Why Melbourne is about to be overrun with gamers and cosplayers
Melbourne is about to be overrun by gamers and pop culture enthusiasts, who are gearing up for the southern hemisphere's largest video game expo.
PAX Aus is coming to the city next week, with over 80,000 expected to walk through the doors of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
From October 6 to October 8, big-name gaming companies will bring their latest games to the showroom floor for gamers to get their hands on early.
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PAX Aus is celebrating it's 10th anniversary in Melbourne this year. Nine
Nintendois offering a hands-on experience for the new Super Mario Bros. Wonder game ahead of its release.
Bethesda will also be there off the back of Starfield, alongside the likes of SEGA and Devolver Digital.
Fighting fans are pumped to get their hands on Tekken 8 for the first time.
And Elder Scrolls Online Creative Director, Rich Lambert, will be there to talk to fans, as will Hi-Fi RUSH's John Johanas.
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Devolver Digital is set to highlight Karma Zoo, Gunbrella and The Plucky Squire. Nine
Gaming tech is always a big highlight for the expo, with a look at the latest tech from ASUS ROG, Lenovo Legion, Bluemouth Interactive and more.
There are panels galore, where aspiring streamers can learn the ropes from some of Australia's best.
With the recent resurgence of Dungeons and Dragons, there's also plenty of opportunity to play a campaign in the tabletop arena.
It'll also be hard to miss the many Magic the Gathering tournaments and other board games on show. MtG has only just released a new brand new set: Wilds of Eldraine.
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SEGA is returning to PAX Aus in 2023 to showcase Sonic Superstars. Nine
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Local game makers will pack out PAX Rising, with small-time developers showcasing their latest and under-development video games.
Don't expect trains to be filled with people in costumes - there's a worker's strike planned for the opening day of the expo, Friday, October 6.
The Victorian Rail, Tram and Bus Union has confirmed its intention to strike between 10am and 2pm, with further strikes to follow.
All the information you need for PAX Aus 2023 can be found on their website, including full schedules and a map of the exhibition building.
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