An estimated crowd of over 4,000 people attended the Gigazone Gaming Championship last Saturday.
According to a release, Hunter Branson of Duluth (featured photo) won the 4th Annual Championship and the top prize of $500. Elsa Overland of Grand Rapids was second with a $400 cash prize.

Hannah Sether of Bemidji took first place in the cosplay contest
Sixty-four players from northern Minnesota competed in the Super Smash Bros. tournament as well.
“It has been incredible to see the attendance! There is a large gaming community in our area and the GigaZone Gaming Championship not only showcases some of the region’s best gamers but it gives everyone a chance to get in on the action! It was awesome to see so many people from right here and all over come together!” said Gary Johnson, Paul Bunyan Communications CEO/General Manager
The event featured free gaming, numerous tournaments, virtual reality and door prizes.
“This event has garnered national attention. There is no other gaming event like it anywhere I’ve seen. It’s unique to our area and we are very proud of our team for making it happen. We’re already looking forward to next year!” added Brian Bissonette, Paul Bunyan Communications Marketing Supervisor.

Super Smash Bros. tournament winners include Tannin Farris (right) and Cameron Smith in second (left), both of Bemidji.
This Paul Bunyan Communications event includes the talents of many local partners including NLFX, Accidently Cool Games, Northern Amusement, the Sanford Center as well support from several regional and national partners.