Gaming expos can be a tricky thing these days. The biggest ones (we’re looking at you, E3) have become more of a platform for major announcements in the world of gaming. And as much hype as that generates, we can’t help but think they’ve lost something over the years – actually playing games. So, when taking our first few steps at the UAE’s debut of the Insomnia Gaming Festival and seeing a massive hub filled with PCs just for playing Fortnite, we know this expo has found that something.
Being the UK’s longest-running Esports festival means Insomnia has had a lot of experience setting up events made for gamers, and it shows. The majority of spaces used at Meydan Grandstand are large sectioned-off booths lined with PCs playing the biggest titles – think Rainbow Six Siege, FIFA 20, Rocket League and of course, Fortnite. Sure, people can play these titles at home, but Insomnia brings groups of gamers together so they can square off in a buzzing environment, and today there are plenty of them lining up to play each one. But it’s not just for the hardcore gamers, as families are dotted around the place giving VR party games a go, while the old-school veterans flock to the retro section lined with vintage arcade machines.
Would it really be a gaming expo without cosplay? People are professionally kitted out in their favourite characters, and it’s always cool to see Scorpion go up against Johnny Cage as you’re browsing through stalls filled with all kinds of gaming merch. Over on the main stage, fans see YouTube stars The Sidemen, gaming industry icon Tommy Tallarico reveal an all-new family-friendly console and a hugely entertaining performance of the original Pokémon theme from Jason Paige himself.
Insomnia shows there is a vast gaming community in the UAE, and its only going to get bigger with more festivals like this.
Fingers crossed.
WHAT IS IT…
The biggest gaming fest ever to land in the region. Here’s hoping it’s an annual gig…
WHY BOTHER…
Games, cosplay, Esports, celebrities – a gamer’s dream
