8 Essential Tips for Exhibiting at Gaming Events like Gamescom
Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes
1. Set Clear Goals for Your Booth
Before diving headfirst into the logistics of exhibiting, take a moment to define what you aim to achieve through your participation. Are you looking to build brand awareness, connect with potential publishers, or gather valuable player feedback? Establishing clear objectives will inform every aspect of your booth’s design, promotional materials, and staffing needs. By knowing what success looks like for you, you can tailor your experience accordingly and measure your outcomes more effectively.
2. Prepare and Apply Early
When it comes to exhibiting at gaming events, timing is everything. Booth spaces, especially at major events like Gamescom, fill up rapidly. I can’t stress enough the importance of early planning. Get your booth booked up to months in advance. The sooner you secure your spot, the better the location you’re likely to get, and the more you can save on costs. It’s not just about the location either; an early start allows for a broader scope of creative planning. Look at options to partner up with like minded developers from your country as these options may be subsidised. Additionally, there are other options on the consumer halls such as the Indie Arena Booth that offers adequate space for showcasing your game.
3. Arrange Booth Essentials and Logistics Ahead of Time
The effectiveness of your booth relies heavily on the essentials and logistics that you’ve arranged beforehand. Whether you choose to rent or purchase your tech, furniture, and display equipment, ensure it’s all sorted well before the event kicks off. Be proactive about details like power outlets, internet connectivity, and seating arrangements – these considerations can dramatically enhance the visitor experience. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring you don’t face last-minute hurdles on the show floor.
4. Create Eye-Catching Promo Material
Your promotional materials are your first impression, so make them count. Bring high-quality, branded business cards, flyers, banners, and apparel that reflect your game and brand identity. Make sure you have both physical and digital pitch decks prepared for any potential discussions with publishers, press, or partners. As someone who’s often pressed for time on the floor, having easy-to-digest materials at hand can elevate your chances of making memorable connections.
5. Optimize Booth Experience for Visitors
The visitor experience at your booth can significantly affect your engagement levels. When exhibiting at gaming events, ensure your demo is user-friendly and showcases the excitement of your game. Set reasonable time limits for play sessions to get as many attendees through as possible, while maintaining a quality experience. Additionally, create a welcoming atmosphere at your booth and provide your staff with clear instructions to efficiently engage visitors. Remember, an inviting and accessible booth can draw more people in.
6. Prepare for Venue Conditions
Large exhibition halls often come with a range of environmental challenges. It’s wise to prepare for fluctuating temperatures by dressing in layers this way, you’ll stay comfortable throughout long days at your booth. Also, consider simple yet practical items like a badge protector to safeguard your entry pass; venues typically only provide lanyards, and a damaged ticket can lead to unnecessary chaos.
7. Handle Entry and Logistics Smoothly
Navigating entry and logistical requirements is crucial to a successful exhibiting experience. Familiarize yourself with the specific guidance for exhibitors at your chosen event. For instance, Gamescom has designated entrances and specific procedures for checking in. I highly recommend pre-purchasing parking tickets if you’re driving, as parking spots can fill quickly and cause delays that can kill your productivity on show days.
8. Network Proactively
Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of exhibiting at gaming events. Prioritize scheduling meetings in advance with press, publishers, and fellow developers. Utilize digital calendars or event-specific networking tools such as MeetToMatch for efficient planning. Typically, the business area is more suited for B2B engagements, while the public areas are best for interaction with gamers. Also, don’t forget to investigate potential grants or government support for exhibiting, these can be a fantastic way to offset costs and expand your outreach.
Bonus Tip: Boost Your Visibility
Finally, don’t forget to promote your presence consistently before and during the event. Use the keyword “exhibiting at gaming events” across your digital marketing and outreach strategies to enhance your search engine visibility. This can help attract more people to your booth and elevate your presence in the crowded landscape of gaming.
