Events

A mythopoetic mech tragedy about conflict on a grand scale, Dragon Reactor is the most recently published TTRPG from local game designer and GM, Quinn Morris.

Dragon Reactor is about warring governments, rising rebellions, slowly-waking god-machines, and the effects forever-wars have on those involved. It’s about the ever-turning wheel of time, and how we’re always racing against it. It’s about wanting to do the right thing, but having to pull the trigger instead.

Players take on the role of pilots who have fallen into possession of the most powerful war machines in the world, Dragons. What will you do with all that power? 

Dragon Reactor runs on a d6 dice pool system with tiered successes, and the bigger the action you're taking the harder it is to succeed. Pilots gain dice based on their stats and have various resources at their disposal to increase their chances.

Reserve your seat for only $5, which will be credited towards your Gaming Pass for the evening. Players are encouraged to claim a seat on Aftergame, which will also host the waitlist should seats sell out. Novice players welcome; no experience or materials required.

Content Warnings: War and the associated possible physical and mental tragedies that it may cause.

Enjoy an afternoon of gaming and conversation with other LGBTQ+ gaymers, hosted by Press Coffee & Diversions! Choose from a variety of games or join our hosted table to play with other gaymers. Grab a name tag, pick out a game, and enjoy — it's as easy as that!

Press Coffee is an accessible gathering space for all who want to join, and they'll be serving up irresistible drinks and snacks. Build community with new and familiar faces at these monthly Gaymers Gatherings, every third Saturday of the month from 2-5PM or monthly at Diversions. All Gaymers Gatherings are also sponsored by Iowa City Pride, in their ongoing mission to support community and connection year-round! 

All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend, whether you are looking to game or not. You can bring your own game or choose as many as you'd like from Diversions' game library! Gaymers Gathering also happens monthly at Diversions — please confirm dates and times at diversionsic.com/events

About Gaymers Gathering:
Diversions hosts Gaymers Gatherings with the goal of building community and creating a safer, inclusive, and intentional space for the LGBTQ and gaming communities. We encourage you to stop by and roll some dice, puzzle over some pieces, embark on a quest, or just come to chat! As a Queer-owned business, Diversions is proud to offer these events for our community to enjoy.

About Press Coffee:
Press Coffee is a community cafe staple with over a decade of experience providing delicious beverages in a cozy, welcoming environment. This is a truly local business that supports a team of wonderful baristas, provides gallery and sales space for local artists, and partners with nearby organizations to host community-building events.

About Iowa City Pride:
The mission at Iowa City Pride is to increase positive visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex and asexual/agender/aromantic (LGBTQIAA) community of Iowa City. We do so by providing opportunities to express and celebrate diverse perspectives, emphasizing acceptance of all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Iowa City Pride coordinates an annual Pride festival and related events throughout the year.

Gaming partner show-down or date night, you decide!

Grab your best friends or favorite opponent – we’re doing a 2-player game feature! Stop by Diversions anytime between 5-10PM on August 8th to learn a new game (or two) from our wide selection of 2-player featured games. We will have some extra folks helping teach games, so you can spend more time gaming and less time learning, and if you don’t have a gaming pal to bring along, we’ll introduce you to another gaming pal to join your table!

Our library is loaded with 2-player games from simple to complex, silly to serious, fast to…medium(?) paced. Here are a few of the games we’ll have set up and ready to teach:

• Pagan: Fate of Roanoke

• Brightcast

• Sky Team

• 7 Wonders: Duel

• boop.

• Kiri-Ai the Duel

• And Many More!

Once you’re done with a game, feel free to ask one of our teachers to help you with another, or grab whatever you like from our library!

With the current revival mahjong is experiencing in mainstream culture, we are excited to be welcoming a new monthly mahjong gathering at Diversions to introduce folks to the game, improve player skills and comfort, or help players find other folks to join a table!

New players are welcome, as are seasoned Chii callers, and everything in between. Tables will be available, some sets will be provided, and the free popcorn will be plentiful! No ticket needed, and players are encouraged to claim a seat for the game on Aftergame.

NOTE: The primary variant played so far has been Japanese/Richii, but other variants are welcome.

Join Diversions for a thrilling round of Blood on the Clocktower every week! This Level Up session aims to build on prior experience while also introducing players to more complex elements of the game, such as Madness or changing alignment. Players are expected to understand the basics of the game and be ready to level up their skills!

Click here to see all scheduled Clocktower events and details.

• $6 for a Player Pass, which is required to participate — grab yours here!
• Spots are limited to 15 players for each session.
• Doors open at 5:00PM and participants are encouraged to mingle prior to the game. Each game starts at 5:30 SHARP. 

STORYTELLER: Jack G.

OPENING SCRIPT: Demon Jumping Lite

Hosted by: Hawkeye Chess Club

What else can you expect:

• US Chess Ratings used for Pairings

• Unrated Fun/Casual Play Section

• 5 Rounds (Time Control G/15d2), starting at 7PM

• Boards and clocks provided

• Prizes
  The Joy of Chess

• Registration
  Online (under Hawkeye Chess Club)
  Onsite -- Thursday, 6 - 7 pm
  Entry Fee: $5

Draft cards to develop your ancient civilization and build its Wonder of the World.

Looking for your next favorite game or to learn a game with others? Join Michele to get a step-by-step explanation of the gameplay (little to no reading required!) followed by one or more plays of the game. With a knowledgeable guide to answer your questions along the way, this is the best way to get to know a new game.

Whether you're looking to just get an overview, have a rundown of the rules, play a few rounds, or experience a full game, Michele will provide guidance and encouragement (and maybe a little friendly competition) as players try out this new game together.

Game: 7 Wonders
You are the leader of one of the 7 great cities of the Ancient World. Gather resources, develop commercial routes, and affirm your military supremacy to build your city and erect an architectural wonder that will transcend future times. 

In each age, players receive cards from a particular deck, and will draft them in turn. Players reveal their cards simultaneously, paying resources if needed or collecting resources or interacting with other players in various ways. Each player then chooses another card from the deck they were passed, and the process repeats until players have six cards in play from that age. After three ages, the game ends.

In essence, 7 Wonders is a card development game. Some cards have immediate effects, while others provide bonuses or upgrades later in the game. Some cards provide discounts on future purchases. Some provide military strength to overpower your neighbors and others give nothing but victory points. Each card is played immediately after being drafted, so you'll know which cards your neighbor is receiving and how their choices might affect what you've already built up. Cards are passed left, then right, then left again over the three ages, so you need to keep an eye on the neighbors in both directions.

Join GM Alex for a one-shot of the acclaimed fantasy rpg Daggerheart!

Reserve your seat for only $5, which will be credited towards your Gaming Pass for the evening. Players are encouraged to claim a seat on Aftergame.

This Advanced session is open to any scripts the Storytellers deem worthy – the possibilities are endless! Players will be expected to have a strong understanding of the game, characters, and rules and be ready for a challenge.

Click here to see all scheduled Clocktower events and details.

• Player Pass cost is $12, which is required to participate - grab yours here!
• Spots are limited to 15 players for each session
• Doors open at 5:30PM and participants are encouraged to mingle prior to the game. Each game starts at 6:00 SHARP. 

STORYTELLER: Andy M .
OPENING SCRIPT: TBA

Dive into the world of Golarion as an agent of the Pathfinder Society, or perhaps give aid to the people of the Pact Worlds as part of Starfinder Society with Organized Play sessions at Diversions! These open role-playing sessions welcome players of all experience levels, with the option to join as your schedule allows. Consistent attendance is not required, which can work well for players with busy or unpredictable schedules.

Players are requested to pre-register, but folks who are curious and want to learn more are welcome to visit during organized play to watch, ask questions, etc. Organized play generally uses the most current edition of each system (currently Pathfinder 2E and Starfinder 2E).

Organized Play meets at Diversions on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, starting at 5:30PM. For more information about sessions, pre-registering, or other local organized play opportunities, visit the Shifting Corridors Lodge website.

NOTE: Players will need to pay for a Gaming Pass for the evening; any other expenses are optional.

Shifting Corridors Lodge

Organized Play is endorsed by Diversions and organized independently by Shifting Corridors Lodge, who organize monthly games in Cedar Rapids, North Liberty, and at Diversions. Learn more about Shifting Corridors Lodge and their game schedule on their website.

Learn more about Paizo's Organized Play programs:

• Pathfinder Society
• Starfinder Society

Enrich your gaming and queer communities all at once! Join Diversions for our in-house edition of Gaymers Gathering, an event focused on bringing together new and familiar friendly, queer folks to enjoy games together.

Grab a name tag and pick out your (first) game from our library of 500+ games and puzzles — it's as easy as that! We will also have a hosted table you can join to meet others and find some gaming opportunities. Diversions offers an accessible gathering space for all who want to join, and we have snacks, drinks, and seating aplenty!

Not sure if you’re interested in games, but still looking to connect? Spectators, cheerleaders, and friendly conversation are always welcome, regardless of if you’re gaming or not. All Gaymers Gatherings are also sponsored by Iowa City Pride, in their ongoing mission to support community and connection year-round! 

About Gaymers Gathering:
Diversions hosts Gaymers Gatherings with the goal of building community and creating a safer, inclusive, and intentional space for the LGBTQ and gaming communities. We encourage you to stop by and roll some dice, puzzle over some pieces, embark on a quest, or just come to chat! As a Queer-owned business, Diversions is proud to offer these events for our community to enjoy. All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend, whether you are looking to game or not. You can bring your own game or choose as many as you'd like from Diversions' game library! Gaymers Gathering also happens monthly at Press Coffee on the third Saturday — please confirm dates and times, as holidays and extenuating circumstances may cause changes to the schedule.

About Iowa City Pride:
The mission at Iowa City Pride is to increase positive visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex and asexual/agender/aromantic (LGBTQIAA) community of Iowa City. We do so by providing opportunities to express and celebrate diverse perspectives, emphasizing acceptance of all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Iowa City Pride coordinates an annual Pride festival and related events throughout the year.

Join Diversions to learn the thrilling hit game Blood on the Clocktower! This cryptic social deduction game might remind players of similar games (such as Mafia, Werewolf, or Traitors), but this game has become known for its unique roles and twists. With sessions every week, we're excited to welcome more players to the game through these introductory, learn-to-play sessions.

Click here to see all scheduled Clocktower events and details.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. This session is geared towards folks who haven’t played before; the Storyteller (the game host) will go over the rules in depth before diving in to at least one full play-through, and will pause throughout the game to provide context and explanation to assist player understanding.

Doors open at 5:00pm and participants are encouraged to mingle prior to the game. The game starts at 5:30 sharp! This event is FREE, but a Player Pass is required to participate!

Storyteller: Jessi H.

Read more about Blood on the Clocktower here!

LET’S PLAY! Game, socialize, and build a sense of community and joy together at Diversions for our FREE Second Sunday Social! Whether you bring your friends or show up solo, you'll have a fun time gathering around a game with friendly faces.

We’ll have nametags available and ‘Open Table’ signs on most tables to make it easy to meet, greet, and play! Join our greeting game as you arrive — featuring one of our party-style games — to easily jump in and meet others. When you’re ready to try another game, our staff will be available for game recommendations, assistance with setup, or learning new games.

The main social is from 2-5PM, but gaming is free ALL DAY. Making new friends can be hard, but make it a little easier by sharing a game together! Head to Aftergame to let us know you’ll be attending and see who else might be joining!

Enjoy an afternoon of gaming and conversation with other LGBTQ+ gaymers, hosted by Press Coffee & Diversions! Choose from a variety of games or join our hosted table to play with other gaymers. Grab a name tag, pick out a game, and enjoy — it's as easy as that!

Press Coffee is an accessible gathering space for all who want to join, and they'll be serving up irresistible drinks and snacks. Build community with new and familiar faces at these monthly Gaymers Gatherings, every third Saturday of the month from 2-5PM or monthly at Diversions. All Gaymers Gatherings are also sponsored by Iowa City Pride, in their ongoing mission to support community and connection year-round! 

All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend, whether you are looking to game or not. You can bring your own game or choose as many as you'd like from Diversions' game library! Gaymers Gathering also happens monthly at Diversions — please confirm dates and times at diversionsic.com/events

About Gaymers Gathering:
Diversions hosts Gaymers Gatherings with the goal of building community and creating a safer, inclusive, and intentional space for the LGBTQ and gaming communities. We encourage you to stop by and roll some dice, puzzle over some pieces, embark on a quest, or just come to chat! As a Queer-owned business, Diversions is proud to offer these events for our community to enjoy.

About Press Coffee:
Press Coffee is a community cafe staple with over a decade of experience providing delicious beverages in a cozy, welcoming environment. This is a truly local business that supports a team of wonderful baristas, provides gallery and sales space for local artists, and partners with nearby organizations to host community-building events.

About Iowa City Pride:
The mission at Iowa City Pride is to increase positive visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex and asexual/agender/aromantic (LGBTQIAA) community of Iowa City. We do so by providing opportunities to express and celebrate diverse perspectives, emphasizing acceptance of all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Iowa City Pride coordinates an annual Pride festival and related events throughout the year.

With the current revival mahjong is experiencing in mainstream culture, we are excited to be welcoming a new monthly mahjong gathering at Diversions to introduce folks to the game, improve player skills and comfort, or help players find other folks to join a table!

New players are welcome, as are seasoned Chii callers, and everything in between. Tables will be available, some sets will be provided, and the free popcorn will be plentiful! No ticket needed, and players are encouraged to claim a seat for the game on Aftergame.

NOTE: The primary variant played so far has been Japanese/Richii, but other variants are welcome.

Join in for a weekend of gaming fun at eastern Iowa’s longest running gaming convention: Gamicon! Since 1991, Gamicon has celebrated board games, card games, roleplaying games, social games – and even video games and computer games – with a weekend of game demos, tournaments, play-to-wins, auctions, and more! It’s a gathering of community you won’t want to miss.

Learn more about Gamicon on their website.