The Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2024, held from September 26 to 29 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, was a landmark event in the gaming industry globally. As one of the world’s largest video game expos, TGS 2024 attracted a record-breaking 274,739 visitors, marking a 12.9% increase from the previous year as of nikkei announcement. This year’s show featured 985 exhibitors from over 40 countries, showcasing a staggering 2,850 game titles across various platforms.
Tokyo Game Show 2024 is not just another event—it’s the heart of where the gaming world converges to shape the future. Whether you’re an industry professional, a passionate gamer, or just curious about what’s next in the digital realm, TGS 2024 offers something for everyone. From groundbreaking tech and cutting-edge games to insightful panels and immersive experiences, this year’s show promises to be unforgettable. Let`s explore the key events and trends, and discover how TGS 2024 is setting the stage for the future of gaming.
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Sony`s Return and Major Announcements
Sony Interactive Entertainment made a significant comeback to TGS for the first time since 2019. The company unveiled the PlayStation 5 Pro, offering attendees the chance to experience enhanced graphics and gameplay with titles like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Gran Turismo 7. This return was a major highlight for fans and marked Sony’s renewed commitment to engaging with the Japanese gaming audience.
The Sony PlayStation 5 Pro is set to launch on November 7, 2024, and represents a significant mid-generation upgrade to the existing PlayStation 5 console. Here are the key details about the PS5 Pro.
Specifications and Features
- GPU and Performance Enhancements: The PS5 Pro features a substantially upgraded GPU, boasting a 45% performance boost over the original PS5. This allows for enhanced ray tracing capabilities, improved graphics rendering, and support for higher frame rates. The console can handle 4K gaming at 60 frames per second (fps) and offers modes that can reach up to 120 fps or even support 8K gaming for compatible titles125.
- Storage: It comes with a 2TB solid-state drive (SSD), providing ample storage space for games and media.
- AI Upscaling Technology: The console introduces PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), an AI-powered upscaling technology designed to enhance image quality across the entire game library. This feature helps deliver better visuals by upscaling games to higher resolutions.
- Compatibility and Game Boost: The PS5 Pro supports backward compatibility with PS4 games and includes a Game Boost feature that enhances performance and image quality for over 8,500 backward-compatible PS4 games.
- Connectivity: The console is equipped with Wi-Fi 7 for faster and more reliable internet connectivity.
- Design: While the PS5 Pro maintains a similar design language to its predecessor, it includes minor visual tweaks to differentiate it from the original PS5.
- Price: The PS5 Pro is priced at $699.99, which is notably higher than the launch price of the original PS5. This price does not include an optical disc drive or a vertical stand, both of which must be purchased separately if desired.
- Release Date: The console will be available for purchase starting comming November 7, 2024.
- Pre-orders: Pre-orders began on September 26, 2024, through PlayStation Direct and other participating retailers.
The PS5 Pro is designed for gamers seeking enhanced performance and graphics capabilities, making it an appealing option for those looking to upgrade from the standard PS5 or PS5 Slim models. However, its higher price point may limit its appeal to more dedicated gaming enthusiasts.
Innovative Exhibits and AI Technology
A key feature of TGS 2024 was the AI technology pavilion, where exhibitors showcased how artificial intelligence is transforming game development. This included innovations like converting text into 3D videos and producing live commentaries for sports games. The integration of AI into gaming reflects broader industry trends towards more immersive and interactive experiences.
In the gaming industry, AI is undeniably a powerful trend and a highly useful tool. However, In my opinion,when it comes to the creative aspects, it’s important to approach Japanese users with caution. While AI can streamline processes and create innovative content, user reactions may vary, especially concerning how much AI is involved in the development. Some may appreciate the efficiency, but others could feel uncertain about AI handling too much of the creative process. This is particularly crucial for brands with strong identities, where careful consideration of how AI is integrated can make a significant difference.
Diverse Game Showcases
The event saw a diverse range of games on display, from blockbuster titles to indie gems. Especailly, NIKKE`s real gacha display with human cosplayer was so impressive to me.
Below game booth are so impressive too!
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
Monster Hunter Wilds
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
Also, The indie game section also expanded, featuring 220 titles that offered unique gameplay experiences to attendees.
Highlights of Indie Game Participation
- Increased Presence: Indie games have gained considerable traction at TGS in recent years, and 2024 was no exception. The event featured a dedicated “Indie Game Area” where 81 games were selected from 973 entries worldwide, allowing developers to showcase their work to a global audience.
- Diverse Offerings: The indie section at TGS 2024 presented a wide range of genres and styles, from narrative-driven adventures like Mercury Abbey to puzzle platformers such as The Rewinder 2, which incorporates elements of Chinese folklore.
- Notable Titles: Nightmare Operator by DDDistortion was highlighted as the Indie Game of the Year at TGS 2024. This game, along with others like Platform, exemplifies the innovative spirit of indie developers and their ability to deliver unique gaming experiences.
- Global Representation: The indie games showcased at TGS 2024 came from a diverse range of countries, highlighting the global nature of the indie game development community. This diversity enriches the gaming landscape with varied cultural influences and storytelling techniques into the Japan.
Global Participation and Online Engagement
TGS 2024 highlighted its global appeal with over half of the exhibitors coming from overseas. This international participation underscores the show’s importance as a hub for global gaming developments.
Digital World and Online Streaming
For those unable to attend in person, TGS offered an extensive online experience through its “Digital World” platform. This virtual space allowed global audiences to engage with exhibits and participate in live-streamed events on platforms like YouTube and Nico Nico. Major companies such as Microsoft, SEGA/ATLUS, and Aniplex used these channels to announce their latest developments.
Industry Trends and Future Prospects
Growth in Gaming Platforms
The show demonstrated significant growth across various gaming platforms. Steam showcased an impressive increase in titles from 437 in 2023 to 625 in 2024, while mobile gaming also saw a rise in both iOS and Android titles. However, virtual reality (VR) seemed to be declining, with fewer VR titles presented compared to previous years.
Keynote Addresses and Predictions
Industry leaders like Ken Kutaragi, known as the “father of PlayStation,” delivered keynote speeches predicting that AI-infused media could revolutionize entertainment beyond traditional gaming. These insights reflect ongoing discussions about the future direction of gaming technology.
Conclusion
Tokyo Game Show 2024 successfully reinforced its status as a premier event in the gaming calendar. With record attendance, groundbreaking exhibits, and robust international participation, TGS continues to be a vital platform for showcasing innovation and fostering global connections within the gaming industry. As the event grows each year, it remains an essential destination for gamers and industry professionals alike.
