The Bored Bard Gaming Club, a collaboration between Michigan State University Extension 4-H and Bored Bard Games of Iron Mountain, launched Sept. 30. The free non-screen gaming club is open to ages 12 to 19.

“I knew we had youth in the community that had interests outside of livestock and agriculture, and I want our local 4-H program to provide opportunities for all,” MSU Extension 4-H Program Coordinator Jessica Ice said.

Ice introduced the idea to Bored Bard Games owner Erik Wilson, who was excited to share something he’s passionate about with the kids.

One of the main objectives of 4-H programming is to create a safe space for youth to develop their hobbies while improving character skills, said Ice, adding its definition has expanded over the years to include many different avenues of education that can produce positive youth development.

BORED BARD GAMES store owner Erik Wilson shows off a display of games on the demo shelf. He also encourages visitors to bring their own favorite non-screen games. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

The club provides both education and entertainment components, while also giving gamers a chance to meet like-minded peers.

Area youth are invited to come and learn strategic board, card and dice games, such as Dungeons & Dragons, Pokemon, Lorcana, Magic the Gathering and more.

Wilson explained when people hear talk of “board games” they think of classics such as “Monopoly,” “Scrabble” and “Clue.”

However, the games played here are more in-depth. “A little bit cooler,” he said, though he added the classics are still welcomed.

These types of non-electronic games help develop cognitive reasoning and problem-solving skills.

“I’m already seeing them using a lot of math skills,” Wilson said.

Ice stressed to parents there is value in gaming. “Taking part in the club can help build confidence and communication skills, as it requires face-to-face interactions,” she said.

Wilson added they gain a sense of camaraderie and learn sportsmanship and leadership skills.

“This club will actually steer your children away from a screen and provide a real-world alternative that will give them the same sense of enjoyment,” Ice said.

Young participants can make their own selections each week from the store’s demo shelf or bring their own games.

In fact, Wilson encouraged anyone who is really into a specific game bring it so others can learn it as well.

“This is their club, so it’s what they want to play,” he said.

Wilson noted they are working on growing the inventory on the shelf.

The kids can bring their own gaming cards as well, such as Pokemon, to trade.

The gaming club currently has three members but hopes to expand on that in the near future as word gets out.

They meet from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. every Monday at the business, 224 E. Hughitt St. in Iron Mountain.

Members encourage others to join in the gaming night. Players do not have to be experienced — this is for anyone, Wilson said.

“I think it’s a lot of fun,” said member Knox Shilton, a seventh-grade student at Kingsford Middle School.

“It’s fun and a great way to meet new friends,” added classmate Oliver Polkinghorne.

Kingsford Middle School eighth grader Henrick Wedge said he had already been taking part in game nights at Bored Bard Games with his family, so was excited about this new opportunity.

All three agreed their favorite game so far has been Exploding Kittens.

They have also been introduced to several new games.

“There are so many cool and neat games to get into,” Wilson said.

“I really like Goru, that is something I learned to play here,” said Polkinghorne, who is a collector of games himself, owning 12 different versions of Uno.

Knox said he finds a lot of his new games while on trips.

One game they are anxious to play is Dungeons & Dragons.

As membership grows, it will give the kids a chance to play games like D&D that require more participants, Wilson said.

“I can’t wait until we get that going,” Wedge said.

The game has become more popular in recent years, Wilson said, adding they host a regular community D&D night at the store.

Parents or guardians don’t have to stay for the two-hour program; however, they are welcome to if they wish.

“The kids have been great — this has been a joy getting this going,” Wilson said. “I’m looking forward to seeing it gain membership.”

Those interested in attending a session or joining Bored Bard Gaming Club can contact Jessica Ice at 906-302-3253 or coronjes@msu.edu. They also hope to host an open house in the near future.

Bored Bard Games is open from 1 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.