Players vs. Cancer

Players vs. Cancer (PvC) is an initiative launched in late 2019 to engage the gaming community and benefit the AACR by raising support and awareness about lifesaving cancer research. In recognition of the gaming community’s commitment to supporting charitable causes, PvC is building an online community of gamers, viewers, developers, and others.

In June 2020, PvC hosted their first charity livestreaming event, PLAY to End Cancer. Over three days and 20 total hours, the livestream brought together scientists, cancer patients, and gamers to raise awareness and funds for vital AACR programs. Guests on the stream discussed the importance of big data in cancer research, challenges and opportunities for young investigators in cancer science, patient advocacy, and the important role philanthropy plays in cancer research. Survivors and cancer patients shared their experiences, including what it was like to participate in a clinical trial. One of the streamers even built a cancer research lab on her Animal Crossing: New Horizons island to explain the research process to other gamers. PLAY to End Cancer garnered over 200,000 unique viewers and raised more than $5,500.

Coming up later this year, PvC will host important conversations about cancer health disparities and raise support for the AACR through PLAY to End Cancer II. This event will once again engage both gamers and scientists in meaningful discussions and lots of fun gaming, while raising funds to support research into cancer disparities and promote diversity in the cancer research field. During this event, PvC will also share a trailer of its upcoming video game, NeoAntigen. Net proceeds from the game will benefit AACR programs and grants. Keep an eye out for exclusive content and release details on the PvC website.