The UK has an appetite for gaming. As one of the most popular forms of entertainment, it keeps millions of Brits firmly engaged. Alongside the virtual escapades they enjoy at home or on the train, the country’s gamers can also experience some of the gaming industry’s most exciting conventions, bringing plenty of value to those in attendance.
From learning about the latest releases to exploring the biggest trends in the gaming world, it’s a fantastic way to connect with the gaming community and immerse yourself in an area of interest. Thankfully, for the UK’s population of passionate gamers, some big events are likely to continue in 2025 and beyond, although some events have yet to make any official announcements.
Below is a look at some of the major gaming conventions that took place last year and should make a return in 2025. If you’re a gamer passionate about first-person shooters, casino games, or action-adventure products, attending one of these large-scale events is essential. You can even gain early access to new product launches, connect with respected developers, and potentially converse with like-minded gamers.
Play Expo
A Manchester-based event that people all over the UK attend, Play Expo is perfect for retro-gaming audiences. Some of the most beloved gaming systems are on show in this one. At the same time, people can also attend various workshops held by industry experts and experience the unique atmosphere through a competitive gaming tournament. If you’re passionate about gaming history and enjoy some of the classics, then Play Expo is definitely for you.
Insomnia Gaming Festival
Insomnia Gaming Festival has been a significant gaming event in Birmingham almost every year in recent times. It is particularly popular for its competitive scenarios that attendees can watch in the flesh. Alongside the eSports action, ticket holders can join epic cosplay competitions, explore various gaming-related exhibitions, and meet popular social media influencers in the space. An event that promises to provide a fantastic overall atmosphere and some genuinely informative content for gamers to soak up, Insomnia Gaming Festival is one of the best in Europe, let alone the UK.
UK Games Expo
For people who tend to play tabletop games in session, the UK Games Expo is a massive event that many gamers can’t wait to attend. Held annually in Birmingham and attracting passionate gaming enthusiasts on a yearly basis, alongside the board games and card games featured at the event, people can also explore huge areas solely dedicated to video games. The UK Games Expo appeals to gamers, from renowned game designers to snippets of the freshest releases yet to market.
EGX (Eurogamer Expo)
Usually, in London or Birmingham, EGX draws in thousands of dedicated gamers every year. The event showcases the most significant new products before they’re available for release. There are competitive tournaments, fascinating talks to attend, and opportunities for aspiring professionals to network with big names. For British gamers, it’s a massive event.
MCM Comic Con
MCM Comic Con isn’t solely dedicated to gamers, but there is an array of gaming-related stuff for people to look at. Alongside the comic books, movies, and TV shows that draw in thousands of people, gamers can experience the convention’s gaming section, which features the most prominent developers and some major publishers. There are also panels people can attend, voice actors are there, and new and improved games are also exhibited.
