Part of Let’s Play: A Three-Part Series on Tabletop Gaming and Social Change

ADMISSION:
Admission is free. RSVP beginning Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10 a.m.

RSVP

In addition to registering, attendees should reserve their preferred game and time slot via SignUpGenius through the link provided on confirmation and reminder messages.

DESCRIPTION:
Come sample a variety of tabletop games that reconsider the possibilities of play as a catalyst for social change at this Game Tasting hosted by Doheny Library and the USC Game Innovation Lab. Join seasoned strategists, casual hobbyists, social gatherers, and curious newcomers to connect, compete, and enjoy play together.

Fifteen stations will feature modern classics such as The Settlers of Catan, Carcassonne, and Ticket to Ride, alongside newer favorites like Wingspan, One Night Ultimate Werewolf, and Monarch, which explores themes of gender, power, and colonization. Participate in guided play sessions and casual matches, or visit the open-play zone where student-designed and prototype games will make their public debut. Players of all experience levels are welcome.

This event is part of Let’s Play, a three-part series exploring how tabletop games can inspire social change. Related events include a panel discussion with leading designers and an exhibition highlighting games and the power of play to educate, connect, and transform.

Please note that in addition to RSVPing for this event, participants will be asked to sign up in advance for designated gameplay time slots and select the games they would like to play. 

Related Events:
Upending the Status Quo through Tabletop Games: Game Design, Storytelling, and Activism
Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 5 p.m.
Friends of the USC Libraries Lecture Hall, Doheny Memorial Library 240
For more info, click HERE.

Not All Fun and Games
Sunday, February 1 - Monday, June 1, 2026
Doheny Memorial Library, Treasure Room
Check back for more info.

Play the Powwow Heist! – A One-Shot Playtest Session
Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Friends of the USC Libraries Lecture Hall, Doheny Memorial Library 240 & DML 233 
For more info, click HERE.

Presented by USC Visions and Voices. Organized by Anne-Marie Maxwell (USC Libraries), Tyson Gaskill (USC Libraries), Sue Luftschein (USC Libraries), and Tracy Fullerton (USC Game Innovation Lab). Co-sponsored by the USC Libraries.