Three years after shifting to a digital-only event, the Tokyo Game Show is returning to its in-person roots. The 2022 show will be a hybrid event, with on-the-ground capacity and streamed conferences, allowing people around the world to stay tuned in to any new announcements.
However, there will be some restrictions on attendance. For one thing, children will not be allowed at the show. This is due to the ‘uncertainties of vaccination situations’ in Japan, according to event organisers.
The theme for this year’s show is ‘Nothing Stops Gaming’ and while the event is being re-launched with a view to include more people, the organisers are well aware of the ongoing coronavirus risks associated with large gatherings.
‘Over these two years, various fun events disappeared from our daily life, but games still lightened up our days,’ organisers said. ‘Games will continue to brighten up the days of everybody now and forever―this year’s theme implies such strong determination.’
Only limited tickets will be released to the public, but those that do get to attend will be able to wander the show floor and see what a post-pandemic gaming show really looks like. It’s been a long time since the last in-person event, and there’s hope this year’s show will be a welcome return to form.
Read: All the Big Video Game Events in 2022
Anyone unable to attend will still be treated to a number of online showcases, including streamed conferences with English translations, free game demos, virtual tour experiences, and ‘a virtual reality area’, as in previous years. It means any big news out of the show will still be shared widely – and given past shows have featured bombshells from Square Enix, Atlus and Capcom, there’ll be plenty of reasons to tune in.
The Tokyo Game Show returns on 15 September 2022 and will run until 18 September 2022. Those wishing to purchase tickets should keep an eye on the Tokyo Game Show website for more information around July.