Try a megagame at UK Games Expo
Try a megagame at UK Games Expo
Perhaps you’ve seen the list of megagame events on the UKGE website. Maybe you’ve heard of them before, but not really known what they are. You might even have seen a video on YouTube or TikTok and thought it looked fun, but wondered what you would really be getting yourself into…
If you’re thinking of coming to your first megagame at UKGE, here’s a quick lowdown on what to expect.
What is a megagame?
Megagames are large-scale gaming events with anywhere from 20 to 300 players. They take place over several hours or a full day. They include elements of board games, war games and live-action roleplay. Most megagames are in-person events, although some are run online.
Each game has a specific setting - for example aliens arriving on earth, Game of Thrones, Renaissance Europe, a pirate ship or futuristic sci-fi.
Before the game begins, you will be given a role within a team, with certain objectives you’ll be trying to achieve over the course of the game. Throughout the day, you will interact with various mechanics, such as a map for moving armies or a trade board for managing your economy. A large part of the day will be spent interacting with other players – negotiating deals, sharing information and roleplaying.
What games are on at UKGE?
There are four very different games being run over the weekend.
Den of Wolves: New Eden is a race for survival set in the 27th Century. Players take command of a fleeing fleet, managing resources and morale while they evade the ruthless military of Wolf-1061.
In The Generalissimo is Dead, players vie for power in a post-leader vacuum, drawing inspiration from the film "Death of Stalin." Negotiation, political intrigue, and plotting shape alliances and betrayals as players manoeuvre to succeed the beloved yet feared leader.
Dino Island immerses players in managing a unique dinosaur-themed park. With dynamic board and card game mechanics, players assume various roles: balancing operations, research, and competition to ensure park success amidst thrilling attractions and potential hazards.
Raven Banner blends warfare and dynastic politics in the tumultuous world of 9th Century England. As Saxon aristocrats or Danish raiders, players navigate strategic alliances and religious zeal amid the constant threat of violence.
What do I need to know before I go to a megagame?
Three top tips for going to your first megagame are:
Read the briefing material – you will normally receive this in advance of the game, and it will help you get up to speed on the day.
Arrive well supplied – megagames don’t have a pause button, so bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch (depending on the time of day).
If in doubt, talk to someone – if you’re not sure what action to take, strike up an in-game conversation with another player. Any other player.
How can I find out more about megagames?
You have a few options!
Firstly, come say hi to us at UKGE! Our megagames are running in Hall 3, and the organisers’ booth will be staffed by megagame enthusiasts who will be happy to answer any questions you have.
You can also find out more about the hobby, including a list of all the upcoming games in the UK and across the world, on the Megagame Assembly website.
And finally, you might find it easier to understand megagames by watching some popular videos about them: here’s one by Shut Up and Sit Down, and another by BeckyBecky Blogs.