Once laughed at and decried as an exotic fringe sport with little prospects, eSports is on the rise worldwide. They have undergone remarkable development and set milestones that even the biggest advocates hardly thought possible. Now, millions of eyes are fixated on the players when the largest leagues and tournaments occur every year.
California offers thrilling events each year if you’re an esports enthusiast or just curious about the competitive gaming world. From classic arcade-style games to the latest high-energy competitions, here’s a list of top esports events you can’t miss in the Golden State.
SoCal Gaming Expo
Held annually in the 80,000-square-foot Pasadena Convention Center, the SoCal Gaming Expo is a massive esports event. The expo combines the nostalgia of arcade-style games with contemporary esports tournaments, gathering people of all ages. Over 200 vendors were there in June this year, with ongoing tournaments spanning classic titles and newer entries. This expo pays homage to all things gaming with special guests, cosplay events, a free-play arcade area, and even a Tetris World Championship qualifier.
Whether you want to watch tournaments or play classic arcade-style games, this event covers everything. Tickets for the event are available on the expo’s website. It’s a perfect place for fans to dive into the rich history and future of gaming in a single weekend.
Arc World Tour Finals
The Arc World Tour Finals is a premier event for fighting game fans. The event is sponsored by Arc System Works, the developer of titles like Guilty Gear -Strive- and Granblue Fantasy: Versus Rising. Held at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, it is the grand finale of a global tour, gathering top players competing in open circuits worldwide. In one-on-one combat games, you will witness high-stakes matches and significant cash prizes for top players.
This three-day event also has a mini-convention atmosphere, including an arcade area, vendors, and concerts. These make the Arc World Tour finals an essential stop for anyone interested in competitive fighting games.
California Extreme
For those who appreciate the charm of vintage games, California Extreme in Santa Clara is a dream come true. Known as the “Classic Arcade Games Show,” this event celebrates pinball machines, coin-operated arcade games, and other retro favorites. California Extreme is particularly notable because all the machines are set to free play, allowing attendees to experience a piece of gaming history without constantly reaching for quarters.
This event, held at the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara, draws fans of arcade-style games from across the country. It’s a unique opportunity to indulge in classic games that shaped the industry while connecting with a community that shares a deep appreciation for gaming’s roots.
Sac Gamers Expo
Sac Gamers Expo, located in Sacramento, is another fantastic gathering for esports fans, particularly those interested in a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. The gaming convention will be held at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center on December 14-15, 2024. The agenda is packed with activities designed for gamers of all ages.
Key attractions include a mix of tournaments and free-play gaming zones, with panels comprising industry veterans, famous YouTubers, Twitch streamers, and voice actors. Also featured will be an interactive Retro Gaming Museum of classic consoles and arcade-style games brought to life for fans. Indie game developers show projects and insights from the creative side. In contrast, for fans of game development, the expo is a place of interest. Additional attractions are the Coloring Zone for kids, live entertainment, and many game-related vendors rounding off the experience for visitors.
Esports Arena – The Go-To Spot in Los Angeles
Esports Arena, located in Los Angeles, is a premier venue for competitive gaming. As a dedicated esports facility, it hosts various events throughout the year, from casual gaming nights to high-stakes competitions. The 15,000-square-foot venue is built to accommodate a wide variety of games, making it a versatile location for fans and players alike. Equipped with top-tier equipment and production capabilities, Esports Arena allows fans to witness the thrill of esports in a state-of-the-art setting. Whether you’re there to compete, watch, or simply enjoy some arcade-style fun, this venue offers something for every type of gamer.
Get Ready for Unforgettable Esports Experiences
Esports are now more popular than ever, and California has naturally become a hub for esports events, offering everything from intense fighting game tournaments to nostalgic arcade-style gatherings. Many prestigious and large-scale tournaments take place in California. If you are not attending, you are going to miss out. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or new to the scene, attending one of these events can be an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendar, grab your tickets, and prepare to be amazed.
