For board game enthusiasts, Essen SPIEL is the Holy Grail of events. Taking place annually in Essen, Germany. It is the largest board game convention in the world, attracting publishers, designers, and fans from every corner of the globe. This year, we had the incredible opportunity to attend for our second time , and it was a thrilling dive into the colourful, imaginative, and competitive world of tabletop gaming.
Arrival: Stepping Into a Board Gamer’s Paradise
Arriving at Essen SPIEL was like stepping into a board gamer’s dream. As we approached Messe Essen, the excitement in the air was palpable. The sprawling venue was adorned with colourful banners and the hum of chatter from thousands of fellow enthusiasts added to the buzz. Everywhere we looked, there were towering displays, eye-catching artwork, and tables packed with gamers already deep into their first demos of the day. The scale of it all was both exhilarating and a bit overwhelming, but we couldn’t wait to dive in and explore this paradise of creativity and camaraderie.
Highlights from the Convention
1. Discovering New Games:
SPIEL is synonymous with game launches, and this year was no exception. From the moment we entered, we were greeted by the sight of tables packed with prototypes and new board games.
One standout was Rock Hard 1977 designed by Jackie fox a former bassist for the Runaways . The theme as you can imagine is the rock and roll scene in the 1970's with is captured to a tea . You are an up and coming rock and roll star trying to get famous in on 1977. We also loved Worms based on the video game. Surprisingly it is able to capture the chaos of the video game to a tea . Will you try and throw exploding sheep at your opponent or hit them with a flamethrower be careful that it doesn't blow up in your face .
2. Meeting the Community:
Board gaming has a uniquely inclusive and vibrant community, and SPIEL brought it to life. We shared laughs with fellow players, exchanged tips on strategy, and even made a few international friends while sitting at demo tables.
A huge highlight for us was meeting some of the Dice tower cast (Zee , Tom and Camillia ) who signed a flag with our business logo on it .
3. The Shopping Experience:
No visit to SPIEL would be complete without indulging in some retail therapy. From Kickstarter edition releases to classic titles, the sheer variety of games on sale was staggering. We came home with a suitcase full of treasures and shipped even more .
Tips for Future Visitors
If you’re planning to attend Essen SPIEL, here are a few tips from our experience:
- Plan Ahead: With so much to see and do, having a clear plan is essential. Download the spiel app and mark the booths you want to see.
- Arrive Early: The halls fill up quickly, and some of the most popular games can sell out within hours even minutes .
- Bring Snacks and Water: The days are long, and while the food options are decent, lines can be long. Staying hydrated and energised is key.
- Engage with Exhibitors: Don’t hesitate to ask questions or join a demo. Exhibitors are eager to share their games and stories.
- Leave Room in Your Luggage: Trust us—you’ll need it!
Reflections: More Than Just Games
Essen SPIEL is more than just a convention; it’s a celebration of creativity and connection. It reminded us why board games are such a beloved medium: they bring people together, challenge our minds, and transport us to fantastical worlds.
As we packed up our newly acquired games and bid farewell to the bustling halls of Messe Essen, we were already dreaming of our return . For anyone who loves board games, Essen SPIEL is an experience like no other—a must-visit pilgrimage that leaves you inspired and eager to roll the dice again.