The squeals of recognition and lots of ‘hey mate, long time’ echoed around the PAX concourse before the PAX Aus gates even opened, as old friends reunited and eager attendees geared up for the wonders hidden behind closed expo doors.

PAX Aus 2024 kicked off with Massive Monster’s Creative Director Julian Wilton, who discussed the challenges of breaking into the gaming industry but offered some sound advice to those looking to follow a similar path – “great ideas never arrive fully cooked.” Wilton also touched on the trials and tribulations during the development and distribution of Cult of the Lamb, stating that real success comes from collaboration and making sure to embrace failure – sucking at something is the first step toward being kinda good at something.

As people took a step onto the PAX Expo floor, it did not disappoint with the first opportunity to get hands-on in Australia with Valve’s Steam Deck, Star Wars Unlimited Deck 3, Disney Lorcana, Two Point Museum, Sonic x Shadow Generations and all the new and innovative games as part of the PAX Aus Indie Showcase.

Visitors were also able to take part in a very competitive dodgeball competition courtesy of Redbull, go Solo Levelling with Crunchyroll and immerse themselves in the world of Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail.

It was a big day to discover all things game development with an Indie Showcase winners panel where visitors could meet the devs, a ‘Creating Games’ panel, and a chance to hear from Richard Lambert, Lara and Hazie about the iconic, seminal music from The Elders Scrolls(as well as hear some of those iconic tracks). Also, visitors learnt how to create worlds with the Civilisation VII Developer Panel who spoke about bringing your CIV to life and Ryan Warden, Production Director of Avowed, lifting the lid on game production.

Additionally we got to hear from Abubakar Salim at his fireside, whose father introduced him to the world of games, setting him on the path to a passion for gaming. Following his father’s death, he channeled his grief to create Tales of Zenzera: Zau by Surgent Studios, which helped him process his grief, as well as being a tribute with lots of celebratory nods to music, dance and things they had enjoyed together.

Crazy characters were plentiful including the very popular Cult of the Lamb Temple which welcomed a giant lamb to oversee his followers, SEGA brought along a giant-sized Sonic and Kill Knight from Playside with his giant sword, as well as the Dumb Way to Die characters. And these characters and games were all perfectly complemented with incredible game-themed cosplay throughout the whole event including a 10-foot-tall Owlbear and giant, inflatable Bowser. Your eyes didn’t know where to look next!

Multiple tourneys, both tabletop and digital kicked off, with competition bound to intensify over the next two days.

Whether it is exploring an emotion or seeking escapism, there are games, panels and entertainment for everyone and every emotion here at PAX.

Although badges have sold out for PAX Aus on Saturday, you can still purchase Sunday badges from here.