboratory to further pursue Purdue’s academic mission. We are working with the School of Communication and computer graphics technology on potentially hosting courses in the space.”

Boiler Game Mine had a soft opening targeting students back in September. Regular hours of operation are Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 9 p.m., unless otherwise noted on its website. Gamers of all ages are welcome to come play for just $6 an hour. Gamers who present a Purdue ID can play for $4 an hour.

Boiler Game Mine, just like Union Rack and Roll, is available for private reservations for events or parties. Reservations can be made through the website at union.purdue.edu/gamemine.

Boiler Game Mine and the Purdue Memorial Union are part of the Administrative Operations organization. The organization supports the university through safe, reliable and transformative services. Opening this new, transformative esports facility is just one of many ways the organization helps powers Purdue.

Questions about Boiler Game Mine or the grand opening event may be directed to Travis Huston, recreation and gaming manager, at 765-494-8990.