The game industry (primarily RPGs, CCGs, and Miniature Games, with a smattering of other categories) gathers in Las Vegas next week, in a year that looks to have continuing change after a tumultuous, mostly successful 2001.  Strong new franchises are emerging on the CCG front, with Lord of the Rings a major hit, Yu Gi Oh coming out strong, and the potential for a revitalized Star Wars line from WotC.  WizKids is expanding rapidly to build on its success last year, with large increases in both number and quantity of products it's shipping this year.  And retailers looking at their distributor options see a group thinned by acquisition and shutdowns in 2001 (see 'Top Game Stories of 2001'). 

 

Retailers attending the show at the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas March 18-21 will find a record number of exhibitors (see 'GAMA 2002 Sets Exhibitor Record') and a retooled two-track seminar schedule, one for beginning and one for advanced retailers.  The GAMA.org Website says there are still $69 rooms and with sponsored meal functions, costs for retailers attending the show are minimal once they get there.  The is the largest trade-only gathering of independent pop culture retailers (see 'GAMA 2001 Opens Big').  ICv2 will be there covering the news -- see you there!