Toronto, it's time to get your game on! Sponsored by Intel Canada, the Gaming Garage is returning to the Canadian National Exhibition this year — and it looks (and truly is) bigger and better than ever.

Running from Friday, Aug. 16, to Monday, Sept. 2, you'll get to dive into an immersive gaming wonderland that's sure to take your gaming experience to new heights.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the scene, you'll have a blast playing the hottest games on the latest Intel-powered gaming, lifestyle, and AI PCs.

You'll also have the chance to watch epic gaming tournaments and competitions live — and maybe even walk away with some awesome prizes. 

What to expect for 2024

The CNE Gaming Garage space has levelled up from 6,400 sq ft last year to 9,800 sq ft in 2024, giving fans and visitors even more room to play and explore.

If you fall in love with the PC or tech you're playing on, you'll be
able to purchase them right there and then from Canada Computers and Best Buy booths.

"It's like test-driving a car before buying it, but for gaming enthusiasts," says Asma Aziz, Intel's America Marketing Director. 

"With more than 100 devices for attendees to try, we’re helping gamers make more informed decisions based on hands-on gaming experience with the hardware."

Fan favourites & new features

The always-popular GOES Retro Arcade will be back this year, so get ready for a blast from the past as you check out nostalgic retro consoles and virtual reality gaming stations. 

Got little gamers in tow? They can join in the fun this year at the brand new Byte Sized Gaming Zone. This zone will feature kid-friendly video games on Intel-powered laptops and other fun activities for the young ones.

Epic challenges with cash prizing

This year's Gaming Garage will feature an epic 54-foot-wide main stage, which will host three action-packed Esports tournaments where some pretty sweet cash prizes can be won.​ 

First up are the CNE Showdown: League of Legends tournament and CNE Showdown: VALORANT, which will take over the stage on Saturday, Aug. 17, and Sunday, Aug. 18.

These showdowns will see 16 teams compete for a piece of the $8,500 CAD prize pool. (Psst: It's not too late to register and compete yourself!)

Next, on Sunday, Aug. 25, you can watch finalists from all over Canada channel their inner tournament fighters at the CNE Master Clash ft.TEKKEN 8.

And from Friday, Aug. 30, to Monday, Sept. 1, you can check out the return of the annual FIRST Robotics competition with this year’s game, CRESCENDO. 

A first look at independent games

CNE's Gaming Garage also gives you a chance to witness the future of gaming by showcasing unique video games from local student developers and independent creators. ​

You can try playing these innovative games for yourself, and maybe even discover some new favourites, all while supporting the next generation of game developers.

Ready for a gaming experience like no other? Purchase tickets over at theEx.com now and visit the CNE Gaming Garage from Friday, Aug 16., to Monday, Sept. 2!