Fan frenzy: Thousands gather in London for UK’s biggest gaming and comic con!

Excitement was in full swing as fans lined up for panels hosted by more than 700 speakers, eager to share insights on upcoming projects. The expo featured hands-on sessions with new games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and a preview of Avowed, a role-playing game due for release next year. Indie creators also got their spotlight, with games like Jazzhands, created by University of Nottingham students, drawing plenty of attention.

Poppy, dressed as Husk from the cartoon Hazbin Hotel, spent three months building her costume from scratch. (Photo credits: Thomas Copeland/ BBC News)

Beyond gaming, fans enjoyed activities like lightsaber battles, card game sessions, and costume contests, which helped capture the full spirit of comic and pop culture.

For many, the highlight of the event was connecting with fellow fans. “Meeting other people who are cosplaying is my favourite part,” said Catherine Mariah, a fan who arrived early Saturday. “By the end of the day, you’ll feel sad it’s all over – you’ll have the ‘con blues!’”

Despite a festive atmosphere, the expo highlighted challenges facing the gaming industry, with several brands pulling out after job cuts and an industry strike affected schedules. By merging MCM with EGX, organisers aimed to bring broader exposure for publishers who could attend.

Exhibitors set up across two massive halls, with over 450 displays, stalls, and play areas, filling the space with everything from game demos to collectible merchandise. It was a day of energy, passion, and unforgettable moments for fans across all ages, proving why this convention remains a highlight in the UK’s pop culture calendar.

(With inputs from BBC)