The fighting genre has seen a revitalisation in recent years and, along with it, a new wave of interest surrounding competitive fighting tournaments. Now in its third year, the Battle Arena Melbourne (BAM) tournament returns to the Victorian capital for its 2011 bout.

　　Slated to kick off at 7 a.m. on October 1, BAM will bring together players from around the country and pit them against each other in a variety of games. While Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition may be the best-known game of the tournament, there are a total of eight different games being played, ranging from Virtua Fighter 5 to Blazblue: Continuum Shift Singles.

　　The event organisers have chosen the CQ hotel in Melbourne to play host to the event, so interstate travellers can easily get accommodation nearby.

　　BAM isn't just for competitive players; anyone is welcome to rock up and play a few rounds of their favourite fighting game. If you want to pick up a few tips and tricks, these sorts of competitive gaming events are a great opportunity to learn new tactics and get to know like-minded people.

　　For more information on BAM, including a great introduction into the world of competitive fighting games, be sure to check out the official website.