WICHITA FALLS, Texas (KAUZ) – The Retro South Gaming Convention takes over the MPEC for the first time this weekend.

This is the first year for Retro South, which arrives after nearly a year and a half of planning to bring 8-bit nostalgia to Wichita Falls.

But it’s not just about video games. Eventgoers can also expect appearances from actors of fan-favorite shows, fighting game tournaments, and a cosplay competition.

Eric Conroy, founder of Retro South, said the convention is about more than just games it’s about bringing generations together.

“I think it’s a very nostalgic time to just try and share with other people. Maybe it’s nostalgic for other people, or even if it’s, you know, younger children, it might be a good way to introduce them into the stuff that we grew up with,” Conroy said.

That sentiment was shared by Karston Perry, marketing coordinator for the convention.

“We both love it and we want to share it, and we really feel like Wichita Falls is kind of well suited to this sort of event. So yeah, it’s a labor of love and it’s all for the community,” Perry said.

Conroy said he hopes this inaugural year opens the door for many more to come.

“I’m super excited about bringing it to Wichita Falls. I’ve had a lot of people telling me that they’re excited about it, so I’m really excited to hear that and I really hope it’s something that people enjoy and it’s something that we can continue doing year after year here,” Conroy said.

The convention kicks off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased online until midnight Friday or at the door both days of the event. Students and military members with valid ID receive 20% off ticket prices and children under 10 get in for free.