Retro hockey fans will have a chance to test their skills on a classic video game, as registration is now open for the NHL ’94 World Championship Tournament in Toronto.
The event will be held at Freeplay Toronto and features competition on both Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo, with players competing for the "King of ’94" title.
Organizers say the tournament is open to all skill levels, with a separate "Auto Goalie" division designed for less experienced players who may not want to face top competitors. There is no age restriction for participants, and food and drinks will be available on site.
The tournament begins May 1 with pre-event side games, while the main competition runs over two days. Sega Genesis events are scheduled for May 2, and Super Nintendo competitions will take place May 3. Players in both divisions are guaranteed at least eight games.
Participants can register for both consoles, but cannot compete in both the "King of ’94" and "Auto Goalie" divisions on the same day.
The tournament format includes a round-robin stage followed by playoffs. Players will compete in six round-robin games before being seeded based on performance, with tiebreakers including goal differential and goals allowed.
Top performers advance to the “King of ’94” bracket, which features a double-elimination format with best-of-three series and a best-of-five championship final. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in the King of ’94 divisions, while registration fees also cover venue costs and additional prizes. Players who register by April 1 will be eligible for door prizes.
More information, including full rules and registration details, can be found at kingof94.ca.