Get Ready for BitSummit 2024: Tickets Now on Sale for Japan’s Premier Indie Game Expo

Tickets are officially on sale for the highly anticipated BitSummit, Japan’s most popular indie games expo. This year, the event returns to its regular venue at the Miyako Messe in Kyoto from Friday, July 19 to Sunday, July 21. The expo offers a fantastic opportunity for both industry professionals and fans to explore innovative indie games and connect with developers.

What to Expect at BitSummit 2024

While July 19 is primarily designated as a business day for industry professionals, the weekend (July 20-21) opens its doors to the general public. Tickets are available now from the Ticket Pia website. For Japanese attendees, please use this link to purchase your tickets. Overseas visitors can find full information in English through this link.

Prices for tickets are affordable, with advance purchase costing just ¥2000 (approximately $13.80), and ¥2200 ($15.20) at the door. Students under 18 can attend for ¥1000 (around $6.90) in advance, or ¥1200 ($8.28) at the door. Best of all, children under 12 can attend for free, making it a family-friendly affair.

This year’s theme, “BitSummit the 13th: Summer of Yokai,” celebrates the rich lore of supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore. It’s an exciting nod to the cultural narratives that often inspire indie games, and attendees can expect to see this theme reflected in various presentations and booths.

Notable Exhibitors and Game Demos

More than 60 indie publishers have confirmed their participation, showcasing a diverse array of games. Some renowned companies, including Nintendo, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Cygames, and Devolver Digital, will also have sponsored booths at the event.

The BitSummit event has evolved significantly since its inception in 2012. What started as a small-scale industry-focused occasion with around 200 attendees has now blossomed into a major event, drawing over 38,000 people last year. For the first time, the entire Miyako Messe was utilized, which allowed for a broader presentation of games and experiences.

Daily Coverage Awaits

For those unable to attend, fear not! VGC will once again serve as the western media partner for BitSummit, providing daily coverage directly from the show floor. Last year’s event, titled BitSummit Drift, showcased an impressive range of games, and VGC’s Chris Scullion even handed out a Media Showcase award to the standout title, “Sonokuni,” a J-hip-hop action game.

As excitement builds around this year’s BitSummit, it’s clear that the event promises to be a pivotal moment for indie games in Japan and beyond. Whether you’re a gamer, developer, or simply a fan of innovative storytelling in video games, BitSummit offers a chance to experience the creativity and passion of indie developers firsthand.

Join the Fun this July!

Make sure you get your tickets soon to secure your spot at BitSummit 2024! This event is a unique opportunity to witness the innovation within the indie game scene and to engage with a community that celebrates creativity and diversity in gaming. Let’s make this summer unforgettable by joining the revelry at “BitSummit the 13th: Summer of Yokai.” For more information about the event and ticket purchasing, check out our coverage leading up to the event.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of indie gaming—see you in Kyoto!