No doubt gaming events have caught your attention, regardless of whether you're an avid gamer or an enthusiast? From massive conventions like E3 and PAX to online tournaments, gaming events are the perfect place to showcase your skills and learn tactics from industry experts. With all the latest trends and technology and the opportunity to enhance your skills with like-minded people, gaming events have truly crushed it! However, with so much happening around the world, it might be overwhelming to know which ones are the best out there. Worry not, for we’ve got you covered in this exciting journey of gaming events in 2023!
Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3)
Every gamer's paradise is E3, and they’re coming back with a bang in 2023? While June 13–15, 2023 is for gaming industry attendees to network, June 15–16, 2023 is the event for gamers! Mark your calendars to test out some upcoming games and interact with developers and content creators alike in the Los Angeles Convention Centre for E3 2023. While the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has always overseen E3, ReedPop has taken over the reins this time, with ESA as a partner. Although Nintendo, Xbox, and Sony have backed out of this year's E3, Ubisoft has confirmed that it will be present. The rumour mill is rife with talk of a Splinter Cell Remake, Far Cry 7, and Star Wars making an appearance at E3, but what we know so far is that Assassin's Creed Mirage and Assassin's Creed Nexus, its VR offering, will be making an appearance?
GamesCom
While Nintendo, Xbox, and Sony have backed out of E3, all hope isn’t lost? Third-party events like Gamescom 2023 might be the hosts for these top-tier publishers. While it hasn't been confirmed as to what to expect from Gamescom 2023, the dates have been confirmed to be from August 23–27, 2023, in Cologne. From developers to cosplayers, this gaming trade show has everything the avid gamer in you would look for, with sections for action, RPG, adventure, strategy, multiplayer, VR/AR, simulation and debut games in a whole new region. GamesCom has often broken its own records, so check out its website to register now?
Tokyo Game Show
Although the Tokyo Game Show mainly focuses on Japanese games, you sure wouldn’t be disappointed? Held from September 21 to 24, only the last two days are open to the public. Japan is also very well known for its huge community of cosplayers, and the Tokyo Game Show is just the venue for it! Thanks to its popularity, most gaming fanatics camp the night before! However, this year, walk-up tickets aren’t encouraged, and it would cost you ¥1,300 for the afternoon and ¥2,300 for the day at Maukhari Messe. Couldn’t make the cut? You can view the event via the TGS VR experience?
DreamHack Melbourne
Calling all esports fans? DreamHack Melbourne might just blow your mind! Held from April 28–30, 2023, in Melbourne, DreamHack takes cosplay and gaming events to the next level. Their key attraction has to be their “Bring your own laptop” (BYOC) LAN party, which is as massive as it can get! They also have a “Stream Studio,” where content creators can stream live. Feeling nostalgic? Missing the classic arcade games? DreamHack takes you back to your roots with arcade machines that are free to play! DreamHack Melbourne is also expected to attract world-renowned content creators, although names have not been confirmed.
EGX 2023
The biggest gaming event to take place in the UK is EGX 2023? EGX 2023 will allow you to play a game before it is released, so you can get a sense of what the game will be like. The event, like in 2022, will be held at the ExCel Centre in London from October to October 22, 2023. Ticket prices haven’t been announced yet, but we could expect something around the range of £15-£24 per day and £75 for the weekend since these were 2022’s prices. EGX also attracts a variety of vendors that sell their merchandise as well as various esports events for you to enjoy! Our take? Get the weekend ticket to have a wholesome experience!
Insomnia Gaming Festival 2023
As the name suggests, get ready for sleepless gaming nights? Meet creators and voice actors, explore the world of gaming, and play your favourite games to your heart's content—all at the Insomnia Gaming Festival 2023? Scheduled from April 7th to 10th, 2023, at the NEC Birmingham, the Insomnia Gaming Festival 2023 also hosts LAN parties and BYOC events. Network with other gamers, developers, cosplayers, and even charities all at the Insomnia Gaming Festival. A lot of indie game developers are said to take the stage this year as well, giving you the exposure—or maybe even the inspiration—you need?
EVO 2023
The Evolution Championship Series heads to Las Vegas once again this year for all your epic gaming showdowns? Pack your gaming gear and mark your calendars for August 4–6 at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, for intense jaw-dropping combos and battles. EVO 2023’s lineup is now revealed, with eight fighting games featured on the main stage and prize pools of up to $25,000! With games like Street Fighter 6, Guilty Gear Strive, Dragon Ball FighterZ, and the major throwback tournament “Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3," EVO has an all-hands-on-deck situation to ensure all gamers get the best out of it. The throwback tournament is the first-ever throwback game in EVO’s history, so make sure you get your passes soon!
