Nida TazeenRockford Register Star
Sept. 28, 2026, 3:47 a.m. CT
Rockford-area gamers will have a chance to buy, play and celebrate video games when the River Valley Video Game Convention returns to Rockford on Oct. 10 at Riverview Inn & Suites/Cliffbreakers, 700 W. Riverside Blvd.
The event, known as R2V2, is being organized by The Gaming Outsider and will feature vendors, arcade games, developers and live entertainment, according to a community announcement.
Organizers said the convention will include more than 30 arcade cabinets and pinball machines, video game collectibles, playable games from developers and artwork inspired by gaming culture.
Convention hours are scheduled for 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission at the door will cost $15. Advance tickets will be available through Oct. 8.
Organizers said the event is designed to bring together video game enthusiasts from Rockford and beyond.
One of the convention’s featured attractions will be a meet-and-greet with seven motion-capture and likeness actors who appeared in early “Mortal Kombat” games.
Vendors, arcade games and developers featured
Attendees can expect vendors selling video games, consoles and collectibles spanning multiple generations of gaming, according to the announcement.
The convention also will feature playable game demonstrations from developers, video game-inspired art and arcade and pinball machines available to play at no additional cost.
Live music returns with after-party
An after-party will begin around 7:30 p.m. in the same room as the convention. Organizers said a cash bar will be available during the performances.
- Black Signal, a Cincinnati-based cyberpunk and synth-metal duo inspired by retro video games and science-fiction films. More information is available at blcksgnl.com and youtube.com.
- The Microphone Misfitz, a Chicago-based group that blends music with elements of hip-hop culture. Information is available at themicrophonemisfitz.com and youtube.com.
- The Adventure Guild, a Chicago-area band that performs rock arrangements of music from the “Stardew Valley” soundtrack. Information is available at adventureguild.band and youtube.com.
- Jamie Demeny’s 4-Player Game, a group that performs instrumental music inspired by video games. Information is available at jamiedemeny.com, bandcamp.com and youtube.com.
Tickets and additional information
Convention tickets purchased at the event will cost $15. Organizers also said a $10 donation is appreciated to support the after-party bands.
Advance tickets are available through Eventbrite until Oct. 8.
This story was produced by reporter Nida Tazeen,NTazeen@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more atcm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
