A new kind of gaming event is about to make its mark in Canada. VGLX (Video Game Live Expo) will debut at the Mississauga Convention Centre (October 25–26, 2025) with a clear mission: to deliver an immersive, community-driven experience built by fans, for fans. Unlike large-scale corporate expos that emphasize product reveals and spectacle, VGLX is rooted in authentic play, creativity, and connection. Its two-day event promises a full spectrum of interactive zones, tournaments, live performances, cosplay, and indie showcases — all under one roof.
With doors open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days, attendees can expect a weekend that blends the excitement of esports with the intimacy of grassroots gaming culture. Admission remains accessible, with weekend passes priced at $35 and free entry for children under 12, reinforcing VGLX’s commitment to inclusivity and community participation.
A Fan-First Approach to Gaming Culture
At its core, VGLX defines itself as Canada’s newest fan-first gaming convention. Every design choice — from the programming and ticket pricing to the curated floor layout — reflects a desire to make gaming more approachable and personal. The event’s organizers aim to create a space where play, art, and social interaction come together, giving attendees more than just a showcase: a full cultural experience.
Where most gaming expos focus on developers and marketing, VGLX flips the script. Its layout is designed around zones for discovery, experimentation, and collaboration, encouraging attendees to do rather than simply watch. This philosophy echoes across the convention’s varied programming, from quiet lounges and indie booths to competitive fighting-game stages.
Zones and Experiences Across the Show Floor
The Indie Game Zone will spotlight emerging developers from across Canada, offering early access to playable demos and opportunities for one-on-one discussion with creators. Alongside these booths, the VR Arcade and Beatsaber Zone invite players to immerse themselves in cutting-edge rhythm and action experiences, while the Minecraft Creative Zone brings collaborative play to life through hands-on building sessions for all ages.
Beyond gameplay, VGLX extends deep into the creative community. A vibrant Artist Alley will feature local illustrators, crafters, and designers selling prints, charms, and fan art. Meanwhile, the Cosplay Area, themed around Love and Deepspace, offers a cinematic environment for photo ops and performances. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the Introvert Area provides a sensory-friendly lounge equipped with casual games, comfortable seating, and lower lighting — a thoughtful inclusion rarely seen at major conventions.
Competition and Esports at VGLX
Competitive energy will pulse through the convention floor with a slate of tournaments spanning genres and platforms. Headliners include Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8, both featuring structured brackets, prizes, and audience engagement. Card and mobile gamers can join the Pokémon Go and TCG Tournament, while multiplayer enthusiasts can test their reflexes in the DepowerBall Pit — a fast-paced, niche competition that promises chaos and camaraderie in equal measure.
Evenings extend the experience beyond traditional play. The TCG Trade Night gives collectors and hobbyists a chance to connect over rare cards, while the Monster Hunter Scavenger Hunt transforms the venue into an interactive adventure, blending fandom with exploration. These participatory moments make VGLX as much a playground as an expo.
Performances, Giveaways, and Creative Highlights
Entertainment at VGLX doesn’t stop at the screen. Violinist Brigit O’Regan, known for her energetic performances at major conventions worldwide, will take the stage with live renditions of beloved game soundtracks. Throughout the weekend, exclusive giveaways and flash drops will surprise attendees with prizes and merchandise, adding spontaneity to the event’s schedule.
Exhibitor applications remain open to studios, artists, and retailers eager to reach a highly engaged Canadian audience. Partners and supporters listed on the official website include AMD, Interactive Ontario, and CSC TCG, with more announcements expected as the event approaches.
Building Canada’s Next Great Gaming Gathering
VGLX emerges at a critical moment for Canada’s gaming ecosystem. The country’s video-game sector contributes more than $5 billion annually to GDP, with 88 percent of domestically produced titles sold internationally. Ontario is bolstered by programs like Ontario Creates and Interactive Ontario. The province has become a powerhouse of creative talent, from independent studios to AAA developers. Situated in the Greater Toronto Area, VGLX stands positioned to harness that momentum, offering a community-focused alternative to larger expos.
Tickets Information
Dates: October 25–26, 2025
Venue: Mississauga Convention Centre, 75 Derry Rd W
Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. both days
Tickets: Weekend $35 CAD (ages 13+); Saturday $25; Sunday $20; 12 & under free
