It’s been a while in between drinks at PAX AU, after a few years of virtual conferences, while they were fun and kept us informed, there is nothing like connecting together in person at Australia’s biggest (and BEST!) gaming community-driven event.
PAX Australia 2022 took Melbourne by storm over three action-packed days at the Melbourne Convention Centre. As gaming enthusiasts from all walks of life flooded the venue, the energy was electric and the excitement was palpable after gamers and fans had waited patiently to meet up again in person. This year’s PAX Australia was an unforgettable experience that brought together gamers, developers, and industry professionals in a celebration of all things gaming.
Studios Galore
From indie darlings to AAA powerhouses, PAX Australia 2022 showcased an impressive lineup of game studios and developers. Attendees had the chance to explore the latest releases, try unreleased games, and get exclusive insights into the development process. Studios like Ubisoft, Electronic Arts, Square Enix, and Bethesda set up extravagant booths, immersing fans in their captivating worlds. By far the biggest line-up for the event was Sonic Frontiers, you could also snap a selfie with the big blue himself which was a hit with families and fans of the iconic franchise.
Indie Oasis
The PAX Rising area was a true paradise for lovers of unique and innovative gaming experiences. The indie section was abuzz with excitement as independent developers showcased their passion projects. From beautifully hand-drawn platformers to mind-bending puzzle games, there was something for everyone. Standout indie titles like “Sundown Samurai” and “Dreamscape Chronicles” stole the show, leaving attendees eager for their official releases. Other local developers like Massive Monster and their impressive Cult of the Lamb merch and Samurai Punk’s Justice Sucks. There were so many incredible titles to discover, a good chunk of my time over the three days was spent here.
Star-Studded Appearances
PAX Australia 2022 was not just about games; it was also a chance for fans to meet their favourite gaming personalities. Influencers and streamers such as Pokimane, Ninja, and Shroud made appearances, hosted panels, signed autographs and had a blast with their devoted fanbase. The convention centre was buzzing with excitement as fans lined up for a chance to meet these gaming icons.
Cosplay Extravaganza
No gaming convention is complete without the vibrant and imaginative world of cosplay, and PAX Australia 2022 did not disappoint. The halls were filled with an array of spectacular costumes, ranging from beloved gaming characters to anime icons and beyond. Cosplayers strutted their stuff, showcasing their creativity and skill, there was a huge focus on this during the expo with some truly impressive cosplays on display.
Tournaments and Competitions
Competitive gaming took centre stage at PAX Australia 2022, with thrilling tournaments and competitions across a wide range of genres. From intense esports showdowns in games like League of Legends and Overwatch to retro gaming challenges, there was a competition for every type of gamer. The esports arena really solidified the passion from contestants and audiences who love watching them.
Panels and Workshops
PAX Australia 2022 provided a platform for industry professionals to share their knowledge and insights through a series of engaging panels and workshops. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from the best in the business, with topics ranging from game design and development to diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry. Interactive workshops allowed aspiring developers to get hands-on experience and valuable advice from seasoned veterans (Warning : Get there early! These fill up really quickly and you want to make sure you have a great view of the stage)
Gaming Goodies Galore
The PAX Australia expo hall was a treasure trove for gamers looking to stock up on merchandise and collectibles. Attendees could browse through an array of gaming accessories, limited-edition merchandise, and art prints. It was a paradise for collectors and a chance to snag some exclusive items from their favourite franchises. You can also collect some free merch from the Amazon Prime Video area with pins from iconic franchises like The Boys and The Lord of the Rings : Rings of Power.
PAX Australia 2022 was a resounding success, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories and an insatiable hunger for all things gaming. As the event concluded, we eagerly marked our calendars for next year, ready to embark on another adventure at one of the most exciting gaming conventions on the planet.
