Gaming industry shows year on year growth, as does rAge

Despite the global economic challenges, gaming as an entertainment sector has shown year on year growth.

According to the PwC Entertainment and Media Report 2011-2015, the video games market in South Africa grew 1.2% in 2010 to R1.2 billion With a predicted global value of more than US$65 billion in the next few years and a growing local industry, gaming is reportedly set to be the fastest growing form of mass media for the foreseeable future and the exhibition presents a platform for exhibitors to come face to face with the consumers who will continue to drive this sector.

"Whether casual or hard-core, South African gamers and technology enthusiasts await the expo each year and they are ready to spend. Our visitors gear up months in advance for the event and, as early adopters of technology and games, come expecting to see and buy the latest. A tendency supported by the E&M report, which projects the overall video games market to increase to R 1.8 billion in 2015, a 7% compound annual increase from 2010. In addition we see enthusiasm throughout the year with readers of NAG magazine keeping them up to date on a monthly basis," says Michael James, editor NAG and senior project manager rAge.

Added to this, the exhibition has shown year on year growth. "The show had a visitor attendance growth of 29% from 2010 with 26 594 visitors at the 2011 show. In addition, 2196 NAG LAN tickets sold out in six hours, demonstrating the enthusiasm South African consumers have for what's on show. I'd say most of our visitors spend a good four or more hours at the show and this year we expect around 30 000 visitors."

For more, go to www.rageexpo.co.za.