Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe REDMOND, Wash., Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Video gamers in 97 countries, sponsored by groups including Washington state-based Microsoft, raised more than $1 million for charity in a 24-hour fundraiser. The Extra Life event, which had more than 13,596 participants in 97 countries , ran from Saturday morning until Sunday morning to raise $1,108,224 for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, KCPQ-TV, Seattle, reported Monday. Advertisement Participants raised money by finding sponsors to give $1 each for every half hour of gaming during the event. In addition to Microsoft, the event was sponsored by groups including Hulu, Sony and cable network G4. Extra Life, which began on Web site sarcasticgamer.com, began in 2008 when it raised $121,000. Read More Does video game overload affect brain? Video games used for ICU physical therapy Supreme Court refers video game fees request Video games may not boost cognition