Linn Benton Legends

Many would argue “League of Legends” is the most popular video game on the planet right now. Its deftness at blending the addictive qualities of “World of Warcraft” with the tactical decision making of a real-time strategy game, has resulted in a loyal following of 67 million devoted players monthly.

 So, it’s no wonder LBCC’s very own club dedicated to the game, Linn-Benton Legends, has achieved a member base of over 50 players.

 Started winter term of 2015, Linn-Benton Legends has provided an excellent platform for fans of Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBAs) to connect in the most meaningful way possible, by repeatedly destroying one another in a virtual environment. The current presidents of the club are Noah Schuetze and Nicholas Pugliese, who both have gaming roots stretching back to the late '90s.

 “My earliest gaming memories are of playing ‘Pokémon Yellow’ on my Gameboy Color,” said Schuetze. “I even managed to get myself stuck on the second gym leader and had to ask my dad to beat her for me.”

Together, Schuetze and Pugliese have over six years’ experience with “League of Legends,” with Schuetze picking up the game in November 2011. Since then, “League of Legends” has only grown in popularity, to the point it was officially recognized as a legitimate sport by the U.S. Government in July 2013. This classification allowed foreign professionals of the game to obtain work visas easier.

 “I think the reason for 'League of Legends' popularity is its hidden diversity and sheer complexity,” said Schuetze. “It appeals to so many different gamers at once without really sacrificing the quality of the game itself.”

 Although “League of Legends” is known for its addicting gameplay and incredible depth, it also has the less desirable reputation of having one of the most unwelcoming and brutal player communities in all of gaming. Linn-Benton Legends does not condone any trash talk, but for new players trying the game for the first time, Schuetze recommends that you, “Turn off all chat in the setting menu. It will make life easier,” while Pugliese warns, “'League' is a competitive game at heart. Don't let losing go to your head.”

 Linn-Benton Legends has taken on an online-centric approach to its membership this term, completely abandoning the scheduled meeting time of 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursdays in McKenzie Hall.

 “We have so many members, but only two-five people actually show up to the on campus things,” said Schuetze. ” People may be on and playing from 3-5 p.m., but we aren't on campus anymore, this term anyway.”

 Both presidents are still enthusiastic about attracting new members to Linn-Benton Legends, and recommend that anyone interested in joining sign up on the club’s Facebook page.

 “People should join our club because talking to other people with a common interest can lead to interesting conversations, and even friendships,” said Pugliese. “I talk to friends I’ve made in the club all the time, even about things other than ‘League.'”

At a Glance:

Linn Benton Legends

Presidents: Noah Schuetze, Nicholas Pugliese

Contact info: linnbentonlegends@gmail.com