If there’s one thing that can bring gaming enthusiasts together, it’s an event that celebrates everything from pixelated classics to modern-day masterpieces. The Bristol Video Games Expo did exactly that, turning Hengrove Park Leisure Centre into a buzzing hub of nostalgia, collectibles, and gaming culture.
This wasn’t just a convention—it was a love letter to video games. Rows of vendors, passionate collectors, developers, and fans all under one roof, proving that the UK’s retro gaming scene is alive and kicking.
The Vendors – A Collector’s Dream
One of the biggest highlights of the expo was the sheer variety of vendors selling everything from rare games and consoles to books and memorabilia.
Sega Mags brought a stunning selection of Bitmap Books, and I couldn’t resist picking up The Gameboy Artwork Collection and The N64 Compendium—two absolute must-haves for any gaming historian.
Sore Thumb Retro Games, a legendary store from York, made the trip down south, bringing an incredible stockpile of retro treasures. I spent far too much time (and money) at their stand, but when you’re faced with an endless supply of boxed classics and hidden gems, what else can you do?
Gaming Culture in the UK – Growing Stronger
Events like this highlight just how much passion exists within the UK gaming community. While we might not have the same number of expos as the US or Japan, the demand is clearly there. Supporting local retro shops, conventions, and gaming events is crucial to keeping this culture alive and thriving.
From casual gamers to die-hard collectors, everyone at the expo shared that same spark—an unfiltered love for video games.
The Attractions – More Than Just Shopping
Beyond the vendors, the expo packed in some fantastic events:
- Showcases and speeches from game composers, offering insight into the artistry behind our favourite soundtracks.
- Bristol Ghostbusters, bringing a slice of geek culture beyond just gaming.
- Mario Kart tournaments, because let’s be honest, nothing brings out competitiveness like a well-timed blue shell.
- The Museum of Computing exhibition, showcasing developer-versioned consoles and rare tech that most of us have only seen in books or online.
This wasn’t just about buying and selling—it was about celebrating gaming’s rich history.
The Haul – A Collector’s Jackpot
I’ll be honest—I went in expecting to grab a couple of wishlist items. I left with:
✅ 25 PS2 games
✅ A few PS1 gems
✅ Two boxed N64 games
Not bad, right? Safe to say, my backlog just quadrupled, but that’s part of the fun.
Already Hyped for 2026
The Bristol Video Games Expo has already been confirmed for 2026, and I can’t wait to see what they bring next time. Whether you’re a hardcore collector, a casual fan, or just someone who loves video game history, this is a must-attend event.
If you haven’t been before, make sure to mark it on your calendar for next year. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
BCB Collects 