Gaming Gone Global
Given how the video game industry is nothing short of an unstoppable juggernaut by this point, it only makes sense that it would spawn numerous conventions for both fans and developers to show their love for the medium. That being said, when it comes to the hype train, none fair better than these five events!
#5: CES
Formerly known as the Consumer Electronics Show, this annual expo is a dream came through for tech lovers. Launched over 50 years ago, CES is mostly for professionals and the press, but members of the public can get in. Rather than games, the expo focuses on the latest technological advancements, with both startups and large companies being allocated a moment to shine. While the expo covers a wider range of products than gaming and barely mentions consoles; gamers seeking information on Virtual Reality headsets, PC components, or obscure devices should consider tuning in.
#4: ChinaJoy
More than just games. As Asia’s largest digital entertainment convention, ChinaJoy features all the greatest hits one would expect at such a colossus event. Sony, Ubisoft, and EA regularly set up stands featuring playable demos, with RPGs and E-sports being particularly popular. Crucially, the expo heavily promotes international business channels and enterprises, attracting the attention of hundreds of exhibitors. Developers seeking financial investment should take note of ChinaJoy, as countless of business deals are made each year. As a convention, it’s most beneficial for developers, but there is plenty for gamers to enjoy.
#3: PAX
What started out as a simple dream by two comic writers, quickly snowballed into a multi-location convention capable of attracting more than 50,000 gamers. Whether referring to PAX West, East, South, or Australia; the Penny Arcade Expo is more about providing an opportunity to try out unreleased games than big reveals. Showcasing arcade, digital, and table-top gaming; PAX is a celebration of every facet of the industry. While AAA games are not ignored, PAX adores the indie scene and runs a yearly competition highlighting the best titles. Non-developers have the Omegathon to anticipate, a gauntlet-style contest pitting 20 random attendees against each other.
#2: Tokyo Game Show (TGS)
An annual expo held at Japan’s Makuhari Messe convention center, the TGS routinely draws crowds eclipsing 200,000. A staple of the industry since the mid-’90s, the Tokyo Game Show spotlights Japanese developers and their games, although Western titles are not completely ignored. During the con, publishers like Capcom, Namco Bandai, and Square Enix regularly announce new games or expand on existing ones. Besides a large exhibition area open to the general public, the Tokyo Game Show’s first two days cater exclusively to professionals seeking business or educational opportunities.
#1: Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3)
Well, this is it – the big one! Inaugurated over two decades ago, the Electronic Entertainment Expo slowly grew into the definitive gaming convention. Almost every noteworthy publisher delivers a keynote speech highlighting their future plans while revealing a string of exciting games. Once the presentations are done and dusted, attendees flood into the exhibition halls for hands-on time or to gather further information directly from developers. In 2017, E3 shifted from an industry to a public event, a decision that only increased the show’s appeal and accessibility.
Be sure to check out the video below to see our picks for the Top 10 E3 2018 Trailers.