Connecting with the Gaming Community at Lapakgaming Battle Arena

SLAB in Lapak Gaming Exhibition

Attending IGDX 2023 for the first time was an eye-opening experience. It wasn’t the usual corporate environment. Instead, it was a place where people who genuinely loved gaming could come together and share their passion. By the time IGDX 2024 arrived, it no longer felt like just an event — it felt like reconnecting with familiar faces. That’s when I met Abdul Harris Fitra, Bukalapak’s Senior Business Development Manager. His approach was warm and engaging, and our conversation left me thinking long after we parted ways. A month later, I found myself in Jakarta, continuing this journey and meeting even more individuals who make the gaming industry what it is.

SLAB in Lapak Gaming Exhibition. Player experience

However, what truly made the experience stand out wasn’t just the industry leaders — it was the players. Observing their reactions in real-time, I realized that gaming is much more than a pastime for them. It’s a form of expression. The excitement when they achieved a goal, the frustration when things didn’t go as planned, and the genuine joy of mastering a game — it was all visible. What stood out to me the most was how candid their feedback was, given face-to-face. It was a chance to really listen, not just hear. It made me realize how valuable it is to connect with players in this way.

SLAB in Lapak Gaming Exhibition. Visitor playing SLAB's ganes

SLAB had the opportunity to participate in Lapakgaming Battle Arena, and being at the booth gave us a chance to interact directly with these players. Hearing their feedback and seeing their reactions in person provided us with insights that are hard to capture in any other way. It was an experience I wouldn’t trade.

The event, held on November 30th and December 1st, 2024, at the Kartika Expo Center in Jakarta, was more than just a gathering — it was a celebration of gaming culture. Gaming tournaments brought out fierce competition, cosplayers transformed the venue, and community sessions provided space for meaningful conversations. It wasn’t just about showcasing products; it was about creating a space where ideas could flow freely. The talks and panels sparked discussions that continued well after the event.

Victor Putra Lesmana, CEO of Bukafinancial & Commerce, captured the essence of the event when he said: “Gaming isn’t just about fun; it’s a big part of Indonesia’s creative industry. With Lapakgaming Battle Arena, we want to give gamers a place to compete, connect, and be creative.” It wasn’t just about competition — it was about fostering a community.

Lapak Gaming Board Game Community

As I moved through the event, it became clear that it wasn’t about the tech or the products. It was about people coming together — developers showcasing their work, gamers testing their skills, and fans exchanging ideas. The genuine connections among everyone there were palpable.

Hendi, AVP Gaming Growth & International Business at Bukalapak, put it perfectly: “Lapakgaming Battle Arena gives developers a platform to showcase their work and connect, building a competitive ecosystem ready for the global stage.” This idea resonated deeply with me. The event was not only about competition or strategy — it was about creating connections and sharing a collective passion for gaming.

Leaving the event, I felt a renewed sense of optimism for the future of gaming in Indonesia. The industry is thriving and evolving, driven by passionate individuals who are shaping its future. Lapakgaming Battle Arena wasn’t just an event — it was a reflection of the growing gaming community here. This is only the beginning, and there’s much more to come. The future of gaming in Indonesia is promising, and I look forward to watching it unfold.