Gamers and developers from as far way as America will be in Margate this weekend for GEEK 2015.

Part gaming competition, part workshop, part networking event, the festival celebrates video game culture past and present, attracting indie developers and fans from across Europe.

Now in its fourth year, GEEK organisers are expecting more than 4,000 people through the doors this weekend.

The festival - held at the Winter Gardens - has even begun to attract international attention, with tickets being sold to visitors from the US.

Visitors will be able to play over 1,000 titles on hundreds of consoles, either putting the latest state-of-the-art game engine through its paces or reliving an old favourite from the 1980s.

“I think the difference here is that it’s not a case of publishers shoving new games down your throat... It’s for a real love for gaming at its core, not just for the latest and greatest” - TV presenter Nick Patterson

As well as online action, there is plenty to do offline too including interactive theatre, and real life social games.

YouTube stars Team PietSmiet will also be gathering in Margate to take part.

The German team said they were excited about the festival: “We are looking forward to meeting and connecting with international fans of the greatest hobby in the world – video games."

Video: Reporter Graham Stothard visits GEEK 2015

Geek was launched in 2012 by Marine Studios director Kate Kneale and her gamer son Tom. Alongside a team of volunteers the festival has grown year on year.

The action will be filmed by the Welsh TV show Y Lle.

Presenter Nick Patterson said: “From what I have seen in previous years, the set-up looks incredible.

“I think the difference here is that it’s not a case of publishers shoving new games down your throat, with hours and hours of queuing just to play the newest game.

“It’s for a real love for gaming at its core, not just for the latest and greatest.”

Billed as a festival of "games and play" the event has expanded to encompass ever-increasing aspects of video game culture such as cosplay, music and science.

For more information, and to buy tickets, visit the GEEK 2015 website.