So, here’s the thing—I actually do other stuff besides play video games. Who would’ve guessed, right? Sure, I’m a nerd, and I’m totally okay with it. Recently, I went on an adventure. Yup, a real-life quest! Went to this HUGE board game expo called UK Games Expo 2025. And let me tell you, it was a wild ride.
Picture this: It’s at the NEC in Birmingham, England. Every June, like clockwork. Think of a sea of people, all buzzing with the excitement of new board game releases and prototypes. It’s kind of like a video game expo, but swap digital screens for board tables. Merch everywhere—mugs, t-shirts, you name it. I’m proud to say I didn’t blow my entire budget. Still wondering how I pulled that off though. Seriously, if you ever plan on going, save up. You’re gonna need it.
Two main areas here—NEC and the Hilton. The NEC’s got this Buy, Sell, and Swap tent. Ever see something and think, “Who’d give this up?” but then realize it’s your treasure now? I ended up with three bags of stuff I didn’t know I needed. Could’ve spent all day just there, but let’s be real—I had more exploring to do.
By Saturday, I wandered over to the Hilton. That place? Just a whole vibe. Watched comedians play this live-action Werewolf game. There was also Blood on the Clocktower… side note: how do these people stay so quick-witted on stage? Also, they had Knightmare Live, which took me back to childhood. It’s this 80s show (super dated but still kind of charming) where they mixed TV with some early form of FMV. If you’re not from the UK, there’s a chance you’ve never seen it. Hunt it down! Just don’t say I didn’t warn you about the 80s nostalgia overload.
Post-laughter, I ended up at one of the Hilton’s gaming halls. Picture this: beer in hand, cracking open a new board game. Total strangers bonding over dice rolls and strategy talk. Hilton even had a board game library. Free for anyone. Genius, right?
Sunday, back to NEC. Honestly, massive doesn’t even cover it. Eight hundred companies showing off their stuff. It’s like a hyper-loaded mall but for games. Everywhere I turned, there was something shouting, “Try me!” From colorful dice to entire gaming tables. Artists and authors were around too, signing stuff. So many creative minds in one place. Almost dizzying.
Quick tip: If you’re planning to go, snag those tickets around Christmas. Book your hotel right after. People scramble for spots. You don’t wanna find yourself couch-surfing last minute.
So, what’s the moral here? If you’re even a little bit curious about board games or just want a fun-packed weekend making friends and gaming, get out there. I’m cruising back next year—three days this time. Two days clearly weren’t enough for this geek. Words from the wise: Get your planning hat on early, especially if you’re not in the UK. There might be a similar event popping up near you. Explore, play, and most importantly, have a blast.
