PAX Aus 2023: A Decade of Gaming Magic in Melbourne
PAX Aus, Australia's premier gaming event, celebrated its 10th anniversary in style this year, cementing its status as a must-attend gathering for gamers from around the country. For a full three days, from October 6th to 8th, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre played host to an array of activities, panels, indie games, major game developer previews, cosplay extravaganzas, and much more. It was a true testament to why Aussie gamers have flocked to this incredible event for the past decade.
One of the things that makes PAX Aus stand out is its unique blend of activities, catering to gamers of all ages and preferences. From the moment attendees set foot inside, they were treated to a sensory overload of gaming delights. The event featured a diverse range of panels, where industry experts and enthusiasts discussed topics ranging from game development to eSports and cosplay. These panels offered valuable insights into the nerdy world, and attendees left with a deeper understanding of their favourite hobby and may have discovered some new ones.
Fate Meet up captured by Pixel Bao Photography at Pax Aus 2023
Indie game developers also took centre stage, showcasing their creations to an eager audience. It's here that gamers had the opportunity to discover hidden gems and witness the birth of potential gaming sensations many of which were made right here in Australia or across the town in New Zealand. The PAX Aus indie showcase has long been a platform for developers to introduce their games to the world, and this year was no exception.
One of the highlights of PAX Aus 2023 was the exclusive previews from major game developers like Nintendo and Sony. Gamers had the privilege of getting a sneak peek at upcoming titles, igniting their excitement for the future of gaming.
Of course, no PAX Aus would be complete without its spectacular cosplay. The event saw attendees donning incredibly detailed and imaginative costumes, bringing their favourite gaming characters to life. The Crown Cosplay Championships once again wowed the crowd with the level of craftsmanship and creativity on display with Kirilee Cosplay taking home the title with her incredible Toph cosplay. It's a reminder of the dedication and passion of the gaming community, where art and fandom intertwine.
The festivities at PAX Aus didn't stop when the sun went down. The event boasted a packed schedule that ran well into the night. On Saturday, the day was closed out with an unforgettable idol performance featuring Marmalade.cos, Pipachuuuuu, and Kristykuma, followed by the crowd-favorite Seashanties. The blend of music and gaming culture added an extra layer of excitement to the event.
One notable addition to this year's PAX Aus was the introduction of "Grog," a new alcoholic drink by Cold Ones. For attendees of legal drinking age, it was a unique opportunity to enjoy a gaming-themed libation while mingling with fellow enthusiasts.
Yelyah.cos shot by Pixel Bao Photography at PaxAus 2023
Beyond the convention hall, PAX Aus offered an array of activities, from cosplay meet-ups to pin swaps. The sense of community was palpable as fans connected over shared interests, forging new friendships that extended well beyond the event.
In the end, PAX Aus 2023 reminded us all why we adore PAX every year. It's not just about the games; it's about the people, the culture, and the shared passion for all things gaming. As the event concluded, attendees were already counting down the days until they could return for another year of gaming magic. PAX Aus has firmly established itself as an essential fixture in the Australian gaming calendar, and its 10th-anniversary celebration was a testament to its enduring appeal. Here's to another decade of gaming greatness Down Under!