Things To Do At PAX Aus 2023

In just over two weeks the gaming faithful of Australia will descend on Melbourne for PAX Aus 2023. From the 6^th to the 8^th of October, the Melbourne Convention And Exhibition Centre will be awash with cosplayers, panellists and game developers (both of the video and tabletop variety).

With so much to see and do it can be overwhelming deciding what are the musts for PAX Aus 2023. That’s why I’ve compiled a handy list of things happening around Melbourne, both inside and outside of PAX, that you may want to look at during your visit.

Inside PAX Aus 2023

Indie Games

Put your hands up if you like video games? Not the best question to ask right now as now I’m typing one handed, but video games is what we’re about here at Roundtable Co-Op. It’s no surprise that what I’m excited to see most at PAX Aus 2023 is the indie games in PAX Rising and Aus Indie Showcase. They’re always a delight, with some hidden gems coming to light.

Take a full day, talk with the developers and soak in the majesty that is PAX Rising and Aus Indie Showcase.

Panels

What to know how to write a one shot D&D adventure? Maybe you want to know how to get started with cosplay? Perhaps you’re a creator and want to know more about tax and finances for your chosen industry?

Whatever you want to know about, there’s sure to be a panel about it! Check out all the panels at PAX Aus 2023 here (use the filters on the left to sort for panels only).

Wander The Expo Hall

The Expo Hall is the heart of the PAX Aus 2023 experience. This is where all the exhibitors have their booths. From big guns like Nintendo and Devolver Digital, to smaller indie games and tabletop experiences, this is where you’ll find them all.

There’s nothing like wandering the floor and seeing all the incredible stalls.

Nintendo On The Floor Of PAX Aus 2023

Nintendo are returning to PAX with Splatoon 3 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe AU/NZ Championships. Gamers will also get a look at Super Mario Bros. Wonder ahead of its full release on the 20^th of October.

Brushes & Brews With Bethesda

Level up your creative skills by taking part in the Brushes & Brews With Bethesda class. Artisans of all skill levels will be able to attend and bring their favourite Bethesda game to life. Led by an expert painter, these sessions allow gamers to create their own masterpiece centred around one of Bethesda’s iconic worlds, including Starfield, The Elder Scrolls Online, Hi-FI Rush and Fallout 76.

Please note: This is a free ticketed event inside PAX Aus 2023. A ticket is required for both PAX Aus 2023 and Brushes & Brews With Bethesda.

Outside PAX Aus 2023

Big Games Night Out

Presented by Creative Victoria in partnership with Fed Square as part of Melbourne International Games Week, Big Games Night Out is a free all ages event welcoming families and gamers alike to celebrate the spectacle of gaming.

From 5pm Thursday 5^th October, Fed Square will come alive with events such as a cosplay parade, live music performances from Tripod and Montaigne, the Stray Gods Fashion Show, and an immersive show called Cult of the Lamb: The Ritual. For those that prefer a more hands-on display there will be a range of free game activations as well as a Games Swap Meet for those looking to pick up a bargain.

A Night Out On The Town

Fancy a night out on the town? There’s plenty to choose from.

Fortress Melbourne will no doubt be the destination of choice for PAX Aus 2023 attendees. Their Fortress Gala is the event to be seen at on the Saturday night. Unfortunately, it is already sold out although there is a waitlist you can join in case any more tickets become available.

That’s not the only opportunity for a night out. WA-based Respawn is heading back to Melbourne with their Respawn Expo After Party (Melbourne). From 9pm on the 7^th of October at Ballers Clubhouse, gamers can party into the wee hours with a cosplay competition, video games and gaming themed drinks. Grab your tickets now.

Melbourne International Games Week

There is a myriad of events happening as part of Melbourne International Games Week.

Cult of the Lamb: Live details a new narrative from developer Massive Monster, accompanied by musicians from Orchestra Victoria.
Volo: Dreams of Flight is a VR experience that lets you pilot one of four flying contraptions.
ACMI Audience Choice Award presents a playable showcase of the best games Australia has to offer. Try them out before voting for who you thinks should take out the ACMI Audience Award!
Along with the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe UU/NZ Championships happening at PAX Aus 2023, the Melbourne International Games Week is hosting its own Mario Kart Tournament.
Tabletop gaming more your thing? Check out Games Dunk Presents A Sticky Situation and get hands on designing your own unique game zine.
But wait, there’s more! Check out all the events happening for Melbourne International Games Week.

ACMI

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is an amazing place showcasing the history of Australia’s work in film, TV, video games and art. Hours can be lost walking the halls of ACMI, discovering all the exhibits and screenings.

If that wasn’t enough, there’s lots of additional events going on at ACMI during PAX Aus 2023. Check it out!

GCAP & AGDAs

The week leading up to PAX Aus 2023 sees Games Connect Asia Pacific (GCAP) take place. This is Australia’s premier professional development and networking event for the game development industry. If you’re a game developer looking to up-skill and meet like-minded industry colleagues, grab a ticket.

GCAP culminates in the Australian Game Developer Awards (AGDAs). Celebrating the best of the best in Australian video games, the AGDAs span 13 game awards across categories such as Excellence in Art, Excellence in Gameplay, and the much anticipated Game Of The Year.

Tickets to both GCAP and the AGDAs are available now.

The Elder Scrolls Online PAX Aus 2023 Community Party

In addition to their Brushes & Brews event inside PAX Aus 2023, Bethesda is hosting an Elder Scrolls Online Community Party! Daring adventurers will step into Necrom and Hermaeus Mora’s realm of Apocrypha for a free event at the Cargo Hall. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and greet Rich Lambert, Creative Director of ESO.

That’s a lot happening over the PAX Aus 2023 weekend. I’m sure there’s things I’ve missed. What are you looking forward to the most? Let us know on social media!