The ultimate version of GameStart Asia is upon us with GameStart 2019, and they’re going out with a bang! If you haven’t got your tickets for this year, here are 5 reasons why you should make your way down to GameStart 2019 this weekend.
Before we go through some highlights, here’s the map you gotta keep.
1. Hot demos
For the first time, GameStart Asia is having a dedicated area for hands-on demo playtesting, the GameStart Demo Zone. For starters, the Final Fantasy VII Remake is set to be the hottest ticket there. This is the first time the demo will be playable in Southeast Asia, and so make sure you register for your ticket asap!
The Demo Zone will also showcase other newly released and upcoming games, on the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch. This includes Tokyo RPG’s latest ONINAKI, as well as Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon, Disney’s Tsum Tsum Festival, Just Dance 2020 and more. Publishers Marvel, Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia and Arc System Works will also showcase games at the event, likely in other areas. Looking forward to Cyberpunk 2077? There’s a specialised booth for you to catch the recent gameplay preview video.
2. Indie represent
Some of Asia’s best indie developers, including those from Myanmar and China, will gather at Founders Base to showcase their work! Don’t forget to check out the made-in-Singapore Takoway, which was recently featured on the Apple App store.
3. Analog gaming plays a big part
The popular Tabletop Zone returns! Local and international exhibitors, including Moaideas from Taiwan will be present. Meanwhile, Asobi, a concept store for hobby enthusiasts, will feature “Fate/Grand Order -collection figure-”.
As usual, the Open Gaming area will have games for you to try. Pre-registration for the free sessions is available at https://event.gamestart.asia/exhibitors/open-gaming/.
There’s also The Castle – a S$10 adventure with 2 routes for up to 4 players. It’s a little mysterious right now, but we do know that there are two routes – one for ones who love to use their brains, and another there’s more action-packed. We love escape rooms, so this might just scratch the itch.
4. All about Esports
The largest fighting game tournament in Asia, SEA MAJOR (SEAM) 2019, returns to GameStart 2019. It will host two events: The Asia Regional Finals for Capcom World Tour (Street Fighter V), and the Finals of the inaugural SOULCALIBUR Asia League. Some of the world’s top players will be participating, including Daigo “The Beast” Umehara (Japan) and Kayane (France).
Some of the other tournaments include:
- The annual GameStart 2019: FIFA 20 Championship
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and League of Legends tournaments under the MyRepublic Gamer tournament series.
5. Doujin Market x GameStart 2019
More than 40 exhibitors will be present at this year’s Doujin Market, and you can bet your bottom dollar there’s just going to be that something that you must buy before you leave the show.
Need to spend some money but not thirsting for art? Weary gamers can replenish their HP and MP, at The Sanctuary. Curated by home-grown mead company Lion City Meadery, six food stalls, a range of award-winning mead, and a selection of craft beer from Canadian Craft Beer, will be available to quench your thirst.
GameStart 2019 takes place Oct 12 and 13 at the Suntec City Convention Centre Halls 401-403. Prices start at S$12 for one day entry. General entry starts from 11am, while VIP ticket holders get to enter the hall at 10am. For the early birds, the queue starts from outside hall 402!
