Common Exhibition Game Mistakes to Avoid
Exhibition games can be one of the most effective ways to attract attention, increase dwell time, and encourage meaningful conversation. However, like any engagement tool, they need to be chosen and used correctly. Over the years, we at Expo Play have supported exhibitors across sectors including Tech Companies, Construction & Industry, Manufacturing & Engineering, and Public Sector & Local Authority Events.
We’ve also seen a number of common mistakes that can reduce the impact of exhibition games. Avoiding these pitfalls can make the difference between a busy, engaging stand and one where the game fails to deliver real value.
1. Choosing a Game That Doesn’t Match the Audience
One of the most frequent mistakes is selecting a game based on novelty rather than relevance. Not every audience responds to fast-paced competition, and not every event suits slow, social gameplay.
For example, highly competitive games may work well for Sports & Fitness Expos or Gaming & Creative Industries, but calmer, more approachable options are often better suited to healthcare, education, or public sector events.
We always recommend choosing games that reflect the tone, pace, and expectations of your audience.
2. Ignoring Stand Size and Layout
Another common issue is selecting a game that simply doesn’t fit the stand. Large games placed on small stands can block access, create congestion, or discourage visitors from stepping inside.
Compact games such as Pixel Play or Strike a Light 2 Players are ideal for smaller footprints, while larger stands can comfortably accommodate social games or multiple engagement zones.
Considering visitor flow and access points is just as important as the game itself.
3. Treating the Game as the Main Attraction
Exhibition games work best as conversation starters, not replacements for staff interaction. A common mistake is allowing the game to run without any connection to your message, products, or services.
When staff engage with visitors during or immediately after gameplay, the game becomes a bridge to conversation. Without this, visitors may play and leave without learning anything about your brand.
The most effective stands use games to support discussions, demonstrations, and lead capture.
4. No Clear Call to Action
Games without a clear next step often result in missed opportunities. Visitors enjoy the interaction but leave without knowing what to do next.
Prize-based games like the Crack the Safe or Prize Crane Grabber work particularly well when linked to QR sign-ups, demo bookings, or competitions. Even non-prize games should be tied to a simple call to action, such as speaking to a team member or registering interest.
5. Underestimating Staffing Requirements
Assuming a game can run itself is another frequent oversight. While many games are straightforward, they still benefit from light supervision, encouragement, and explanation.
Without staff involvement, games can appear confusing, uninviting, or disconnected from the stand. A friendly prompt from a team member often makes the difference between a visitor walking past or stepping in to play.
6. Overcomplicating the Gameplay
Exhibition halls are noisy and busy environments. Games that require long explanations or complex rules can deter participation.
Short, intuitive games with clear outcomes tend to perform best. Simple challenges that take seconds to understand are far more effective at drawing people in and keeping queues moving smoothly.
7. Forgetting About Branding
A game that isn’t visually aligned with your stand can feel out of place. Without branding, visitors may enjoy the activity but fail to associate it with your company.
Our Custom Branding service ensures games reflect your colours, messaging, and campaign identity. This reinforces brand recall during the interaction rather than relying on memory after the event.
8. Relying on Games Alone
While games are powerful tools, they are most effective when combined with other elements such as demonstrations, giveaways, and conversation-led engagement.
As we explain in our guide on games versus giveaways, the strongest exhibition strategies often combine interactive games with branded takeaways or follow-up materials.
9. Not Planning for Peak Times
Busy periods can quickly overwhelm a stand if not planned properly. Without queue management or alternative engagement options, visitors may walk away.
Using multiple games, timed challenges, or social games from our Competitive Games range can help manage footfall and keep visitors engaged during peak times.
10. Choosing Games Too Late in the Planning Process
Leaving game selection until the last minute can limit branding options, delivery windows, and layout flexibility.
Early planning allows time to align games with your stand design, marketing campaign, and event objectives. It also ensures availability during busy exhibition periods.
How We Help Exhibitors Avoid These Mistakes
At Expo Play, we don’t simply supply games—we help exhibitors choose the right ones. We consider your sector, audience, stand size, and goals, then recommend options that support engagement without creating friction.
From Logistics & Supply Chain Shows to Charity Events and Hospitality Shows, our experience across sectors helps us spot potential issues early and design setups that work smoothly on show days.
If you’re planning an exhibition and want to avoid common pitfalls, we’re always happy to advise on the most effective approach.