Now in its 8th year, Melbourne International Games Week (MIGW) is the biggest games event in Asia Pacific and a fixture on the global calendar, connecting games, technology and culture, with a broad program for industry, educators, and game enthusiasts alike.

Over 50% of the digital games industry is in Victoria, making it the games epicentre of Australia. Each year MIGW brings together homegrown and international industry to showcase, celebrate and build capability and connections. Melbourne International Games Week celebrates Victoria’s thriving games industry, showcases our local talent and capability, and connects industry leaders from across the globe. MIGW’s full 2022 program will be announced in August.

Image: Marc-O-Matic

PAX Aus back live

This unmissable week of games culminates with PAX Aus (7-9 October 2022), the largest games event in Australia and an annual destination for enthusiasts and industry since its arrival in Melbourne in 2013.

With games-related events taking place across Melbourne and expanding further into regional areas, this year’s program will again celebrate the fun and fantasy of games, as well as exploring how games are being created for a range of diverse sectors, including health, education, defence, mental health and broader social connection.

Music and its important role in games is also a growing area of interest, alongside games that grow industry and business. In recent years, the addition of eSports, tabletop board games and role-playing games to the program has ensured that the many facets of games can be enjoyed by participants of all ages.

Games as a social connector

The power of games as a social connector has been amplified over the past two years. A recent IGEA survey reveals that 74% of respondents say games connect people, while 80% say games improve mental health. With the average age of a player now 35 years, it is easy to see how games are a big part of family life, and second only to streaming TV and movies. See more stats below and in the report here >>. 

Melbourne International Games Week is an initiative of the Victorian Government, delivered by Creative Victoria in partnership with VicScreen (formerly Film Victoria), ACMI and IGEA.

Stay informed and connect via @GamesWeekMelbs

Originally published: March 8 2022