If you’re feeling down about the recent collapse of the Insomnia Gaming Festival, the Odyssey Video Games Festival 2024 might be just the convention to lift your spirits. Geek Pride recently had the pleasure of speaking with the organisers behind this highly anticipated event. Set to take place on 6th and 7th July at the Crown Hotel in Harrogate, the Odyssey Festival promises to stand out on the UK convention scene.
Unlike many other conventions that focus heavily on commercialism, Odyssey is a unique experience, centred on community and the shared passion for gaming. It’s not just a convention, but a celebration of gaming culture.
A passion project with heart
Odyssey isn’t just a business venture for its organizers; it’s a labour of love. Their dedication to creating an inclusive and engaging event is evident in every detail. They’ve made sure that the convention isn’t about how much money you can spend, but about the quality of your experiences. This commitment is reflected in the ticket prices, designed to make the festival accessible to all and the inclusion of dedicated chill-out areas for relaxation and connection.
Adding to the community spirit, is a town-wide scavenger hunt with collectable monster cards based on local children’s designs. Participants can search for these unique cards throughout Harrogate, culminating in a battle with the big boss;an exclusive foiled card available only at the convention. This interactive activity is not just a part of the festival, but a chance for players to be a part of it, to explore the area, connect with others and have fun. It highlights the festival’s focus on local creativity and fostering a sense of adventure and collaboration among attendees.
The organizers are hosting a series of community events in the run-up to the main festival. These pre-festival activities are crafted to bring people together, ignite excitement, and strengthen the local gaming community, making Odyssey more than just a convention.
Exclusive products and merchandise
One of the most exciting aspects of Odyssey is the opportunity to get hands-on with exclusive products. Such opportunities are becoming increasingly rare in the UK convention scene. Attendees can expect high-quality prints and designs created with the wearer in mind, ensuring that every piece of merchandise is stylish and functional.
An independent project with major backers
Despite being supported by corporate sponsors, Odyssey remains an independent fan project. This unique blend of support and independence allows the organisers to bring their genuine passion for gaming to life, creating an event that feels both professional and personal. The organisers’ commitment to the gaming community shines through every detail, from the meticulously planned events to the welcoming atmosphere.
Event Highlights
Odyssey offers a range of exciting activities and attractions for gamers, families and tech enthusiasts:
Live Fortnite tournament: Compete in a thrilling Fortnite tournament for a chance to win a top-of-the-line Odyssey Gaming PC.
F1 2024 Racing challenge: Race against the pros at Silverstone and win fantastic F1 2024 prizes.
Ultimate Street Fighter 6 tournament: Test your skills in daily Street Fighter 6 tournaments with fantastic prizes.
Classic arcade zone: Relive the golden age of gaming with various classic arcade games.
Retro console area: Challenge friends on retro consoles and enjoy a nostalgic gaming experience.
Indie games showcase: Discover innovative games from local indie developers and learn about breaking into the gaming industry.
Online Safety Q&A: Attend sessions on online safety presented by HSBC and North Yorkshire Police.
Exclusive game screenings: Get a sneak peek at upcoming games and industry insights.
Gaming merchandise: Explore unique gaming merchandise that is perfect for any gamer or collector.
Live RPG plays: Immerse yourself in live RPG adventures in the Secret Lair.
Family zone: Relax and recharge in the family zone with delicious food and drinks.
Join the celebration
Odyssey is set to be the most exciting gaming event this summer, with a mission to unite gamers, developers, and enthusiasts, this festival celebrates the joy of gaming and explores the latest industry innovations.
Geek Pride is offering one weekend family pass (two adults and two children over 7 years old) worth £75 to one lucky winner of our charity raffle!
Tickets are £1 each, or 11 for £10, and the prize winner will be drawn on Friday, 5th July at 12pm
https://www.justgiving.com/page/geek-pride-odyssey-2024
Event Details
Dates: July 6-7, 2024
Location: Crown Hotel, Harrogate
Opening hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
Get your tickets now online or at the venue. Enjoy early bird discounts by booking in advance.
For more information and ticket purchases, visit Odyssey Gaming Festival.
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