rAge 2009 opens – gamers rejoice
The rAge expo opened its doors in Johannesburg today, and as always, attracted swathes of folk interested in gaming, technology, gadgets, and a good bargain. There are around 1800 LAN gamers surround the expo, lending atmosphere to the event.
Visitors can expect the latest games and computing technology on display. Frontosa has built an imposing structure from around 4000 computer component boxes, within which one can find the latest V10 Tec Freezer CPU cooler, which is literally so cold that ice forms on it.
There is also the limited edition Asus Mars 3D card on display, apparently valued at R17 000. If that doesn’t turn heads, perhaps the sail shaped computer case will.
All of the consoles are represented: Wii, PS3 and XBox 360 are displaying the latest games for their platforms. There are also two of the just-released PSP Go for hands-on display at the at the PlayStation stand.
Among the playable game demos likely to attract a lot of attention is Brutal Legend, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, Avatar, NFS Shift, Forza 3, Borderlands and Assassins Creed II.
As is expected with gaming expos, there are numerous booth babes around to attract attention. “Computer guys are cool!” declared bubbly Gabi from the Incredible Connection stand. A variety of gadgets are being shown off and there are even some clothing stalls, with articles likely to appeal to the 1800 LANners in need of a clean shirt.
On Saturday morning, beginning at 10am, the Dreamhack/Arena 77 Quake 3 1v1 competition will begin, with the final taking place on Sunday at 2pm. The victor will be sponsored a trip to compete at Dreamhack in Sweden. The 14 runners up will not go home empty handed either. The MSI Fanatic pro gamer team will be on hand to demonstrate how it’s done.
There are plenty of recreation areas available to rest weary feet between product launches and gaming competitions. One can soak in some anime, or watch the latest games being demonstrated. There is a Magic The Gathering launch taking place, with an accompanying tournament for those tired of electronic gaming.
For those not lucky enough to be there in person over the weekend, there is a live Webcast from the event by LANgamesTV. The Webcast can be accessed from http://www.langames.co.za and features interviews with various exhibitors and game developers.
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