🚨 Breaking News: Board Games Surge in Popularity at China International Animation and Game Expo
Shanghai, China – The 20th China International Animation and Game Expo (CCG EXPO 2025) has erupted into a “carnival” of animation culture. Among
the highlights, board games have emerged as the newest trend, especially among young enthusiasts seeking “anti-fast food” entertainment.
Board Games in the Spotlight
The recent resurgence of board games at the CCG EXPO is no surprise to industry experts. Following the pandemic, there has been a global
surge in interest in traditional, face-to-face games. These games offer a welcome respite from the digital screens and fast-paced entertainment
of mobile games and fragmented short videos.
At the Shanghai International Tabletop Game Elite Competition, games like “Digimon Card Battle” and “FFTCG” drew large crowds, showcasing the
growing enthusiasm for strategic and tactile gaming experiences. Noteworthy designer Vitali, affectionately known as “Old V,” introduced his
latest creation, “Operation Kingdom,” a game that combines elements of “Hearthstone” and innovative new features after years of development.
Integrating animate culture with the cityscape
The integration of cultural, tourism, business, and sports exhibitions at the CCG EXPO highlights the trend of “dimensionality” in urban
development. The “dimensional corridor” connecting the expo with the “Half-Masu River” Cultural Tourism Festival includes immersive experiences
like themed “pain boats” and “qiaoqing” AR-enhanced monuments, enriching the waterfront experience and boosting local economic growth.
International Animation Month and the Dimensional Pass
Coinciding with the expo, the first “Shanghai Summer International Animation Month” kicks off, promoting collaboration between top animation
events such as CCG EXPO, Bilibili World, and ChinaJoy. The “Demon City Dimension Pass” enables visitors to access exclusive experiences
and discounts, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of animation fans and enthusiasts.
This month-long event provides a richer experience by bridging the digital and physical realms. The “Kan Dongfang” app, for example, features
a dimensional map marking 81 landmarks across Shanghai, encouraging visitors to explore an array of cultural and entertainment venues.
With this surge in interest and creative integration, the board game industry stands at the forefront of a new era of gaming and entertainment.
Microsoft, Dell, and other tech giants are poised to capitalize on this market as consumers increasingly seek diversified leisure activities
that appeal to both the young and the young-at-heart.
Visitors enjoy the vibrant energy and strategic play during the CCG EXPO 2025. (Image source: Youth Daily reporter Chang Xin)
The rising popularity of board games, as seen at this year’s expo, indicates a fundamental shift in consumer preferences. It points toward a
future where traditional games merge seamlessly with modern experiences, creating unique opportunities for engagement and growth. With
over a million visitors expected this summer, the impact on the gaming industry is set to be substantial and long-lasting.
To stay updated on all developments from the China International Animation and Game Expo (CCG EXPO) and to find out how
the latest trends in gaming and animation are shaping the future, keep following archyde.com.
Don’t forget to check out our comprehensive guides on the top board games of 2025, expert tips, and interviews with leading designers.
Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast, industry professional, or simply curious about the latest trends, archyde.com is your go-to resource for
all things gaming and animation.
