Detail

The “117th Assault Battalion”, a local gaming community founded in October 2024 by 23-year-old Xu Fangxi, brings together over 200 members of different ages to foster offline interaction beyond online gaming. Unlike mainstream gaming communities that impose strict cosplay standards, the group prioritises members’ commitment and sincerity over costume quality. Xu, an SP Diploma in Mechanical Engineering alumnus awaiting admission to the SIT, uses his home workshop and 3D printers to help members craft armour and props. He also modifies game weapons like the AR-23 Liberator, combining 3D modelling and printing to improve realism. The community demonstrates how hobbies, learning, and creativity can intersect to build skills and camaraderie beyond digital play.

[Lianhe Zaobao]