Calling all gamers! Disney XD Canada's Gaming Show (In My Parents' Garage) beta tests Monday, April 21

Online component allows kids to have their say and win prizes

Sneak peek features guest appearance by Toronto Raptor Amir Johnson

TORONTO, April 9, 2014 /CNW/ - It's virtual insanity on Disney XD with a first look at the hilarious and innovative new Canadian original pilot Gaming Show (In My Parents' Garage). Debuting Monday, April 21 at 7:30 p.m. ET, the boisterous live-action news-style show takes viewers on an exciting journey inside the world of gaming with cool and informative segments, expert correspondents and breaking industry news. In advance of the special preview, video game fanatics will be treated to an afternoon of Lab Rats beginning at 2 p.m. ET, complete with 11 back-to-back tech-themed episodes from the hit series.

"With Gaming Show we've used a unique filming format that promotes the newest gaming products and delivers a behind-the-scenes look at the industry designed specifically with kids in mind," said Michael Goldsmith, Director, Original Programming, Disney XD. "Knowing that this topic is of huge interest to our audience, our goal is to create a show that speaks to them, not at them, through a variety of inventive segments. Plus, being at the pilot stage, we're able to incorporate their feedback and create a series that is customized to their viewing tastes."

Meet Gaming Show's ringleader Jesse; an avid gamer with an inquisitive mind who, along with his friends Julia and Ian, operates a DIY web series devoted to gaming and kid culture. Each episode takes place in the "ultimate mega gaming paradise" (a.k.a. Jesse's parents' garage) where the wacky trio hangs out, tests the latest video games, checks in with expert correspondents and shoots witty weekly news segments. The series provides insights into the gaming world as the cameras follow Jesse and the crew to some of the world's biggest tech companies talking to experts about everything anyone ever wanted to know about gaming, from conception to the final touches. 

In the premiere episode, Jesse visits Ubisoft's world renowned motion capture suite to find out how they get games to look so realistic and participates in a virtually simulated swordfight. Then, on a trip to Microsoft, he gets the inside scoop on the newest game for X-Box, Project Spark, where gamers evolve into developers by creating their own video games. The sneak peek also features guest appearances by web-video sensations RizenVisual, a review of Super Mario 3D World for Nintendo Wii U and a surprise basketball challenge with Amir Johnson of the Toronto Raptors.

DisneyXD.ca takes a byte out of the action with a tech-tacular new contest where fans can help shape the direction of the show. By entering online and filling out a short survey, kids can have their say on the show and win cool gaming gear in the process. The contest opens immediately following the series' debut and will run until April 29.

Commissioned by Disney XD Canada, The Gaming Show (In My Parents' Garage) is executive produced by Sam Dunn and Scot McFadyen of Banger Films (The Grizzly Cup, Metal Evolution, Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage) and was created by Jesse Shamata (The Grizzly Cup, George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight, Long Story Short) and Darby Wheeler (George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight, The Grizzly Cup, Hip Hop Evolution). The series stars Jesse Sukunda, Julia Schwartz and Ian Duchene. Sponsorship and content integration opportunities are currently available.

Disney XD is an advertising-supported digital specialty network and multiplatform brand offering a compelling mix of high definition live-action and animated programming to homes across Canada. Disney XD features series, movies and short form content that focus on comedy, discovery, accomplishment and adventure. Disney XD programming is also available through dedicated on demand and broadband services. Visit us at DisneyXD.ca.

SOURCE: DISNEY XD

For artwork, pilot information and sponsorship inquiries please contact: Joanna Landsberg, 416.956.8584 or [email protected]