Contrary to what you might think, I actually do stuff besides gaming. I know—shocker. But hey, I embrace my inner geek with pride. So, the other day, I decided to indulge my nerdy side at this huge board gaming expo. Yeah, I’m talking about the legendary UK Games Expo 2025. What a name, right? Just screams excitement.
Picture this: NEC Birmingham, England. It’s June. Warm, but just the right kind of warm where you know summer’s knocking. The UK Games Expo—it’s like a candy store for anyone into board games. And no, it’s not just about sitting around tables rolling dice. Not that I’m against dice-rolling. Actually, it’s pretty awesome. So, if you’re imagining a video game expo but with a bajillion game tables, you’re on the right track. Merch galore too. Pretty sure my wallet was glaring at me by the end.
Anyway, the place is massive, right? Split between these two locations. NEC has all those games and whatnot. The Buy, Sell, and Swap section had me digging through treasures (or junk, depends who you ask). Funny thing, I left with three bags of stuff. Could’ve grabbed more, but time wasn’t my friend.
Saturday was pretty wild. Not really at NEC though. I hit the Hilton Hotel, where the Expo also sets up camp. Live shows all day! Comedians going at it—Werewolf Live and whatnot—was hilarious. Not to mention seeing Knightmare Live. Total 80s throwback. I kinda want to talk more about Knightmare, but I’m wandering. Should I? Maybe later.
Ended that day in one of the gaming halls at the Hilton, cracking open board games I’d just bought. There’s something about the noise of dice clattering on a wooden table that never gets old. People just chilling, drinking, playing games—some they just met. Pure magic.
Sunday pulled me back to the main Expo hall. Could’ve spent my entire life there, honestly. Over eight hundred companies showing off their stuff. Chaos, but in a good way. I wish I’d seen everything. Funky dice, custom gaming tables, loads of accessory temptations. Artists, authors—like apple pie for the comic book soul.
Quick tip for those adventurous souls thinking of going next year: plan early. Hotels book fast once those tickets drop around the end of the year. Planning isn’t my strong suit but missing this would be criminal.
So, if you’re into board games, socializing, or just want something different, this Expo is a must. Seriously, I’m doing the whole weekend next time. Why limit yourself to two days? So, check global schedules too, because this might just roll into your local scene.
Catch you at the next adventure—until then, happy gaming!