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NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER Celebrates 6th Anniversary with Shisui Uchiha DLC

The multiplayer action game NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER is celebrating its 6th anniversary with a bang, releasing a new DLC featuring the legendary Shisui Uchiha (Perfect Susano’o). This update brings new secret techniques, ninjutsu, and avatar parts, enriching the shinobi experience for players across the globe.

Shisui Uchiha (Perfect Susano’o) DLC Details

Known for his blinding speed and deceptive tactics, Shisui Uchiha is one of the most revered figures in the NARUTO universe. The new DLC introduces players to his ultimate fusion of speed, power, and illusion, with the following additions:

Ninjutsu Techniques:

  • Susano’o: Tsukumo (Defense)
  • Genjutsu: Sharingan (Defense)

Secret Technique:

  • Perfect Susano’o: Kishin (Defense)

Avatar Parts:

  • Costume: Anbu Outfit (Coat Version) for both male and female characters
  • Hairstyle: Kagami
  • Ninja Tool: Uchiha Shuriken Jutsu: Infiltration Shadow
  • Honorary Title: Ultimate Genjutsu Master
GIF of Shisui Uchiha in NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER

6th Anniversary Celebration Events

To celebrate 6 years of incredible ninja action, Bandai Namco is introducing a host of new in-game content, including exclusive events, celebratory outfits, new ninja tools and weapons, and special login bonuses for players. It’s a momentous occasion for the community, and these updates are sure to enhance the already thrilling shinobi experience.

Join the Battle

NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER continues to be a favorite among fans, and this latest DLC only adds to its appeal. Available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, the game invites players to step into the world of NARUTO and unleash their inner ninja.

For more information about NARUTO TO BORUTO: SHINOBI STRIKER and other titles from Bandai Namco Europe, visit the official website and follow them on Instagram. Join the conversation on X.

PAX Aus 2024 Unveils Star-Studded Lineup of Special Guests

PAX Aus 2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, with a spectacular lineup of special guests from the gaming, cosplay, and entertainment industries. This year’s guest list features creative giants, award-winning designers, international cosplay champions, and some of the most influential names in gaming.

Check out our previous article on PAX Aus 2024 here.

PAX Aus 2024 announces The Custodians of Lord of the Rings

Tales of the Shire and The Lord of the Rings

Kicking off the guest announcements, the custodians of The Lord of the Rings are bringing Hobbit lore to Tales of the Shire! Join Wētā Workshop’s Game Studio for two panels during PAX Aus. Celebrating 20 years at Wētā Workshop, Art Director Stephen Lambert will share insights into constructing Bywater in a one-hour Fireside chat on Friday. On Saturday, hear from Lead Game Producer Calliope Ryder, Game Designer Catherine Booth, Art Director Stephen Lambert, and Game Studio Director Tony Lawrence as they delve into the development of the highly anticipated cozy sim, Tales of the Shire.

Final Fantasy XIV Design Legends

Joining the lineup from Square Enix are Natsuka Ishikawa, Senior Story Designer for Final Fantasy XIV, and Saki Takayanagi, Teams Quest and NPC Designer for FFXIV. Both have been integral to the game’s development since A Realm Reborn, contributing to the critically acclaimed storylines in Shadowbringers and Endwalker.

PAX Aus 2024 announces Abubakar Salim

Big Names in Gaming

BAFTA-nominated actor Abubakar Salim, known for his roles as Bayek of Siwa in Assassin’s Creed Origins and Alyn of Hull in HBO’s House of the Dragon, will be in attendance. Salim, founder and CEO of Surgent Studios, is also an avid RPG player and has appeared in Critical Role’s Downfall Special and The Glass Cannon Network.

Rich Lambert, Game Director on The Elder Scrolls Online, is excited to connect with fans at PAX Melbourne. Lambert, who has worked on titles like Oblivion and Fallout 3 at Bethesda Game Studios, brings years of experience to the event.

Music and Sound Design Excellence

Sonia Coronado, a Senior Music Designer at PlayStation Studios Creative Arts, will be sharing her expertise. Coronado’s credits include God of War Ragnarök, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Ghost of Tsushima, and The Last of Us Part II. Her work has garnered industry recognition, including MPSE awards and nominations at The Game Awards, BAFTA’s Games Awards, and more.

Adding to the music talent is James Landino, an internationally recognized video game/anime composer and DJ based in Tokyo. Known for his work on Omega Strikers and other projects like No Straight Roads and Fortnite, Landino’s influence bridges gaming, anime, and electronic music.

PAX Aus 2024 announces FlyQuest

International Cosplay Champion and Esports Stars

Sameer Bundela, also known as Sameer Tikka Masala, is a pioneering cosplayer from India and a four-time Cosplay Champion of India. Bundela has been cosplaying for over 13 years and is recognized as India’s first professional cosplayer.

Australia’s esports pride, FlyQuest, will also be at PAX Aus. Known for their CounterStrike 2 team, affectionately called “The Boys,” FlyQuest represents Australia on the global esports stage. The team, originally under the “Grayhound Gaming” banner, includes Christopher “dexter” Nong, Jay “Liazz” Tregillgas, Joshua “INS” Potter, Alistair ‘aliStair” Johnston, and Declan “Vexite” Portelli, and is coached by Erdenetsogt “erksSt’ Gantulga.

PAX Aus 2024 announces Game Developers

Industry Veterans and More

Josh Weier, a veteran game developer with over 20 years of experience at Valve, will be at PAX Aus. Known for his work on Half-Life 2 and Portal 2, Weier now calls Melbourne home and brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the event.

These guests join previously announced talents like Julian Wilton (Creative Director of Massive Monster, creator of Cult of the Lamb), Mark Meer (voice of Commander Shepard in the Mass Effect series), and John Robertson (The Dark Room, Comedian), making PAX Aus 2024 a must-attend event for gaming enthusiasts.

Don’t Miss Out!

With three-day badges sold out and Saturday badges 95% sold out, get your tickets now to hear from this incredible lineup of talent. PAX Aus 2024 takes place from October 11-13 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

For more information and to purchase badges, visit the official PAX Aus website and follow PAX Aus 2024 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Discord, and TikTok.

gamescom awards 2024: Monster Hunter Wilds Leads the Winners

The big winner of this year’s awards is Monster Hunter Wilds, which swept several categories. The game was celebrated as the Most Epic and Most Entertaining Game, and also took home the title of Best Sony PlayStation Game. Its action-packed trailer captivated both the jury and fans alike, solidifying its place as a standout title at Gamescom 2024.

If you want a recap of the nominees, head to our other article.

Other Major Winners

Bandai Namco’s Little Nightmares 3 was recognized for its outstanding graphics and audio, earning it the award for Best Microsoft Xbox Game.

11bit Studios also made a strong showing, with Frostpunk 2 winning Best Gameplay and Creatures of Ava being honored in the Games for Impact category.

The award for Most Wholesome Game went to Tavern Talk by German developer Gentle Troll.

In addition to individual game awards, the Microsoft Xbox, Bethesda, and Blizzard booth in Hall 7 was recognized as the Best Booth, impressing visitors with its grand design and interactive elements.

Sustainability Award Goes to Tencent

The Gamescom Sustainability Award honors organizations within the global gaming industry for their commitment to sustainable practices. This year, the award was presented to Tencent Games during Gamescom Opening Night Live. Brent Irvin, President of Tencent Americas, accepted the award, with the jury from the UN’s Playing for the Planet initiative commending Tencent for its transparent and data-driven approach to achieving ambitious sustainability goals.

gamescom awards 2024 - Games for Impact

HEART OF GAMING Award

The HEART OF GAMING Award is a special recognition given annually by the Gamescom Awards jury. This year, the award highlights the important role of video games in protecting and preserving democratic values. The jury acknowledged the increasing use of computer and video games by civil society actors, memorial sites, and political institutions to convey and uphold democratic principles.

Overview of the Winners

  • Best Visuals: Little Nightmares 3, Supermassive Games / Bandai Namco Entertainment
  • Best Audio: Little Nightmares 3, Supermassive Games / Bandai Namco Entertainment
  • Best Gameplay: Frostpunk 2, 11bit studios
  • Most Entertaining: Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom
  • Most Epic: Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom
  • Most Wholesome: Tavern Talk, Gentle Troll Entertainment
  • Games for Impact: Creatures of Ava, Inverge Studios / 11bit studios
  • Best Microsoft Xbox Game: Little Nightmares 3, Supermassive Games / Bandai Namco Entertainment
  • Best PC Game: Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, Warhorse Studios / Plaion
  • Best Sony PlayStation Game: Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom
  • Best Mobile Game: Genshin Impact, HoYoverse
  • Best Trailer / Announcement: Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom
  • Best of Show Floor: Microsoft Xbox / Bethesda / Blizzard
  • HEART OF GAMING Award: Games protect democracy
  • gamescom sustainability award: Tencent Games

Polynesian Mythology-Inspired Metroidvania ‘Maui the Shapeshifter’ Revealed at Gamescom

Maui the Shapeshifter, a beautifully hand-drawn 2D Metroidvania, was revealed at the Future Games Show during Gamescom 2024. Developed by Play on Worlds (creators of Ebenezer and the Invisible World), this game draws inspiration from Polynesian mythology, featuring the legendary shapeshifting demigod Maui.

Master Maui’s Shapeshifting Powers

In Maui the Shapeshifter, players will wield Maui’s iconic magic fish hook and his shapeshifting abilities to protect a Polynesian island from the corrupting influence of Cemyk, a sinister creature from another world. Transform into various majestic animals with the help of the spirit Aumakua to overcome challenges, solve puzzles, and battle mutated wildlife.

Shapeshift into a Hoary Bat to soar to new heights, slide down hills as a Green Sea Turtle while blocking projectiles, or glide across vast distances as a Kamehameha Butterfly. These transformations allow players to creatively harness the power of incredible animals to restore balance to the island.

Screenshot of Maui the Shapeshifter

Explore a Rich and Enchanted Island

Players will explore a sprawling Metroidvania map filled with diverse biomes, from jungles and volcanoes to beaches and the legendary Menehune village. The game also delves into a hidden spiritual world, offering deeper mysteries to uncover. The island is brought to life with breathtaking hand-drawn art, rich in vibrant colors and intricate details.

Maui’s fish hook isn’t just for combat; it can be upgraded to manipulate the environment, solve puzzles, and unlock new areas. A robust slot system allows players to discover and equip new powers, enhancing Maui’s abilities as they progress through the game.

Carlos Martin, Founder of Play on Worlds, shared the team’s vision:

“After spending so much time in the chilly realm of Ebenezer and the Invisible World, we wanted to create a colorful experience in a different environment while staying true to our love for Metroidvanias. With Maui the Shapeshifter, we hope Metroidvania fans will follow us onto the island and take on a whole new adventure.”

Screenshot of Maui the Shapeshifter

Availability and More Information

Maui the Shapeshifter will be available on PC via Steam. For more information, visit the game’s official website and follow the development team on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and via the hashtag #MauitheShapeshifter on social media.

Unknown 9: Awakening Launches October 18th with Live-Action Trailer

Bandai Namco Europe has officially announced that Unknown 9: Awakening, the highly anticipated narrative action-adventure game developed by Reflector Entertainment, will launch on October 18th, 2024. The game will be available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Pre-orders are now open, offering various editions to suit every player.

A New Narrative Universe Awaits

Unknown 9: Awakening introduces players to Haroona, a powerful young woman with a unique connection to the Fold, a mysterious parallel dimension. Haroona draws incredible power from the Fold, which she must use to protect humanity’s best-kept secrets. The live-action trailer, starring Anya Chalotra, captures the intensity and depth of Haroona’s journey as she learns to wield her powers.

Anya Chalotra shared her thoughts on the project:

“Unknown 9: Awakening is very special, I know gamers will feel that. We were able to create a space that was safe and open to watch and learn, and I truly cherish my time with each incredible actor and the brilliant Unknown 9 team.”

Christophe Rossignol, Creative Director at Reflector Entertainment, added:

“Anya Chalotra’s captivating performance brought depth, nuance, and emotional resonance to the story. We are thrilled to have had the chance to work with such a talented actress to portray Haroona.”

All of the Editions of Unknown 9: Awakening

Pre-Order Editions Available Now

Players can pre-order Unknown 9: Awakening now, with several editions available:

  • Pre-order Edition: Game + Pre-order bonus cosmetic DLC
  • Deluxe Digital Edition: Game + Pre-order bonus cosmetic DLC + All DLCs
  • Collector’s Edition: Game + Pre-order bonus cosmetic DLC + All DLCs + Quaestor’s journal + Haroona’s amulet replica + Collector’s coin & metal case

These editions offer a range of exclusive content, perfect for both new players and long-time fans eager to dive deeper into the Unknown 9 universe.

Release Date and Availability

Unknown 9: Awakening will launch on October 18th, 2024, and will be available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.

For more information, visit the official Bandai Namco Europe website and follow Bandai Namco Australia on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.

VR Distribution Brings Exclusive Tabletop Games and Show Exclusives to PAX Aus 2024

VR Distribution, a powerhouse in the tabletop gaming world, is gearing up to deliver an unparalleled experience at PAX Aus 2024. Attendees can expect to dive into an extensive selection of games, including brand new releases, beloved classics, and exclusive show-only collectibles.

David Nye from VR Distribution expressed his excitement:

“This is the biggest range of games and activities that we have ever brought to PAX Aus, with something for everyone, from party games to complex strategy games. We have brand new game releases, new sets, and exclusive collectibles only available at PAX Aus, along with fan favorites. It’s going to be the ultimate tabletop get-together, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone.”

Star Wars Unlimited at PAX Australia 2024

Star Wars: Unlimited and Exclusive Collectibles

Kicking off the excitement, Star Wars: Unlimited fans will have the opportunity to play TCG Sets 1, 2, and a sneak peek of Set 3. As a special treat, players can pick up an exclusive ‘Grogu’ card, a must-have collectible that’s sure to be the highlight of the weekend.

Altered at PAX Australia 2024

Play the Record-Breaking Altered

The highly anticipated Altered, the biggest tabletop Kickstarter ever, will be available to play at PAX Aus. Attendees can also get their hands on exclusive event promo cards, making this a can’t-miss opportunity for fans of the game.

Fresh from Essen Spiel, VR Distribution is bringing ‘Essen Spiel Down Under’ to PAX Aus, featuring exclusive sneak peeks of the hottest new games of 2024. This showcase offers a unique opportunity for Australian gamers to experience these highly anticipated titles first-hand.

Captain Flip at PAX Australia 2024

New Releases from Asmodee and More

Asmodee is bringing a lineup of new games to PAX Aus, including Australia’s first look at Forest Shuffle, Captain Flip, and King of Tokyo Duel by Iello. Additionally, Asmodee’s new partnership with The LEGO Group will debut with the exciting board game Monkey Palace, available for the first time in Australia.

Fan favorites Big Potato Games and Exploding Kittens will be bringing the party to PAX Aus with new game releases and a special “Sword Fight Zone”. Brave attendees can try their hand at Let’s Hit Each Other with Fake Swords, Exploding Kittens’ brand new game that promises plenty of fun and laughs.

CATAN at PAX Australia 2024

CATAN Experience and Dice Trading Chase

For the first time in Australia, CATAN Studios will bring the Gencon “CATAN Experience Event” to PAX Aus. Participants can join in the Dice Trading Chase, where they will collect dice from around the convention and trade them in for an exclusive CATAN die.

Brands represented in the VR Distribution area include Exploding Kittens, Big Potato Games, Fantasy Flight Games, Asmodee, Days of Wonder, CATAN Studios, Libellud, Altered, and more.

Don’t Miss Out

PAX Aus 2024 is shaping up to be a tabletop gaming paradise, with VR Distribution offering a comprehensive lineup that promises something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the scene, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

For more information and to stay updated, visit the official PAX Aus website and follow PAX Aus 2024 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Discord.

gamescom award 2024: Nominees Announced, Voting Now Open

The nominees for the gamescom awards 2024 have been revealed, showcasing the most promising titles of the year as selected by a jury of German and international games journalists and creators. Leading the nominations are Little Nightmares 3 by Bandai Namco Entertainment and Dune: Awakening by Funcom, each earning four nominations. Star Wars Outlaws by Ubisoft follows closely with three nominations.

Voting and Award Presentation

This year’s gamescom awards will be presented across 15 categories. Fans and visitors of gamescom are invited to participate in the voting process alongside the expert jury. Voting opens on Wednesday, August 21st, and will be available until . Fans can cast their votes in the Arts and Platform categories, as well as the categories for Best of Show Floor and Best Trailer/Announcement.

Voting can be done online at gamescom’s official website or on-site at gamescom via QR codes.

Two people playing games at gamescom
Photo by Thomas Klerx via Koelnmesse/gamescom

The sustainability award winner will be announced during gamescom: Opening Night Live, while all other category winners will be honored at the gamescom award show on , from to . The ceremony will take place at the gamescom studio hosted by IGN in Hall 7.

Nominees for the gamescom award 2024

gamescom awards 2024 - Best Visuals

Best Audio

  • Dune: Awakening, Funcom
  • Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, Warhorse Studios / Plaion
  • Little Nightmares 3, Supermassive Games / Bandai Namco Entertainment
  • Nine Sols, Red Candle Games
  • Star Wars Outlaws, Massive Entertainment / Ubisoft

Best Gameplay

  • Blue Prince, Dogubomb / Raw Fury
  • Empire of the Ants, Tower Five / Microids
  • Frostpunk 2, 11bit studios
  • PVKK: Planetenverteidigungs-
  • kanonenkommandant, Bippinbits
  • The Alters, 11bit studios
gamescom awards 2024 - Most Entertaining

Most Epic

  • Crimson Desert, Pearl Abyss
  • Dune: Awakening, Funcom
  • Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, Warhorse Studios / Plaion
  • Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom
  • Star Wars Outlaws, Massive Entertainment / Ubisoft

Most Wholesome

  • Creatures of Ava, Inverge Studios / 11bit studios
  • Tavern Talk, Gentle Troll Entertainment
  • Tiny Bookshop, neoludic games
  • Urban Jungle, Kylyk Games / Assemble Entertainment
  • Woodo, Daedalic Entertainment
gamescom awards 2024 - Games for Impact

Best Microsoft Xbox Game

  • Age of Mythology: Retold, Xbox Game Studios
  • Creatures of Ava, Inverge Studios / 11bit studios
  • Little Nightmares 3, Supermassive Games / Bandai Namco Entertainment
  • Star Wars Outlaws, Massive Entertainment / Ubisoft
  • The Alters, 11bit studios

Best Sony PlayStation Game

  • Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, Spike Chunsoft / Bandai Namco Entertainment
  • Little Nightmares 3, Supermassive Games / Bandai Namco Entertainment
  • Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom
  • The First Berserker: Khazan, Neople / Nexon
  • Unknown 9: Awakening, Reflector Entertainment / Bandai Namco Entertainment
gamescom awards 2024 - Best PC Game

Best Mobile Game

  • Digital Animals Game, souls.club
  • Dungeons of Dreadrock 2 – The Dead King’s Secret, Christoph Minnameier
  • Genshin Impact, HoYoverse
  • Monster Hunter Now, Capcom / Niantic
  • Zenless Zone Zero, HoYoverse

Best Trailer / Announcement
Fans and visitors of gamescom, along with the jury, vote on the most spectacular game trailer or the best new game announcement during gamescom. All trailers and announcements shown during gamescom Opening Night Live are eligible for selection.

Best of Show Floor
In this category, the most compelling booth presentation in the entertainment area is honored.

HEART OF GAMING Award
Any gamescom highlight is eligible for this extraordinary award: not only games, add-ons, and technologies, but also people, institutions, companies, concepts, or terms.

gamescom sustainability award
This award honors an organization within the global gaming industry for its exceptional commitment to climate and environmental protection—whether it’s a development team, publisher, or another type of company. Evaluation criteria include how the organization approaches carbon accounting and emission reductions, as well as how it collaborates with external parties such as suppliers. All exhibitors at gamescom can apply for this category free of charge.

Another Eden Unveils The King of Fighters: Another Bout Crossover Event

Another Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and Space, the popular multi-platform JRPG with over 15 million players worldwide, is teaming up with SNK’s legendary fighting game series The King of Fighters for an exciting crossover event. Titled The King of Fighters: Another Bout, this new Symphony event launches on August 22, 2024, and will be available on Steam for PC, iOS, and Android.

A Legendary Collaboration

In The King of Fighters: Another Bout, Aldo, the main character of Another Eden, receives a mysterious invitation: “Win the tournament, and save the world.” Transported alongside his party into the world of The King of Fighters, Aldo and his allies engage in battles with iconic characters such as Terry Bogard, Kyo Kusanagi, Mai Shiranui, and Kula Diamond. Players will clash across a branching story featuring all four characters, unlocking them for use throughout the entire game.

The King of Fighters: Another Bout Character Art

New Combat Mechanics

This crossover introduces new combat mechanics to Another Eden, inspired by the classic KOF gameplay. Players can pick a team of three characters to engage in a series of 1v1 battles. Instead of traditional skills, command inputs are used to chain together attacks and unleash Special Moves. By filling up the blue gauge, players can activate MAX MODE and strike with devastating Super Special Moves. These new mechanics culminate in a challenging final battle against the dreaded boss Rugal.

Expert Input and Authenticity

The crossover event has been crafted with care by Wright Flyer Studios, featuring detailed, fluid animations that capture the essence of KOF characters in the Another Eden art style. The studio’s game designers Laggia and BON, both prominent figures in the fighting game community and long-time fans of King of Fighters, contributed their expertise to ensure the authenticity and excitement of this Symphony.

Screenshot of The King of Fighters: Another Bout

Unlock and Play

Players can unlock the KOF characters for use across the entire game, with the story available to play at any time. To access the Symphony’s prologue, players need to clear Chapter 3 of the main story, and Chapter 13 to unlock the entire event. From now until September 30, players who start The King of Fighters: Another Bout will earn 1000 Chronos Stones. New players can earn an additional 1000 Chronos Stones during this period.

Join the Adventure

Another Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and Space is available now on Steam for PC, iOS via the App Store, and Android via Google Play. Don’t miss the chance to join this legendary crossover event starting Thursday, August 22.

For more information on Another Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and Space, visit the official website and follow on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.

PAX Aus 2024 Unveils Largest Ever Tabletop Area Featuring Disney Lorcana and More

PAX Aus 2024 is set to deliver its biggest and most exciting tabletop area yet, showcasing a wide range of fan-favorite games and new releases. This year’s event, taking place from October 11-13 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, promises an unparalleled experience for tabletop enthusiasts, featuring the highly anticipated Disney Lorcana by Ravensburger.

Disney Lorcana Takes the Spotlight

Leading the charge is Disney Lorcana, a much-anticipated trading card game (TCG) that allows players to discover the magical world of Lorcana alongside beloved Disney characters. Whether you’re a newcomer to TCGs or a seasoned player, the Disney Lorcana booth will offer something for everyone, from hands-on demos to opportunities for collectors.

Will Chan, Disney Lorcana Sales and Marketing Manager at Modern Brands, expressed his excitement:

“We’re thrilled to bring Disney Lorcana to Australian fans this year. Our booth will have something for everyone, and we can’t wait to see the community come together to celebrate this wonderful experience.”

Photo from PAX Australia 2023 feat. Star Wars TCG

Tabletop Icons and Exciting New Releases

Joining Disney Lorcana are other giants of the tabletop world, including Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons. As Dungeons & Dragons celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024, fans can expect exclusive merchandise and hands-on demos with new sets. Both areas will be open from 10 AM – 10 PM on Friday and Saturday, and from 10 AM – 6 PM on Sunday.

Bandai will also be offering a stellar lineup of activities, featuring learn-to-play sessions, tournaments, and events for their popular TCGs: One Piece, Dragon Ball Super, Digimon, and their newest addition, Sand Land.

For miniature painting enthusiasts, the popular ‘Paint and Take’ event returns with a twist, promising a Mediaeval world of wonder thanks to Let’s Play Games. Additionally, Star Wars: Unlimited fans can get their hands on an exclusive ‘Grogu’ event promo card, and new releases from Exploding Kittens Studios, Big Potato Games, CATAN New Energies, Forrest Shuffle, and more will be available.

Photo from PAX Australia 2023 feat. Magic the Gathering

Indie Tabletop Scene Shines

The Australian tabletop scene continues to thrive, and this year’s PAX Aus Indie Showcase will feature the largest number of Indie Showcase tabletop winners in PAX history, with six winners showcased in the PAX Aus Rising section. These indie developers are sure to impress with their innovative and creative game designs.

Off the exhibition floor, tabletop lovers can enjoy even more content, including the debut of the Owlbear Theatre, which will host TTRPG – One Shot Adventures throughout the weekend.

Photo from PAX Australia 2023 feat. Digimon TCG

Everything Your Gaming Heart Desires

PAX Aus 2024 is not just about tabletop games; the event will encompass everything your gaming heart desires, including the epic expo floor, the PC Freeplay area, the Handheld Lounge, Console Freeplay and Tournament areas, Cosplay Central, the Crown Championships of Cosplay, the Speedrunning Stage, Jackbox, the PAX Aus Indie Showcase, PAX Collaboratory, PAX Rising, and more. With a jam-packed schedule of panels, entertainment, and special guests, this year’s PAX Aus is shaping up to be the best one yet.

PAX Aus 2024 takes place from October 11-13 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. With three-day badges sold out and Saturday badges 80% sold out, don’t delay if you want to play!

For more information, updates, and to purchase badges, visit the official PAX Aus website and follow PAX Aus 2024 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Discord, and TikTok.

gamescom 2024 Kicks Off with Record-Breaking Exhibitor Numbers

gamescom 2024 is set to be bigger and more diverse than ever, with over 1,400 exhibitors from 64 countries showcasing their latest innovations on a sprawling 230,000 square meters of exhibition space. This marks a 15% increase in exhibitors compared to last year, breaking previous records and cementing gamescom’s status as the world’s largest gaming event. The number of country pavilions has also surged, with 48 pavilions representing 37 countries, up from 33 pavilions last year.

Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse, expressed his excitement:

“The world’s largest gaming event continues to grow. We are delighted to be able to announce these outstanding figures just one week before gamescom kicks off.”

Felix Falk, Managing Director of game – The German Games Industry Association, echoed this sentiment:

“The anticipation for the world’s biggest gaming event is huge – both on-site in Cologne and digitally around the world.”

Two people playing games at gamescom
Photo by Thomas Klerx via Koelnmesse/gamescom

Highlights of gamescom 2024

Social Stage Debut

This year introduces the new social stage in Hall 11.3, offering a dynamic program from Thursday to Sunday. Visitors can enjoy live podcasts, karaoke, music acts, and more. Highlights include the international live podcast “Friends per Second” featuring Ralph from SkillUp, Jake from Gameranx, and Lucy from Gamespot/Giant Bomb, game soundtracks performed by Benyamin Nuss on piano, and a live pen-and-paper adventure with Alex from the Dice Actors and friends. The program will be updated regularly, so check back for the latest details.

Opening Night Live Preview

The highly anticipated gamescom Opening Night Live (ONL) kicks off the week on August 20th, hosted by Geoff Keighley and co-hosted by Eefje “Sjokz” Depoortere. Last year, ONL garnered over 20 million views in its first few days. This year’s lineup includes major announcements from top companies such as:

  • 2K: Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII
  • Activision: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Capcom: Monster Hunter Wilds
  • DON’T NOD: Lost Records: Bloom & Rage
  • Funcom: Dune: Awakening
  • NetEase: Marvel Rivals
  • PLAION: Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

More surprises are expected, with additional titles and companies to be announced soon. On-site capacity for ONL has more than doubled, and tickets are still available at the gamescom online Ticket Shop.

gamescom: Opening Night Live
Photo by Marvin Ruppert via Koelnmesse/gamescom

devcom and gamescom Congress at the New Confex

For the first time, the devcom Developer Conference and gamescom congress will take place at Koelnmesse’s new Confex center, Europe’s most modern event and congress venue. This location offers more space and a direct connection to the B2B area of gamescom, enhancing the experience for attendees and exhibitors alike.

gamescom invest circle, supported by KölnBusiness and the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection, will also take place at Confex on August 22nd. This event connects investors with emerging game studios, with 45 studios participating in pitch competitions after intensive training.

gamescom LAN Returns in 2025

Following a successful debut in March, gamescom LAN is set to return in 2025. Scheduled for February 21-23 in Cologne, the event will feature even more exciting elements and celebrate the diversity of gaming culture. Advance ticket sales will begin during gamescom 2024, so be sure to secure your spot early.

gamescom latam esports tournament
Image via gamescom

Get Ready for gamescom 2024

With record-breaking numbers, exciting new features, and a packed schedule of events, gamescom 2024 is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting edition yet. Whether you’re attending in Cologne or tuning in from around the world, there’s something for everyone at this year’s event.

For more information, visit the gamescom official website and stay connected on social media for the latest updates.