The setup of Evo at Mandalay Bay

■ Imagine a space filled with exhibitors selling merchandise, like anime-oriented artwork or plush toys that look like characters in a video game.

■ Next to the exhibitors are designated areas for gamers to try new games or play their favorite games.

■ People walk around carrying their own controllers to plug in to whatever video game they so choose.

■ There are areas to watch two gamers play each other on big screens. A cut out in the corner shows video of the the gamers’ heads and torsos as they play.

■ Referees oversee pools of players competing in qualifying rounds. The rounds ultimately lead to the big event: the best fighting the best.