The seventh rendition of rAge 2009 has bucked the economic downturn and grown its attendance figures compared with 2008. The gaming and technology expo showcased the biggest names in the industry and provided exhibitors many marketing and sales platforms.

Michael James, show director for rAge 2009 was pleased with the results. "The fact that we had an extremely successful show supports our initial indications that South Africa's technology and gaming industry is proving to be recession-resilient. The equipment and gear featured at this year’s show sold like hotcakes and are by no means low-cost ticket items. It shows the growing maturity of the gaming industry in SA and the disposable income of South African gamers," explains Michael.

"We were very aware of the economic environment in which we find ourselves this year and maintained conservative expectations of even equalling last year's visitor figures. We are thrilled to have grown our figures by 6% from last year with a total of 19 488 visitors this year. The expo's consistent year-on-year growth is also attributed to the phenomenal support it enjoys from our exhibitors who invest enormously in marketing their participation to their clients. Over 1800 NAG LAN tickets sold out in a record two days and was an exceptionally successful event, also boasting its highest number of gamers to date. When you add the 340 Telkom Do Gaming VIP players, there was a record total of 2162 players in the LAN this year, making it one of Africa's largest LAN's," James said.

The gaming and technology industry seems to be benefitting from the need for escapism from the global economic crisis. Media Control GfK International predicted that global videogame sales would grow from $32-billion in 2008 by 12% to $36-billion during 2009 (excluding rental revenue). This scenario paints similar flashbacks to the Great Depression in the 1930s when movie theatres were packed despite the worst economic crisis in world history.

"Some of the highlights that featured at rAge 2009 were the launch of FIFA 10, the Idols Lips playoff (featuring Graeme Watkins vs. Munro du Toit), and the Guitar Hero: World Tour SA National Championships."

AFP

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