G.A.T.E. 2016 Review

The Gaming, Animation and Technology Expo (G.A.T.E.) was held this past Saturday at the Banquet & Conference Centre in Movie Towne, Port of Spain. Chrono Fantasy Entertainment hosted the event for local fans of the aforementioned communities. The coming attractions of the expo was posted in a previous post that can be found here.

The first thing I noticed when a walked in was the exhibitor booths with all sorts of gaming and anime merchandise for sale including t-shirts, hats, masks, action figures (dolls) even weapons and pillows. The organizers also opened their doors to youths clubs around Trinidad and Tobago as to influence the next generation of gamers, technology enthusiasts and otakus.

Lots of sharp objects

Masquerade anyone?

I see you Thor the Paperweight

Seeing as its a technology expo the HTC Vive were on display and participants could try it out. I unfortunately did not get a chance to try it but I know Altaïr most certainly enjoyed putting his assassin skills to use. Other technology on display was 3D Printing from Fojo 3D Printing. Cosplayers utilized this technology more than everyone else to make 3D models of themselves in costume.

Young Link checking out the VR game

The assassin honing his skills

One thing this expo had was games, games and more games. It had a free play area where causal players can relax and have fun playing some of the latest video games. It also had a practice area for tournament contestants to practice their skills before the tournaments officially started.

'Man you suck at this game', said the smiling dude

Naruto Tournament Area

FIFA Tournament Area

Mortal Kombat Tournament Area

Despite the late start to the tournaments it was entertaining with lots of close calls, crazy comebacks and big wins. Both Barbados and Guadeloupe won first prize in each of their respected tournaments displaying their dominates against Trinidad and Tobago. In addition to the cash prizes winners of Street Fighter 5 and Super Smash Brothers won belts (WWE style) that will be defended at the next V.S. tournament.

Finals Tournament Area

Guadeloupe FIFA Champions

Super Smash Brothers Champion 

A video posted by Johnny Henry (@maxpaynev3) on Oct 29, 2016 at 2:48pm PDT

Everyone seemed to have enjoy themselves especially the children from the youth groups. The idea to invite them was a good move by the organizes and I hope other expos in Trinidad and Tobago do the same to bring awareness to the next generation to steer them away from other negative influences. Chrono Fantasy Entertainment also announced G.A.T.E. 2 that will take place next year and will feature EVO 2016 Street Fighter 5 US finalist L.I. Joe who will challenge the winner of this year's V.S. tournament. There is room for improvement with regards to scheduling and it could have a bit more technology on display but ultimately it was good.

Be sure to check out the official GATE page to see more of this year's event and like the page for future updates.

- MaxPayneV3 -