Thousands of gamers gather for the 24th Midwest Gaming Classic

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Thousands of video game enthusiasts flocked to the Baird Center this weekend for one of the largest gaming conventions in the country.

In its 24th year, and bigger than ever, attendees tried out more than 10,000 playable games.

"There's so much to do. Whether you're into board games, video games or pinball," said Joe Pitty, attendee.

For one Indiana family, Christmas came early.

"One of the things my family does for Christmas is instead of buying toys and things like that we try to do experience gifts with our kids," Pitty explained.

A tradition that has helped his family grow closer.

"We find that commonality and bond because these are the games I grew up with, so with him having the excitement and joy in those, it makes it fun," said Pitty.

Austin Schmitz road tripped more than four hours from Iowa with his friends marking a new tradition of their own.

"I love the community, I love seeing everyone dressed up in all of their fun costumes, love all the consoles and things to play on," said Schmitz.

The official "hype man" for the Midwest Gaming Classic, Andy Nelson, says it's more than just fun and games.

"For the restaurants, for the bars, the hotels. It's actual dollars positively impacting the economy in Milwaukee," Nelson explained.

Last year, Visit Milwaukee, an estimated three million dollars flowed into downtown with the more than 30,000 people that attended.

"We are expecting more than that this year so we are going to break another record," said Nelson.

From humble beginnings to becoming one of the largest gaming conventions in the country and the latest games to all things retro, the Midwest Gaming Classic will celebrate 25 years in 2026.

Click here to learn more.