Video games and school activities don’t always appear as a match, but sometimes they can be used as a helpful bonding tool for students. An example would be the Super Smash Bros. club, which is held after school on Fridays. The club is a place for students to play the video game Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, a fighting game produced and published by Nintendo. The club was recently revived by senior Brandon Bravo after a year-long absence. Following a long day of classes, students have the opportunity to kick back and battle against fellow club members. The club promotes a relaxed yet competitive environment, and no previous experience in Super Smash Bros. is required to join.

The Super Smash Brothers series has been a staple in the fighting games genre since 1999 when the original version was released. The game revolves around characters from various video game franchises battling on a variety of stages, with the goal being to knock all of the other players off the stage and be the last one standing. Up to eight players can compete against each other at once, providing a sort of controlled chaos for competitors.

Players have access to a variety of techniques, such as charged “smash” attacks and midair dodges, to attempt to outplay their opponents and achieve victory. However, there are no difficult techniques or moves required to succeed in the game.

“The thing I love the most about [Super Smash Bros.] is that you can gather people who really aren’t into video games and still have a fun time,” club leader Brandon Bravo said. “Everyone has a chance at victory when so many people are fighting at once.”

The original game was followed by the immensely popular sequels Super Smash Bros. Melee, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, all of which promote similar play styles but include additional fighters and mechanics. A highly anticipated fifth installment to the series, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, is set to release this December.

Dozens take part in the club meetings, and attendance numbers are going up at each session. The atmosphere encourages players to laugh and have fun while also improving their skills at the game.

“I had a blast when I was at the club,” junior Cole Weinstein, who attended the club for the first time in November, said. “I really enjoyed meeting and playing with a new group of people. It revealed a bit about me and my skills in the game that I didn’t know I had.”