Upside – The institutional gaming event projecting Italy into the future of emerging technologies

July 28, 2024

On June 28 and 29, Naples, a city rich in history and tradition, becomes the stage for an innovative technological challenge in the gaming world: Upside, the first gaming competition focused on emerging technologies. The event will be held at the prestigious Mostra d’Oltremare venue.

The project is realized within the framework of the public notice for the selection of project proposals by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT), with a partnership consisting of: University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, the lead organization of the project, Mkers Spa, Politecnico di Bari, WINDTRE Business, and the Meditech Competence Center.

During the two days of the event, Upside will offer a comprehensive overview of emerging technologies. At the heart of Upside is the 5G connection, a key element of technological progress on which MIMIT is investing. MIMIT's support is crucial for promoting the adoption of new technologies for digital development and entertainment. Other technologies accompanying 5G at the event include Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, and Cybersecurity.

Upside focuses on a team competition where skill, strategy, and technological innovation will blend to offer a cutting-edge gaming experience. Additionally, institutional conferences will be organized to delve into trends in new technologies, fostering dialogue between industry experts and institutions.

Mkers Spa, a leader in the esports and gaming sector in Italy, stands out as the creative engine of Upside. With its established experience, Mkers will develop innovative content, offering an immersive gaming experience that will actively engage the community and Generation Z, integrating the most advanced technologies.

WINDTRE BUSINESS, the event's technological partner, provides an indoor 5G network developed and specially created for the event, ensuring ultra-fast connectivity with minimal latency. This infrastructure is essential for ensuring smooth and uninterrupted gameplay, opening new possibilities for online interaction. WINDTRE BUSINESS also provides voice and data SIMs for the gamers' devices.

The University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli will handle the research and analysis of data collected through the Upside application and the 5G infrastructures developed specifically for the event. Additionally, through specific questionnaires, the University will produce reports and statistics, contributing to the understanding of the impact of new technologies in the gaming world. Finally, during the entire event, electromagnetic pollution will be monitored to evaluate the eco-sustainability of such events.

The Polytechnic University of Bari will study the application of Artificial Intelligence, IoT, and Blockchain technologies to develop more advanced gaming strategies and new types of interactions between players in competition and event spectators, aiming to increase overall audience engagement.

Lastly, the Meditech Competence Center will offer its support through deep knowledge of the involved technologies, positively influencing the dissemination of results and the enhancement of the impact generated by the initiative.

After registering on progettouspide.it, participants will need to download an "Upside" app developed by Bitdrome, available on both the App Store and Google Play, designed to facilitate the process and improve user experience before the official start. At Mostra D’Oltremare, competing teams will go through an initial accreditation phase, during which they will receive a competition kit. After changing, they will head to the tech desk, where the app download and 5G network connection will be verified.

Subsequently, participants will move to the brief area, where the competition rules will be explained, and they will select the challenges to face. In the dark zone, they will begin to feel the adrenaline of the challenge, and with the door opening, the competition will start. Teams will have five game sessions available and can choose from nine titles, including Fortnite, Clash Royale, and Among Us VR.

Upside stands out as a revolutionary event in the gaming landscape, combining competition and innovation to create an unforgettable experience for all digital gaming enthusiasts. Don't miss the appointment with the future of gaming on June 28 and 29 at Mostra d’Oltremare in Naples.

Mkers SpA
Via Giovanni da Castel Bolognese, 89
Rome, Italy
P. IVA 14209181008