SPIEL ESSEN, commonly known as just SPIEL, is an annual board game fair held in Essen, Germany. It is organized by Friedhelm Merz Verlag and has been a key event in the tabletop gaming industry since 1983. This convention serves as a marketplace, a networking hub, and a gaming paradise for fans worldwide.

SPIEL Essen 2024, the biggest board game fair in the world, happened from October 3rd to October 6th. More than 200,000 people attended. For the first time, we had our first-ever booth at the event, which was a big achievement.

The EPN booth was 300 square meters in size and hosted 11 publishers with 20 demo tables. It became a place where board game lovers, industry professionals, and fans gathered to enjoy niched English games from our catalogue.

This event was a great chance for game creators to show their games and for players to try new English board games. The excitement and energy of the crowd made the event unforgettable and very successful.

The event is held every October at the Messe Essen exhibition center in Germany. It typically runs for four days, from Thursday to Sunday, offering ample time for attendees to explore, play, and purchase the latest board games.

SPIEL ESSEN isn’t just another board game convention, it’s the epicenter of the gaming industry. Here’s why it matters:

• New Game Releases: Many publishers unveil their latest games, making it the first opportunity for gamers to experience upcoming hits.
• Play Before You Buy: Unlike traditional retail shopping, SPIEL allows visitors to try out games before purchasing.
• Networking and Community: Designers, publishers, and fans from around the world come together, making it an excellent place to connect.
• Exclusive Deals and Limited Editions: Many exhibitors offer special editions, Kickstarter previews, and exclusive merchandise.

Our special booth was a big hit at SPIEL Essen 2024. Over 5,000 visitors stopped by to check out incredible niched English games. They shared feedback and showed a lot of interest in the games on display.

This strong response proved that board gaming and niched games are more popular than ever. It also showed that we are doing a great job in bringing players and niched game creators together across Europe.

The booth was designed to make it easy for visitors to explore, play, and talk to game developers. Experienced staff helped explain the games, ensuring that everyone had a great time. Publishers also got a chance to talk to players, get their opinions, and make their games even better.

In 2024 edition, SPIEL Essen broke new records. All tickets were sold out, and more than 200,000 people attended. The event gave game developers and publishers a unique chance to connect with passionate players, learn from the industry, and showcase their newest games.

Board games are becoming more and more popular, and SPIEL Essen 2024 proved that. The event had all types of games, from family and party games to complex strategy games, miniatures and RPGs. With so many people and exhibitors, SPIEL Essen continues to be the biggest and best event in the board gaming world.

A trip to SPIEL ESSEN is a thrilling experience! Here are some highlights:

• Game Demonstrations and Playtesting: You can sit at a table and play the newest board games, often with the designers themselves teaching the rules. It’s a fantastic way to experience a game before deciding to buy it.
• Exhibitor Booths from Around the World: Over 1,000 exhibitors from more than 50 countries participate, showcasing games across all genres—family games, strategy games, party games, RPGs, and more.
• Tournaments and Competitions: From casual matches to high-stakes championship tournaments, SPIEL hosts a variety of competitions where players can prove their skills.
• Industry Panels and Workshops: Game designers and industry experts conduct panels and workshops, offering insights into game development, publishing, and trends in the gaming world.

Visiting SPIEL ESSEN is an exciting and rewarding experience, but with thousands of games, exhibitors, and attendees, it can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

Whether you're a hobby retailer, a publisher, or an avid board game enthusiast, proper planning will help you make the most of your time at the event. Here’s how to ensure you have a smooth and successful visit:

SPIEL ESSEN is a massively popular event, and tickets often sell out quickly, especially for the weekend. Buying early ensures your entry and may come with perks like discounts or access to exclusive content.

If you're traveling from outside Essen, book your accommodation in advance, as nearby hotels fill up fast.

With thousands of games to explore, having a plan will help you make the most of your time. Research upcoming releases, check exhibitor lists, and note which booths you want to visit. Many publishers announce their demo schedules in advance, so keeping an eye on updates will help you prioritize playtesting opportunities.

If you're already our partner, you'll be the first to receive an exclusive list of the games we’ll be showcasing and selling at the fair.

Not a partner yet? Apply here or contact us with any questions, we’d love to connect with you!

You’ll likely be picking up new games, promo items, and merchandise, so a sturdy backpack or a small trolley is a must. Some exhibitors offer exclusive deals or limited-edition releases, and you don’t want to struggle carrying your haul. Also, consider bringing a water bottle and some snacks to stay energized throughout the day.

By planning ahead, you’ll have a smoother and more enjoyable SPIEL ESSEN experience, making the most of everything the convention has to offer!

EPN is dedicated to bringing new and exciting niched and English board games to players everywhere across Europe. Whether you are a publisher, a player, or an industry expert, we always have a way to help you.

You can also check our catalogue to see new game releases and special opportunities. The board gaming world is growing fast, and we are excited to be a part of its future together with you!

SPIEL ESSEN 2024 was an unforgettable experience, bringing together passionate board gamers, publishers, and industry professionals from around the world. With record-breaking attendance, exciting new game releases, and the European Player Network’s successful debut booth, this year’s event proved just how vibrant and dynamic the board gaming community has become.

As the industry continues to grow, SPIEL ESSEN remains the ultimate destination for discovering innovative games, connecting with fellow enthusiasts, and shaping the future of tabletop gaming. Whether you attended this year or are planning to visit in the future, one thing is certain: SPIEL ESSEN is an event no board game lover should miss.

Stay connected with us at EPN as we continue to bring unique and exciting games to players across Europe. The adventure in board gaming never stops, and we’re thrilled to be part of it with you!