The folks at PLAY Expo have been doing some great things over the last couple of years, with a winning formula that combines modern and retro games with appearances from some of gaming’s most recognisable (and sometimes unexpected) faces. We’ve rubbed shoulders with the original Lara Croft, been thoroughly entertained by Games World’s Big Boy Barry, gone hands-on with the latest pre-release AAA titles, and spent many happy hours pinging our balls around the cabinets. Behave, we’re talking about pinball. PLAY’s next event takes place at London’s Printworks on August 11th – 12th, 2018, and it might just be the best one yet.

Masses of free-to-play arcade cabs, retro consoles, and a modern-day gaming zone might be enough for some people, but PLAY Expo also includes an indie game section (always a highlight), tournaments, a Virtual Reality area, cosplay shenanigans, and a huge shopping area that’s sure to drain a few wallets. Not content to stop there, though, the London Expo features a host of talks and panels with some genuinely interesting and exciting folk.

The main event (in our eyes, at least) is undoubtedly going to be the Knightmare panel, featuring the dungeon master Treguard himself (Hugo Myatt) alongside artist David Rowe and the creator of the Knightmare Live stage show, Paul Flannery. Knightmare is one of the most fondly-remembered TV shows for those of a certain age, and the opportunity to meet some of the people involved is definitely not be missed. Knightmare Live will be taking place at the Expo on both Saturday and Sunday, with the panel coming together for a Q&A session and photo opportunity at some point on Sunday.

Other guests over the weekend include esteemed Sega illustrator Duncan Gutteridge, who will be conducting a Sonic drawing masterclass, Dizzy-creators the Oliver twins, Bitmap Brothers founder Mike Montgomery (who we will certainly be harassing for a re-release of Magic Pockets), Digitiser’s Mr Biffo, and a YouTube panel featuring Ashens, Kim Justice, Larry Bundy Jr, Nostalgia Nerd, Slopes Game Room, and Octav1us.

Something for everybody then, and we’re sure you’ll agree that if you’re into gaming this looks like an absolutely smashing way to spend a weekend!

For more information and to book tickets, head over to www.playexpolondon.com.