The initiative, organised by the Associação Manobra Principal, will take place at CAEP on May 3rd and 4th.

Speaking to the Lusa news agency, Bruno Azeitona, from the promoting association, explained that the event, in addition to being dedicated to the world of video games, aims to “pay homage to the ‘gaming’ culture (of electronic games) and entertainment”.

“It’s a journey through time,” the organiser stressed, indicating that visitors “will be able to play freely on video game consoles” from the 70s, 80s and 90s of the last century and the year 2000.

The program will be “linked to pop culture and the ‘geek’ universe” and will involve tournaments for various games, such as Tetris (an electronic puzzle game) or board games, such as chess.

The event also includes a ‘retrogaming’ area, ‘arcade’ machines, ‘cosplay’ (the practice of dressing up as a character from a work of fiction), demonstrations, among other aspects related to the world of video games, as well as talks, music and virtual reality.

According to the promoters, the initiative also aims to “promote social interaction, technological development and a healthy competitive spirit”.

The event is supported by the Portalegre City Council, while the equipment will be provided by individuals, companies and a video game programming school in Santarém.

The Portalegre Gaming Fest will take place between 10am and 8pm, on both days.