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With much more focus now back on physical events rather that virtual, brands are exploring all kinds of interactive techniques to stand out from the crowd and keep people engaging with their on-site team. Although focused on global events rather than trade shows specifically, a 2021 OECD webinar concluded ‘digitalisation cannot replace, in-person interaction’ in the long run, so it’s important to think about how you make the best, and most lasting impression as you deploy your event strategy.
With ideas for every budget and audience type, from retro arcade games and giant Jenga, to virtual reality experiences, games are a winning idea to bring out the playful side of your exhibition stand design.
Why Companies Invest In Games
Games are a great way to attract the attention of an audience that is primarily focused on achieving a business objective – the reason they are attending an exhibition in the first place. They provide a break from commercial conversations, creating a talking point and an interesting experience that stands out.
Depending on the game style, it is often possible to brand your chosen game in a corporate style, aligning the game to the overall brand experience. Games are a great talking point and the enthusiasm of those taking part will create a natural buzz and energy around your exhibition stand. This will help make it noticeable, which in turn is great for your brand visibility, stand footfall and in creating a lasting impression.
The increased flow of visitors is in turn great for lead generation, as delegates give consent to either input their data as part of the game they are playing or engage in conversation that means you can collect their information for follow up and lead nurturing.
Benefits Of Stand Games
Apart from bringing the fun factor to your exhibition stand, there are some great benefits to adding games into your stand design:
- Increased dwell time – allowing you to build more meaningful connections and talk about your brand’s message
- Making memories – invoking the senses of an individual is a great way to create a long-term impression and the interactive nature of games, regardless of how simple or complex they are, can be great for creating an emotional reaction
- Brand credibility – particularly powerful for tech-based games, the right choice of game can add to people’s perception of your brand and products/services, enhancing your reputation as a leader in the space
Budget Considerations
As with all exhibition stand attractions, budget is a key factor in your game selection. With options to centre an entire exhibition stand design around a game as the focal point, to smaller stand additions that offer a fun and quick way to engage with a brand, it’s important to understand the purpose and objectives of introducing a game to your stand. This allows you to allocate the appropriate budget against expected return to create the best experience possible.
Games for exhibitions and events are now so popular that there are lots of options available to hire, both on a long and short-term basis. However, if you’re looking for something highly-customised or brand/product specific, it’s likely you’ll need to invest in purchasing or commissioning this directly as part of your wider exhibition strategy. Storage is also a factor to consider, particularly if the game is large and complex to install.
Our Top Five Games For Every Budget
Fairground Style Games
Tapping into childhood nostalgia whilst easily engaging those taking part, fairground style games like archery, hook a duck or throwing something into a target are budget friendly games that will make your audience smile.
Prize Wheel
With the ability to award quick-win prizes that can be heavily branded or as simple as sweets, a prize wheel offers a great way to add a buzz to your stand whilst giving your audience something to take away.
Games Console
From Nintendo Switch to Playstation or old-school Gameboy, there are lots of games consoles that are available to hire. You can set up a leaderboard or encourage team-based playing to capture the imagination, and data, of those visiting your stand.
Virtual Reality
Increasingly common at exhibitions thanks to the ability to customise the virtual reality experience, this style of game is immersive, exciting and highly memorable.
Arcade Game Station
Giving an instant theme to your exhibition stand, you can create a highly interactive and lasting experience by offering a range of arcade style games, with a mix of prizes and leader-board rewards which can be customised to enhance the overall brand experience.
Bring The Fun Factor To Your Exhibition Stand
Incorporating stand games into your exhibition presence can provide a significant boost to your brand’s visibility and engagement levels. Understanding the benefits of stand games, budget considerations, and exploring various game options at different price points empowers you to make informed decisions. Whether you choose to buy or hire, the key is to select games that align with your brand identity and target audience, ensuring an impactful and memorable experience at every exhibition.
You can reach out to our team of experts to discuss game options as part of your exhibition stand design and build. We have access to a wide range of options and can make the perfect recommendation based on your objectives and budget. Call us today on 01270 848 650 or fill in our quick contact form and we’ll get straight back to you.
