Post Pax 2025 Wrap Up
- Ellie Barila
- 15 hours ago
- 3 min read
It's been just over a week since PAX 2025 opened its doors to welcome back new, and returning gamers alike for Australia's biggest gaming convention.
From up and coming talented local developers to house hold name industry behemoths, PAX 2025 served up a thrilling three days that I'm sure we're all still recharging from (I know I am)
Here I'm just going to write up a brief post pax wrap up, and a little about my experience with it. For reference, you can check out evvveeeerything that went on over the three days via my pre pax article here.
E-Sports, cosplay, panels, special guests, free play, speedrunning, classic, indie and triple AAA titles- there was just about something for all types of gaming communities to enjoy. Whether it was playing with new friends for the first time, or discovering a new world to jump into, it's always a positive to see more ways for people to connect, play and access.
From Australia to our friends & neighbours in New Zealand, and even from around the globe, gamers were treated to playing a number of games - both upcoming and past titles.
PAX Rising and the Indie Showcase in particular really, well, showcased just how talented independent studios, creators and developers are. I can't name all the games I got my little gaming hands on, as I enjoyed pretty much everything I played, but particular highlights for me included;
L8R SK8R (Busalonium)
Lone Pine (Bang Bang Bang Interactive)
Davy Jones' Deckhand (Cass Bay Games)
Dolven (Covyne Entertainment, The Kids From Yesterday)
Black Raven (Alexey Marchenko)
This year as far as I experienced, there was a higher set of quality, unique and innovative games displayed throughout. Though some games shared similiar genres, I didn't come across any title I felt that was too repetitive, or just the same thing. They each had their own interesting world, lore, design, and they felt just as immersive as each other.
Speaking of immersive, this year many fans were also treated to Bethesda's Fallout diner (Dandy!), Cult of the Lamb's Woolhaven chapel (Baaa!), and even a Sims camping ground (Yibs!). Oh, and there was a fire alarm - which was actually real so staff had to evacuate, and I don't know the exact numbers, but my guess would have to be thoouuusands of people. On that note as far as I'm aware though, thankfully nobody was seriously injured or hurt, and staff did an excellent job to ensure everyones safety - so thank you PAX staff, and thank you attendees for following.
There is so much more to talk about here, but I think i'll highlight a few key moments from the event overall worth noting;
Honourable Mentions:
Giorgia Costumes claimed The Crown Championships of Cosplay as Rococo Bunny, sealing their ticket to the UK - congratulations!
Warhammer was the largest Tabletop area, being more hands on than previous years
Panels brought many laughs, tears (because it was too spicy) and thought-provoking conversations. Industry trends, inclusion, accessibility and creative process dialogues were also shared (which is always cool to hear)
Magic: The Gathering's Gavin Verhey kicked off the weekend with his Storytime panel, sharing 15 lessons he had learnt from his career in card design
All the guests, of course
The Australian Esports League Nationals - Rainbow Six Siege APL Major Qualifier
Classic Consoles & Pinball machines
Don't forget:
If you can't remember the name of that game you played or just want to play the games again, or if you missed out don't stress, there's a PAX 2025 steam page you can suss here. You can wishlist, buy and play the demos.
Keep up to date with all things PAX Australia related on socials here
A big thank you to everyone who put this event together. As usual, it was an excellent time - looking forward to what you serve up for us next year. Thank you as well to all exhibitors, guests, vendors and staff.
So, uh, that was PAX 2025! I hope you all enjoyed your time, and as always whatever you're playing or gaming on, Happy Gaming! Be excellent to each other.
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