This year’s theme: ‘Games in Motion, the World Revolution’.

The Tokyo Game Show will take place from September 21st to 24th, with the first two days strictly reserved for business, press, influencers, and industry experts. Days three and four (September 23rd & 24th) will be open to the public. While the Tokyo Game Show in 2022 was held in person, it was heavily restricted due to coronavirus regulations. However, in 2023, they’re not holding back, with an estimated 200,000 guests able to wander freely with full venue access.

What is the Tokyo Game Show?

The Tokyo Game Show (TGS) is an annual video game convention and trade fair held every September at Makuhari Messe Chiba, Japan. The trade fair features a general exhibition area that showcases some of the biggest names, including Nintendo, Sony, Enix, and Sega. Other areas will exhibit independent developers, VR games, and mobile developers. The convention gives avid gamers the opportunity to access the latest demos and witness the debut of new games. Sounds like a gamer’s paradise, right?

On the Day

Make sure to wear comfortable footwear, as stepping into the gaming world means that queuing is inevitable. Also, arrive early to increase your chances of accessing your favourite booths as lining up from 5 am isn’t unheard of. Rest assured, there is a food court with some familiar Japanese staples, such as yakisoba and fried chicken, but bringing snacks won’t hurt, as you might be so consumed with games that you forget about food.

Tickets

As of 2023, age restrictions have been lifted, which means that those under 12 can enjoy a fun-packed family outing. Tickets go on sale on July 8th and must be purchased in advance. The ticket cost is ¥2,300 for each day.

TGS isn’t just for gamers; it’s also for innovative technology seekers. It highlights current trends in modern technology and how the future of gaming is becoming increasingly integrated into everyday life, going beyond mere entertainment technology. So, gamer or not, there’s something for everyone!