The wait is over!

The organizers of PAX 2009 announced today that pre-registration is now open for the sixth annual gaming festival to be held Sept. 4 - 6 at the Washington State Trade and Convention Center in Seattle.

Pre-registration pricing will be available until Sept. 3, allowing purchase of a three-day attendee badge for $50, a 10% discount on the day-of rate. Pre-registrants are also eligible to participate in the Omegathon gaming competition, where one attendee will win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Tokyo Game Show and other fabulous prizes.

New for this year, pre-registration will continue until Aug. 15 or until pre-paid attendee badges sell out. "Every year, we essentially double our attendance, but let me say right now that's not happening for 2009," said Penny Arcade's Robert Khoo. "We've rented every square foot in the center and it still won't be enough. The facility has requested that we not exceed capacity, so we're going to be closely monitoring the number of badges we sell this year. But, fear not. Our goal is the same as ever: to offer a world-class show to all attendees, focusing on amazing content and experiences for the truly hardcore."

Last year's impressive program of over 70 exhibitors, a keynote address from noted industry professional Ken Levine, awesome music concerts and inspiring industry panels drew 58,500 attendees to the expo.

Further information on PAX 2009 exhibitors and events will be available later this month.