FAQ
Additional information presented in a Frequently Asked Questions format.
What is a BYOC LAN Party?
A video gaming party where participants Bring Your Own Computer (BYOC) equipment. Historically reserved for computers, modern LAN parties may also be gaming console based as well. Typical events include social interaction, lots of gaming, contests, and prizes.
How much does it cost to attend?
Online registrations cost $10 for members of the guild and $15 for non-members. Any open seats on the day of the event cost $15 for members of the guild and $20 for non-members. Guests, spectators, and chaperones may enter the event for free. Space is limited, unregistered attendees may be turned away if we reach safety capacity.
How do I register for the BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer) Party?
If registration is open you can click the big "Register" button on the left to reserve a seat. If you missed the cutoff, or all seats were pre-registered, you can come to event and see if extra seats are open.
I registered online but it shows my status as pending, why?
Your registration (and seat reservation) for the event is confirmed only when payment is received. This is done manually and may take up to 48 hours. Online registrations may be voided if your payment has not been received within five (5) business days of your registration date or prior to the start of the event.
What equipment should I bring?
Please refer to the What to Bring page for a complete list of required, suggested, and prohibited equipment.
What if I can't bring my computer?
We are offering five rental PC's that are available on a first come first serve basis. They are $20 to rent in addition to the entry fee due at the door. The games will be pre-installed and up to date but you will need to have your own registered user login.
To request a rental computer please email us at: info@nwrlguild.org
Do you have a long ethernet (network) cable I can use?
We have a limited supply of ethernet (network) cables available for rent. They are $10 to rent - $8 of the rental is returned when you turn in the cable at the end of the event.
How many outlets can I use? / How much power can I use?
Due to equipment capacity planning we limit each attendee to two (2) provided power outlets - no personal splitters, power strips, or battery backup (UPS) units may be used. Each attendee is allotted a 2.5amp max power draw - this is sufficient for most computer systems plus their monitor.
How fast is the internet going to be?
Fast enough to handle our game traffic. We ask that you limit the use of streaming services (music and video), don’t run any large downloads, and refrain from other internet-intensive activities. We will have internet content filtering active on the connection and may enable bandwidth throttling. Limited WiFi will be available for portable electronics, but all BYOC gamers must use wired network connections.
Why can't I use WiFi? What about guests?
WiFi is not fast or reliable enough for a LAN gaming event with the number of computers we will have on our network. Limited WiFi will be available for mobile devices and guests/chaperones to use; however, we still ask that you limit the use of streaming services (music and video), don’t run any large downloads, and refrain from other internet-intensive activities.
What will my seat/table be like?
Tables are standard 6ft x 2ft folding tables and each player has half of the table to themselves, including the floor beneath. Each space has a standard, padded folding chair provided - you are welcome to bring your own more comfortable chair as long as it isn't wider than your half of the table. Shared power strips will be located at your seat or immediately adjacent. Network connections will be no more than 20ft from your seat. Bench seating is available for guests and chaperones.
Will there be food?
We have a well stocked concession area providing you with the essential LAN party energy. There is generally a selection of snacks, candy, and soda as well as a meal served around 6pm. We ask that you help support this, and future LAN parties, by refraining from bringing in outside food/beverage - just a request, not a rule.
Are there age requirements?
We don't have an age minimum for attendance but be aware that the environment may be that of a typical PG-13 movie experience. We do require chaperones for our non-adult gamers.
- Gamers age 17 and Younger: Must be accompanied by a Parent/Guardian or appointed Chaperone and MUST have a parent signed waiver.
- Gamers age 18 and older: MUST have a signed waiver.
Can I make multiple reservations?
If you wish to register another seat you may do so; however, since we have limited seating we ask that if you are registering a second seat that you are doing so for another gamer, not to get yourself more room/outlets/computers.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept Credit Card (PayPal), check, or cash. Registrations will be cancelled if payment is not received in 5 business days from the registration date or prior to the beginning of the event. We send a confirmation message once payments have been received and verified.
What is the Refund Policy?
In general, refunds will not be issued. Online registration is refundable up to 3 days prior to the event date; however a $2 processing fee is retained and any early registration incentives are also forfeit. Special exceptions and alternative arrangements may be available by contacting us directly.
I have more questions, how can I ask them?
Please email us at info@nwrlguild.com