So, you're coming to Evo 2025 for the first time? Welcome to the biggest fighting game tournament in the world! Whether you're here to compete, spectate, or just soak in the hype, this guide will help you get the most out of your first Evo. From the roar of Top 8 Finals to the discovery of indie gems on the show floor, Evo is more than just a tournament, it’s a community, a celebration, and a weekend you’ll never forget.

If you want a quick look at what Evo is like, check out the below video from our friends at Core-A-Gaming.

Preparing for EVO 2025: Pre‑Trip Checklist

Whether you’re a seasoned fighter or a hype newcomer, organizing your essentials early ensures you can focus on the matches, not the logistics.

1. Badge & Registration

Secure your badge via the official Evo Start.gg page. Registration is essential for access to the entire event. Double check you have your correct tournament entry and your Arena Finals ticket if you want to get into the Evo
Arena on Sunday (currently sold out in 2025).
After purchase, double‑check your Start.gg account or email for badge pick‑up instructions and hours.

2. Flights & Travel

Book early, especially if flying from a regional airport, seats fill fast and rates jump. Budget airlines like Allegiant offer deals to Vegas but charge extra for seat selection, bags, and printed boarding passes .
Check-in window: opens 24 hours before your flight; airport check-in closes 45 minutes before departure. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Keep an eye on your notifications as flights be delayed, gates can change, etc.

3. Hotel & Accommodation

Coordinate your hotel location relative to the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), especially if relying on shuttles or rideshare.
Confirm your check‑in/check‑out dates, payment methods, cancellation policies, and real ID compliance for domestic U.S. flights after May 2025 .

4. Packing List

Las Vegas is hot. Light, breathable clothes are going to be your best friend in the desert heat.
That said, the convention center will have the air conditioning blasting all weekend. Might be a good idea to pack a jacket just in case.
Evo is large, and the convention center floor is concrete. Comfy shoes are going to be a life saver for the long event days.
Don’t forget your controller of choice, whether it’s a fightstick, pad, or leverless, you’ll want whatever you feel best on once you hit the tournament floor.

5. Weather in Vegas

Did we mention Las Vegas is hot? Expect hot daytime highs in the mid‑100s°F (around 38–41 °C) and low humidity. Nights cool into the 70s°F (~22–24 °C).
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and stay hydrated during any outdoor breaks; indoor areas are heavily air-conditioned.

6. Logistics & Ground Transport

Research rideshare pick-up zones, hotel-to-LVCC routes, and shuttle schedules. If driving, consider reserving parking in advance.
Printed hotel and badge confirmations make for smoother hotel desk interactions, especially if phone service gets spotty.

The Tournament Floor: Heart of the Hype

The energy at Evo hits you the moment you walk into the main hall. Every match, every pop-off, every cheer unfolds across hundreds of setups running games from every corner of the fighting game universe. Whether you're signed up to compete or just want to see the action up close, the tournament floor is where you'll find the spirit of Evo at its core.

And don’t worry if you’re not a pro, there are casual setups where you can sit down, plug in, and play with anyone. It’s a great way to make new friends or get in some matches against international talent. Everyone speaks the language of fighting games.

First time at an event? Some quick tips for** good tournament behavior**

If you are playing in a bracket, make sure to check the time of your first match. Show up to your pool on time and check in with the referee in charge of your bracket!
Be sure to be respectful of tournament staff and your fellow competitors. Everyone is there to have a good time, so let’s help each other enjoy the event.
Don’t forget to check your buttons. Connect your controller, make sure everything is moving and grooving the way you want, fist bump your opponent and get to the fight!
After your match, make sure your controller or stick is disconnected from the console and check in with your TO with the results.

Artist Alley & Vendor Village

Looking to pick up a rare art print, hand-crafted fightstick parts, or the perfect fighting game shirt? Evo's Artist Alley and Vendor Village are packed with incredible creators and merch booths. Make sure you check out the official Evo merch store for some exclusive Vegas items. From official game gear to community fan art, this is your place to support artists and snag some one-of-a-kind finds.

The Evo Art Museum & Fightstick Showcase

Want to explore the culture of the FGC? Step into the Evo Art Museum, a curated exhibition celebrating the rich creative history of fighting games through community-made illustrations, official art, and never-before-seen pieces from legendary artists. It’s a quiet, thoughtful space to appreciate the craft that makes this community so visually iconic.

Right next door, don’t miss the Fightstick Museum, a display of iconic, custom, and historic fightsticks from across the ages. From Daigo’s original controller to fully modded LED builds and hand-painted one-of-a-kinds, this collection showcases the hardware that helped build the FGC, one match at a time. Try your hand at your own Moment 37 in a recreation of the most famous moment in the FGC.

Whether you’re an artist, a builder, or just a fan of craftsmanship, these exhibits offer a deeper appreciation for the passion that powers Evo beyond the screen.

The Evo Arcade

Need a break from the main floor? Head to the Evo Arcade, where the sounds of buttons and CRT screens bring back that old-school magic. It is the 2nd largest arcade in North America. Play free-to-play cabinets ranging from classics to modern indie fighters and mystery gems. It’s not just a nostalgia trip, it’s a core part of Evo’s love letter to fighting games and calls back to our roots.

Indie Fighters & New Discoveries

You’ll find the future of fighting games in the Indie Fighting Game Gallery, a curated showcase of up-and-coming titles and passionate dev teams eager to show you what’s next. From pixel-perfect footsies to wild new mechanics, this is where innovation lives. Don’t just wait for the future, play, give feedback, and support the next wave of creators.

Evo 2025 Cosplay Contest: Bring Your Favorite Fighter to Life

Love fighting games and cosplay? Don’t miss the Evo 2025 Cosplay Contest, where the community brings iconic characters to life with stunning detail and creativity. Whether you're dressing as a classic warrior or a modern favorite, this contest is open to all skill levels and all fighting game-inspired looks.

The contest takes place on Saturday at 4PM at the main Cosplay Stage, with judging panels made up of pro cosplayers and fighting game legends. Prizes will be awarded for Best Craftsmanship, Best Performance, and Best Overall, plus a Fan Favorite award voted on live by the audience.

Even if you’re not competing, make sure to show up, cheer on your favorites, and take photos with some of the most jaw-dropping costumes in the FGC. Cosplay has become one of Evo’s most colorful and community-driven traditions and it’s only getting bigger.

Photo Opportunities around the Venue

Whether you're after that perfect IG story or a keepsake snapshot with fellow fans, Evo delivers plenty of memorable photo opportunities. Snap standout cosplayers during the official cosplay contest and parade. These events highlight incredible craftsmanship and get prime lighting on the community stage. Or head over to booths like the Tekken 8 zone expect professional cosplayers dressed as new DLC characters—ideal for posed shots or selfies.

Just remember to be respectful and ask permission. Always ask attendees before close portraits, and be aware of camera lens rules, as pro-level lenses may be restricted.

You’ll also be able to find fighting game themed backdrops and photo areas around the venue, so choose your stage, strike a pose and get to say cheese, I mean fight.

The Finals Arena: Fighting Game Theater

On Saturday and Sunday, the energy shifts. The lights go down, the crowd packs in, and the best players in the world step onto the Evo Finals stage. These are the Top 8s—the climactic showdowns that crown champions. Whether you’re screaming in the front row or watching the big screen, it is an emotional ride and the ultimate celebration of competitive greatness.

The arena is free to enter all day on Saturday, however will require an arena ticket on Sunday. If you can’t make it to the arena, have no fear, the Top 8s will be watchable from the convention floor with large scale screens and in-house commentators of its own.

Tips for First-Timers

Plan Your Schedule: Pools, panels, showcases, and finals, there’s a lot happening. Make sure you are keeping track of what you want to see and do so you don't miss a thing.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: The food court and vendors will keep you fueled, but plan ahead. Evo days are long!
Respect the Space: Be cool, be kind, and respect everyone.
Bring Your Controller: If you're competing or want to hit the casuals, don't forget your stick or pad.
Meet the Community: Talk to people! The FGC is one of the most passionate and welcoming groups in gaming.

Evo 2025 is more than a tournament, it's a weekend-long celebration of everything that makes fighting games special. Whether you're here to compete, cheer, cosplay, or discover something new, your first Evo is guaranteed to be unforgettable.

See you in Vegas.