EGX History: The Evolution of Eurogamer Expo
From its humble beginnings as a specialized gathering to becoming one of the UK's most prominent gaming celebrations, EGX has undergone a significant transformation. Originally launched as the Eurogamer Expo, the event has evolved through various names, venues, and formats to keep pace with the rapidly changing landscape of the video game industry.
The Early Years and Expansion
The journey began in 2008 at the Old Truman Brewery, where the first Eurogamer Expo debuted as part of the London Games Festival, drawing an initial crowd of 4,000 attendees. By 2009, the event expanded its reach, holding shows at both the Old Billingsgate Market in London and The Royal Armouries in Leeds.
Between 2010 and 2014, the expo found a stable home at London's Earls Court. However, following the closure of that venue, the event entered a new era, moving to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham under a multi-year agreement.
The Rise of Rezzed and Brand Evolution
In 2012, Eurogamer and Rock Paper Shotgun introduced Rezzed, a specialized spin-off dedicated to PC and indie games (independent games developed without major publisher funding). The first Rezzed event took place at the Brighton Centre in July 2012, and shortly after, a Rezzed component was integrated into the main Eurogamer Expo.
The branding shifted in October 2013, with Eurogamer Expo becoming EGX London and Rezzed becoming EGX Rezzed. By 2014, the "London" suffix was dropped, and the main event was simply known as EGX.
Global Ambitions and Pandemic Challenges
The brand continued to grow, announcing a third event in Berlin, Germany, in February 2018, and returning to the ExCel London for its 2019 edition. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruption. Both EGX Rezzed 2020 and EGX 2020 were cancelled after initial attempts to postpone them.
To adapt to the global lockdown, EGX partnered with PAX to create a 9-day digital experience from September 12 to 20, 2020, titled PAX Online X EGX Digital. While plans for a return to in-person events were announced in early 2021, the transition was slow. EGX Rezzed was renamed EGX Birmingham in October 2021, aiming to blend indie showcases with AAA (high-budget, prestige) studio releases. However, the 2022 event was postponed to 2023 due to the impact of the Omicron variant.
Modern Era and Integration with MCM Comic Con
EGX London returned to the ExCel from October 12 to 15, 2023, featuring TikTok as the headline partner and hosting competitive Esports tournaments for Tekken 7 and Street Fighter 6.
In 2024, the event underwent another major shift by merging with MCM Comic Con, taking place from October 25 to 27. Looking ahead to 2025, ReedPop has confirmed that EGX will return to both London (alongside MCM Comic Con in October) and Birmingham in November.
Key Facts
- First Event: 2008 at Old Truman Brewery with 4,000 attendees.
- Primary Venues: Old Billingsgate Market, Earls Court, NEC Birmingham, and ExCel London.
- Indie Focus: Rezzed was launched in 2012 to highlight PC and indie titles.
- Digital Pivot: Partnered with PAX in 2020 for the "PAX Online X EGX Digital" event.
- Recent Merger: Integrated with MCM Comic Con starting in 2024.
| Year/Period | Event Name | Primary Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Eurogamer Expo | Old Truman Brewery, London |
| 2009 | Eurogamer Expo | Leeds & London |
| 2010–2014 | Eurogamer Expo / EGX London | Earls Court, London |
| 2015–2018 | EGX | NEC, Birmingham |
| 2019 | EGX | ExCel, London |
| 2020 | PAX Online X EGX Digital | Online |
| 2023 | EGX London | ExCel, London |
| 2024 | EGX (merged with MCM) | London |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original name of EGX?
The event was originally called the Eurogamer Expo when it first launched in 2008.
What is the difference between EGX and Rezzed?
While EGX is the main general gaming expo, Rezzed was a spin-off specifically focused on PC and indie games, later becoming EGX Rezzed and eventually EGX Birmingham.
Why was EGX 2020 cancelled?
The event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading the organizers to create a digital alternative in partnership with PAX.
Is EGX still a standalone event?
As of 2024, EGX has merged with MCM Comic Con, though it continues to maintain its presence in both London and Birmingham.
Where will EGX be held in 2025?
ReedPop announced that EGX will return to London alongside MCM Comic Con in October and will also return to Birmingham in November.