Melbourne Pixel Expo

Applications for the Indie Showcase open approximately six months before the event and remain open for 6-8 weeks. Developers can apply through our website by submitting:

• A playable build or comprehensive gameplay video of their project
• Background information on the development team
• Technical requirements for showcasing the game
• Marketing materials including screenshots and descriptions

Our selection committee reviews all submissions based on creativity, quality, and potential market impact. We particularly value innovative gameplay mechanics, unique artistic approaches, and projects that push boundaries in interactive storytelling. Selected developers receive exhibition space, promotion through our channels, and opportunities to connect with publishers and press.

For larger studios and publishers, commercial exhibition opportunities are available through our partnerships team.

Melbourne Pixel Expo welcomes attendees of all ages with some specific guidelines:

• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times
• Attendees under 15 receive discounted admission
• Certain areas featuring games with mature content are clearly marked and restricted to attendees 18+ with ID verification required
• The esports tournament area has age-appropriate viewing sections based on the games being played
• Family Day (Sunday) features additional programming specifically designed for younger gamers

We work closely with exhibitors to ensure appropriate content warnings are displayed, and our staff is trained to help families navigate the expo appropriately. We also offer Family Passes that provide a cost-effective option for parents attending with children.

The Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre is ideally located with numerous accommodation options nearby:

• Partner Hotels: We've negotiated special rates with several hotels within walking distance, including the Pan Pacific Melbourne, Crown Metropol, and Novotel South Wharf. Booking links with discount codes are available on our website.
• Budget Options: Several hostels and budget hotels are located within a short tram ride, including Space Hotel, Melbourne Central YHA, and ibis Melbourne.
• Apartment Stays: For groups or longer visits, serviced apartments in Southbank and Docklands provide convenient options.

We recommend booking accommodation early as Melbourne hosts many events and availability can become limited, especially for dates close to the expo. Our partner hotels typically hold room blocks until 6-8 weeks before the event.

The venue is well-connected by public transport, with trams stopping directly outside and Southern Cross Station a short walk away, making it feasible to stay in other areas of Melbourne if preferred.

Our esports program features both professional invitational tournaments and open competitions for attendees:

• Professional Tournaments: These feature invited teams and players competing for substantial prize pools. Spectator viewing is included with all expo tickets.
• Open Competitions: Registration opens two months before the expo and can be completed online. Most open tournaments have qualification rounds prior to the event, with finals taking place during the expo.
• On-site Competitions: More casual tournaments can be joined directly at the expo through our gaming stations area, including fighting game brackets, racing competitions, and retro gaming challenges.

Each tournament has specific rules, equipment specifications, and age requirements detailed on our esports page. Some competitive events require additional entry fees, while others are included with your expo ticket.

We partner with major esports organizations to ensure professional-grade competition infrastructure and fair adjudication of all tournaments. Prize structures vary by game and competition level, with details published before registration opens.