Brown University's Esports Team Recreates Campus in Minecraft
Brown University's Esports Student Team, known as BEST, has launched an ambitious project to recreate the entire campus in Minecraft. The virtual Brown campus is now accessible to anyone with Minecraft, offering a chance to visit, tour, or even 'live in' the digital replica. The project aims to foster community among students and alumni while they're away from campus.
The project, which began during spring break, has already attracted over 60 undergraduates, graduate students, and alumni. Each participant brings unique knowledge of specific campus buildings, contributing to the detailed recreation. The team has dedicated over 25 hours to the project so far.
One notable contribution is the Center for Information Technology, built by a team led by Zane Thornburg, PhD ’23 LAS. This project is part of a larger initiative called CraftCells, which imports biological cell models into Minecraft. The initiative is directed by Zaida Luthey-Schulten, professor and director at the University of Illinois.
The BEST project is not just about creating a virtual Brown campus but also about building a community. It offers a unique way for students and alumni to connect and engage with the university, even from a distance. The project is ongoing, and the team welcomes more contributors to help bring the virtual campus to life.
