This year’s Tokyo Game Show 2024 ran from September 26th to 29th, and I finally got the chance to attend on the last day, September 29th. Held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, this gaming event was packed with energy, excitement, and a whole lot of fans who were just as eager as I was to soak it all in. With my press pass in hand, I had access to some behind-the-scenes areas and could chat directly with developers, which made the whole experience even more special.

What is Happening at Makuhari Messe?

 

As soon as I walked into the venue, I was hit by the sheer scale of the event. It was like stepping into a different world where gaming wasn’t just a hobby—it was a full-blown culture. People from all over the world, including many foreigners, were in attendance, fully embracing the Tokyo Game Show spirit. I saw fans dressed in incredible cosplay, from anime characters to iconic game heroes, bringing their favorite worlds to life in the halls of Makuhari Messe.

If you’re planning to take photos of the amazing costumes, it’s best to always ask for permission first. Cosplayers usually appreciate the gesture, and it ensures a respectful interaction. Also, if you’re taking photos or videos in general, be mindful of other attendees and avoid capturing their faces where they are easily recognizable without consent—privacy is a big deal here in Japan, and it’s a good practice to keep everyone comfortable.

Makuhari Messe was divided into two main areas: one hall was focused on all the merch, while the other was dedicated to game demos, live shows, and interactive exhibits. You could easily get lost in the sea of gaming booths, but the vibe was so electric that you didn’t mind wandering around and exploring all that was on display.

Tokyo Game Show Highlights: The Big Names and Indie Gems

The variety of games on show was mind-blowing. There were heavy hitters like “Fallout,” “Dragon Age,” and “Sonic” drawing massive crowds with their flashy displays and larger-than-life demos. But there were also plenty of new games like “Palworld” that stood out with their unique charm. I’m not the biggest gamer, preferring cozy titles like “The Sims,” but even I could appreciate the passion that went into these creations.

One surprise was seeing furniture company Nitori there, not for their usual home décor but showcasing gaming desks and chairs. It was a reminder that gaming is evolving into a lifestyle, not just an activity. My husband, a huge fan of competitive games, was thrilled to see titles like “League of Legends” and “Tarkov,” and we even spotted some European developers with small yet impressive setups that caught our eye.

 

If you want to learn more about last year’s event, then click on this link to read about Tokyo Game Show 2023!

Waiting in Line: Patience Is Key!

 

One thing you need to prepare for at the Tokyo Game Show is the waiting time. With so many gamers eager to try out the latest releases, there were long lines in front of almost every booth. If you wanted to test out a game, you had to be prepared to line up, sometimes for quite a while. But the wait was often worth it, as the demos were well-crafted experiences designed to give you a real taste of what the game offers.

This was especially true for the indie game booths, where even with only one or two demo stations available, the buzz around the games was palpable. The lines were a great chance to chat with fellow gamers about what you were excited to try out next, and it made the whole experience feel more like a community gathering.

VR Magic: My Favorite Experience at the Tokyo Game Show

 

The highlight of my day was a VR escape room game developed in Korea. I’m usually not one for VR since it tends to make me a bit dizzy, but this game was different. The technology was so smooth and immersive that I didn’t get the usual headache, even after playing for nearly 30 minutes. It was like stepping into a whole new world, and I couldn’t believe how real it felt.

This experience alone made me excited for the future of gaming technology. The developers were kind enough to let me play even as they were closing down, and it left me wishing I had more time to explore other VR titles at the event.

Chasing Merch and Finding Food

 

One thing I learned the hard way: if you’re coming to the Tokyo Game Show for the merch, get there early! By the time we hit the booths like “Palworld,” most of the best items were already gone. The larger companies still had a decent selection, but it was clear that fans had swooped in early to grab all the exclusive gear.

Food was another adventure altogether. The single convenience store and food court were packed, with long lines and barely any space to sit down. We ended up doing what a lot of other people did—finding a spot on the floor and enjoying our snacks while watching the crowd go by. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was all part of the experience, and honestly, it made the day even more fun.

Gaming Culture on Display

The Tokyo Game Show isn’t just about the latest games; it’s a full-on celebration of gaming culture. There were massive statues of anime legends like Goku from “Dragonball Z” and life-sized dinosaurs that hinted at upcoming releases. We also found a section for a gaming college, where students were showing off their own projects. Seeing young developers showcase their work was inspiring and a reminder that the future of gaming is in good hands.

I was also struck by how the event catered to everyone—whether you’re a die-hard gamer or just a curious bystander like me. From indie developers to major game studios, everyone had a place in this giant ecosystem. There were even panels where developers took the stage to answer fan questions, mostly in Japanese, but with translators available to make sure no one missed out.

Final Thoughts: A Day to Remember

 

Attending the Tokyo Game Show 2024 was an eye-opening experience for me. Even though I’m not the biggest gamer, the energy, passion, and creativity I saw there were infectious. My husband was over the moon with all the new game releases and the competitive titles he loves, while I enjoyed discovering cozy and simulation-style games I didn’t even know existed.

If you’re even slightly interested in gaming, I highly recommend checking out the Tokyo Game Show next year. Just be sure to get there early, wear your most comfortable shoes, and be ready to dive headfirst into the world of gaming. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re into high-octane action games or slow-paced, immersive experiences like me.

If you want to see snippets, follow us on Tiktok and share!

Check out our tiktok video featuring Tokyo Games Show 2024: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS2KRPbDe/

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Tokyo Game Show 2025

Next year’s Tokyo Game Show promises to be even bigger and better. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or someone who just loves to see new technology in action, this event has it all. From VR experiences to classic game releases, and everything in between, it’s a must-see spectacle that goes beyond just playing games—it’s about celebrating the world of gaming with a community that’s just as passionate as you are.

To find out more about the event, make sure to visit their website.

 

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