The Promax Game Awards’ final deadline is fast approaching on March 3, and we’re sure to see some amazing ads, trailers, stunts and experiential activations when the dust settles on the competition.
Gearing up for all the big game releases bearing down on us in 2017 (and the great advertising that goes with it) has gotten us thinking about the cool gaming events and activations of last year. Events like Electronic Entertainment Expo and PlayStation Experience were full of opportunities for fans to check out big games, and their activations will undoubtedly show up in the Promax Games winners later this year.
Here are a few of the best events we saw last year, and shots of some of the activations and booths that blew us away.
Call of Duty XP
Activision brought its giant fan festival for its huge “Call of Duty” franchise back to Los Angeles, and it was a blast. The event included fun activities like a zipline, paintball and laser tag, all inspired by the “Call of Duty” games. And of course, there were opportunities to play the latest “Call of Duty” game before it was released, “Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare.” The event culminated in the “Call of Duty” World Championship competition between some the best players in the world.
PlayStation Experience
Sony showed off the games coming to its PlayStation platform in one big Los Angeles show, providing fans with a great chance to try everything they were excited about in 2016. From virtual reality offerings to indie game stations and even a few amazing installations for games such as “Resident Evil 7,” PlayStation Experience was full of cool opportunities to check out awesome games.
E3 2016
The biggest gaming event of the year never disappoints. Wall-to-wall opportunities to check out new video games from throughout the industry invaded the Los Angeles Convention Center, and came with a few fun activations and photo opportunities for fans. This year’s Electronic Entertainment Expo promises to be even bigger, and will be open to the public. We can’t wait to see what experiential activations gaming companies bring with them to LA this summer.
Nintendo at San Diego Comic-Con
The huge pop culture event that is San Diego International Comic-Con has seen more and more of a video game presence joined with its comic book roots and movie and TV offerings. Nintendo has been a mainstay at SDCC for years, offering a lounge out of the sun where fans can relax and try new games. The 2016 offering was as fun as always, with tons of Pokemon-themed items and plenty of opportunities to have some fun.
VRLA
An event geared toward the burgeoning field of virtual reality, we were blown away by some of the awesome technology being shown off. With booths to try new products (and games), as well as panel discussions and presentations that show how outfits like NASA are making use of virtual reality, VRLA taught us a lot about VR while providing attendees plenty of chances to try out some amazing tech.