Esports Director Christopher Bilski said this new space will allow for interactive learning and help prepare students for future careers in their field. 

“MSU Alienware Esports Lounge gives students not only a place to connect with Michigan State University, but a place for them to connect with each other,” Bilski said. “The space allows students to advance their academic studies through hands-on learning opportunities, broadcasting and production, organizing and executing events, and many other ways they can tie potential future careers to this space.”

The lounge's grand opening featured several notable guests, including Dell Senior Director and PC Gaming Lead Matt McGowan, WNBA player and esports influencer Aerial Powers, Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and various MSU leaders. 

MSU Interim President Teresa Woodruff, who spoke at the unveiling, said this facility and the establishment of a varsity esports program were made possible by students advocating for the investment in esports at MSU. 

“It's really a very special privilege to be here as part of this particular dedication because from then to now, we have ensured that the student needs are always met, and so it's really a cause for celebration for all of us,” Woodruff said.

Gilchrist said watching this student-led process shows the power in student voices on campus.

“It shows that as a student, when you raise your voice, you can make your campus better, and that's something that we cannot forget, must not forget,” Gilchrist said. “That ultimately is what makes our universities special.”

Varsity Smash Bros team captain Collin Landers said this space will benefit all students, not just those on esports teams.

“This is a good facility for not just the players, but also other students,” Landers said. “Whether you're just playing with your friends or trying really hard to get better to get on the varsity sports team, I think that it will be a good resource for everyone.” 

The lounge will allow for more classroom space, while also giving students the opportunity to socialize. 

“If you want a space to socialize and just hang out with students, Com Arts in particular did not have a successful socializing space,” Games and Interactive Media Assistant Professor Ryan Thompson said. “But the lounge is hopefully the beginning of that sort of student-led space here in this building.”

This space is the first of its kind at the university, Bilski said, and it will set a foundation for the growing esports community at MSU. 

“The Alienware MSU Esports Lounge will transform lives and engage our students in a way we have never been able to before,” Bilski said. “To connect, to build community, and to help students prepare for whatever comes next.”