Posted on by GameGnome

GameBlast 2020, last call to gamers to join SpecialEffect’s charity event

Gamers’ charity SpecialEffect is putting out a last call to gamers everywhere to join the hundreds of streamers, studios and companies already taking part in their annual GameBlast20 challenge over the weekend of 21-23 February.
Heralded as ‘the best reason to game ever’, the charity’s GameBlast weekend will see gamers around the world take on sponsored fundraising gaming-themed challenges including marathon livestreams, speed runs, esports tournaments, board games sessions and games-themed office parties. The event has raised over £800,000 to support disabled gamers over the past six years.

Gamers can sign up at https://www.gameblast20.org.uk/sign-up/ or donate at https://justgiving.com/campaign/Gameblast20SpecialEffect’s Tom Donegan says, “GameBlast is very close to our hearts because it reflects the very essence of what we do: gamers coming together to help their fellow gamers. It is always a real feel-good weekend and the range of challenges that gamers have come up with this year is amazing.”

Colin McDonnell, a gamer with disabilities who has taken part every year, adds: “In the last five years I’ve seen a dramatic change in the technology that’s enabled more people with disabilities like myself to play video games. By raising money for SpecialEffect, we’re ensuring all people with disabilities get the opportunity to take part in gaming if they want to.”

In addition to the individual gamers and stream-teams who’ll be gaming hard over the weekend, a host of games industry partners will also be streaming from their offices over the weekend. Frontier Developments will be kicking off proceedings at 12.00 on Friday 21st, followed later that evening by SEGA Europe at 18.00. GAME will then pick up the livestream baton for 24hours at 10.00 on Saturday 22nd, back-up by a host of GAME stores running regional fundraisers up and down the country.

In terms of new activities for 2020, Big Potato Games having partnered with SpecialEffect to offer free game packs for streamers interested in adding some table-top play into the mix. Plus, online esports platform Challenger Mode will be hosting a charity CS:GO tournament on Sunday 23rd with all proceeds feeding into the GameBlast total!

GameBlast also enjoys support from stream partners Twitch and apparel partners Insert Coin, who have this year created a limited edition GameBlast pin badge with all profits going to SpecialEffect.

About SpecialEffect
SpecialEffect are putting fun and inclusion back into the lives of people with physical disabilities by helping them to play video games. By using technology ranging from modified games controllers to eye-control, they’re finding a way for people to play to the very best of their abilities. But they’re not just doing it for fun. By levelling the playing field, they’re bringing families and friends together and having a profoundly positive impact on inclusion, confidence and rehabilitation.

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