About us
Second City Gaming (SCG) is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit using gaming to build community, create connection, expand access to technology, and make a real difference in people's lives.
This city has always belonged to the underdogs—the hustlers, the artists, the dreamers, and the misfits. We channel that energy to build something powerful: a community where marginalized people can come together through play, find safety in connection, and unlock new paths through technology and joy.
We're not just gamers. We're builders of safe spaces, breakers of barriers, and believers in the power of fun to fuel real change.
Throughout Chicago, SCG produces gaming events, tournaments, tabletop gatherings, retro gaming nights, community activations, convention experiences, and our flagship Press Start events. Whether you've been gaming your entire life or haven't picked up a controller in years, there's a place for you here. Come alone, bring your crew, learn something new, or just grab a controller and play.
But gaming is only the beginning.
Through Project Save Point, we provide direct financial assistance to community members facing unexpected hardships. Project Bridge the Digital Divide works to put computers, connectivity, and digital literacy resources into the hands of people who might otherwise be left behind. Our youth-focused STEM programming introduces young people to coding, game design, technology, and the enormous ecosystem of careers surrounding the gaming industry.
We're an all-volunteer organization, and the money we raise goes directly back into building programs, producing accessible community experiences, and supporting the people we serve.
At Second City Gaming, gaming is the vehicle. Community is the destination.
Come play with us.
Want to keep the fun going?
Follow Second City Gaming to stay up to date on upcoming events, community gatherings, free opportunities, and ways to get involved.
Website: secondcitygaming.gg
Instagram: @secondcitygaminginc
Facebook: Second City Gaming
Discord: Join the Second City Gaming Discord
Upcoming events
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Press Start with Second City Gaming and Friends!
The Insect Asylum, 2870 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, USA, Chicago, IL, US## FEATURED ON NBC CHICAGO WITH MATT RODRIGUES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zU60k9_zDm4
MUST REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/121262260275
## Press Start with Second City Gaming and Friends
Join Second City Gaming and Friends for Press Start, a new event series centered on gaming, community, and the power of play.
We’ll have game consoles set up throughout the space, an open bar, and plenty of room to meet fellow gamers, creatives, and community builders. Whether you’re competitive, casual, or just curious, come hang out, play a few rounds, and connect with others who believe games can bring people together.Second City Gaming is building an inclusive gaming community in Chicago, using play as a way to foster connection and positive impact beyond the screen. As a creative hub for artists and storytellers, Kinowerks sees gaming as another powerful form of shared creativity and collaboration, making it a natural place to host the first Press Start.
Tickets
$15 Pre-Sale
$20 at the Door
Grab a drink, pick up a controller, and help us press start on something new.Stay Connected with Second City Gaming
Want to keep the fun going? Follow Second City Gaming to stay up to date on upcoming events, community gatherings, and opportunities to get involved.
Website: www.secondcitygaming.gg
Instagram: secondcitygaminginc
Facebook: secondcitygaming
Discord: www.discord.gg/secondcitygaminginc1 attendee
Retro Rewind with Second City Gaming
Revolution Brewing, 3340 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, Chicago, IL, USREGISTER FOR FREE HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/121262260275
Get ready to dive into classic gaming vibes and chill with Second City Gaming for a blast from the past!
Ready to dust off your favorite memories and relive the golden age of gaming?
Join Second City Gaming for Retro Rewind, an evening dedicated to one of the greatest gaming consoles ever created: the Nintendo 64. Whether you're looking to dominate Rainbow Road, settle old scores in Super Smash Bros., or revisit classic adventures, Retro Rewind is your chance to experience the games that defined a generation.
We'll have multiple Nintendo 64 consoles set up for free play throughout the event, giving attendees the opportunity to jump into a variety of classic titles, meet fellow gamers, and share stories from gaming's most iconic era.
What to Expect:
- Multiple Nintendo 64 consoles available for free play
- Classic multiplayer favorites including Mario Kart 64, Super Smash Bros., Mario Party, GoldenEye 007, and more
- A welcoming community of gamers and retro enthusiasts
- Opportunities to meet new friends and connect with fellow members of the Chicago gaming community
Whether you grew up with an N64 controller in your hands or you're experiencing these legendary games for the first time, Retro Rewind offers a fun, nostalgic, and community-focused experience for everyone.
Tickets support the mission of Second City Gaming, a Chicago-based nonprofit organization using gaming to fuel real change in our community through technology access, direct assistance programs, and youth development initiatives.
Grab your friends, pick your favorite character, and get ready to press start on a night of nostalgia.We can't wait to see you there.
Want to keep the fun going? Follow Second City Gaming to stay up to date on upcoming events,
community gatherings, and opportunities to get involved.Website: www.secondcitygaming.gg
Instagram: secondcitygaminginc
Facebook: secondcitygaming
Discord: www.discord.gg/secondcitygaminginc1 attendee
SCG's Annual Friendsgiving House Party
Location not specified yetREGISTER FOR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/121262260275
Good food. Great games. Even better company. Everyone has a seat at our table.
The holidays are better when we spend them together! This year, Second City Gaming is kicking off a new tradition with our First Annual Friendsgiving, and you're invited!
We know the holiday season can feel a little lonely, especially if you're far from family, new to Chicago, or simply looking for a place to belong. That's why we're bringing our gaming community together for an evening of delicious food, laughter, friendship, and, of course, video games!
This event is hosted exclusively at the home of Jonny and Candelario Saldana, we are excited to welcome you to the home of SCG's Founder!
Whether you've been part of SCG since day one or this is your very first event, you're welcome here. Come as you are, bring your appetite, and leave with some new friends!
## What's on the menu?
- A Thanksgiving Feast: Enjoy turkey, ham, and delicious holiday sides provided by HoneyBaked Ham and Second City Gaming.
- Gaming Galore: Jump into free-play gaming on PlayStation 5 Pro, Nintendo Switch 2, and a variety of tabletop and board games.
- Friends, Old & New: Meet fellow gamers, make new connections, and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
- Community & Connection: Celebrate the season with people who believe that everyone deserves a place to belong.
Want to keep the fun going? Follow Second City Gaming to stay up to date on upcoming events,
community gatherings, and opportunities to get involved.Website: www.secondcitygaming.gg
Instagram: secondcitygaminginc
Facebook: secondcitygaming
Discord: www.discord.gg/secondcitygaminginc1 attendee
Unplugged with Second City Gaming!
The Beer Temple, 3173 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, USA, Chicago, IL, USREGISTER FOR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/121262260275
Get ready to unplug and dive into a chill mix of board gaming, music, and creative vibes with Second City Gaming!
Join us for a chill afternoon of gaming and creativity. This in-person event brings together the best of board games, music, and art in a relaxed, unplugged vibe. Whether you're a gamer, artist, or just looking to hang out, this is the place to be. Don't miss out on the fun and good vibes!#### What to Expect
Tabletop & Board Games
A curated selection for all experience levels—whether you’re competitive or just looking to unwind.Community Connection
Meet gamers, creatives, and community builders who believe in the power of play to create real impact.Want to keep the fun going? Follow Second City Gaming to stay up to date on upcoming events,
community gatherings, and opportunities to get involved.Website: www.secondcitygaming.gg
Instagram: secondcitygaminginc
Facebook: secondcitygaming
Discord: www.discord.gg/secondcitygaminginc1 attendee
Past events
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