If you’re a gamer in Australia, you’ve probably heard of PAX Aus, the biggest gaming convention in the Southern Hemisphere. But did you know that PAX is actually part of an even bigger week-long event called MIGW?
MIGW stands for Melbourne International Games Week. And while the name might suggest it’s all about Melbourne-based games, it’s actually a celebration of the entire industry.
Over the past few years MIGW has expanded into something much bigger, with more events, more games, and more reasons to check it out. Whether you’re an indie game fan, curious about upcoming titles, or just want to dive into some arcade fun, there’s something for everyone at this year’s event.
The week kicks off with Electric Arcadia, an ’80s and ’90s-inspired arcade experience running at Fed Square from October 3–9. It’s packed with indie games like Mixtape, Bravecart, Jupiter Junkworks, Bones: Wandering Soul, and Pro Jank Footy, plus released hits like Letters to Arralla and King of Ping Pong: Megamix. Best of all, it’s completely free to play. The event runs daily from 12 pm to 7 pm, with extended hours until 10 pm on October 9 for Big Games Night.
Find more details here.
Music fans can head to High Score, Australia’s premier game audio conference, on October 4–5 at ACMI. Expect talks from industry leaders and a deep dive into the art and tech behind game sound.
Tickets are available here.
Celeste fans are in for something special. Creators Maddy Thorson and Noel Berry will be sharing stories about the game’s development and their experiences as internationally recognised developers. It’s a rare chance to hear directly from two of indie gaming’s most influential voices.
Tickets are available here.
The Australian Games Industry’s night of nights – the AGDAs is kicking off on Wednesday October 8th. You can get tickets to join the celebration of outstanding Australian made games, and achievements of the Australian game development community. With 12 game awards, 3 personal, and 1 studio award, this is set to be a standout event in not just MIGW, but the Australian gaming calendar. This year also sees ACMI host the AGDAs Audience Award, allowing you to vote for your favourite Australian game! You can do this at ACMI from October 7th – 12th.
Tickets are still available. Get yours here
If you’re looking to kick off your PAX weekend early, Freeplay: Parallels is the place to do it. Happening Thursday October 9th, this is a unique addition to the calendar, celebrating the humanity behind locally made games. You’ll be treated to talks from passionate game makers, as well as some playable games to try too, and you know this event will have some surprises up their sleeve for some extra excitement. This is an event that is indie to it’s core, and is the perfect way to immerse yourself in some local talent.
Tickets are still available, but they will go quick! The team have teased a last minute drop happening earlier in the week so keep an eye out for that if you miss out.
Running alongside is Big Games Night Out, a free city-wide celebration from 4 pm until late on October 9. Expect Electric Arcadia, family-friendly activities like face painting and bubble shows, plus a kids’ rave hosted by Joey Lightbulb. There’s also a live Marvel Rivals Showcase, a cosplay parade with lip-sync battle, Just Dance, and the return of Bass in Vader. The Artium will be filled with games including Tekken, Fortnite, Lego Party, and local indies like Wizard Punks!!!, Enter the Chronosphere, and Pro Jank Footy.
Find the full program here.
ACMI is hosting some extended exhibitions that are already open to check out including Game Worlds – a exhibition celebrating games. Featuring a mix of bigger titles like Minecraft, Final Fantasy XIV Online, The Sims and Neopets, and beloved indie titles like Stardew Valley and Hollow Knight: Silksong, the exhibit features games spanning across 50 years – from 1970 to today. You’ll find playable moments, original builds, rare design materials and hands on prototypes you won’t find anywhere else.
You’ll also find ACMI Microgames, a group of 4 games commissioned by ACMI from Australian game developers. You’ll feed and pet creatures, manoeuvre through asymmetrical gameplay, restore colour to the world, and answer calls in these microgames, showcasing at ACMI as part of Game Worlds on now until the 8th of February.
Find out more here
Finally, the headline event: PAX Australia. This year Nintendo is bringing Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Kirby Air Riders. Xbox will showcase the new ROG Xbox Ally and Ninja Gaiden 4. Other big names include The Sims, Devolver Digital, Massive Monster, Bethesda, and Gearbox with Borderlands 4. PAX will also feature a huge tabletop area, a packed panel schedule, and an expo hall full of ways to spend your hard-earned dollars. Of course, the massive indie showcase will spotlight more than 60 games ready to play.
Single-day badges are still available here.
Whether you’ve only got a few hours or the whole week, there’s something for everyone at MIGW. It’s the best chance to dive into Australia’s gaming scene, discover new favourites, and celebrate the creativity of the industry.
What are you most looking forward to at MIGW? Let us know, and if you want to see what The Indie Brew is up to during the week, check out our socials for updates.
Until next time, stay caffeinated!