Embark on a journey through our guide to the 13 biggest gaming conventions and events worldwide, where epic tournaments, exclusive previews, and more await. From massive expos to indie showcases, these gatherings are where a diverse community of gamers unites, game developers shine, and the future of gaming unfolds.
Table of Contents
This article is part of our blog series on gaming conventions. For even more content, be sure to head over here and check out the other blogs!
Event Calenders
gamescom
About
- When and where: 21-25 August 2024 in Cologne, Germany
gamescom is the perfect playground for gamers, where the latest and greatest video games come to life. Held annually at the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany, gamescom isn’t just any gaming event – it’s the biggest in the world. Imagine 370,000 fellow gaming enthusiasts and over 1,000 exhibitors from more than 50 countries, all gathered to celebrate everything you love about video games.
From blockbuster titles to indie gems, gamescom is where game developers showcase their upcoming masterpieces and cutting-edge hardware. And let’s not forget devcom, the pre-gamescom conference dedicated to game development. It’s a haven for those who create the magic we play. More on that later.
Areas
With eight different areas for private visitors, gamescom offers a diverse range of experiences. You can visit the cosplay village, attend big eSports shows, meet your favorite stars in the social area, or explore the retro area. The campus area is excellent for discovering career opportunities, while the event area is perfect for making new friends and trying out new indie games. And, of course, you can always find the best gaming merchandise here.
For trade visitors, gamescom offers an exclusive area where publishers, journalists, and developers come together to shape the gaming industry’s future. The business area and gamescom biz are hubs of opportunity, perfect for networking and forging new partnerships. And then there’s the gamescom congress, where the industry’s brightest minds come together to debate and discuss the hottest topics in gaming, offering a platform for exciting collaborations.
devcom
- When and where: 18-20 August 2024 in Cologne, Germany
devcom is a bustling hub where the world’s top game developers, publishers, and industry experts gather to share ideas, showcase innovations, and shape the future of gaming. It’s the official game developer event of gamescom and Europe’s largest community-driven conference for game creators.
Born in 2017 as a five-day event under the massive umbrella of gamescom, devcom has evolved into a year-round experience. It’s a platform that champions diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in the gaming industry, ensuring every voice is heard and every idea is explored. From engaging talks and panels to hands-on workshops and masterclasses led by over 140 industry pros, devcom is the ideal opportunity to learn and network.
DreamHack
About
- When and where:
04-06 October 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia
22-25 November 2024 in Stockholm, Sweden
2025 TBA in Hannover, Germany
2025 TBA in Dallas, Texas
At DreamHack, you’ll experience the world’s biggest LAN party, buzzing with the energy of thousands of gamers, all connected by the fastest internet you’ve ever seen. From humble beginnings in a Swedish school basement in the early ’90s, DreamHack has grown into a global phenomenon. It now hosts massive events in Europe and North America.
From the electric buzz of competitive tournaments to the camaraderie forged over late-night LAN sessions, DreamHack is where dreams are realized, rivalries are forged, and unforgettable memories are made.
Areas
Ten areas are waiting to be explored at DreamHack! A LAN area where you can join your fellow gamers in epic battles, an eSports arena where your favorite teams compete in intense showdowns, and a free play zone are just the beginning.
Stroll through the Cosplay Corner, Creators Hub, and Artist Alley, or put your strategic mind to the test in the Tabletop area. Connect with others over your shared love of board games and trading cards, or immerse yourself in the compelling world of a pen-and-paper adventure.
Polaris
About
- When and where: 11-13 October 2024 in Hamburg, Germany
Imagine stepping into a world where gaming, anime, manga, and Asian pop culture collide in an epic explosion of awesomeness. That’s Polaris for you! Meet your favorite German creators, explore exciting exhibits, and immerse yourself in three days of stage shows, a Polaris App sticker hunt, intense tournaments, hands-on workshops, delicious food, epic cosplay, and more.
Areas
At the heart of Polaris are the five themed worlds that await you! Enter Cyberdome, the ultimate gaming paradise. Relive the glory days in Sandbox, your retro haven filled with all the classics you love.
Venture into Neo Taki, a vibrant hub pulsating with pop culture straight from the heart of Asia. Get inspired in Valdhaym, the creative corner where artists unleash their imaginations. And remember to fuel up at Munchi Market, where all your snack and drink cravings come true.
Indie Game Fest
About
- When and where: 2025 TBA in Cologne, Germany
The heartbeat of indie games comes alive at the Indie Game Fest in Cologne, Germany. It’s a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the vibrant community that makes indie games so unique. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll be immersed in a world where every pixel tells a story and every game is a labor of love.
Dive into demos of cutting-edge games, chat with developers, and discover hidden gems that could become tomorrow’s classics. But it’s not just about playing games. It’s about connecting with like-minded gamers and sharing insights with industry pioneers. And for aspiring developers, the INDIE Campus is an excellent opportunity to jumpstart your career by learning, growing, and networking.
CAGGTUS
About
- When and where: 11-13 April 2025 in Leipzig, Germany
An entire weekend dedicated to all things gaming is what CAGGTUS has in store for you. Whether you’re into eSports, indie games, or the classics, there’s something for everyone. Challenge your friends (or make new ones!) in epic battles and meet your gaming idols in person.
Areas
CAGGTUS offers various areas where you can experience different aspects of gaming. The Entertainment Area lets you test the latest hardware and software, while the Indie Ground brings you all the indie vibes. Head to the Freeplay Area and play when you need a break, or visit the Event Stage for all the show matches and panels. The Photobooth and Cosplay Contest are the places to be for cosplay enthusiasts.
Take part in an epic four-day LAN party in the LAN Area, with everything you need, from tables and chairs to high-speed internet and showers. If you love the streaming scene, check out the Stream Area. See top talents and rising stars in action as they stream live from the heart of the Entertainment Area.
TwitchCon
About
- When and where:
20-22 September 2024 in San Diego, CA
2025 TBA in Rotterdam, Netherlands
TwitchCon is a massive gathering of gamers, streamers, and fans in San Diego and Rotterdam to celebrate everything you love about Twitch. It’s your ultimate chance to connect with your favorite streamers, immerse yourself in fantastic gaming experiences, and soak up the vibrant community vibe.
It’s like a giant gaming festival where you can watch live eSports tournaments, attend workshops to improve your streaming game, explore cool new tech and gear from top brands, and hang out with friends – both new and old. Whether you’re there to learn, network, or geek out with fellow fans, TwitchCon is the place to be for gamers and streamers alike.
Highlights
The program at TwitchCon is as diverse as the community, so whether you want to see your favorite streamers battle it out in a quiz or learn more about the nostalgic dishes from their childhood, TwitchCon has you covered.
Marvel at the Cosplay Showcase, participate in wild game shows, and prepare for the ultimate Twitch Rivals showdown! Meet your favorite streamers and find your tribe, whether it’s the LGBTQIA+ community, Women in Twitch, or people who are just as obsessed with Minecraft and horror games as you are. And last but not least, make sure to catch the Drag Showcase, which features dazzling drag kings, queens, and superstars!
EGX & MCM
About
- When and where: 25-27 October 2024 in London, England
Three days packed with the latest games, top-of-the-line hardware, and exclusive behind-the-scenes looks at your favorite titles – that’s EGX! For 2024, EGX is teaming up with MCM Comic Con to create a powerhouse event where one ticket gets you into both shows. It promises to be an epic weekend dedicated to everything you love about gaming and pop culture!
Highlights (EGX)
A bustling arena where you can try out upcoming blockbusters or discover indie gems is just one of EGX’s many highlights. Immerse yourself in electrifying panels where developers spill secrets and gaming legends share their wisdom. Take advantage of the Career Fair, where you can network with industry giants, get portfolio reviews, and boost your career aspirations.
Are you feeling competitive? Gather your crew for the EGX Arena, where eSports glory awaits. For the nostalgic, the Retro Zone beckons with classic consoles and arcade machines that have shaped gaming history. Enter the Tabletop Wonderland, where you can command armies on a life-size battlefield. Meet your favorite streamers, cosplayers, and creators in real life and make unforgettable memories!
GG Bavaria
About
- When and where: 2025 TBA in Munich, Germany
eSports, indie games, anime, and nerd culture collide at GG Bavaria in Munich! Held at the expansive Motorworld Munich, GG Bavaria lets you immerse yourself in games made in Bavaria, connect with local communities, and attend career days with workshops, information on game studies, and job opportunities at game studios.
Areas
Dive into the vibrant Indie Games Area or step back in time with the Retro Games Area, complete with dedicated gaming stations that promise a nostalgic journey. Join the thriving eSports, anime, and pen-and-paper communities to compete, connect, or explore new adventures.
Explore Artist Alley, where more than 30 talented artists are showcasing their creations. Watch them bring their art to life and purchase unique pieces to take home. Beyond the games, you’ll find a variety of exhibitors offering a range of products.
Gaming Events in Europe: Which Ones Are For You?
PAX
About
- When and where:
PAX EAST: 8-11 May 2025 in Boston, MA
PAX WEST: 30 August – 2 September 2024 in Seattle, WA
PAX AUS: 11-13 October 2024 in Melbourne, VIC
PAX UNPLUGGED: 6-8 December 2024 in Philadelphia, PA
PAX, short for Penny Arcade Expo, is a video and tabletop gaming paradise that takes over Seattle, Boston, Melbourne, and Philadelphia each year. Founded by Jerry Holkins and Mike Krahulik, the masterminds behind the popular web comic Penny Arcade, PAX started back in 2004 with a modest 4,500-person event in Bellevue, WA.
This gathering was a pioneer, putting gaming in the spotlight at a time when conventions were usually reserved for comics and anime. It wasn’t long before PAX exploded in popularity. In 2010, PAX East debuted in Boston, attracting tens of thousands of fans and proving that the world was hungry for more. PAX isn’t just an event; it’s a community. It’s where you can connect with fellow gamers, discover the next big game, and immerse yourself in the culture that makes gaming so unique.
Areas
At each PAX event, you can expect a consistent lineup of must-see areas that capture the essence of this legendary gaming convention. Some of the highlights common to all venues include insightful panels with industry experts, developers, and famous personalities, as well as the Omegathon, an elimination-style tournament.
The PAX guest list never disappoints, so you can expect to see some of the biggest names in gaming and pop culture at each venue. Collect and trade exclusive pins, embark on an epic quest across the convention floor with PAX XP, or take a break from the action in the Handheld Lounge.
GDC
- When and where: 17-21 March 2025 in San Francisco, CA
The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is where the best minds in the industry come together to share ideas, tackle challenges, and shape the future of gaming over five days of learning, inspiration, and networking. Imagine being surrounded by programmers, artists, producers, designers, audio wizards, and business leaders, all driven by the same goal: to push the boundaries of what games can be.
The event culminates in two prestigious awards ceremonies. The Game Developers Choice Awards celebrate the crème de la crème of games and developers, while the Independent Games Festival spotlights groundbreaking indie projects.
GDC began as a humble gathering in game designer Chris Crawford’s living room, but it’s grown into a cornerstone of the gaming world, spanning all platforms from consoles to VR. Celebrating more than three decades of innovation, GDC continues to lead the way in defining the future of games.
The Game Awards
- When and where: 12 December 2024 in Los Angeles, CA
The Game Awards are the Oscars of the gaming world, celebrating the pinnacle of creative and technical brilliance in the video game industry. Founded in 2014 by veteran journalist and producer Geoff Keighley, the event brings together a vibrant mix of game developers, players, and pop culture icons to honor the best in gaming.
Each year, it recognizes those pushing the boundaries of gaming, improving the community’s well-being, and amplifying the voices shaping the medium’s future. From exciting world premieres to epic performances, The Game Awards is where the heart of gaming beats loudest.
gamescom latam
About
- When and where: 30 April – 04 May 2025 in São Paulo, Brasil
Every year, for five days, São Paulo Expo transforms into a gamer’s paradise, where the worlds of gamescom, the world’s largest gaming event, and BIG Festival, Latin America’s biggest games festival, come together in spectacular fashion. Experience new releases, beloved classics, heart-pounding tournaments, mind-blowing cosplays, and captivating Meet & Greets with your favorite creators.
The industry’s most prominent players bring exclusive announcements, hands-on demos of upcoming blockbusters, and the chance to mingle with the masterminds behind iconic titles. And beyond the adrenaline rush of eSports showdowns and the allure of indie gems featured at the BIG Festival, there’s a thriving business arena where industry insiders plot the future of gaming.
Highlights
Over 400 game stations with 400+ games to try and over 50 unreleased games are just the icings on the cake of what you can expect at gamescom latam. Meet the masterminds behind your favorite games or immerse yourself in intense eSports competitions and exclusive Meet & Greets with over 1,000 influencers.
Celebrate the best games of the year at the BIG Festival, featuring nearly 1,000 submissions from over 70 countries. Cheer for your favorites as they receive trophies and cash prizes.
Brasil Game Show
About
- When and where: 09-13 October 2024 in São Paulo, Brazil
Brasil Game Show (BGS), originally known as Rio Game Show (RGS), is the ultimate playground for gamers in Latin America and beyond. Organized by visionary Marcelo Tavares, this annual convention has exploded in popularity since its debut in 2009 in Rio de Janeiro, where it welcomed 4,000 eager attendees.
Now held in the bustling city of São Paulo at the sprawling Expo Center Norte in Vila Guilherme, BGS has grown to become the largest gaming convention in Latin America and ranks among the biggest in the world.
Highlights
Be wowed by the fantastic cosplays at the Cosplay Contest, or get inspired by the incredible presentations from international guests and influencers at the BGS Talks. The Meet & Greet stage is another fan favorite, featuring legendary personalities who have shaped the history of video games. Esports enthusiasts flock to BGS eSports, where you can witness intense matches and cheering crowds.
Conference sessions are packed with insights and trends, offering a deep dive into the future of gaming. In the Indie section, creativity knows no bounds. Independent developers showcase their innovative and unique games. Music lovers are in for a treat with the Sonic Symphony and the Video Game Orchestra performances.
Gaming Events in America & Australia: Which Ones Are For You?
gamescom asia
About
- When and where: 17-20 October 2024 in Singapore
gamescom asia is the ultimate celebration of all things gaming in the heart of Asia. As a satellite event of the gamescom, it brings the same epic energy and excitement to the vibrant city of Singapore. Packed with industry highlights, cutting-edge games, and a spectacular entertainment program just for fans, it promises an unforgettable experience that’s not to be missed.
Areas
Check out the latest video games, watch exciting eSports tournaments, and more at the Entertainment Expo. Discover the freshest indie games from around the globe, enjoy live musical performances, and get a behind-the-scenes look at popular games in the Indie Area and Main Stage. Talented creators await you in the Artist Area, while the Retro Games Area takes you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Prepare for board games, meet & greets, amazing cosplays, and the Steam Festival.
The Business Area is where deals are made for gaming industry players. It features a business expo, conferences, an expo stage, an indie area, investment opportunities, VIP mixers, pitch competitions, and recruiting events.
Tokyo Game Show
About
- When and where: 26-29 September 2024 in Tokyo, Japan
The Tokyo Game Show is the ultimate gathering for gamers and game developers at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. At its heart, it’s a celebration of Japanese gaming culture, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of local developers. But it’s not just about Japan; it’s also a global stage where international developers present their latest projects.
The event takes place over four days, with the first two reserved for industry insiders and the last two opening their doors to passionate gamers from around the world. It’s a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts, meet the minds behind your favorite titles, and maybe even get your hands on an exclusive demo or two.
Areas
No less than 14 areas await you at the Tokyo Game Show! A bustling General Exhibition Area, where the future of gaming unfolds before your eyes, and one for the latest gaming hardware. Experience gaming beyond the screen in the AR/VR Area, watch eSports champions and battles, or hone your skills in the Academy Area.
Unleash your inner collector in the Merch Area, discover the heart and soul of indie gaming, connect with other families, step into the future of AI technology, and more!
G-STAR
About
- When and where: 14-17 November 2024 in Busan, South Korea
Every November, Busan transforms into the epicenter of the gaming universe, hosting G-STAR, where over 240,000 like-minded souls gather to celebrate all things electronic and digital. From industry titans like NCSoft and Nexon to global juggernauts like Activision Blizzard, G-STAR is where you get a first-hand look at what’s next in gaming. It’s a chance to mingle with fellow gamers, meet the minds behind your favorite titles, and discover the next big thing before anyone else.
Highlights
Each year, G-STAR hosts an electrifying lineup of events and activities, with the prestigious Korea Game Awards at the center of the action. The Opening Ceremony sets the stage ablaze as organizers, co-organizers, and relevant organizations come together to unveil what’s next in the gaming universe.
Meanwhile, the Global Game Conference (G-CON) delves deep into topics ranging from console advancements and AI integration to indie gems. The G-STAR Subculture Game Festival adds a cultural flair with a vibrant mix of merchandise markets, special stage programs, and outdoor events. The Cosplay Awards and B2B Networking Party are the finishing touches!
ChinaJoy
About
- When and where: 26-29 July 2024 in Shanghai, China
From blockbuster games to mind-blowing eSports showdowns, ChinaJoy is the place to immerse yourself in the world of gaming. But it’s not just about games; it’s a celebration of all things digital – from anime and comics to the latest internet culture and innovative entertainment technology.
More than just an expo, ChinaJoy sets the stage for industry trends and innovations. It’s where developers showcase their masterpieces, gamers gather to share their passion, and the future of digital entertainment takes shape.
Highlights
Immerse yourself in epic game showdowns, test drive upcoming PlayStation titles, check out the Ubisoft Showcase to learn all about upcoming titles, or dip your toes into amazing mobile games. ChinaJoy is a playground with the latest hardware for every tech enthusiast. Meet your favorite influencers, visit the CAPDA Game Museum, and more!
Taipei Game Show
About
- When and where: 23-26 January 2025 in Taipei, Taiwan
Imagine a paradise for gamers where you can dive into the latest games, meet top developers, and experience the future of gaming all in one place. That’s the Taipei Game Show. Organized by the Taipei Computer Association, this event has skyrocketed from a modest gathering in 2003 to a colossal celebration of gaming, drawing in hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts from every corner of the globe.
Highlights & Areas
One of the highlights is the Asia Pacific Game Summit, held annually alongside TGS, which covers everything from indie games and game development to the metaverse and blockchain. The B2B Zone is a buzzing hub where game developers, publishers, and service providers gather to network and do business.
Gamers should check out the B2C Zone, where you can try over 300 cross-platform games, including some that haven’t yet been released! You can meet game developers, interact with live streamers, and see incredible cosplayers. The Indie House is your chance to play and give feedback on games that are still in development and maybe discover the next big thing.
Finally, the Board Game Wonderland is the ultimate destination for tabletop game lovers. Whether you’re into classic board games, new tabletop innovations, or just looking for a fun way to spend time with family and friends, you’ll find it here.
Gaming Events in Asia: Which Ones Are For You?
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