Competitive Gaming
Description
The Competitive Gaming merit badge offers Scouts an exciting gateway into the fast-growing, multi-billion dollar world of esports and digital entertainment. Officially launched nationwide by Scouting America on July 22, 2026—following a successful trial run in the Scouts BSA Test Lab—this badge bridges modern gaming culture with foundational Scout values. Whether exploring the historical evolution of video games or stepping into a multiplayer arena at Space Jam, Scouts learn that success in virtual environments requires the same core principles as any real-world field: teamwork, strategic thinking, discipline, and respect.
Built around key pillars of digital citizenship, safety, and modern technology, the badge equips Scouts to navigate online spaces responsibly. Participants examine how to uphold the Scout Oath and Law in multiplayer lobbies, tackle online safety, and practice gamer health by balancing screen time with physical activity. For Space Jam attendees immersing themselves in cutting-edge tech and interactive workshops, earning the Competitive Gaming merit badge isn't just about levelling up a high score—it's about mastering fair play, healthy digital habits, and the future of collaborative leadership.
Prerequisites
- [ ] Read two credible articles describing positive aspects of video gaming and two describing negative aspects. Create a chart showing where the articles agree or disagree. (Requirement 3a)
- [ ] Track the amount of gaming you do each day for two weeks. Record and summarize your results. (Requirement 3b)
- [ ] Track your daily physical activity for the same two weeks. Compare your results to the CDC recommendation of one hour of moderate-to-vigorous activity per day for youth ages 6-17. (Requirement 3c)
- [ ] Track your daily sleep for the same two weeks. Compare your results to the CDC recommendation of 9-12 hours for ages 6-12 and 8-10 hours for ages 13-18. (Requirement 3d)
- [ ] After completing 3(b), 3(c), and 3(d), create a one-week balanced schedule that includes healthy sleep, physical activity, and agreed-upon gaming time. (Requirement 3e)
Gamer Safety and Community Connection. (Requirement 4c)
- [ ] Play one of your favorite games with your parents or guardian for at least 30 minutes. Demonstrate how to use privacy and safety settings, explain what you enjoy about the game, and let them play for part of the session.
Enjoy teaching your parent/guardian (but go easy; they may not be familiar with your game),
Technology in Competitive Gaming (Requirement 5b)
- [ ] Play the same game on at least two different platforms. Describe the similarities and differences in gameplay and performance. Note: Any game may be used, including free games, on any platform (phone, tablet, PC, laptop, console, etc.).
Enjoy learning how the same game played on 2 separate platforms works and functions differently, and please have two games (that you own) with you to discuss during the session.