It’s not uncommon to love video games so much that you want to dedicate your life’s work to them. Yet taking the steps to move from fan to industry professional can feel like an insurmountable task, especially when you’re just starting out.
If you’ve done your research, you’ll know that attending events like PAX Aus, and utilising the resources they offer, can be the catalyst for that shift to your dream job. Whether you’re interested in content creation, cosplay, journalism, narrative design, musical composition or anything in between, every year PAX panellists, exhibitors and attendees have a wealth of knowledge that you can benefit from, and this year is no different.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve got an entire weekend or just one day to soak up all of the juicy insights from established industry professionals because we’ve compiled a handy list of must-see panels and experiences for each day of the convention, with the ultimate goal of helping you make the most of your precious time at PAX Aus 2025.
Industry-Focused Panels
PAX panels offer a dedicated hour for panellists to discuss a facet of the games industry in greater detail than you’ll find on a BlueSky thread or in an Instagram caption – not to mention the opportunity for you to rest your feet in a comfy chair. These are the panels you won’t want to miss if you’re dreaming of making it big in the Australian games industry.
Friday October 10
The Foot in the Door: Taking your First Steps into a Games Career
12:30pm –1:30pm – Dropbear Theatre
Are you keen to work in the games industry, but aren’t sure where to begin? Well stop dragging your feet and come join us for a panel discussion about all the small steps and giant leaps you need to take in order to kickstart your career in games. This session will focus on practical and actionable advice broken down step-by-step on how to put your best foot forward at industry events, in interviews and on your social media.
The DM Roundtable: Advice From Pro Dungeon Masters
2:00pm–3:00pm – Fruitbat Theatre
Ever wondered how different Dungeon Masters run their games or turn them into careers? Behind the Screen brings together a diverse panel of professional DMs for a candid roundtable Q&A. From paid GMs and actual play performers to storytellers who’ve been running epic home games for years, these Dungeon Masters each bring a unique style, perspective and path to the table. Whether you’re brand new and looking to start your first campaign or curious about building a DMing career, this is your chance to ask questions, swap stories and get real advice from folks who live and breathe tabletop. No gatekeeping, no wrong questions, just a shared love for the game.
Finding your niche in Cozy Games
2:30pm–3:30pm – Dropbear Theatre
In 2020, while the world was indoors and Nintendo Switches were selling for thousands of dollars on eBay, cozy games became more popular than ever. Since then, the genre has exploded both in the indie scene and AAA companies.
But there’s still room to stand out! In this session, our panellists will cover topics about the development and research processes for their cozy games – and what makes them unique! Panellists will discuss what makes cozy games so special and what makes them uniquely accessible to a wide audience.
Highlighting the Aus Indie Showcase Winners – Friday Session
6:00pm–7:00pm – Kookaburra Theatre
Celebrate the creativity of Australia’s indie game developers! Join Bec from The Indie Brew as she highlights the winners of the Aus Indie Showcase. Each session (Friday and Saturday) will feature 6 of the 12 winners, giving you an inside look at their games, development stories, and what makes them stand out in the indie scene. Don’t miss this chance to discover the next big hits in Australian indie gaming!
Shining a light South Australian Game Development: A panel of award winning and up and coming developers
6:30pm–7:30pm – Dropbear Theatre
The South Australian Games Industry has been building for some time, through community efforts, we now celebrate our local developers through the South Australian Games Expo during Adelaide Fringe, run local networking and skill sharing evenings as well as putting together our very first South Australian Games Industry Awards night.
This panel will be focussed on celebrating the achievements of our rising stars as well as sharing their journeys, how they found opportunities and contribute to better their communities. We will also discuss how the South Australian Games Association was founded and our journey this far, creating accessible and inclusive spaces for networking, skill sharing and celebrating.
Interactive Storytelling 101: Write Your First Game with the Tool Behind Night in the Woods & DREDGE
10:00pm–11:00pm – Dropbear Theatre
Have you ever dreamed of writing your own video game or interactive story? Do you have a story to tell, but don’t know where to start? Join the creators of Yarn Spinner, the free, open-source tool that has powered the narrative of games like Night in the Woods, DREDGE, A Short Hike, Rift of the NecroDancer, Venba, Unbeatable, and Luma Island for a very quick masterclass in interactive storytelling.
In this panel, we’ll demystify the process of writing for games and show you how to create compelling, branching narratives. We’ll cover the core principles of interactive storytelling, from creating characters to designing meaningful choices. You’ll learn how to structure your story, write engaging dialogue, and use the power of Yarn Spinner to bring your words to life.
Saturday October 11
You are more employable than you think! The game dev’s guide to game-adjacent careers
10:30am–11:30am – Dropbear Theatre
Although there is no easy one size fits all solution to magically get employed, this talk will explore a pathway that too many game developers do not consider when looking for a job: adjacent career paths.
The objective of this talk is to give attendees an opportunity to ask questions and hear directly from professionals who will share how their skills that are applicable to the world of game development have been used to secure positions in industries that at first may seem like two worlds apart, but under the surface have a lot in common with game development.
Out, Loud, and Critical: Queer Journalists Changing Games Media
12:30pm–1:30pm – PAX Together Theatre
Join leading LGBTQIA+ voices from across games journalism as they share stories from the front lines of reporting, reviewing, and shaping the conversation around video games. From navigating industry challenges to championing authentic queer representation, this panel will offer candid insights into how identity intersects with criticism, coverage, and community. Expect thoughtful takes, lively debate, and a glimpse into the future of games media through a queer lens.
Fireside with Amelia Tyler
1:00pm–2:00pm – Main Theatre
Join host Steph Panecasio as she chats with the incredible Amelia Tyler! Amelia Tyler is an English actress who recently became Dungeon Master to millions as the voice of the ethereal Narrator in BALDUR’S GATE 3, a performance which earned her a BAFTA Games Awards nomination for Performer in a Leading Role’. She’s also best known as the voice of fan-favorite half-demon Malady in DIVINITY ORIGINAL SIN, vicious huntress Wenduag in PATHFINDER: WRATH OF THE RIGHTEOUS, and The Siren Queen in SEA OF THIEVES. Next, Amelia will be appearing as the Goddess of Witchcraft, Hecate, in Supergiant Games’ highly anticipated sequel HADES 2.
That’s Sus: Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
4:30pm – 5:30pm – Dropbear Theatre
Do you ever find yourself doubting your abilities? Feeling out of your depth when new opportunities arise—or like you don’t deserve your success, no matter how hard you’ve worked for it? You’re not alone. These thoughts are the hallmark of Imposter Syndrome, and they affect countless creators across the industry.
Despite how common it is, Imposter Syndrome is rarely talked about. It shows up as self-doubt, anxiety, fear of being a “fraud”—even in the face of real achievements. And it’s not limited to content creation; it impacts people in all fields. That’s why creating safe spaces to openly discuss these feelings is so important.
Together, we can share our experiences, explore strategies that help silence that inner critic, and remind each other of a simple truth: you are worthy, you are enough, and you do belong.
Highlighting the Aus Indie Showcase Winner’s – Saturday Session
4:30pm–5:30pm – Kookaburra Theatre
Celebrate the creativity of Australia’s indie game developers! Join Bec from The Indie Brew as she highlights the winners of the Aus Indie Showcase. Each session (Friday and Saturday) will feature 6 of the 12 winners, giving you an inside look at their games, development stories, and what makes them stand out in the indie scene. Don’t miss this chance to discover the next big hits in Australian indie gaming!
Fireside with Ify Nwadiwe
4:30pm–5:30pm – Quokka Theatre
Join host Steph Panecasio as she chats with the incredible Ify Nwadiwe. Ify Nwadiwe is a comedian, actor, writer, professional nerd, and most notably, the host of Dropout TV’s Um, Actually. He’s made you laugh on all your favorite places on the internet from Smosh to Achievement Hunter all the way to Dropout TV. He’s written for shows like Adult Swim’s Tigtone, NBC’s Grand Crew, and Peacock’s Twisted Metal; and also writing for video games like Apex Legends and Borderlands 4. A multi-hyphenated goof ball and talent.
Paper Prototyping Workshop – Game Design and Rapid Prototyping
5:00pm– 7:00pm – PAX Together Lounge
[Emma Losin] will talk through rapid prototyping and run through an exercise focussing on core gameplay loops, how mechanics can interact with each other, PVP and single player games, narrative/cutscenes through a range of practical examples.
This workshop is great for:
– Prospective game developers who want to learn how to test game ideas before committing to building them in engine
– Artists, designers, animators and other creatives who don’t have in-engine or programming experience who still want to learn how to make
– Game developers that want to learn fast and cost effective methods of rapid prototyping
– Students who want insight to industry relevant rapid prototyping and game design methodologies
– Those interested in board or card game development
How We Made a Boardgame: Concept to Crowd Funded
6:30pm–7:30pm – Dropbear Theatre
We’re Sanspants Radio and we made a boardgame! Based on our popular live play TTRPG series Jarren’s Outpost it’s a game of colourful characters getting into precarious situations created by their own hubris.
We’ll take you from inception to conception to reception of the finished product all the while relating the amusing tales of where we went wrong so you don’t have to make the same mistakes. Make sure to bring a bottle of water because you’ll be scribbling notes so quickly it might burn a hole through your notepad!
Exploring Careers in Cosplay
7:30pm–8:30pm – Cosplay Theatre
From Kamui to BBno$, there are multiple ways you can use cosplay in your career! Shin from Illustris Models has curated a range of different cosplay professionals to deep-dive into the wide range of avenues you can take if you want to take your hobby a step higher. This talking-point panel introduces Remi (she/her), founder of Colin Magazine; Gem (they/them), professional cosplayer and Esports caster; Emerald (ze/zir), award-winning cosplayer and cosplay studies specialist at the University of Tasmania; Laith (he/him), Cosplayer and Creative Director of Illustris Models & 3D Printing; and Daniella (she/her), Cosplayer, JustBeCos Podcast Host & Content Creator. Join them as they share tales of successes, trials and tribulations while navigating different paths in professional cosplay!
Sunday October 12
Games Writing Challenge!
10:30am–11:30am – Kookaburra Theatre
Back yet again for even more chaos, the Games Writing Challenge offers audiences hilarious, hands-on experience writing for video games in this fast-paced, interactive panel. Try your hand at the ridiculous timed writing challenges based on real needs from real games, and get friendly feedback and industry stories from real game writers from Australia and New Zealand. Or just sit back and enjoy the show, learning about narrative design in the process. A lifetime of learning packed into 60 fun-filled minutes and lots of laughs. Plus meet the panelists for networking after.
Jack Of All Trades, Masters Of Sound
10:30am–11:30am – Dropbear Theatre
If you want to write music for games, but you’re not sure where to start, and you’re concerned that working that day job is preventing you from getting the necessary experience needed to break into the industry, this session is for you.
Amy McNickle, Meena Shamaly, and Nic Dullow discuss how skills they have developed in their day jobs have helped (not hindered!) them in their pursuit of making great audio for games.
World Building That Sticks With You
12:30pm–1:30pm – Main Theatre
Ever wondered what makes a game world unforgettable? Join host Chloe Appleby and creative powerhouses from some of the biggest studios in the industry as they reveal how they craft stories, settings, and gameplay mechanics that linger long after the credits roll.
Lis Moberly, Creative Lead at 20th Century Games (The Walt Disney Company), Josh Sawyer, Studio Design Director at Obsidian Entertainment and Sam Winkler, Narrative Director at Gearbox Entertainment bring decades of experience building worlds players can’t help but explore, inhabit, and remember. From immersive lore and compelling characters to interconnected game mechanics and environmental storytelling, this panel will explore the art and science behind creating worlds that stick.
Whether you’re an aspiring designer, writer, or just curious about what goes into making your favourite game worlds, you’ll leave with insight into the techniques and philosophies that shape unforgettable gaming experiences.
The Truth About Women in Content Creation
12:30pm–1:30pm – Kookaburra Theatre
Being a woman in content creation isn’t just about going live or posting videos—it’s about navigating an online environment where bias, harassment, and double standards still run deep. Hosted by content creator @Budewy [she/her], join our powerhouse line-up of women content creators, cosplayers, live-streamers, and industry pros as they share the raw reality behind their online success.
Whether you’re a fellow creator, a community member, or just curious about the real experience of women online, this is your chance to hear the truth—and leave empowered.
Sorry, You Peaked – Video Game Barks and Vocal Health
2:30pm–3:30pm – Kookaburra Theatre
Everyone has their favourite character lines from games, but this panel delves into the side of video game voice acting without words that encompasses so much of the job – vocal barks and efforts! Join five professional voice actors who’ve performed across a range of games from shooters to point and click adventures as they showcase their skills through some fun games while also discussing how they prioritise their vocal health during tough recording sessions and answering questions about voice acting for video games. A great discussion for aspiring VAs, game devs, and game fans to learn the finer details of adding voices to games.
Fireside with Luke Dale
3:00pm–4:00pm – Quokka Theatre
Join host Trent Kusters from League of Geeks as he chats to the amazing Luke Dale.
Luke Dale is a professionally trained actor, voice artist, and performance capture specialist, having graduated from the prestigious Guildhall School of Music & Drama. With a dynamic range and captivating on-screen presence, he’s best known for his standout role as Lord Hans Capon in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2—Gamescom’s PC Game of the Year.
In addition to his work in games, Luke has gained rapid popularity as a streamer on both YouTube and Twitch. Charismatic, witty, and genuinely entertaining, he’s earned a devoted following by fully embracing the spirit of his most iconic character.
How to Make Magic the Gathering a Career with Ben Bateman
5:00pm–6:00pm – Quokka Theatre
After amassing 250 million views on my content since 2024, and hosting several Mainstage Magic events in multiple countries, this is what I’ve learned about making Magic the Gathering a job starting from the ground up. Whether we’re talking pro play, content creation, or a path to work for Wizards of the Coast, this is everything I’ve learned.
Networking Sessions
Stepping out of your comfort zone to meet new people is a vital part of finding your way into the games industry and structured networking sessions are a brilliant way to do so. Check out the array of dedicated networking power hours below.
Gender Diverse games and networking power hour
Friday, October 10, 2025
10:00am–11:00am– PAX Together Lounge
ANZ Creators Community Meet-Up
Friday, October 10, 2025
12:00pm–1:00pm – Orrs Walk Stairs
Twitch Australia Community Meetup
Friday, October 10, 2025
2:00pm–3:00pm – Cockatoo Community Room
Pride Collaborations Universe: Rainbow Connection Hour
Friday, October 10, 2025
6:00pm– 7:00pm – Ibis Community Room
Gamers with disabilities boardgames and networking hour
Saturday, October 11, 2025
12:00pm–1:00pm – PAX Together Lounge
#GamersofAUS Community Meetup
Saturday, October 11, 2025
1:30pm–2:30pm – Ibis Community Room
Women in games networking hour
Saturday, October 11, 2025
3:00pm – 4:00pm – PAX Together Lounge
Teachers and Educators Networking Session
Sunday, Oct 12, 2025
2:00pm–3:00pm – Cockatoo Community Room
Go Rogue
If you’re feeling brave, talk to people outside the confines of a scheduled networking opportunity. This could be near the stage after a panel or out on the show floor.
The Expo Hall is packed with games industry folk who can answer your burning questions. As you weave between booths at the Indie Showcase or saunter around looking for freebies, consider stopping to hear what developers and exhibitors have to say about what they’re showing.
Actively listen to their elevator pitch and be aware that they might have some parallel experiences to you or where you want to go in the industry. If questions arise, ask them! Nobody likes a forced, robotic conversation that clearly comes from a place of wanting to build contacts, so asking questions that you genuinely want to know the answers to is a great place to start. You can take these insights away and think about how they might apply to your own projects, both old and new.
Don’t forget to take a business card or scan their QR code before you leave. You can keep track of their work on social media and perhaps pick up some extra tips along the way.
Some panel descriptions have been edited for length. You can download the PAX Aus app on Android and iOS to find more details about panels, see where they’re located and set up reminders for your schedule.
Christie McQualter is a Melbourne-based journalist, specialising in games. She has a particular interest in playing indie games in hopes of finding a hidden gem – though she has endured many strange adventures in the pursuit of doing so. You can find her sharing her love for The Witcher 3, 2000s nostalgia and any game with a dog in it. Follow her at @auralynxian on socials.
