In one building, I can attend English class, print posters, study, see the night sky via massive telescopes or planetariums, perform in improv shows, and now, thanks to The Digital Studies Institute, play Mario Kart. Let’s-A-Go!
Housed within the DSI lab, Mario Gaming Nights invite students to play on Nintendo Switch consoles (including a Nintendo Switch 2), and enjoy free pizza, snacks, and drinks. On April 9, 2026, my friends and I had just finished our Spanish 467 class in Mason Hall; from there, the only logical next move was to walk downstairs to play Mario Kart and celebrate the approaching end of the semester.
The DSI lab space was decked out with four Nintendo Switch consoles, each paired with grand TV screens. Game options included Mario Kart, Mario Party, and Super Smash Bros. Passionate players and first-timers alike logged on to the competitive atmosphere.
During the chaos of finals with exams and papers galore, it was so nice to set my student persona aside and don the digital skin of Princess Daisy on her orange, tried-and-true Standard Bike. For eight races, the only thing I had to worry about was swerving around bananas, avoiding green shells, and desperately attempting to leave my very competitive friends in the dust.
Even if you don’t technically win the Mario Kart race or successfully destroy your opponents in Super Smash Bros, attending Mario Gaming Night is a win-win situation. Great games, great food, and great vibes. What more could a broke college student ask for?
Be sure to check our calendar to stay updated on future Mario Gaming Nights! Whether you’re a Nintendo fanatic or have no idea what a blue shell is, I’d highly recommend going. The only thing to lose is your pride.
