7 Highlights from ChinaJoy 2023, China’s Biggest Gaming Convention

ChinaJoy, officially the China Digital Entertainment Expo and Conference, is a significant fixture in the digital entertainment industry. The 2023 event, marking the 20th anniversary, is a testament to the event’s enduring appeal.

ChinaJoy revolves around digital and interactive entertainment, attracting gamers, developers, and business professionals alike. It serves as a platform for the introduction of new games, hardware, and industry trends.

The 2023 edition included various sub-events like the eSmart International Intelligent Entertainment Hardware Expo and the China International Animation and Derivative Products Licensing Exhibition. High-end industry conferences such as the China International Digital Entertainment Industry Conference and the China Game Developers Conference were hosted at the event, as well.

The whole thing is a fast-spinning wheel of different events and communities coming together to support the scene. Here are seven snapshots and highlights from this year’s event.

Motion Capture Tech Wows

At ChinaJoy 2023, a standout exhibit is drawing crowds with its live showcase of the latest motion capture tech. Onlookers are treated to the process of converting a 2D photo into a lively 3D model right before their eyes. The exhibit doesn’t stop at creation, it delves into animation too, giving attendees an insider’s view of the work that goes into modern multimedia content production.

A standout exhibit at ChinaJoy 2023 captivated attendees with a live demonstration of cutting-edge motion capture tech. Observers witnessed the transformation of a 2D photo into a dynamic 3D model. The display also explored animation, offering attendees an inside look at modern multimedia content production.

Gundam Mechs Stand Tall

The Gundam installation was a hit this year, with attendees all engrossed in assembling their beloved models. Fans could see new models, and get hands-on building some of their own. And the giant, near-life-sized mechs definitely made an impression on the event overall...

Honkai: Star Rail’s Independent Debut Stuns Fans

‘Honkai: Star Rail’ made its debut as an independent IP, surprising fans with the noticeable absence of its parent company, Mihoyo. This unforeseen turn of events was met with shock and even some disappointment. Nevertheless, it emphasized the fast-paced and resilient expansion of China’s dynamic gaming industry.

Wait...Ice Cream?

Mixue, a popular Chinese ice cream and milk tea brand, is a hit thanks to its affordable prices, cute mascots, and a theme song that’s become something of a meme. Even so, Mixue’s appearance at China's biggest gaming expo was a bit of a curveball, as the brand tries to win the hearts of an increasingly in-demand target audience of gamers.

Razer Built a Keyboard Tower

Razer, a renowned gaming keyboard manufacturer, caught some eyes at ChinaJoy 2023 with a towering keyboard installation. Decorated with an array of vibrant RGB lights, the creative (and imposing) design quickly became a hot topic among attendees.

AMD’s Creativity on Display

AMD wowed the crowd with an array of imaginative DIY PCs. Departing from conventional designs, these setups were inspired by everything from slick starships to iconic Air Jordan sneakers. The innovative approach underscored AMD’s dedication to challenging PC design norms.

Cosplay at ChinaJoy

Lastly, a major annual highlight of ChinaJoy — the vibrant array of cosplayers, all dressed as characters from across the pop culture spectrum, but especially from anime and video games, Gwen from League of Legends, and characters from Genshin Impact were popular sights this year.

Cosplay is a growing trend in China, and it isn’t just about costumes — fostering community is a big part of it. Events like ChinaJoy underscore this aspect, where likeminded people can come together to participate in something they love.

Still, no event is without controversy. While ChinaJoy 2023 garnered plenty of enthusiasm and excitement, some anime and gaming enthusiasts expressed critiques.

“ChinaJoy has been on a downhill slide for the past three years,” said one Shenzhen high school student who goes by FFD. “Even without COVID this year, they didn’t up their game. I can’t believe they didn’t invite Mihoyo and Hypergryph, two of the biggest gaming giants in China. And where’s Intel in the electronic products section? Here’s hoping they step it up next year.”

That being said, judging by the number of attendees, and by the all-out approach from some of the participating brands, the expo doesn’t look to be going anywhere anytime soon.

Cover image via RADII. All other images via VR陀螺 and Xiaohongshu