PAX East returning to Boston through 2013

A large percentage of video game conventions take place either on the West Coast of the US or overseas, leaving those on the Eastern seaboard out of luck. However, a gaming tradition that began last year will continue for at least the next three.

The Boston Globe is reporting that the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority has inked a deal with Penny Arcade Expo organizers, Reed Exhibitions, which will bring the geek gala to Boston in a larger venue through 2013.

It's likely cosplay will also return next year.

The expo, which is named after the webcomic penned and illustrated by Jerry Holkins and Gabe Krahulik, descended upon Boston March 26-28 at the Hynes Convention Center. The first-ever eastern show drew nearly 60,000 and left some irked about the crowded show floor space. Speaking to those qualms, the 2011 show is booked for the considerably larger Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.

The city of Boston and its surrounding area is no stranger to the video game universe. Rock Band makers Harmonix Music Systems is based in the suburb of Cambridge, Lord of the Rings Online developer Turbine is located in Westwood, and Irrational Games, which was called 2K Boston when it released BioShock in 2007, has its shop set up in Quincy.

PAX East 2011 is currently penciled in for April 1-3 according to the MCAA's Web site. Additionally, PAX Prime in Seattle is scheduled for September 5-7.