Dublin Games Festival and gaming events in Ireland
A look back at the Dublin Games Festival, and a guide to gaming and pop culture events in Ireland today.
What was the Dublin Games Festival?
The Dublin Games Festival, often shortened to DGF, was a gaming festival held in Dublin in November in the late 2010s. It brought gamers, esports players, streamers, families and gaming brands together for an expo with tournaments, retro gaming, game demos and stands. Earlier versions of this website described it as one of Ireland's most anticipated gaming events, with esports competitions for games such as Overwatch and Fortnite, a retro gaming area with classic consoles and arcade machines, and brands showing off new games and accessories.
This website is not the festival's website and has no connection with its organisers. We have no information about future editions and we do not sell tickets. Today, DublinGamesFestival.ie is an independent guide to festivals in Ireland, and this page looks at what made gaming festivals like DGF so popular and where gamers can go today.
Why gaming festivals are so popular
Love a good game? Then you will understand the appeal. A gaming festival offers things you cannot get at home:
- Live esports. Watching a tournament with a crowd, or playing in one yourself, is very different from watching a stream.
- Retro gaming. Old consoles and arcade cabinets bring back memories for parents and are a revelation for children.
- New games and hardware. Expos are a chance to try games and accessories before they are released.
- Meeting creators. Streamers, YouTubers and developers often meet fans, sign autographs and take part in panels.
- Cosplay. Many gaming events have costume contests and photo areas.
Gaming and pop culture events in Ireland today
Gaming events in Ireland come in many forms. Comic cons and fan conventions, such as Dublin Comic Con, often include gaming areas and panels on game development; read our post about the Comic Con festival for an idea of what to expect. Colleges and universities run student esports leagues and game development showcases, and there are LAN parties, retro gaming meetups and community tournaments around the country. Because these events change from year to year, the best way to find them is through gaming communities, college societies and the events' own websites and social media.
Tips for visiting a gaming event
- Check the official website for dates, ticket prices and age policies before you go.
- Bring a power bank, headphones, water and snacks; queues for popular demos can be long.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be on your feet most of the day.
- Check the rules on cosplay props and bags in advance.
- Take regular breaks from screens, and keep an eye on younger children in busy halls.
Games, stories and Irish folklore
Ireland's love of storytelling shows up in its games, too. Myths and legends, from the banshee to Cú Chulainn, have inspired game makers in Ireland and beyond. Read more in the magic of Irish folklore in festivals and games, or explore the wider festivals in Ireland on our home page.