Gamertell

What comes to mind when you think of a gamer? Is it the image of a young boy in his mom’s basement, no job, no girlfriend, and sore thumbs? If it is, then you may want to hear what Matt Ringel has to say.

The commissioner for the World Series of Video Games, Matt Ringel, is not a teenager addicted to soda, potato chips and video games. He’s 40 years old, has a job and a mission to bring the real image of a dedicated gamer to the public. There’s no better way to accomplish this than publicity - lots and lots of publicity.

In order to accomplish his mission, Ringel has devised a plan: Make the world of video games into a glamorous TV-friendly extravaganza with real professional gamers that make frequent appearances. His vessel is the World Series of Video Games. Think of American Idol mixed with Guitar Hero II and you’ll get an idea of what to expect. Before you write this off as a stunt to challenge stereotypes take a closer look at what this competition has to offer.

With a variety of games that includes World of Warcraft and Counterstrike 1.6, the WSVG offers thousands of dollars in cash prizes and brings together professional gamers from as far away as Sweden. In 2006, its first year, the WSVG boasted surprising statistics: 90,000 attendees, 250 hours of broadband video and 20 hours of CBS-fueled national coverage.

So, the image of the slacking gamer is under attack, and with weapons like the WSVG and champions like Matt Ringel at the industry’s disposable, this is a battle I think they will win.

Think you have what it takes to beat the best? Go to the main site, find your game of choice and register for competition.  The July tournament just ended but, don’t worry, the next event takes place in Los Angeles, CA, October 18-21, 2007.  So start practicing your Counterstrike skills because a $30,000 prize is just waiting for you to claim it.

Read [MSNBC] Site [WSVG]