Tyler Reis-Sanford, Claire Donnan, Siobhan Rollo, Ben Seabrook
Gaming is one of the fastest growing hobbies world wide, and Ottawa has a number of events for gamers to show off their skills in person. If you’re looking for a little friendly competition, to pick up a new hobby, or just to hang out with like minded gamers and “touch grass”, here are 5 events in Ottawa just for you!
- Perfect Storm 2025
Taking place from Feb. 15-16, this fighting game tournament boasts all the typical games like Street Fighter and Tekken, along with some potential side events. This event will be held at the Marriott Hotel, and offers a 500 dollar prize pot bonus for all main games. Early bird and regular tickets are gone, but late entries may still be accepted!
- Capital City Clash
Capital City Clash is a monthly esports event that brings together fighting game fans. This event is a collaboration between Downtown Rumble, Algonquin esports team, Battle City, and Mortal Battle. This tournament series happens once a month on Algonquin College campus. The registry fee is $10, and a prize pot is offered.
- League of Legends at Click Esports
League of Legends is the biggest name in esports, boasting the highest prize pool and viewership numbers in 2025. Click eSports hosts a monthly LAN party for players to join in house games on Summoner’s Rift, but other game modes are played as well. The event is suggested for players ranked gold to emerald, but all skill levels are welcome. The event organizers also have a discord, and the cost is $15 at the door, or free for spectators. The next event is March 9th, 2025.
- CU Esports awards
Carleton University is hosting an e-sports award ceremony on Sunday, March 16 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Les Lye Studio Theatre. This will be their second annual e-sports award show for Carleton University and other post-secondary schools in the city. Refunds will be accepted until seven days before the event, which is open to people of all ages.
- Downtown Rumble
Downtown Rumble is a group based in Ottawa, dedicated to mixed fighting game players. The group meets regularly at Level One Pub in downtown Ottawa for comradery and skill building. Occasional tournaments are hosted, and this group can act as a hub for connections to other esports events.
