If you arrive before the doors open you will find a lot of people milling about outside.  Don't be surprised to see people dressed up like superheroes, elves or storm troopers... if you see this, you are definitely in the right place!

After going through the doors you'll be handed a magazine with information about the event - it will probably be in German - this is worth noting: this is a European event and English is not everyone's first language.  Gaming is much more of a family event in Germany, compared to many other countries where it is a niche hobbyist activity.  The Germans have figured out early how fun this activity is and are keen to share it with all their friends and families.

The halls will instantly fill up with people looking for their favourite publishers, designers or to secure a seat to play a game.  Many of the big game publishers will have large stands with seating areas to try their new games.  Again, these will quickly fill up, especially for the well publicised games and you may need to queue to play a game here.  Whether you play the game or not you will usually be able to buy the game from the publisher at a slightly reduced rate (5 -15% off the usual price is about average).

As you wonder around you'll find smaller booths occupied by independent game publishers who are trying to break into the industry.  We strongly encourage you to support these entrepreneurs and let them pitch you on their games and take the opportunity to try them out - you never know, you could be in early on the next big thing!

The halls further away from the entrance contain merchandise vendors who have game theme related goodies (such as meeple plates or hundreds of different dice).  You will also easily spot the LARPs (live action role players) dressed up as their favourite characters.  These costumes are often wonderfully put together and the LARP'ers are usually happy to have their photo taken - but it is polite to ask first.

If you are a LARP'er (or just like to dress up for fun) you'll find some big vendors selling a wide selection of 'authentic' costumes - from heavy metal suits of armour through to harmless foam battle axes.

There are a wide number of vendors selling games but note that the bargains get snapped up early ... or right at the end when they don't want to have to cart it all back to their local stores.  Of particular note is the excellent representation of miniatures on sale, with some displayed in wonderful display scenes.

Essen Spiel also hosts a comic convention during the gaming event, however it is very much a secondary attraction, but well worth looking through if that takes your fancy.  You have a good chance to see some big names in the industry signing copies of their work throughout the 4 days.

At the far end from the entrance is a long hallway area where kids can stretch their legs and usually get involved in some more physical activites - such as a climbing a huge inflatable mountain - or learning to juggle!  This is a good spot if you want to arrange to meet other people or to catch your breath.

As you can see, there is a lot to see and do!