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The SW Cornwall Games Expo, happening on Saturday, 30th November, promises to be a landmark event for gaming enthusiasts of all ages, writes Alex Duff.
This free-to-attend event celebrates everything analogue gaming has to offer and is a unique opportunity to reconnect with the joy of face-to-face interaction through games.
CHAOS Radio’s Bryna Jordan sat down recently for a game-changing conversation with the expo’s organiser and co-founder of Roll the Dice CIC, Dave Rayner, to explore the vision and excitement behind this first of a kind event in Cornwall.
What is analogue gaming?
“Analogue gaming is anything that’s not digital — where you’re in person, sitting or standing around a table, engaging in social communication,” Dave explains. From trading card games like Pokémon to classics like Dungeons and Dragons or Warhammer, analogue gaming is all about shared experiences in real time and space.
The vision behind Roll the Dice
A former teacher and lifelong gaming enthusiast, Dave co-founded Roll the Dice Community Interest Company (CIC) after observing a significant shift in how young people communicate. “Conversations like, ‘are you coming out’ have turned into, ‘are you online’,” he says.
The rise of digital communication has left many young people missing out on vital nonverbal cues that come with in-person interaction. This disconnect can lead to negative online behaviours spilling over into the classroom and increasing mental health challenges.
Dave recognised in-person gaming as a powerful antidote. By bringing people together over shared gaming experiences, participants can foster meaningful connections, break down barriers, and build essential social skills.
Building community through gaming
What began as a small gathering in early 2024 has grown into something much bigger. Roll the Dice CIC now runs kids’ clubs, family sessions, and adult-only events, alongside competitive tournaments like Warhammer in different locations throughout Cornwall.
In addition, it has established a shop and gaming space in Porthleven, open four days a week from 1 PM to 11 PM.
With the upcoming SW Cornwall Games Expo, Roll the Dice is taking its mission to the next level, showcasing the incredible potential of analogue gaming to bring communities together.
“These games are more than entertainment,” Dave says. “They’re an excuse to gather, a way to break barriers, and a tool for developing social communication skills. You’ve always got the game to fall back on during awkward pauses — it’s a shared interest that makes talking easier.”
The benefits extend to mental health, too, particularly for those struggling with social interactions or school life. “We’ve had school refusers — kids who aren’t being difficult but find social etiquette overwhelming — come to our sessions and thrive,” Dave adds.
What to expect at the SW Cornwall Games Expo
Initially planned as a small gathering of local creators, the first-ever SW Cornwall Games Expo has evolved into a major event with nearly 20 local vendors and countless gamers coming together at Helston’s Epworth Centre.
Highlights include:
· Board Game Library: Explore and play games from a curated library.
· Game Demos: Learn to play exciting new games like Star Wars Unlimited with demo decks, so you can try before you buy.
· Meet Local Creators: Discover unique offerings from vendors like the Golden Dragon Company.
Why attend?
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just curious, this event is a celebration of everything analogue gaming can offer.
The camaraderie of in-person gaming sets it apart from digital experiences. “Even if you lose the game, you stay and chat afterward,” Dave shares. “You don’t get kicked into a virtual lobby. The connections you build at the table are genuine.”
Expo details
· When: Saturday, 30th November, 09:00–17:00
· Where: Epworth Centre, Helston (directly behind the Central Methodist in the town center)
· Cost: Completely free!
· Contact: Find more details on Facebook @RollTheDiceCornwall
Can’t make the expo? No problem. Roll the Dice hosts regular gaming sessions and events, all listed at www.rollthedicecornwall.com.
With over 146 board games in its library — and more added regularly — you’re bound to find something you’ll love.
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