Estepona hosts the first major videogame fair for all ages

Estepona’s Palacio de Congresos is set to transform into a gaming paradise with the free two-day interactive fair “El Mundo del Videojuego” on October 18-19. 

The fun event, organised by Estepona Council and local gamers, celebrates video games’ evolution from arcade classics to a global cultural force, offering something for everyone – retro fans, tech enthusiasts, and families.

The fair mixes nostalgia with the newest innovations. There is a retro-gaming zone that includes some of the most famous arcade machines such as Pac-Man and Street Fighter. Also included are classic consoles, like the NES and Sega Genesis. Anyone over 40 will be able to relive their childhood memories with guided tours through the history of gaming.

Virtual reality pavilions offer immersive experiences from underwater adventures to battles with zombies. Safety measures ensure that even the youngest children can have fun. Interactive workshops with industry professionals cover game development using tools like Scratch, Unity and other popular software. These workshops are aimed at aspiring coders, developers, and programmers. The “Games for Good’ session highlights the role of gaming in empathy and problem solving, with limited spaces for hands-on training.

The tournaments will feature titles such as Super Smash Bros., FIFA and other popular games. Prizes include gaming gear and exclusive merchandise. The event is expected to attract over 500 participants, and live streaming will enhance the excitement. Nintendo’s demo area will showcase new Switch games, combining digital fun and Estepona’s picturesque charm with augmented reality.

A cosplay competition will also encourage creativity. Food trucks will be offering themed treats in addition to the joystick game. There are quiet zones and sign language interpreters. Free shuttles will be provided from the centre of Estepona.

Tickets are available at the Estepona council. website. Estepona’s gaming festival promises innovation, fun and connection for retro enthusiasts as well as VR novices. The Estepona Palacio de Congresos y Exposiciones is on Avenida Litoral, Estepona.