Insomnia gaming gala takes INEC by storm

ANYONE that doubts the popularity of video gaming in Ireland need only have taken a brief glimpse into the INEC in Killarney over the weekend to see just how in vogue the medium has now become.

Thousands of gamers – of all ages and from across Ireland and the UK – descended on the INEC for the three day Insomnia Gaming festival, the first such event to ever take place in Ireland.

The massive INEC venue was entirely taken up by the electrifying high tech event, which attracted around 5,000 visitors between Friday to Sunday.

Among the many attractions – all divided into various zones – Gamers were able to bring their own computers and engage in mass battles on a huge shared network; watch some of YouTube’s most popular gaming broadcasters on the main stage; browse a major retail exhibition.

There were also a range of tournaments and competitions where gamers tested each others mettle on the like of soccer sim FIFA 16.

Many readers may assume video gaming is the sole preserve of young boys and teenagers but the age profile of the attendees and the large number of girls and women at the event quickly put paid to that particular misconception.

Insomnia’s organisers Multiplay Events said their first Irish event had been an “Epic success” and they are already planning a return visit to Ireland and most likely Killarney next year.