Dear ABCon 2025,
Walking into your halls this year felt like stepping into a world where imagination, laughter, and connection collided. Every corner was alive with the hum of excitement; friends discovering new games, designers proudly sharing their creations, and strangers becoming teammates over a shared strategy or a burst of laughter. You reminded us that ABCon is not just an event, but a celebration of creativity, community, and the simple joy of play.
Volunteers and Designers
ABCon 2025 would not have been possible without the dedication of its volunteers and designers. Volunteers arrived early and stayed late, organizing booths, checking supplies, and troubleshooting every little hiccup, ensuring that the convention ran smoothly. Designers, meanwhile, poured their creativity, culture, and countless hours into their games, sharing worlds built from imagination and experience. Watching the synergy between volunteers and designers, the careful coordination, the problem-solving, the sheer passion, was a reminder that ABCon is powered by people who care deeply about play, learning, and connection.
The Energy of Discovery
One of the most magical parts of ABCon 2025 was witnessing players explore new games for the first time. Eyes widened, strategies formed, and laughter erupted over unexpected twists. Each new game brought curiosity and wonder, giving attendees the chance to discover mechanics, stories, and challenges they had never encountered before. Those moments of discovery, that spark when a player finally “gets it” or uncovers a clever strategy, were some of the most memorable of the convention.
Celebrating African Game Design
ABCon 2025 also highlighted the incredible talent and innovation coming from African designers. From games that teach important lessons to ones that push the boundaries of storytelling and strategy, the convention showcased a growing ecosystem of creativity. 
Attendees were able to engage directly with the designers, ask questions, and learn about the thought process behind each game. It was a celebration of culture, ingenuity, and the unique perspectives that African tabletop games bring to the world.
Players and Community Spirit
The energy of the players themselves was what truly made ABCon come alive. Friendly rivalries, shared laughter, and collaborative problem-solving filled the halls. From casual players trying a new game to competitive tournament participants, everyone contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. The connections formed, whether through a clever move, a shared joke, or an unexpected victory, reminded us that the heart of ABCon lies in the people who come to play.
Looking Ahead to ABCon 2026
As we close the chapter on ABCon 2025, excitement is already building for next year. ABCon 2026 promises new games, new stories, and more opportunities for players, designers, and volunteers to come together. The convention continues to grow as a hub for creativity, collaboration, and fun, and we cannot wait to see what the next edition brings.
Thank You, ABCon
Thank you, ABCon 2025, for the laughter, the inspiration, and the memories that will stay with us long after the doors closed. You reminded us that games are more than entertainment; they connect us, challenge us, and spark creativity. From players discovering new favorites to designers seeing their ideas come alive, every moment celebrated imagination, collaboration, and joy. As we carry these memories into the year ahead, we look forward to ABCon 2026; new games, new stories, and new moments waiting to be shared.
With love,
Your devoted tabletop community
Written by: Hilda Alagada
