"We've created something truly meaningful that celebrates the medium of video games and brings people together in a world that couldn't be further apart"

In 2025, Guy Blomberg and Shay Leighton founded The Game Club, a community network inspired by traditional book clubs. Members play the same game each month and meet in small groups to discuss their experiences.

In its first year, The Game Club connected over 1,000 gamers across six countries. A recent survey of its members found that 88% made new friends and 78% felt less lonely.

"I feel we've created something truly meaningful that not only celebrates the medium of video games, but brings people together in a world that couldn't be further apart, and I'm incredibly grateful for that," Blomberg tells GamesIndustry.biz.

"The first year has really been the beta phase to iron out the bugs and see what works and what doesn't, which has been super gratifying."

The Game Club selects "overlooked classics," which Blomberg describes as well-received games that did not receive enough attention. Members join a Clubhouse, gatherings of up to ten people who discuss the game and connect either in person or online.

Clubhouses are organized by filters such as age, accessibility, proximity, and time zone. Members can start their own Clubhouses if existing options do not meet their needs.

The Game Club provides hosts with tools, resources, and training to run these groups, and can assist with finding a location for in-person gatherings.

"Everyone gets a code for the same game every month – it's what makes it such a fascinating community," says Blomberg.

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