>> quest log entry
PAX West 2026 Preview: Your Guide to Seattle's Premier Gaming Event
+50 XP gained
What to Expect at PAX West 2026
PAX West is renowned for bringing together the biggest names in gaming with emerging talent, and 2026 is no exception. Attendees can look forward to engaging with over 300 exhibitors showcasing everything from AAA titles to groundbreaking indie projects, alongside the latest in gaming hardware and exclusive merchandise.
A Glimpse at Exhibitors and Developers
The exhibitor list for PAX West 2026 is impressive, featuring a mix of industry giants and beloved studios. Confirmed game publishers and developers include SEGA, Larian Studios, Double Fine Productions, Hooded Horse, Stern Pinball, GIANTS Software, Konami, Bandai Namco Entertainment America, Atari Interactive, JOYCITY, and NIS America. Hardware enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore with companies like Sandisk, Razer, AMD, and Corsair on site. Furthermore, local Seattle-area developers such as Innersloth (creators of the hit game Among Us), Batterystaple Games, and Snowfall Games will be participating, highlighting the rich talent within the region.
Adding to the excitement, Riot Games co-founder Marc Merrill is slated to deliver the highly anticipated Friday Storytime keynote, offering insights from one of gaming's most influential figures.
Beyond the Booths: Panels, Performances, and New Attractions
PAX West 2026 is more than just an expo floor; it's a full-fledged celebration of gaming culture. This year introduces exciting new additions, including a dedicated Creator Stage and the PAX Art Hub. The Art Hub is specifically designed to showcase artists with official game credits and original creators, providing a platform for visual storytelling within the industry.
The event's schedule is packed with engaging panels and live entertainment. Fans can catch Acquisitions Incorporated hosting a live Daggerheart RPG session on Saturday, September 5th, and Matthew Mercer of Critical Role is also scheduled to appear on the same day. Friday night will feature concerts by Magic Sword and Seattle-based Winds5, while John Robertson's The Dark Room, a popular interactive comedic live-action video game experience, makes its return. Beyond these highlights, attendees can participate in gaming tournaments, community meetups, console freeplay areas, and vibrant cosplay events.
Spotlighting Innovation: The PAX Rising Showcase
One of the most anticipated features of PAX West is the PAX Rising Showcase, a curated selection of indie games handpicked by the PAX Team for their exceptional gameplay, entertainment value, or inventive concepts. This showcase is a fantastic opportunity to discover the next big thing in independent gaming. Here's a look at some of the announced PAX Rising Showcase winners:
| Game Title | Developer/Publisher | Platform(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Creature Kitchen | The Rat Zone | PC |
| Don't Wake The Beast | Artificial Disasters and better. publishing | PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo |
| Dungeon Lurker | ||
| Fugue Shot: Minigame Roguelike | ||
| GigaTurtles | ||
| Ladder Lad | ||
| Lazy River | ||
| Project Red (Working Title) | ||
| Remaining Grace | ||
| Stepwell | ||
| TOMMYROT | ||
| WOLFHOUND |
PAX West 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for anyone passionate about games. With a diverse lineup of exhibitors, a compelling keynote, fresh new features, and a spotlight on indie innovation, there's something for everyone. Four-day badges were available for $264.60, with single-day and Kids 4-day badges also offered. While Early Bird pricing has concluded, a schedule preview is already out, with the full schedule expected in the weeks leading up to the event. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of gaming this September!