UK Games Expo 2025 – That Video Game Blog

I swear I’ve got other interests. Really. Just like, not everything revolves around video games, believe it or not. Anyway, I went on this weird little escapade recently—it was kinda like stepping into another universe. I mean, I didn’t exactly escape Earth or anything. Just ended up at this massive board gaming expo called UK Games Expo 2025, where all sorts of nerdy chaos unfold.

So yeah, it was in Birmingham, England—where else would it be, honestly? Held at the NEC. I don’t know, maybe the initials stand for “Nerds Embrace Chaos”? Joking. Anyway, when June rolls around, every board game enthusiast with a pulse shows up with their shiny new board games that aren’t even out yet. It’s sort of like a video game expo but with more cardboard and fewer pixels. Oh, and merch heaven, if you ask me. I managed to not go broke… well, nearly.

Strangely enough, I made it out without having to sell my soul or my car. But honestly, if you ever plan on diving into this extravaganza, just accept that your wallet will complain. Loudly.

Want some advice? Budget. No kidding. Hotels fill up before you can even say “board game” at Christmas time, so, you know, not kidding. Plan ahead; otherwise, you’re sleeping on a bench or something. Maybe I’m exaggerating, but hey, better safe than sorry.

Back to the expo! It’s almost like a city—it’s split across the NEC and this fancy Hilton hotel. There’s this tent at NEC, filled with games at bargain prices. Stuff people didn’t want anymore, but hey, their loss. I kind of lost myself there for a bit. Three entire bags of goodies later, I realized I should keep moving or I’d camp there forever.

The Hilton was, um, next level. Picture comedians turning into werewolves or clocktower maniacs—sounds strange, but hilariously entertaining. And Knightmare Live? Old-school but a riot. Hmm, I might need to babble about it someday. Glorious nostalgia, even if it screams 80s cheese.

Evening dips? I plunked myself down at the Hilton, gaming hall style. Some random games, some lively strangers, a bit of beer, and suddenly, everything seemed a tad brighter. There’s a game library there for anyone, even if you showed up with nothing but lint in your pockets. Genius idea, wish it spread everywhere.

Sunday—there’s no way to see it all in one go at the Expo. Eight hundred companies, I hear. The sheer scale is bonkers. Dice, tables, meeting authors—pick your poison. Kind of felt like a flea market fueled by nerd energy. Just insane.

If any of this tweaks your interest, dive in headfirst next time, seriously. Grab the whole weekend, trust me. And if you’re not UK-based, oh well, keep your eyes peeled; this circus might just roll near you someday. Dive into it if you get the chance—I’m definitely snagging my ticket again.