Volume 04, Number 18

Technology

Tokyo Game Show
by Robert Estel

For those looking for a truly worldwide event, be sure to stop by the annual Tokyo Game Show at Makuhari Messe this weekend. Tokyo Game Show was established in 1996 by CESA, the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association, with the aim of showcasing new and upcoming game technology and software. Eleven years later, TGS, as it is now fondly called, is known as the world's biggest video game and computer entertainment expo. The fourday event, which takes place Sep. 20–23, is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors and while the venue is open mainly to press and people in the industry over the two “business days” (Sep 20–21) the general public can get their game fill over the weekend (Sep 22–23).

This year CESA is focusing on three specific areas to improve the show. Firstly, building on last year's success, an additional “business day” has been added to the expo calendar and a new business solutions area has been established alongside the existing business consultation areas. Secondly, due to an increasing amount of foreign exhibitors and visitors, CESA is striving to make the venue more accessible with multi-language signs as well as an English program. Finally, a new kid's area will be provided for both parents and children with a Video Game Music and Game Science Museum.

As many people are aware, the current computer and video game industry is focusing on online play and community involvement, and this is not limited to next generation consoles such as the Playstation 3 or the X-box 360, but includes mobile phone technology as well. Exhibitors will be showcasing games and software that follow this year's theme: Link up, Reach out, To the world, as well as current new games. Notable exhibitors include Microsoft with their X-360 and latest software, and Sony's Playstation and Playstation Portable line and software. Software makers include Capcom, Bandai- Namco, Square Enix, Sega, Konami, and more. Mobile carriers NTT DoCoMo, Softbank, and au will also be on hand showing off the latest mobile games.

For those keen to see the newest games and technology, hands on, then don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Public days: Sep. 22–23, 10am–5pm. Admission is ¥1,000 for an advance ticket and ¥1,200 for tickets at the door. Elementary-aged children and younger enjoy free admission. Makuhari Messe, Chiba. A 10-minute walk from Kaihin-Makuhari Station. You can reach Kaihin- Makuhari in 30 minutes by express train on the JR Keiyo line from Tokyo station.