Ümloud 2011 – Rockband Night for Charity

On Thursday December 8th San Francisco’s DNA Lounge was abuzz with the sound of [rock] music. Gamers and Industry professionals came from all over to participate in Ümlouds 3rd annual non-profit gaming fundraiser for Child’s Play.

Childs Play is a game industry charity dedicated to improving the lives of children with toys and games in over 70 hospitals across the world. It works by hospital staff creating Amazon wish lists for children, donors are then able to buy and send gifts.

The night saw 28 bands showing off their rock talents by singing and playing Rock Band 3. There was also a headliner act called Destructo Pwnies. Another performer called BackBone; who made an appearance last year, returned to play Rush Witch Hunt (Part III of Fear).

The band turnout this year was immense and the majority were dressed up. From Minecraft to Plants vs Zombies to Harry Potter. According to ‘Uncle’ Ed (Ümloud CFO) the event has gone from strength to strength over the past 3 years in terms of numbers and with only a handful of bands dressing up on the first show, it really added to the night this year.

What game industry event would be complete without SWAG? For the first 400 guests, each received a Rock Band keyboard. There was a silent auction, raffle draw and even an eBay auction all to help with raising money for the cause. Mad Catz were the premier sponsor, providing the swag and production equipment, ensuring that all the money made on the night would be given to ChildsPlay.

There was a live Ustream feed on the night where you can rewatch and catch up on all the acts and goings on from the night.

Also feel free to go and donate to the cause at Ümloud or even Childs Play directly.