What is GAPS?
GAPS (which stands for the Gaming Association of Penn State) is a Penn State student organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the gaming community at Penn State University and the State College area. We provide resources and equipment for the play of board games, card games, miniatures games, role-playing games, video games, and more. We also serve as a contact point for gamers to connect with one another.
Do you have an office?
Yes, our office is located in the HUB, room 319. We currently hold office hours on Thursdays from 5PM to 7PM.
When do you meet?
During the regular fall and spring semesters, our weekly meetings occur on Friday nights on the first floor of the HUB from 9:30PM to 1:30AM, and on Saturdays from 4PM to midnight (or later) in Waring Commons (West Halls).
During the summer and other breaks we usually meet on Saturdays from 4PM to midnight in the Hammond Building, room 217.
What happens at your meetings?
We play games! We have a large selection of board and card games that we bring for anyone to come and play. Members can bring their own games as well and get a group to play with them. We also often have members bring their miniatures and play battles during our gaming events.
How can I become a member?
Just come to 3 of our meeting or events and you'll be considered a member. Also, you can simply join our listserv to become a member!
We also sell Member discount cards for $5. These cards are not required for membership! However they are great to have as they get you discount at our sponsors: Nittany Line Hobbies, Comic Swap, Webster's Bookstore Cafe, What-a-Blast Extreme Laser Tag Arena, and the Philly Pretzel Factory.
How do I join the GAPS listserv?
You can join our mailing list by sending an email to games@psu.edu or the President, Fil, and asking to be added.
The listserv is a great resource for getting in touch with other players for various games (like RPG groups) and for simply staying updated with club events.
Can I post anything to the GAPS listserv?
Normally, as long as its game-related, yes (with some exceptions). Ads for selling games, gaming supplies, equipment, etc are not allowed (unless its selling off your own personal collection), as we do have official business sponsors. Spamming the listserv with conversations should be advoided, as we do have a forum for that type of thing. And events for other organizations should be cleared with our officers first before being posted. If you are looking to post to the listserv looking for people to play a game, go for it! Thats one of the primary reasons we have it!
Can I borrow one of your games or equipment for my organization's event or my own personal use?
Yes, most of our equipment and games can be freely lent out. Games are usually lent out on a weekly basis, being required to be returned on our next open gaming day.
I see a game on your game list I'd like to play, but you don't have it at your gaming events. How can I play it?
Due to the size of our collection, not every game can be brought to our gaming events. A great deal of our collection is kept in storage with our faculty advisor. However, if you make a specific request beforehand, we will be able to retrieve it and bring it for you.
Where can I find out more about your club's organization, rules, and procedures?
Check out our Constitution. It is available for download here.
What if I have more questions?
Just ust email games@psu.edu or simply come to a gaming event and ask!