The Global Gaming Expo 2022, famously known as G2E, will again showcase the rapid pace of industry innovation, from the casino floor to online gaming and digital payments to crypto and Web3.
Anticipation for the convention has swelled partly due to it being the first truly post-pandemic G2E. Although the Expo returned in person in 2021, following a one-year hiatus, it was still subdued by stifling Covid-19 precautions which dampened both attendance and the convention’s trademark liveliness.
Excitement is in the air for the event. Registration opened in June – four months ahead of the Expo – in anticipation of high demand from people across the industry. As of this writing, 250 diverse companies are already locked in to attend as exhibitors.
G2E Event Vice President Korbi Carrison's commented on attendees’ enthusiasm, striking an appropriately upbeat tone: “The demand we’re seeing for G2E 2022 reflects not only the strength of gaming’s recovery but also the impressive growth of new gaming verticals and technology.”
As we enter the first G2E of the post-pandemic era, the most immediate question is: should attendees expect a return to ‘normalcy’? Carrison noted: “G2E will look more like a ‘typical’ G2E, with a full expo hall, the education program jam-packed with sessions, and more in-person networking opportunities.
“Knowing that G2E is back to what attendees have come to expect has driven a ton of excitement from exhibitors, attendees and media alike.”
Expect a focus on education for the convention this year: organizers want attendees to be prepared for what’s sure to be an expansive, engaging experience. Available for all visitors is a tailored education plan and a ‘build your own G2E experience’ quiz where attendees can create personalized agendas.
This educational experience has been divided into different tracks, where attendees can choose to attend the sessions of their choosing. The tracks include: the future of iGaming; compliance, regulation and risks; digital payments and cryptocurrency; tribal gaming and the international perspective.
Then there is the ‘Innovation Lab’, which offers fifteen-minute, TED-style talks and demo kiosks, and gives G2E attendees the chance to learn about cutting-edge gambling technologies and how they may impact the industry. Speaking on the Innovation Lab, Carrison said that it will have an “all-star roster of experts” discussing contemporary issues ranging from tribal compacts to cryptocurrency in gambling.
This year’s Innovation Lab program is organized across topical industry themes: disruptive technology on Tuesday; new uses for existing technology on Wednesday, and emerging trends on Thursday.
American Gaming Association VP of Industry Relations Allie Barth feels that the Innovation Lab can live up to its name by revitalizing the discussion surrounding the gaming landscape. Barth commented: “Now in its fourth year, the Innovation Lab has evolved to inspire conversation and spark creativity on issues like artificial intelligence, cyber defense and more…. It will showcase the most exciting new developments in the gaming world.”
The Education Hall will open its doors on Monday, welcoming gaming industry professionals from around the world to define their vision for the future of gaming. Scheduled debates will include: balancing regulation with constant change; the sustainability of the sports betting model, and whether esports is a passing trend or a new vertical.
The main event kicks off the following day, when the Upper Hall of the Venetian will be transformed into a gigantic tradeshow floor, with vendors from all walks of the industry. Gaming machine operators, hospitality professionals, iGaming specialists and journalists will all freely mingle.
Carrison commented: “In the last two years we saw tremendous expansion with iGaming and online sports betting, and that’s certainly reflected in the range of G2E exhibitors.”
Leaders in the industry will gather to discuss the future of gaming. Key topics will include the business of sports betting, tribal government gaming sovereignty, and what’s next for iGaming, digital payments and cryptocurrency. As Carrison sees it, G2E is a platform from which the global gaming community can come together to formulate exciting new agendas.
She says: “From debuting new products to discussing emerging trends, we bring together the best and brightest companies and minds to provide gaming’s premier annual event for making connections and getting business done.”
G2E 2022 is an essential event on the calendar for all in the industry: from established powerhouse slot machine providers like IGT to payment companies like Nuvei. The trade show will continue, as well, to provide its most vital function of greasing the wheels of communication and networking. This where companies come to spread the word of their innovation.
G2E remains relevant and important. As Carrison summarizes: “Just like the gaming industry itself, G2E will continue to evolve and expand to meet the needs of its customers, reflect the changing global landscape, and provide a platform for the future of gaming.”
