About Capital LAN

Capital LAN is a nonprofit gaming group that hosts events in the Capital Region of New York. Capital LAN's primary event is the Capital LAN Party, a multiday, 72-hour BYOC (bring your own computer/console) event that brings gamers together to play games, compete in tournaments, participate in activities, and chat with like-minded individuals.

At Capital LAN, we strive to create an inviting and inclusive atmosphere for all attendees. In addition to traditional gaming setups, we offer a variety of freeplay systems, arcade cabinets, and VR games to provide a unique and diverse gaming experience. We also feature activities that require skills beyond those typically used in video games, such as board games, card games, and even outdoor games when weather permits.

Our goal is to provide a fun and memorable experience for all attendees, whether they are casual gamers, esports competitors, or simply interested in the gaming community. We believe that gaming has the power to bring people together and foster a sense of community, and we are proud to be a part of that effort in the Capital Region.

History

2023 – Present — Capital LAN

In 2023, ATRLAN was rebranded as Capital LAN, and Capital LAN Corp. was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This change marked more than just a new name — it reflected a renewed commitment to building a stronger, more community-focused gaming experience.

With this shift, the team expanded its mission beyond a single annual event to also support and host additional local gatherings throughout the year, creating more opportunities for players to connect and game together. The first official Capital LAN event followed in 2024.

2016 – 2023 — The ATRLAN Years

Following the retirement of the Exile Computer Gaming brand, the event was reintroduced as ATRLAN, reflecting its leadership by the ATR Gamers community.

Led by Sean (Mastric), alongside Brenden (Pyromancer), Justin (Mythosaur), and John (RoomBroom), ATRLAN successfully hosted events in 2016, 2017, and 2018. In 2019, ATRLAN joined LANFest as a chapter, further expanding its reach and resources.

After a pause during the early 2020s, ATRLAN returned in 2022 with new energy — introducing VR tournaments, new partnerships, and additional team members including Jonathan (Mort). The event continued to grow, delivering an enhanced experience for both new and returning attendees.

2014 – 2015 — Transition & Growth

As the original Exile Computer Gaming organizers became increasingly busy, Sean (Mastric) partnered with Nexus Gaming in Schenectady to continue the event under the Exodus LAN name.

In 2014, a spring Exodus event was held alongside the traditional fall Exile LAN, marking a unique overlap between the two eras. This approach helped ensure continuity for the community while new leadership and direction began to take shape.

By 2015, events continued under the Exodus LAN name, with spring scheduling at the same venue, maintaining momentum and introducing new players during this transitional period.

2006 – 2013 — The Exile Era

Capital LAN traces its roots back to 2006, when Exile Computer Gaming was founded by David (Zoso) and Mike (Mariner) to provide gamers in the Capital Region with a place to meet, compete, and share their passion.

The first event, Exile LAN I, was held at the La Quinta Inn in Latham, NY, with just seven attendees. As the event grew, additional team members joined to support operations, including Josh (Coyotezeye) contributing to social media and marketing, and Jonathan (XKaan) assisting with network infrastructure. As the event continued to expand, Jonathan (Infested) later joined to support network setup as well.

By 2010, Sean (Mastric) had joined the team, supporting web development and power distribution, helping the event continue to scale. In 2012, Brenden (Pyromancer) became involved with tournament organization, further strengthening the competitive side of the event.

By 2011, Exile LAN had expanded to the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy, NY — marking a major step forward in size and production. The final Exile LAN event was held in 2013, closing out the first chapter of what would eventually become Capital LAN.