MILWAUKEE (February 12, 2025) – Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned gamer, the Midwest Gaming Classic will have you selecting “start mission.” The event’s welcoming atmosphere attracted over 30,000 visitors from around the world last year. Why such a frenzy? The Midwest Gaming Classic is the only event to offer 10,000+ playable games ranging from vintage to new releases alongside vendors, musical acts, wrestling, cosplay, competitions, and more. Access to all the fun is included with the price of admission. Kids under 9 can attend for free.
The heart of the gathering is the Game Center filled with over 250 pinball and arcade video games (no quarters required), as well as every generation of home consoles. Other areas will host gaming exhibits, tabletop games, live entertainment, live-action role-playing, video game art displays, and more. With loyal attendees that include both locals and visitors from Japan, South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Spain, the Midwest Gaming Classic has become the largest celebration of retro and modern gaming in the country, with more than 350,000 square feet of gaming and nostalgia. The event is estimated to generate over $3 million in tourism dollars for the Milwaukee area, according to Visit Milwaukee.
“In 2001, we started as an in-person gathering for an online fan group. Today, we have become the gathering place for hundreds of online fan groups to share their passions in person,” says co-founder Dan Loosen. “Today, we have something for everyone: cosplay contests, live music, tattoo artists, and even Family Day to introduce the next generation to the endless possibility of games you can play.”
Exciting 2025 additions include a massive expansion in tabletop games, a speedcubing tournament, brand-new pinball games, and celebrity appearances from voice actor Christopher Sean, the creators of Activision, and others. And yes, the popular attractions of previous years such as the playable gaming museum, esports competitions, and unmatched Official After Party will return.
