More than 1,000 players gathered Saturday to celebrate retro games and help children in hospital.

The Retro Gamers Convention took place at Soul Sanctuary in Winnipeg, and the aim wasn’t just to beat the highest score.

This year’s event raised money for Child’s Play, a charity that helps provide toys and games for children in more than 70 hospitals worldwide, including Winnipeg Children’s Hospital.

The event included the return of the popular Nintendo GameCube Super Smash Bros. Melee tournament, a Pokémon scavenger hunt for kids and work by artist Justin Currie for a charity auction.

Organizers said the event has grown substantially over the years. Initially, a group of 20 online retro video game fans met to plan the first big event in Winnipeg.

In its inaugural year, the group donated more than $1,500 to Lighthouse Mission and more than 500 pounds of clothing.

Saturday’s goal was to raise at least $3,000 for Child’s Play and collect any non-perishable donations, as well as clothing or food, for other local charities.

For more information, visit Retro Gamers Winnipeg online.