Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
TORG Gaming Expo 2026 is set to be the largest gaming expo in Ohio, taking place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center on November 14-15. This event celebrates 10 years of dedication to video games and gaming history, featuring a vast vendor hall, tournaments, panels, and special guests.
Expect a diverse range of gaming experiences, from video games to tabletop and cosplay events. TORG Gaming Expo takes place in Columbus, USA.
Venue: Greater Columbus Convention Center.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: TORG Gaming Expo 2026 takes place from November 14-15 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, USA.
- 2Scale and Focus: This is the largest gaming expo in Ohio, dedicated to video games and gaming history.
- 3Organiser: Hosted by TORG EVENTS LLC, more details can be found at torgevents.com.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include gaming enthusiasts, vendors, and industry professionals.
- 5Entry: Tickets are available online with various pricing options.
Why visit
This Columbus gaming convention fills the Greater Columbus Convention Center with playable video games, tabletop demos, cosplay and merchandise across a November 2026 weekend. Attendees include gaming enthusiasts, vendors, and industry professionals.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors gain visibility in one of the largest gaming events in the Midwest, access to a dedicated audience of gaming fans, and opportunities for networking and sales. Meet qualified buyers and partners including Video game developers showcasing new titles, Merchandise vendors selling gaming collectibles, Tabletop game publishers and retailers. Position your offer across video game consoles and accessories, board games and tabletop rpgs, cosplay costumes and accessories,.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Competitive and casual video game players
Tabletop RPG and board game players
Cosplayers and costume makers
Collectors and merchandise buyers
Families with kids looking for all-ages gaming activities
Content creators, streamers and community organisers
Game developers and publishers attending to gauge player feedback
Trading card game players and collectors
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Video game developers and publishers showing playable builds
Tabletop game publishers and RPG creators running demos
Cosplay costume and prop makers selling finished pieces and materials
Gaming merchandise vendors with apparel, plush and collectibles
Trading card game sellers and tournament organisers
Gaming hardware and accessory brands
Food and beverage vendors serving the convention audience
Artist alley creators selling prints and fan art
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Video games for console, PC and handheld platforms
Board games, tabletop RPG books and miniatures
Trading card games and accessories
Cosplay costumes, props, wigs and makeup
Gaming merchandise including apparel, plush and collectibles
Gaming art, prints and fan-made crafts
Controllers, headsets and gaming accessories
Retro and vintage games
Location & Facilities
Venue
Greater Columbus Convention Center
Columbus, USA
Facilities
Parking
Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Greater Columbus Convention Center for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
General admission
VIP Pass with early entry
80General admission
Weekend Pass
50General admission
Single-Day Pass for Saturday
35General admission
Single-Day Pass for Sunday
25
Who runs the show
Organisers
TORG EVENTS LLC
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Columbus, USA
Why it matters
On 2026-11-14 to 2026-11-15, TORG Gaming Expo in Columbus covering Video game consoles and accessories, Board games and tabletop RPGs, Cosplay costumes and accessories, Gaming merchandise gives trade buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Holiday Inn Columbus Dwtn-Capitol Square by IHG
midscale
Downtown Columbus / Capitol Square3.9
Free cancellation, hot tub; downtown location closest to the convention center district among captured options
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbus OSU-Medical Center by IHG
midscale
OSU / Medical Center district4.3
Free cancellation, hot tub; lowest captured nightly rate among the shortlisted properties
Holiday Inn Express Columbus - Dublin, an IHG Hotel
midscale
Dublin (northwest suburb)4.3
Free cancellation, pool; suburban option requiring a drive to the convention center
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbus - Worthington by IHG
midscale
Worthington (north suburb)4.1
Free cancellation, hot tub; north-side suburban option
Holiday Inn Columbus - Hilliard by IHG
midscale
Hilliard (west suburb)4.3
Free cancellation, free parking; west-side suburban option
Residence Inn by Marriott Columbus Dublin
extended-stay
Dublin (northwest suburb)4.4
Pool, pet-friendly; suite-style extended stay for longer missions
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Bus (COTA)
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forCOTA services to the Greater Columbus Convention Center
COTA publishes a dedicated Ride COTA to the Greater Columbus Convention Center page; Moovit lists the stops serving the venue.
Ride-share / taxi
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forDowntown Columbus hotels to Greater Columbus Convention Center
Downtown properties on the capture list sit within a short ride of the venue; airport trips are far longer and should be quoted in the app.
Car / parking
Estimated costUSD 18-35 daily venue parking
Best forSelf-drive to GCCC on-site and nearby garages
The convention center operates parking availability and monthly parking pages; Parkopedia lists the GCCC North Lot and the Vine Street Garage as on-site options.
taxi
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forJohn Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Greater Columbus Convention Center
Weather
November in Columbus is cool and changeable. Typical daytime highs are near 52 F (11 C) and overnight lows near 35 F (2 C). Rain is possible, and light snow can occur late in the month. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, and check a local forecast within 48 hours of travel.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or a local SIM for business visitors to the United States.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Cosplay and casual dress
Cosplay is part of the convention culture here; many attendees wear costumes on the show floor. Check the organiser's prop and costume rules before bringing large or realistic-looking props.
Tipping
In Columbus, a 15-20% tip at sit-down restaurants is standard. Cafes and bars usually accept cards, but a small amount of cash is useful for tips.
November layers
Downtown Columbus can feel chilly on the walk between hotels and the Greater Columbus Convention Center, especially in the evening. A jacket and comfortable shoes are more useful than formal business wear.
Transit and rideshare
COTA buses serve the convention center, and rideshare pickup zones may be designated during large events. Allow extra time on peak arrival and departure days.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Columbus; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Use the nearest international airport serving Columbus; Metro, train or taxi links are typically available to the venue district.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Greater Columbus Convention Center: Downtown Columbus / Capitol Square: Holiday Inn Columbus Dwtn-Capitol Square by IHG; OSU / Medical Center district: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbus OSU-Medical Center by IHG; Dublin (northwest suburb): Holiday Inn Express Columbus - Dublin, an IHG Hotel.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Columbus; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: COTA operates bus service to the Greater Columbus Convention Center and publishes a dedicated Ride COTA page for the venue. Moovit lists the stops and lines serving the convention center, and the convention center transportation page covers arrival logistics.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Greater Columbus Convention Center; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: November 2026
Temperature: Highs near 52 F (11 C) and lows near 35 F (2 C) are typical for Columbus in November; treat these as approximate planning bands and confirm the forecast before travel.
Seasonality: November is a transitional month in Columbus: rain is possible and occasional light snow can appear late in the month. Carry a waterproof layer and check a local forecast within 48 hours of your visit.
Packing: Highs near 52 F (11 C) and lows near 35 F (2 C) are typical for Columbus in November; treat these as approximate planning bands and confirm the forecast before travel. November is a transitional month in Columbus: rain is possible and occasional light snow can appear late in the month. Carry a water
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at TORG Gaming Expo usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm your ticket tier (VIP, Weekend or Single-Day) and check whether VIP early-entry hours apply on your travel dates.
T-2
Book a downtown Columbus hotel or a suburban property with parking if you plan to drive to the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
T-3
Map your route from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to the venue and decide between rideshare, taxi and COTA bus.
T-4
Download the official schedule and mark tournament times, industry guest sessions and exhibitor booths you do not want to miss.
T-5
Check the organiser's cosplay and prop rules if you plan to wear a costume or carry large props.
T-6
Set a merchandise budget and bring a reusable bag for collectibles, tabletop games and prints.
T-7
Check the Columbus weather forecast 48 hours before travel and pack layers, a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes.
T-8
Confirm parking rates and garage locations if you are driving; the venue lists on-site options such as the North Lot and Vine Street Garage.
T-9
Charge your phone and bring a portable battery for ticketing, maps and schedule checks.
T-10
Review the venue's bag policy and prohibited-items list on the Greater Columbus Convention Center site before you pack.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Greater Columbus Convention Center
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2TORG Gaming Expo registration concourse
Greater Columbus Convention Center
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Greater Columbus Convention Center
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Cost reference
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
visitor_ticket
visitor · General admission
USD 80 / per person
organiser_published
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| visitor_ticket | visitor | General admission | USD 80 / per person | organiser_published |
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether TORG Gaming Expo fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For TORG Gaming Expo, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Video game consoles and accessories and Board games and tabletop RPGs solutions and benchmarking suppliers at TORG Gaming Expo in Columbus.
Min. budget
$580.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Video game consoles and accessories and Board games and tabletop RPGs products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,610.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Columbus show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
- VIP Pass
- A ticket tier that includes early entry to the show floor, based on captured ticket listings for this event. Confirm exact perks and entry hours on the official ticket page.
- Weekend Pass
- A ticket covering access across the full convention weekend; captured pricing lists it separately from single-day passes, so compare it against the cost of two single-day tickets.
- Single-Day Pass
- A ticket valid for one specific day (Saturday or Sunday in the captured listings), useful for local visitors who cannot attend the full weekend.
- Tabletop RPG
- A pen-and-paper role-playing game played with books, dice and character sheets; tabletop publishers and demo tables are part of the exhibitor mix at this convention.
- Cosplay
- Costume play where attendees dress as game characters; costume makers and prop sellers appear in the exhibitor profile, and the show floor typically has cosplay photo areas.
- Indie game
- A video game made by a smaller independent studio; indie developers use conventions like this to show playable builds and gather player feedback.
- Dealer hall
- The area where vendors sell games, merchandise, art and costumes; this event's exhibitor profile includes merchandise and collectible sellers alongside game publishers.
- Tournament
- Organised competitive play for video games or tabletop games; captured copy references tournaments as part of the attendee experience. Check the official schedule for times and sign-up rules.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- TORG Gaming Expo 2026
- TORG Gaming Expo Columbus 2026
- TORG 2026
- TORG Columbus 2026
- Columbus USA
- Gaming Convention Columbus 2026
- Gaming Convention Expo Columbus
- Video game consoles and accessories
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.