Computer game enthusiasts will get an opportunity to test their tactical skills playing the popular online counter-terrorism game Counterstrike at a tournament hosted by the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Interplay Taranaki on Thursday 10 July.

One of the hottest international cult video games, Counterstrike is an on-line team based game that pits terrorist against counter-terrorist on a range of virtual terrains.

The game’s installation on eleven computers in a modern day video arcade in the Gallery is part of Arcadia: the other life of video games, an exhibition that explores the impact of computer games on visual arts and contemporary culture.

The creators of the work, Danish artist collective Superflex, use Counterstrike and the concept of the internet café for both art and political ends, said Gallery Director Greg Burke.

“The work looks at the environment where the game is being played, rather than the game itself. Instead of gaming advertisements adorning the walls, the gamers are confronted with political messages presented in signage and through videos relating to how teamwork can produce effective results,” said Mr Burke.

Interplay Taranaki manager and tournament organiser, Eddie Sanderson said entrants will be in teams of two and play at scheduled times according to a draw beginning at 10.30am.

“There will be up to 32 people involved, the 16 teams playing head to head. The tournament will progress down to one team playing against the other as players are either knocked out or progress unbeaten through to the final to win a prize,” said Mr Sanderson. 

The Counterstrike Tournament will be held Thursday 10 July, 2003 from 10.30am.

ENDS
For further information contact:
Eddie Sanderson, Manager, Interplay Taranaki -  06 758 1918
Antony Rhodes, Manager Marketing and Audience Development  - 06 759 0852