Get ready, players: Midwest Gaming Classic celebrates 25 years in Milwaukee with 10K games

Milwaukee turns into a gamer's paradise this week. The Midwest Gaming Classic kicks off its 25th anniversary at the Baird Center. According to a press release, over 35,000 attendees will dive into more than 10,000 playable games across 350,000 square feet.

What started in 2001 as a small basement meetup for Atari fans has become America's largest retro gaming event, the announcement says. Nearly all games offer free play, allowing the focus to stay on community and shared fun.

Free play, family fun, and new entertainment

Families span generations at the show. Expect rare arcade and pinball machines, but new games for classic systems will draw crowds too. Indie developers and tabletop gaming areas have expanded this year.

“This has always been about bringing people together,” says co-founder Dan Loosen, according to the press release. “You play a game next to someone and share that experience. That’s what keeps people coming back.”

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Tournaments will be bigger for the anniversary. Competitive speed puzzling joins expanded esports, the announcement confirms. Over 200 vendors and 100 industry guests are expected to fill the floor.

Plan to start early with the free pre-party on Thursday, April 23, at 3rd Street Market Hall. It runs 6 to 8 p.m. with badge pickup, arcade free play, music, and a live broadcast.

Ticket details and access

Tickets will run out fast. Friday preview night, April 24, from 6 p.m. to midnight, costs $50. Saturday full show, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., is $55. Sunday family day, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., runs $30. 

Kids 9 and under enter free with a paying adult on Saturday or Sunday. Multi-day and VIP packs are available as well. 

The event spans video games, arcade, pinball, board games, and more. This fan-driven convention unites collectors, players, and creators, allowing gaming culture to thrive.