Gaming Conventions in Europe
Gaming conventions in Europe have become major attractions for gamers, developers, and industry professionals. These events provide an excellent opportunity for attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, discover the latest trends in gaming, get a sneak peek at upcoming releases, and even explore some famous European cities.
As the gaming industry continues to expand and evolve, these European conventions are growing in size and significance, drawing thousands of passionate gamers worldwide.
For example, one of Europe’s most prominent gaming conventions is Gamescom, held annually in Cologne, Germany. This massive event boasts hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their latest games, hardware, and software, making it a must-visit destination for gaming enthusiasts.
Is it safe to travel to Europe right now?
Travelers, especially those coming from the U.S., have been asking about this for the last three years. Now a new set of concerns have arisen in light of the recent conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
According to the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, all the countries listed below are safe to travel to.
Top 11 Wildest Gaming Conventions in Europe
1. The Insomnia Gaming Festival – Birmingham, UK
The Insomnia Gaming Festival is a must-attend event for gamers in the UK. It’s a three-day event that brings together gamers, esports enthusiasts, cosplay fans, board gamers, and industry professionals under one roof.
Attendees can enjoy live music performances, play the latest games, and meet their favorite YouTubers and Twitch streamers.
Registration link: Insomnia Gaming Festival
2. DreamHack – Jonkoping, Sweden
DreamHack holds multiple shows throughout the year at locations all over the world. The convention focuses on indie games and gives developers a platform to showcase their latest creations.
For a full list of DreamHack shows, click the registration link below.
Registration link: DreamHack Summer
3. EGX – London, UK
EGX (formerly Eurogamer Expo) is a four-day “celebration” of everything and anything gaming related. It’s a place where attendees can demo the newest games, meets their favorite influencers, and watch live shows and developer sessions.
Registration link: EGX 2023
4. The Pokémon World Championships – London, UK
The Pokémon World Championships are held in different locations worldwide, including the UK and the USA. The event brings together the best Pokémon players worldwide to compete for the title of World Champion. The 2023 edition will take place in Yokohama, Japan.
Registration link: Pokémon World Championships
5. The Develop Conference – Brighton, UK
The Develop Conference in Brighton, UK, is THE gaming convention for game developers, programmers, and artists. Since the Game Developers Conference (GDC) Europe discontinued its conference in Germany, The Develop Conference has been moving the conversation forward.
The event offers talks, workshops, and panel discussions on game development, marketing, and publishing.
Registration link: Develop Conference
6. Gamescom – Cologne, Germany
Gamescom is THE largest gaming convention in Europe. The event attracts over 370,000 visitors and offers a platform for game developers and publishers to showcase their latest creations.
Attendees can play unreleased games, attend press conferences, and meet their favorite gaming personalities.
Registration link: gamescom 2023 | gamescom
7. Milan Games Week – Milan, Italy
Milan Games Week typically occurs over several days and attracts thousands of attendees, including gamers, developers, publishers, and industry professionals.
The convention showcases various video games, hardware, and software, featuring well-established indie game developers. Attendees can expect to see upcoming releases, hands-on demos, and presentations from some of the biggest names in the gaming industry.
Registration link: Milan Games Week
8. Madrid Games Week – Madrid, Spain
Madrid Games Week is an annual gaming convention held in Madrid, Spain. The event brings together industry professionals, game developers, publishers, and gamers, offering a platform to showcase new releases, gaming hardware, and accessories.
Madrid Games Week has grown in popularity over the years. It is now considered one of the major gaming events in Europe.
Registration link: MADRID GAMES WEEK
9. Paris Games Week – Paris, France
Paris Games Week, or PGW, is an annual gaming convention in Paris, France. It is organized by the French trade association Syndicat des Éditeurs de Logiciels de Loisirs (SELL). It has become one of the most significant gaming events in Europe. The event features various activities and attractions, such as
- Game presentations
- esports tournaments
- developer talks and panels
- cosplay contests
- family-focused activities
- business and networking opportunities
Typically taking place over several days, Paris Games Week brings together gamers, developers, publishers, and industry professionals, showcasing the latest in video games, consoles, and accessories.
Registration link: Paris Games Week
10. TwitchCon Paris – Paris, France
TwitchCon is a convention for the live streaming video platform Twitch.tv, which brings together content creators, fans, and the gaming community to celebrate gaming, streaming, and esports.
Last year’s European edition was held in Amsterdam, but the 2023 edition will be in Paris, France, at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.
Registration link: Paris 2023 | TwitchCon
11. SPIEL Messe – Essen, Germany
SPIEL Messe, or Internationale Spieltage SPIEL, is an annual board game convention in Essen, Germany. It is the largest and most significant event of its kind in Europe and worldwide.
SPIEL Messe usually takes place over four days, typically in October, and attracts thousands of attendees, including board game enthusiasts, designers, publishers, and industry professionals.
SPIEL Messe showcases a vast array of games worldwide, ranging from traditional classics to the latest releases. Many game publishers choose to debut their new products at the event, making it an essential destination for board game enthusiasts seeking the most recent and innovative titles.
Registration link: SPIEL Messe
Europe is home to some of the wildest gaming conventions in the world. Whether you’re a casual gamer or an industry professional, there’s something for everyone. While it’s important to prioritize safety and follow the latest guidelines, attending one of these events is an experience that every gaming enthusiast should have at least once.
The Trade Group is a full-service trade show and event marketing company. We will work with you to create an exhibit or an event that brings in leads and helps you achieve your business goals. Contact us here or give us a call at (800) 343-2005.
