This November, GameFest Akron returns for its third year with a hybrid in-person and digital celebration. This week-long festival begins on November 8 and will highlight the artistry, creativity, and ingenuity of game design through a virtual arcade, programming, and a final game-filled day at the Museum on Saturday, November 13.
During the culminating event, the Museum will transform into an arcade with chances to play video and tabletop games, meet indie game designers, and adventure through a series of games and challenges throughout the Museum. There will be activities for everyone, from the die-hard gamer to the group looking to connect over friendly competition.
Akron Art Museum Curator of Community Engagement Reggie Lynch said, “We’re thrilled to bring back GameFest for the third year to celebrate the creativity of game design. The new hybrid format of in-person and virtual events allows us to meet people where they are, whether it be their couch or the Museum’s galleries.”
Featured in the GameFest lineup are the following indie games:
- In-Person and Virtual
- Indiepocalypse
- Kovetous Kobolds
- Reed the Robotanist
- Time Tails
- Virtual Only
- Dark Swords
- Gnome Adventure: Journey to the Market
- Pick Your Plate! A Global Guide to Nutrition
- We Are The Caretakers
See below for the full GameFest schedule. For up to date programming information, check the Museum’s website at akronartmuseum.org.
Monday, November 8, 12:00 pm
GameFest Akron: Let the Games Begin!
GameFest Akron Virtual Arcade is live! Be the first to play the games in the GameFest Akron Virtual Arcade. An instructional video will be available on Facebook throughout the week, and the online arcade will open at 12:00 pm.
Tuesday, November 9, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
GameFest Akron: Meet the Developers
Meet some of the GameFest Akron game developers and hear their thoughts on game design, the artistry behind their work, and creating relevance in their games. This free virtual
event will occur via Zoom and runs in association with GameFest Akron. Registration is required.
Wednesday, November 10, All Day
GameFest Akron: Designing GameFest Virtual Arcade
Did you know the GameFest Akron Virtual Arcade is inspired by the design and collection of the Museum? Take a quick peek at the Museum’s social media and blog to learn more
about these connections and the Akron Art Museum’s art and architecture.
Thursday, November 11, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
GameFest Akron: Virtual Game Night/Scavenger Hunt/Trivia Night
Stop by the Museum for a self-guided scavenger hunt through the galleries or download a print-and-play game from the GameFest Akron virtual arcade. Activities are free and fun for all ages.
Friday, November 12, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
GameFest Sneak Peek with 88bit
A scavenger hunt and a live performance of classic video game music provided by 88bit will run throughout the night. Visitors will also get a sneak peek of GameFest Akron.
88bit is the alter ego of Cleveland-based pianist, composer, and recording artist, Rob Kovacs. He performs virtuosic note-for-note piano arrangements of classic video game soundtracks mainly from the original Nintendo Entertainment System. Kovacs is one of the only pianists in the world to publicly perform some of these early game soundtracks, many of which have never been released outside of the games they’re in. This event is free for members, and general admission fees apply for non-members.
Saturday, November 13, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
GameFest Akron
Drop by the Museum to meet GameFest Akron’s developers in-person and test their games. Play classic video games from Games Done Legit, explore the galleries like never before with pop-up games and activities, and grab food from a local food truck. Also, look for chances to win game-themed prizes. This event is free and open to all. Registration is required.