Controller: Check. Phone charger: Check. Event badge: Check! Is this your first time traveling to Evo or a fighting game major in general? If so, here are a few things that can make a huge difference in your attendee experience.
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What to Pack:

When you pack for your trip, it is helpful to think in multiple scenarios. What are the main things you want to do while you’re in Las Vegas? Are you looking to spend most of your time competing in the main event, community tournaments, or casual setups? Is there any merch you want to pick up, and if so, how much extra space do you need to account for on the way back home? Do you want to take some time to catch up with friends and family or visit the local festivities? You are in Las Vegas, and there’s no shortage of entertainment to experience. Keep these things in mind while you’re putting together your bag.

First and foremost, don’t forget your controller! Unless you’re planning on buying one once you arrive in Las Vegas, you’ve got to bring your own. If you use a wireless PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5 controller, don’t forget the appropriate cable to connect it to the event setups. If you want to make someone’s day, bring an extra USB-C or micro USB cable in case your opponent forgets theirs.

Speaking of cables, it is always a good idea to bring a charging cable or two. A fast charger would be even better. If you don’t have one already, a portable power bank is essential when an outlet isn’t available. The last thing you want to happen is for your phone to run out of juice, especially if it is a long walk back to your hotel room.

Last but not least, think about ways to stay well and comfortable. While Evo will be providing reusable bottles for water with plenty of filling stations on site, think of other necessities to account for. Pack a fresh travel bottle of hand sanitizer to use throughout the weekend. Even though it will be hot in Las Vegas, pack a jacket in case the venue is too cold for your liking. Pack a good pair of walking shoes that you’ll feel best in. We cannot overstate how significant foot comfort is. You’re going to stand, and you’re going to walk a LOT, and the better your feet feel, the better your entire experience will be.
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Travel Plan:

Try to limit surprises as much as possible by researching local traffic conditions, construction zones, and public transportation routes. If you are traveling by car, plot out your best path ahead of time and check periodically leading up to the event to see if there have been any significant changes. If you are flying into Las Vegas, know your transportation options. See if your hotel has any travel accommodations from the airport, look up where rideshare or taxis pickup, and be prepared to cover those additional costs in your budget.

As soon as you arrive at your hotel, get familiar with your path to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. What is the fastest way to get to the venue? Is there a route that is mainly air-conditioned? Many hotels around Mandalay Bay are connected and offer quick and convenient walkways. If your hotel is a little further away, there are still plenty of ways to go from building to building to stay out of the sun.
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On-site Preparations:

The time has come. Evo has finally begun! Now what?

While there’s is a ton to do and plenty to see at Evo, this is where your goals will help guide when and where you spend your time. Do you want to focus on getting in as many games as possible? How about playing anticipated titles before anyone else? Are you a fan of industry and community panels with deep dives into the latest hit-fighting games and indie developments? There are dozens of vendors and exhibitors on-site too! Make a checklist of all the things you want to experience.

On the first day of Evo 2023, the Main Stage will be where all the magic happens. The Friday Showcase is back at Evo 2023 with World Premiere Announcements, Industry Panels, Exhibitions, and More! You can find the main stage and all other game stages on the left half of the convention center.

Want to grab all the limited edition and event-exclusive merch early on? You can find the vendors and artist alley on the right side of the convention center. This half of the convention center is also home to exciting event experiences by Chipotle, Crunchy Roll, Red Bull, Sony Interactive Entertainment/PlayStation, and INZONE!

If you want to play as many games as possible, the giant free-play arcade is directly to the left of the convention center entrance. There are also multiple opportunities to play new and upcoming titles like Mortal Kombat 1, TEKKEN 8, Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising, and more at our developer partner booths before you hit the vendor village on the right side of the show floor.

Are you looking for even more info on the floor map? Check out the whole thing in detail! It might be worth printing out to plot your perfect path to hit everything on your list!
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Outside Activities:

While we would love for you to be with us at Evo all weekend, we understand our event takes place in the Entertainment Capital of the World. Take some time to check out Las Vegas and some of the one-of-a-kind experiences it has to offer! Whether you just walk down the Strip, buy a souvenir, or catch a show during your stay, maximize your time in the city! Stay safe and hydrated, and join us at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino to complete your Evo experience!
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Final Thoughts:

Here are our last words of advice for your first trip to Evo: Have fun! We hope you enjoy your time at Evo and that we see you at our event for years to come! It is always a great day to play fighting games, and it is better when you’re a part of it!