Bethesda announced on Tuesday the dates for this year's QuakeCon convention, taking place in the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas, Texas this August. As always, the event will be open to the public and free (no purchased entry required) thanks to id Software, Bethesda, event sponsors and exhibitors, and the QuakeCon volunteer staff.
The first QuakeCon took place back in 1996 at the Best Western hotel in Garland, Texas, nearly two miles away from id Software's company offices. Initially 30 people walked through the doors, but the gathering grew to around 100 by the end of the weekend thanks to word-of-mouth. Gamers brought their rigs and went head-to-head across a small, impromptu network playing the original Quake and Doom.
Over the last several years, the attendance has grown to over 8500 visitors and 2,850 gaming rigs. The 2013 event is expected to be even bigger, serving as North America's largest BYOC LAN party. id Software will also likely reveal more Doom 4 assets and gameplay now that the studio is moving closer to a finished product. Heck, maybe we'll finally see that Quake 5 announcement too.
"Bethesda Softworks will be showing some of their upcoming game titles to the public for the first time and will offer attendees the chance to go hands on with some of their anticipated games," the company said. "Plus the world's leading technology companies will be on site demonstrating their latest hardware and software developments. QuakeCon also features daily festivities including contests, entertainment, panel discussions, announcements, parties and more!"
Surprises offered last year included the announcement of a Rise of the Triad remake, Doom 4's confirmation, and hands-on coverage with the Oculus Rift prototype. Attendees also got their first taste of the now-popular Dishonored supernatural action FPS from Bethesda, and id Software's revamped Doom 3: BFG Edition.
"Once again QuakeCon will welcome a wide variety of companies to the 45,000 square foot exhibit hall to showcase the industry’s top games, hardware and services," Bethesda said.
QuakeCon will take place August 1 to 4, 2013. Those wanting to attend can make reservations at the hotel by calling 1-800-Hiltons or 1-800-445-8667, or by going online here. A special room rate of $159 per night will be offered if you reference the QuakeCon event.
