LAN Maniacs, July 2, 2005

The details:
16438 Bellflower Blvd
Bellflower, CA 90706
(562) 867-0353
20+ spots, $10 LAN fee
T1 internet access, at least one game server on site
Pre-registering for the LAN recommended. Click here for signup.

It's small and cozy, for a LAN party. Housed in the back of the QXS PC Cafe, it's a space almost like a two car tandem garage. In the summer it's nearly unbearable, and in the winter, it'd be totally as warm as one would like it to be. Yeah, the air flow through the gaming area is almost non-existent, and it gets to quite toasty.

They have a gigabit switch, although it appears that a few ports are failing--due to constant plug and unplug operation. There's a couple of MacGyver style servers, desperately in need of a rebuild and spare parts--trying to have the server host a BF2 game was an issue of overheating and stability.

The atmosphere is almost as heavy as the air flow--the camo netting hanging from the ceiling, the gaming posters and items stuck to the walls, and the bare concrete floors lend character to an already dark gaming location.

The largest difference between LAN Maniac and other LANs is the crowd. Typically younger than HatLAN in Buena Park, or LANGO in Burbank. You'll find loud music, loud trash talk, and loud speakers, period. If you prefer a more sedate gaming atmosphere, there's always the PC Cafe up front, or another LAN.


The dinner plans are at least thought out in advance. The Carne Asada that was BBQ'd later that evening was great!


Now, personal view of this LAN:
Technical layout - the swtiches need to be replaced. If they want to protect the new switch from the problems that the current one is having, then put LAN cabling in place. The power is sufficient and the internet access is good--figures that the T1 comes in handy. = 80%

The table layout - it's as good as it's going to get. I didn't see the other rooms, but the room is long and fits everyone just enough. Solid brick walls makes a great sound barrier. Air flow nearly sucks though, as there's no place to truly vent out the heat created by all the peeps and 'puters. = 80%

The location - Bellflower isn't the best city to frequent. The crime in the area is probably on par with other cities like Pomona, Compton, Long Beach and parts of Los Angeles; it doesn't hurt that the police station is down the street, and the Verizon central office is within spitting distance of the QXS building. = 65%

Agenda or not? Well, it was BF2 nearly all night. Until a few games of UT2004 and Quake 3 Arena. Not bad. A few LANs actually have agendas, but this LAN didn't need one. BF2 was the latest flavor of the day! = 90%

The host and gamers that attended - this group sticks together; the LM forums have daily comments. Unlike quite a few other local LAN parties, at least there's some sort of group input. = 90%

Overall rating = 81%. If this were a test, it'd be a B. Other Pix taken for the July 2nd LM LAN.

If you're in the area, and they're hosting one that weekend, check out LAN Maniacs.