Editor’s note: Este artículo está traducido al español.
The Global Gaming Expo (G2E) stands as a monumental event in the gaming industry, drawing in over 25,000 attendees from more than 120 countries. This gathering is not merely a trade show; it’s a vibrant hub where the latest innovations are showcased, deals are forged, and industry insights are exchanged. Maureen Beddis, the senior vice president of membership and events at the American Gaming Association, succinctly captures G2E’s essence: “This is a show for the industry, by the industry.”
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, G2E’s momentum is indicative of a booming industry, which has reported record revenues for four consecutive years. With strong projections for 2025, the expo is set to reflect this growth, featuring a diverse lineup of exhibitors and a broad array of educational sessions aimed at tackling contemporary issues in gaming.
The strategic choice of Las Vegas as the venue for G2E is deeply entrenched in the industry’s history. Beddis emphasizes that Las Vegas remains the gaming capital of the world, making it the ideal setting for an event that intertwines sports, entertainment, hospitality, and gaming. This nexus is where the magic happens, attracting industry leaders and innovators alike.
For companies like Bluberi, a Las Vegas-based slot machine designer, G2E is the company’s Super Bowl — it represents the pinnacle of their marketing efforts for the year. Christian Smith, the vice president of marketing and research at Bluberi, describes the expo as a critical platform for showcasing what sets them apart in a competitive market. “You’ve got to have the story,” he explains, emphasizing the importance of understanding the rationale behind their game designs and target audiences.
Smith’s excitement is palpable, especially as Bluberi has just received its Nevada gaming license. This milestone allows them to engage with local customers, marking a new chapter for the company. “We pride ourselves on collaborating with local Las Vegas vendors for our G2E booth,” he notes, highlighting the significance of presence in the world’s largest gaming market.
In contrast to other industries, G2E’s proximity to the Venetian casino makes it uniquely impactful, as attendees encounter the very products they are discussing just yards away. This immediacy reinforces the relevance and practicality of innovations showcased at the expo.
The gaming association actively collaborates with key partners such as the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers and Global Gaming Women to ensure G2E remains fresh and relevant. By continually evolving the content, they avoid redundancy and keep attendees engaged with current trends and topics, from mental health to emerging gaming technologies.
One of the highlights this year includes the introduction of “the Strip,” a new area on the show floor dedicated to smaller activations and interactive experiences. Furthermore, the inaugural U.S. Dealer Championship will bring together nearly three dozen dealers from various operators nationwide. This competition will assess participants’ technical skills, customer engagement, and the high service standards that define today’s gaming experiences.
Beddis describes this initiative as a way to shine a light on a segment of the industry that often goes unrecognized. The Dealer Championship offers an opportunity to celebrate those dedicated individuals who interact with customers daily, enhancing the gaming experience.
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This story appeared in Las Vegas Weekly.