.png)
THINGS TO DO
From our massive exhibit hall, gaming, special guests, cosplay - CGC is the best place to make a weekend of doing all things fan culture.
With over 250,000 sq. ft. (that's huge) of exhibition space, you can't possibly get it all done in one day. We're constantly adding programs and content so check back regularly.
CLASSIC VIDEO GAMES
Pick up that controller or Zapper in our massive video game classic console arcade. Featuring original tube TVs and the systems you grew up on, you can play games just like you used to. From Atari, ColecoVision, Nintendo, Sega, Xbox, Playstation and more - we've got them at CGC.
ARCADE GAMES
CGC is Ohio's largest convention of games that are free-to-play all weekend long - so you can keep your quarters at home! We'll have your favorites, the classics and games you've never played before.
PINBALL
Yes, even pinball is free-to-play at CGC! Whether you're a pinball wizard or haven't played pinball in decades, get ready to flip out at CGC. We'll have pinball classic you grew up on plus the latest releases from today's largest pinball manufacturers.
COSPLAY
Hundreds of attendees come to CGC dressed in their best cosplay each year. And if you're looking to compete in our epic cosplay contest, you can take the Main Stage in our free-to-participate contests for Kids, Teens, Adults and Group categories. Our cosplay scene draws local and out of state fans in standing room only events each year.
BATTLETECH
Have you ever driven a 3 story tall, 75-ton walking tank complete with missiles and lasers? Well you will at CGC. Take a seat in the most immersive multiplayer virtual combat: BattleTech. Step inside this 6 foot massive pods and grab onto the joystick in this ultra-rare experience.
COLLECTORS
Looking for that rare "grail game" or to add to your video game collection? Our massive exhibit hall is where you're guaranteed to find it. Video game collectors and dealers come across the country, bring you the best and rarest to CGC.
SPECIAL GUESTS
Grab an autograph and selfie with some of the most iconic guests, content creators and influencers in gaming and fan culture. Or take a seat by the Main Stage in some engaging and exciting programming (hilarity will inevitably happen - you've been forewarned).
INDIE DEVELOPERS
If you're looking to show-off your passion project, play test with an audience or market to the masses - CGC is the premier place to do it. Developers local and out-of-state travel to the land each year to show us what they've got. Plus developers have the chance to even win some awards for their games and take to the Main Stage for an iconic photo opportunity.
TABLETOP GAMES
Pull up a chair in our massive free-play tabletop lounge and gaming library.
​
Whether you're a veteran Dungeon Master, looking to learn something new, or to get a casual game of Jenga in - we've got the games at CGC.
CHARACTER APPEARANCES
You'll never know who you'll meet roaming the massive Exhibit Hall of CGC, so keep that camera ready. It may be a towering 8 foot Autobot, Thor, Deadpool, Mario, Marty McFly or Darth Vader - you never know who you'll meet.
COMICS & COLLECTIBLES
From Pokemon, Pops, Magic, Marvel, Masters of the Universe and more - you'll find the collectibles, toys, comics and more at CGC.
​
Just make sure there's enough room in your car for it all!
ARTIST ALLEY
This year we've added a dedicated Artist Alley to showcase all the amazing artists and creators out there.
​
From custom dice, coasters, jewelry, artwork, armor, posters and just about anything you can think of - it's at CGC.
COMPETITORS
CGC all started as "Tecmo Cleveland" over a decade ago with a couple of friends playing Tecmo Super Bowl on the NES. Today, CGC is still home to one of the largest Tecmo Super Bowl tournaments and other competitive tournaments. Get ready to compete at CGC.
CLASSIC TETRIS WARS
Can't you hear the music already?
​
Compete in this unique format to see if you have what it takes to master the bricks in Classic Tetris Wars.
​​
EPIC EXPERIENCES
Last year we reimagined the best video gameshow of our childhood. We also recreated the living room of the 80s.
​
We knows what's in store for CGC '25. You'll just have to be there to see it!
PROJECT ARTEMIS
Ever dreamed of being Scotty, Sulu or Spock? Imagine sitting on the bridge of a star ship where you work together and control weapons, engineering, communications and more. Artemis isn't an official Star Trek game, but it is the Star Trek game you've always dreamed of - PC Gamer. Play it at CGC!
RETRO PCS
We'll be featuring vintage 1999 PCs running some of your favorite games from some of the biggest franchises. Relive your most beloved retro PC games with friends and connect with new fans at CGC - brought to you by Cleveland Retro PC LAN Party. ​​
TRADING CARD GAMES
We have next-level Trading Card Games (TCG) events all weekend long. Whether you're a pro or looking to try out a new game, there's something for everyone.
All TCG events are now open and available for registration online with ticketing.
ESPORTS
Not only do we have the classics, but ICON Tournaments will be running eSports events and tournaments all weekend long, including: Mario Kart 8, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mortal Kombat 1, Tekken 8, Street Fighter 8 and more.
TATTOOS
You can even get inked at CGC. Whether you're looking for a gaming-inspired design or something totally unique, we’ll have top-notch tattoo artists on site ready to bring your ideas to life.
KIDS ZONE
The Kid's Zone, presented by the Cleveland Public Library, provides a great space for kids to play, get hands-on with activities and games. We also have giant inflatables for the kids to bounce around on, making it a highlight for families attending the event. Plus kids 10 and under get in free to CGC.
ARMORED COMBAT
Get ready to witness the clash of steel, as medieval combat storms into CGC. Experience the raw power, precision, and adrenaline of medieval armored combat. Fighters in authentic armor go head-to-head in intense battles that blend history, sport and games.
JAPANESE IMPORTS
Discover unique, obscure and rare Japanese import arcade games and titles you won't find anywhere else. From rhythm games, dancing, drumming, fighting games and more - play them all for FREE at CGC!
MARIO KART LIVE
We're turning up the volume and brining the turtle shells with Arcadia, a LIVE band where you'll have the chance to play Mario Kart LIVE while the band plays alongside you! This is a limited and can't miss experience, happening only at CGC!
FAN VEHICLES
You'll never know what is rolling into the Cleveland Gaming Classic. Each year we bring fan-favorite vehicles across the multiverse straight to the show floor. Snap some photos in these rolling tributes to the fandoms you love.
ANIME
Get ready to meet up with your fellow Anime friends and snap a photo as you pose in your best Demon Slayer, Naruto, Attack on Titan, One Piece and other popular anime series.
​
Believe it - Anime is at CGC!
PANELS
The action doesn't stop on the show floor, as CGC features a weekend long lineup of panels, Q&A, and LIVE shows featuring your favorite creators, industry guests, special guests and gaming legends. There's always something happening so grab a seat and enjoy!