Game Manufacturers (GAMA) Partners with Wizard World

Shows will include a one day Trade event including professional seminars from WizKids and Cryptozoic; GAMA will present annual Origins Awards at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 11

NEW YORK- The Game Manufacturers Association (GAMA) is pleased to announce its partnership with Wizard World, Inc. (symbol: WIZD), producer of North America’s largest pop-culture tour. GAMA is supporting two shows to include a trade day and gaming events at Wizard World Shows. The first, Chicago Comic Con, will take place at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill., August 11-14, and the second, Mid-Ohio Comic Con at the Greater Columbus Convention Center on October 22-23.

“GAMA is thrilled to be partnering with Wizard World,” said John Ward, Executive Director. “GAMA and Wizard World are totally dedicated to making this a success. I think this program provides a great crossover between the two entities.”

“We are excited about teaming with GAMA to highlight tabletop gaming, which has been an important part of Wizard World events,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO. “We are also pleased that Chicago Comic Con will serve as a venue to showcase the prestigious Origin Awards.”

The Trade Day will be a one day event on August 11 which will be free to all retailers. This will include professional seminars and products demonstrated by: WizKids and Cryptozoic.

GAMA is also pleased to announce demonstrations in its gaming area in the exhibit hall. The demonstrations will include its 2011 Origins Awards winners as well as the 2012 submissions. The Origins Awards are presented annually by the Academy of Gaming Arts and Designs to recognize outstanding achievement in design and production of games and game related products.

If you would like more information about the Origins Awards and how to submit, please contact [email protected].

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide. The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

About GAMA:
The Game Manufacturers Association (GAMA) is the non-profit trade association dedicated to serving the tabletop game industry. Led by publishers and manufacturer, GAMA promotes the interests of all persons involved in the commerce of games and game-related products. GAMA strengthens and supports all industry professionals by advancing their interests, providing educational programs and opportunities and promoting our unique form of quality social entertainment.