The largest board game convention in the United Kingdom, the UK Game Expo, will take place this year at the NEC Birmingham from 30th May to 1st June 2025. Spread across multiple halls, UKGE, in its 19th year, is expected to be bigger than ever, with the likes of CATAN, Ravensburger, ZATU, and MANY other companies.
This convention is for every type of board game-loving person. In addition to their halls for board games, they will once again have a plethora of D&D, roleplay events, and panels. There is always someone in cosplay, usually happy to stop for a photo op.
The event isn’t just contained to the NEC; the Hilton across the road also has plenty to do inside. It’s a great place to check out the new board games you’ve just acquired, and it’s also where you can stay for the weekend event.
There are plenty of places to test games.
Most booths have an area where they are more than enthusiastic for you to sit and try out their game; however, some are smaller than others.
Stalls, Food & Drink
There will also be many independent sellers, offering everything from upgraded parts for games, magnets, 3D-printed bits, and all sorts of other amazing things.
The NEC also provides a lot of food and drink options built into the building, as well as some vendors inside the expo. Last year, the star of the show was Project D, a doughnut spot that served amazing, over-the-top treats.
Looking For To The UK Game Expo This Year
The games I am excited to check out include Finspan (the next in the line of “span” games created by Elizabeth Hargrave), a marine biologist’s dream. You explore the depths of the sea and try to create the best fish-inhabited board.
It’s always cool walking the floor and seeing all the games I would usually never see—huge games of Risk being played, murder mysteries, and dice stands full of colourful and intricate clicky-clankys.
This will be my third time going to the convention. Every time I’ve been in the past, there have been nothing but amazing people left and right. There’s always someone willing to help you if you’re lost or even if you have questions. Last year, I went with my partner and two friends. We bought the Alhambra complete box and a few 3D-printed trays. With my love for board games growing every week, I hope to once again find a hidden gem or even a fan favourite for cheap.
