Penny Arcade Reveals PAX 2009 Details
When E3 downsized its show from 60,000 attendees to 3,000 in 2007, the Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) started to be more of a focal point for the gaming industry. In terms of how many gamers attend the show, it was about as large as the 2006 E3 show, with almost 60,000 people going. Even with the Electronic Entertainment Expo returning to its former glory, PAX is still expecting a successful and strong show in 2009.
The festival will begin on September 4th and run to the 6th. PAX has a number of big name publishers exhibiting the show floor including: Nintendo, Microsoft, Valve, Blizzard and Ubisoft. No word yet if show organizers expect to see more companies on board like, EA and Sony who are notably absent.
Not only are gamers going to be able try out the latest video game that has yet to arrive in stores during the expo, they are also going to be treated to a live concert. “Freezepop, Jonathan Coulton, MC Frontalot, Anamanaguchi and, new for this year, Paul and Storm and Metroid Metal” will be playing at this year’s event.
Remember, while E3 can only be attended by people in the gaming industry — everyone is eligible can come to PAX. So, if you are one of the many who can’t be involved at E3 in Los Angeles, PAX in Seattle, WA might be a great alternative.
After the jump, read the full press release.
SEATTLE – April 23, 2009 — The sixth annual PAX gaming festival is set to erupt this Sept. 4-6, leaving the Washington State Convention and Trade Center forever changed. Show organizers today revealed that the PAX 2009 Exhibition Hall will offer attendees game demonstrations and hands-on opportunities with some of this year’s hottest titles from over 60 exhibitors, including top publishers Microsoft, Nintendo, Valve, Blizzard and Ubisoft.
PAX attendees will also marvel at the informative panels, thrill at the highly competitive Omegathon and then be amazed by rousing musical performances from Freezepop, Jonathan Coulton, MC Frontalot, Anamanaguchi and, new for this year, Paul and Storm and Metroid Metal. Metroid Metal will be offering a new studio-recorded album containing the best of Metroid Metal as a PAX-exclusive before regular sale at www.metroidmetal.com.
“Every show, we try to offer gamers new content, old favorites and the best overall experience possible,” said Penny Arcade’s Robert Khoo. “If you really think about it, we’re easily the biggest show west of the Mississippi within the continental United States that focuses on games that isn’t E3 or affiliated in some way with NBC. If you’ve never been to PAX, 2009 is your year to come.”
Although pre-registration badges are still available, they are going fast and expected to sell out prior to the Aug. 15 closing date. Those interested in attending this year’s show can make their purchases at www.paxsite.com to guarantee a place in the action this fall.
Exhibitors looking for last-minute booth opportunities can contact Bill Butler at paxsales@paxsite.com.
