One of the big hits con-goers took over the last couple of years is the disappearance of the physical convention. While many (PAX included) decided “the show must go on” and flipped over to digital events, there’s still a lot of physical convention traits that online events simply can’t replicate – enough to make us maybe even look forward to figuring out travel and waiting in lines again.
With things beginning to open back up again, ReedPOP and PAX have decided that the time to return is indeed nigh, and after next month’s PAX Online event, PAX West will be back at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle this coming September 3rd through 6th. Naturally there’s going to be more detail coming as the show approaches on health and security protocols, as well as the scale of the event with a reduced capacity.
Since the last major North American on-location gaming event, PAX East 2020, ReedPop and Penny Arcade have cancelled six consecutive in-person shows, prioritizing the health of the PAX community. Show organizers are working with venue officials, local governments, and health authorities to determine event capacity, which will be reduced, and ensure a safe setting. Detailed health and safety guidelines will be released in the leadup to PAX West 2021.
“It’s been almost two years since the last PAX West, and it’s been surreal to imagine its triumphant return,” said Jerry Holkins, co-founder of Penny Arcade and PAX. “I can’t think of a better excuse to leave the house than PAX West.”
While optional digital badges for July’s PAX Online are available now, badges for West will be on sale in the next couple of weeks. Four-day badges for PAX West 2021 will run for $230, while individual Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday badges will go for $60 each.
In the meantime for the upcoming PAX Online July 15th through 18th,they’re teaming up with EGX Rezzed Digital to bring us a number of esports events with some decent prize pools.
So here’s the TL;DR:
- PAX East Online happening 7/15 through 7/18 with optional badges available now
- PAX West will be back in Seattle 9/3 through 9/6 with badges on sale in the next couple weeks
