"For our 25th anniversary, G2E is raising the bar with an elevated experience in every aspect of the expo"

Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) stands as one of the most influential gatherings in the regulated gaming industry. Since its debut in 2001, the event has expanded alongside the sector’s evolution, from traditional casino operations to digital payments, iGaming, and sports betting, cementing its reputation as a true international hub. This year, October 6 - 9, more than 25,000 professionals from over 120 countries are expected to converge in Las Vegas, reflecting the global scale and relevance G2E has achieved.

To mark this milestone, G2E is rolling out a series of new features, including the inaugural G2E Dealer Championship, an expanded iGaming Zone, and a refreshed Media Zone designed to capture the energy of the show floor. With a keynote lineup featuring top gaming CEOs and panels tackling issues from tribal gaming to mental health, the 2025 edition aims to be both a celebration of the past and a blueprint for the future.

To learn more, Yogonet spoke with Korbi Carrison, Event Vice President of G2E at RX USA, about the expo’s legacy, its role as the meeting point for the global gaming community, and how it continues to shape the industry’s future.

25 years is a remarkable milestone. Looking back to the first edition in 2001, how has G2E evolved alongside the global gaming industry, and what moments best capture its journey over the past quarter-century?

Since its debut in 2001, G2E has grown, expanded, and adapted alongside the rapidly evolving gaming industry. While our earlier focus centered on casino operations, the scope has steadily expanded to reflect the industry’s many facets. From the rise of digital and cashless payments to the growth of iGaming, G2E has consistently been at the forefront of these key industry markers.

Over the years, the show has introduced signature experiences, such as product showcases and education sessions that highlight the latest conversations within the industry. In partnership with the American Gaming Association (AGA), we’ve established G2E as the premier global event exclusively focused on the legal and regulated gaming industry, which has become a trusted environment where meaningful business growth can thrive.

G2E has grown into a truly international hub, expected to welcome over 25,000 professionals from 120+ countries this year. What do you think has cemented its role as the meeting place for the global gaming community?

What makes G2E such a vital gathering place for the global gaming community is that we have established ourselves as the industry’s central meeting point. Located in the gaming capital of the world, we bring the entire gaming sector together, including operators, suppliers, media, and educators, through hundreds of exhibitors and programming opportunities.

It truly is a neutral ground where innovation is not only welcomed but expected. This helps create an environment where ideas can be shared openly and the future of gaming can take place. 

Beyond the scale, the Expo has consistently mirrored the industry's transformation, from traditional casino gaming to sports betting, digital solutions, and iGaming. How intentional has G2E been about staying at the forefront of these shifts?

It is very intentional. A core part of our role is keeping pace with industry trends and preparing for what’s to come. By staying ahead, we can shape the event to reflect the conversations happening within the global gaming community.

This means not only bringing in exhibitors who are driving the agenda forward but also weaving these trends into our programming through our education sessions and discussion panels. This year’s main stage program will reflect those priorities with honest conversations on opportunities and challenges shaping the tribal gaming sector and dialogue highlighting mental health within the global gaming community.

The industry is evolving quickly, and this expo allows attendees to explore everything from the growth of new gaming markets to rising expectations for responsible gaming across digital platforms. In this way, G2E leads the industry discussion.

The 25th anniversary provides an opportunity to not just look back, but also look ahead. What will make the 2025 edition stand out as a milestone event for both exhibitors and attendees?

The 25th year of G2E marks a meaningful milestone that reflects years of industry growth and shared experiences. As we celebrate this special occasion, we will introduce several new exciting firsts and enhancements that are sure to elevate the overall experience for attendees and exhibitors.

The inaugural G2E Dealer Championship will spotlight the talent and professionalism of U.S. casino dealers in a high-stakes competition showcasing table games in a way we haven’t done before. Our reimagined iGaming Zone is designed to be a fully immersive hub and central destination to showcase the latest advancements in legal online gaming. Also getting a refresh is the Media Zone, including a recording space that will provide a communal area for on-site interviews and content creation, bringing the energy of the show floor to a wider audience.

On the main stage, attendees will hear from industry leaders during this year’s keynote program, featuring one-on-one conversations with top global gaming CEOs Bill Hornbuckle of MGM Resorts International, Peter Jackson of Flutter Entertainment, and Jason Robins of DraftKings. Additional main stage programming includes a tribal-focused discussion from Indian Gaming Association (IGA) Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. and a vulnerable conversation on mental health presented by Global Gaming Women (GGW). All of which demonstrate how G2E continues to spotlight the issues that matter most, making each year’s dialogue unique.

As you explained, this year introduces several new features, including the inaugural G2E Dealer Championship, the first competition of its kind in the U.S. Why was it important to spotlight casino dealers in this way?

Casino dealers are at the forefront of the casino floor, shaping the player experience and enhancing the overall atmosphere. By introducing the G2E Dealer Championship, we are able to spotlight their skills and recognize the vital role they play in a guest’s casino experience. This competition not only celebrates their expertise but also provides a platform to showcase the hospitality and professionalism that define the industry.  

For first-time visitors who may be drawn because of the 25th anniversary buzz, what would you say makes G2E not just a trade show, but a must-experience event in the industry calendar? 

Year after year, G2E remains the premier destination for the global gaming community, with the entire industry showing up. It’s not only a place for attendees to walk the expo floor, but also where businesses see real results.

What makes this event so important is the opportunities it creates to connect with one another, gain insights into the latest industry trends, and drive meaningful outcomes. From product launches to strategic partnerships, some of the gaming industry’s most impactful innovations begin at G2E.

For our 25th anniversary, we are raising the bar. Attendees can expect an elevated experience in every aspect of the expo, from our reimagined show floor with the introduction of The Strip, which organizes all experiences into one convenient location. New networking programs will also provide more ways for relationships to be built and strengthened. Our goal each year is to exceed expectations and continue to be the event that sets the tone for the year ahead.

Looking ahead to the next 25 years, what role do you see G2E playing in shaping the industry's future?

G2E has consistently mirrored the gaming industry and has constantly evolved alongside it, serving as a catalyst for innovation. Over the next 25 years, our role will remain as the meeting point where the future of gaming is shaped. This includes continuing to serve as the platform for breakthrough technologies, meaningful dialogue, and bringing people from around the world together to set the industry’s course.

As the global gaming industry continues to expand and evolve, G2E will remain at the forefront of these conversations, showcasing innovations that drive the business forward.

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