News Summary
The Cleveland Gaming Classic, Ohio’s premier gaming convention, will take place at the I-X Center in Cleveland. Anticipating over 12,000 attendees, the event promises diverse activities including arcade games, tournaments, and guest appearances from renowned game creators. With a vast expo hall and competitive gaming areas, CGC aims to cater to all types of gamers. Tickets are available for purchase, and attendees are encouraged to secure them early. The event highlights the vibrant gaming culture and community, making it a must-attend for enthusiasts.
Cleveland Readies for Ohio’s Largest Gaming Event
The Cleveland Gaming Classic (CGC), Ohio’s premier gaming convention, is set to occur from September 19-21, 2025, at the I-X Center in Cleveland. The event is anticipated to draw over 12,000 attendees from various states and countries, making it the largest gathering of its kind in the state.
This year, CGC will offer a wide array of activities catering to all types of gamers, featuring an onsite arcade and pinball section, classic video games, and rare gaming experiences. Attendees can also enjoy live music performances, cosplay exhibits, and appearances from industry guests. Noteworthy guests include celebrated video game creators such as Kevin Bayliss (known for Donkey Kong), Grant Kirkhope (Banjo-Kazooie), and Steve Mayles (Diddy Kong). Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to meet popular YouTubers and influencers from the gaming community.
Activities and Offerings
The CGC will house a massive expo hall with over 240 exhibitors, showcasing everything from leading software developers to emerging game studios. Participants will also find a competitive gaming area featuring tournaments for popular games like Madden NFL, FIFA, and NBA 2K, catering to both casual players and serious competitors alike.
Visitors can take part in a dedicated console area that focuses on original hardware, particularly games from the PlayStation 1 era. The mix of retro experiences with cutting-edge gaming technology will provide a broad spectrum of entertainment for attendees of all ages.
Ticket Information
Admission tickets for the CGC start at $20 for a single day, with children ages ten and under receiving free entry when accompanied by a paid adult. Advance ticket options include three-day passes and single-day tickets, with door prices higher than pre-purchased tickets. Gaming enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their tickets early to save on costs.
Venue Accessibility
The I-X Center, conveniently located near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, offers easy accessibility for out-of-town guests. Its design features wide aisles and generous load-in spaces, making it suitable for large public shows. The venue also provides nearby dining and lodging options to accommodate the influx of attendees.
Final Preparations
As the event date approaches, attendees are advised to check the CGC’s official schedule page for updated information on tournament rules, event timings, and other specifics. This will ensure that all participants are prepared to make the most of their experience at Ohio’s largest gaming convention.
The Cleveland Gaming Classic promises to be a vibrant celebration of both classic and modern gaming culture, drawing gamers and fans together to share in their passion for the digital arts. The combination of diverse activities, legendary guest appearances, and a bustling marketplace makes CGC a must-attend event for gaming enthusiasts across the country.
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Additional Resources
- Cleveland Scene
- Wikipedia: Gaming Event
- Fox 8 News
- Google Search: Cleveland Gaming Classic
- Business Wire
- Google Scholar: Cleveland Gaming Classic
- News 5 Cleveland
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gaming Convention
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CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the seasoned team at HERECleveland.com, your premier source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond, delivering "news you can use" with in-depth coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news impacting the region—backed by years of expert reporting and robust community input, including local press releases and business updates, while providing top reporting on high-profile events like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions, Cleveland International Film Festival, and holiday parades, alongside key organizations such as the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Orchestra, and Great Lakes Science Center, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare like Sherwin-Williams and University Hospitals, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREDayton.com, offering comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's vibrant landscape. HERE Cleveland HERE Dayton
