Penny Arcade Expo facts for kids

The logo of PAX.

PAX is a super fun series of big events for people who love video games and other types of games! It used to be called the Penny Arcade Expo. At PAX, you can try out new games, meet game creators, and hang out with other gamers. It's like a huge party for everyone who enjoys playing games.

What is PAX?

PAX stands for Penny Arcade Expo. It's a special kind of event called a "gaming festival." Think of it like a big fair, but instead of rides, it's all about games! People come together to celebrate all sorts of gaming, from playing on computers and game consoles to playing board games and card games.

Where Does PAX Happen?

PAX events happen in different cities around the world. In the United States, you can find PAX in:

• Seattle, Washington (This one is sometimes called PAX West or PAX Dev)
• Boston, Massachusetts (Known as PAX East)
• San Antonio, Texas (Called PAX South)

And in Australia, there's a PAX event in:

• Melbourne, Victoria (This is PAX Australia)

Each location brings together thousands of gamers for several days of fun.

Who Started PAX and Why?

PAX was created in 2004 by two friends, Jerry Holkins and Mike Krahulik. They are the authors of a popular webcomic called Penny Arcade. They started PAX because they wanted to go to a gaming show that cared about all kinds of gamers. They felt that many events focused only on one type of game.

They wanted a place where:

• People who play on game consoles (like PlayStation or Xbox) felt welcome.
• People who play on computers (PC gamers) had lots to do.
• People who love board games and card games (tabletop gamers) could also have fun.

So, they made PAX to be a place for everyone who loves games!

How Has PAX Grown?

Since it started in 2004, PAX has become very, very popular. It began as a smaller event, but it quickly grew into one of the biggest and most important events for the video gaming community. Thousands of people attend each PAX event every year.

At PAX, you can often:

• Try out new video games before they are released.
• Watch exciting esports tournaments where professional gamers compete.
• Meet game developers and learn how games are made.
• Play classic arcade games or new board games.
• Attend panels and talks by famous people in the gaming world.
• Hang out with friends and make new ones who share your love for games!

PAX is a place where gamers can celebrate their hobby together.