EGX 2021 has just wrapped up, and what a fantastic event it was. This annual gaming expo has been around since 2008 and serves as a place for the gaming community to come together and share their passion for arguably the best form of media around.

If you’re curious to know how this year’s event went, or if you’re unfamiliar with EGX and want to know what all the hype is about, then you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s jump straight into things.

Playable games

Every year, developers head on down to the EGX venue to showcase and promote their upcoming and recently released video games. The line-up this year admittedly isn't as good as in previous years, perhaps due to the pandemic, but there are a few big playable titles, including:

• Deathloop
• Biomutant
• Back 4 Blood
• Desperados III
• Baldur’s Gate III
• Hunt: Showdown

Alongside these AAA titles, there are also a bunch of indie video games that get shown off at the expo in their own dedicated section. If you’re a fan of shorter, less intense games, then you’re bound to find something you enjoy here.

Freebies

One of the best things about EGX is all the freebies you get from the various video game developers and brands that show up. From goodie bags to free t-shirts and Monster Energy, so much free gaming-themed stuff gets given out each year which easily makes up for the ticket price. Just make to get to the stands early otherwise as they can sometimes run out of things fast.

Talks and panel discussions

If you’re interested in working in the gaming industry, then EGX has got you covered. There are a plethora of talks and panel discussions put on each day that provide huge insight into the industry as a whole. This year there were talks on storytelling in video games, the art design process, as well as game development myths, so they’re definitely worth checking out.

The expo in general is also a great way to network and connect with others, so if that’s something you want to do, you absolutely can!

Cosplay Zone

Next up let’s talk about the cosplay zone, which is a staple of EGX and is where cosplayers come to show off their outfits. People put so much effort into making their cosplays look stunning and it absolutely pays off, especially because prizes get given out to the best ones. If you ask nicely, you might even be able to snap a picture or two with some of the cosplayers!

Retail Village

EGX wouldn't be complete without a dedicated retail section. Here, you can buy all kinds of nerdy merch from t-shirts and hoodies to collectables and artwork. You never know what kind of awesome things you'll find in this section of the event so it’s always worth a visit.

When is the next EGX expo?

Unfortunately, EGX has concluded for this year, but it’s an annual event so you can expect it to return next year with fresh experiences for you to enjoy as well as a brand new video game roster. If you can’t wait until next October, there’s also a smaller event held in spring called EGX Rezzed that you can attend. It’s not as jam-packed as EGX and focuses more on indie games, but it’s a great experience nonetheless.