Introducing the Team Capturing the Heart of the American Fighting Game Scene: Bars, Pizza Parlors, and Hidden Gems

For many years, video games have been all about social interaction for countless enthusiasts. This sense of camaraderie dates back to the arcade days, before home consoles and high-tech gaming PCs meant gamers could enjoy their favorite titles within the comfort of their homes. While these social hubs are still around in places like LAN parties, gaming cafes, and tournaments, they’ve lost some of their magic and significance for many people. Remember when you’d bump into Greg while playing Counter Strike Source or Street Fighter 2 downtown? Nowadays, Greg’s face is just an anime avatar on Discord. Times have certainly evolved.

Yet, there are still those who seek real-life social interaction through gaming. A handful of passionate players believe that gaming is more rewarding when shared with someone close by, whether that’s within walking distance or a short drive away. Although these cherished digital meeting grounds are slowly disappearing, a dedicated group is determined to capture their essence with a grassroots video series focusing on fighting game tournaments: Locals Unknown. Their initial destination? A college town pizza parlor’s humble basement.

I’m thrilled about this project, which led me to a chat with two key contributors. Victeemo, a seasoned fighting game player, and Siam, who owns the esports team Kanme Esports, led the charge. Alongside Tekken player and King aficionado Sol Naciente, they’ve taken it upon themselves to spotlight local gaming scenes during their travels. It’s classic YouTube content—a blend of old-school vlogging with a touch of TV-style travel documentary.

This initiative began when Victeemo joined Kanme as a player. He and Siam believed that creating something beyond just representing at events would add value to their brand presence.

Siam explained, “When chatting with Victeemo, we realized how passionate we both were about our beginnings in the local fighting game community. Local venues are crucial—they’re launching pads for those keen on the games, found in all sorts of unique spots.”

Victeemo added, “After the Tekken World Tour’s first season, I was searching for sponsors and came across Kanme. It was amusing—we both stumbled upon the idea for Locals Unknown together. After brainstorming, Siam suggested, ‘Why not send you to local venues and have you document them?’ I loved the concept and wanted to dive into it.”

“Competition has always been my main focus since Tekken 7, but community comes a close second. I’m thrilled to be part of this, especially since it’s garnering attention.”

Despite not having prior experience with a video camera, Victeemo is now documenting local events, supported by Siam and Sol_Naciente, who handle editing back home. There’s no corporate backing here, just a shared love for the community and a determined spirit.

Both individuals shared much in common, as you’d guess, including a sense of loss familiar to many in the fighting game scene. The local places they grew in, improved at, and forged friendships, like the renowned Xanadu Games in Maryland, have closed their doors. They both attended its final event in December 2024.

Victeemo recalls, “Our local, Xanadu, was nestled in a tiny building near Baltimore. When Tekken released, we’d pack 50 folks into monthly events where breathing was a struggle (laughs). It drove my competitive spirit and deepened my love for the community aspect.”

Siam shared, “Many venues have started shutting down. Even recently, a place we frequented, Xanadu Games, closed. We were present at its last event. Witnessing that prompted us to spotlight venues that still thrive.”

This experience sparked the series, although it extends beyond just Xanadu. Local scenes for titles like Street Fighter and Tekken are dwindling, replaced by infrequent large events or nothing at all. For Siam and Victeemo, it’s a tough era for local fighting game gatherings.

Siam observes, “Local scenes face a challenging period. Post-2020, with online options more convenient, venues have dwindled. Many have closed, lacking previous foot traffic. We’re definitely seeing a decline.”

Victeemo adds, “With many locals closing, it’s vital to highlight those striving to create community spaces, foster friendships, and nurture relationships, compared to the digital landscape now.”

So, why invest in this project? Why a video series and an article spotlighting these locations? For Siam and Victeemo, it’s about honoring the spaces that paved their paths and showcasing cherished environments.

Victeemo shares, “I’ve been with my partner for seven years now because we met through the fighting game community at Xanadu. I’ve forged lifelong bonds there—connections I hold dear.”

Siam adds, “It’s about giving back. Players should share their origins. It’s a story grounded in reality. As some players rise to fame, they’re idolized. But it’s vital to remind folks: ‘I’m a player too, starting just like you did.’ It all goes back to that local scene.”

“I aim to depict the human aspect, beyond the building and the games. It’s about the people who come together to build a vibrant community.”

You can catch the first episode of Locals Unknown on the Kanme channel, and there’s more in the pipeline. If you appreciate what they’re doing, show your support. It’s crucial to celebrate and preserve these facets of the broader gaming culture before they fade away.