In today’s hyperconnected world, where digital interactions often replace genuine human contact, this local initiative is rewriting the script on what meaningful connection looks like. “Reston Plays Games” has evolved into far more than just a weekly meet-up; it has become a beacon of community-building and inclusion.
What began in 2020 as a modest gathering at RCC Hunters Woods has blossomed into a thriving ecosystem of gamers, strategists and storytellers. Every Wednesday evening, the center pulses with energy as people of all ages and backgrounds come together to engage in the dynamic world of modern tabletop gaming. And let’s be clear, this isn’t your grandmother’s Monopoly night.
Today’s tabletop games span complex strategy, cooperative challenges, deck-building adventures and narrative-driven experiences. Walk into RCC on a Wednesday night and you’ll find lively conversations, focused concentration, bursts of laughter and a tangible spirit of camaraderie. What makes this community special isn’t just the games; it’s the culture of intentional inclusion.
Bill Parker, one of the group’s key organizers, puts it simply: “I love sharing my excitement for games like 7 Wonders and Sushi Go Party! with newcomers and helping them find the right game to get started. If someone wants to watch before jumping in, that’s completely fine too. It’s about making people feel comfortable.”
The numbers speak for themselves. A recent Wednesday night saw a record-breaking 83 participants, underscoring a growing desire for real-world connection in an increasingly virtual age; and “Reston Plays Games” is only gaining momentum.
On Saturday, June 7, the group will level up with “Reston Plays Games: Play All Day,” its most ambitious event yet, celebrating International Tabletop Day. From 9:00 a.m. to midnight, RCC Hunters Woods will transform into a playground for tabletop enthusiasts with community-designed games, immersive role-playing sessions, feature events like Blood on the Clocktower and exciting giveaways. Whether you drop by for a quick session or immerse yourself in a full day of gaming, you’ll walk away with something that matters – new relationships, fresh ideas and a renewed sense of belonging.
In September, “Reston Plays Games” will launch a new Sunday series designed specifically for families. By making space for younger players and intergenerational fun, the group is actively shaping the future of tabletop gaming and ensuring its continued growth.
At its core, “Reston Plays Games” is not just about entertainment. It offers a powerful case study on how shared passions can drive inclusion, foster innovation and build resilient, engaged communities. In a time when many wonder how to rebuild connection and community, this group offers a compelling answer: pull up a chair, roll the dice and let the games begin.
Learn more about Reston Plays Games here.
