Calling All Gamers: Play Expo Manchester 2020 Will Be Bigger than Ever

Save the date! Play Expo Manchester will return on 9-10 May 2020 at Bowlers Exhibition Centre, featuring everything you need to know about gaming – from retro-like arcade games to cutting-edge developments like virtual reality.

What is on at Play Expo Manchester?

The Play Expo will showcase almost 1000 devices ranging from consoles to PCs and handhelds – even arcades and pinballs. They will be loaded with the most popular classic and modern video games and available to all those attending to play for free. And for those avid gamers that would like to keep playing their favourite games at home? A big part of Play Expo is the legendary shopping hall, where you can find all things related to gaming, from classic titles to gaming gear and merchandise or even custom artwork. The exhibition will also feature tournaments, both free and requiring a fee to enter, details of which will be announced as we move closer to the date.

One of the most interesting aspects of Play Expo Manchester is its commitment to actively engaging with the gaming community in many different ways. That is why the event is calling on all cosplayers to come and join in the fun. Cosplay, which has been around since the 1980s, is the art of dressing up like an iconic fictional character, sometimes by putting your own spin to it, and has grown into a worldwide cultural phenomenon. Play Expo will finish its first day with a Cosplay Masquerade. The winner will walk away with £200, and a coveted spot in the Cosplay Grand Final of the 2020 London Film and Comic-Con, along with two tickets for the LFCC.

Experience the latest gaming trends

It wouldn’t be a major gaming event without exploring the latest trends in the industry, and the people behind Play Expo Manchester know that. One of the highlights of the event will be the Next-Gen Zone, where visitors will find state-of-the-art gaming options, including AAA Xbox Live and PSN titles. Live gaming is undeniably a frontrunner in the industry, with Twitch and eSports on the rise. It also presents growth opportunities even for online casinos that have seen growing interest for live dealer games – which has led leading developers like NetEnt to produce award-winning games. These include an exclusive casino lobby with blackjack and roulette games played in an immersive environment either on PC or mobile.

Besides next-gen gaming, the event will also give players some much-needed Fortnite action. Featuring a specially designated area dedicated to Fortnite, gamers will have the chance to go solo or partner up in Duo or Squad mode to play everyone’s favourite battle royale hit game. Or if you prefer LAN gaming, Expo Play will feature that too – for those looking to hone their skills in Counter-Strike or Doom. The list doesn’t stop here: with separate areas for VR gaming, Minecraft, and arcade or tabletop games, Play Expo Manchester offers a little something for every taste.

Tickets have now gone on sale, with standard adult tickets priced at £20 and deals for families and weekend tickets – so anyone looking to spend a day or two packed full of gaming, can secure a place right away!