PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia Parks and Recreation is adding a new layer of recreation aimed at helping kids learn a whole new industry that's right at their fingertips.
The Christy Recreation Center in West Philly is giving kids a chance to play more than basketball and baseball.
Their new gaming room has plenty of game systems including X-Box 1, PlayStation 4 and even a Nintendo Switch.
"I like to call [it] a little lab, where some of these mad scientists can really explore the world of esports and get a feel for what this industry has to offer," said Quan King, the recreation leader at the Christy Rec Center.
He said the gaming lab is meant to be more than just a place where kids can play video games. It's designed to help immerse them in the e-gaming industry.
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"The different levels of competition, how to compete fairly, some of the ethics that are involved in e-sports gaming and really just the larger scope of it," he added.
King believes this form of recreation is something that really speaks to the younger generations, and will encourage them to interact in a positive way.
"Recreation is becoming more and more a vehicle for socialization," he said. "You're seeing this as an opportunity for kids to come together and socialize and interact with their friends."
In addition to new gaming systems, the gaming lab has special headsets and seats for the gamers to use.
Officials say they are working with other rec leaders who would like a gaming lab, and in the interim they have mobile gaming setups that can be used in rec centers across the city.
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