With countless exhibitors competing for attention, standing out on the show floor is no easy task. Footfall is unpredictable, and every stand is fighting to be seen.
But what if your stand could break through the noise?
At Tecna, we bring over a decade of experience in designing exhibition stands that drive real results. This guide is packed with high-impact exhibition stand games that work for any industry and any audience.
Step beyond the usual and leave a lasting impression. Make your stand a destination. Let’s get started.
Top 15 exhibition stand games to engage visitors
Exhibition games ignite excitement, draw people in and keep them engaged. The longer they stay, the more opportunities you have to connect, build relationships and generate high-quality leads.
When people play, they engage. And when they engage, they’re far more likely to convert.
Whether it’s a quick challenge or an immersive experience, these ideas will make your stand the one people remember.
1. Prize wheels
A high-energy, visually appealing game that creates excitement and draws a crowd. Attendees spin a large, branded wheel (digital or physical) for a chance to win prizes ranging from discounts and freebies to VIP experiences.
A tech company, for example, could offer exclusive software trials, branded wireless chargers, or priority access to a new product launch. The thrill of spinning encourages participation, and the prizes ensure visitors walk away with something tangible that keeps your brand top of mind.
2. Sporty challenges
Physical games energise your stand and encourage friendly competition. Mini basketball hoops, penalty shootouts, or golf putting games keep attendees entertained while subtly linking to your brand.
For instance, a sportswear brand could host a “Speed Shot” football challenge, where participants take a shot into a goal fitted with a speed radar. Those with the fastest shots could win a pair of limited-edition trainers. The leaderboard system encourages repeat plays, increasing engagement and foot traffic. Other sporty challenges could include mini golf, whack-a-mole or other reaction time games.
3. VR experience
Virtual reality transports attendees into a fully immersive brand experience. Whether it’s a simulation, a challenge, or a virtual product showcase, VR makes a lasting impact.
A travel company could offer a VR skydiving adventure over tropical islands, giving visitors a thrilling preview of the real-world destinations they offer. Participants who complete the experience could win exclusive travel discounts, creating a connection between the game and the company’s core services.
4. Industry-themed trivia quiz
A fast-paced quiz keeps attendees entertained while subtly educating them about your brand. Whether it’s multiple-choice, buzzer-based, or displayed on an interactive screen, quizzes turn learning into an engaging challenge.
For example, a cyber security firm could host a “Spot the Phishing Scam” quiz, where participants identify fraudulent emails within a time limit. The top scorers could win branded tech accessories, reinforcing cyber security awareness while promoting the brand’s expertise.
5. Reaction speed challenge
A game of lightning-fast reflexes that keeps players coming back to improve their score. Reaction walls, digital speed tests, or buzzer-based challenges all work well.
A motorsport brand, for example, could set up an F1 pit-stop challenge, where visitors race to tighten a virtual wheel as quickly as possible. A leader board tracks the fastest times, and winners get VIP race day tickets, linking the game to an exciting real-world experience.
6. Giant board games
Oversized games create an eye-catching spectacle while encouraging relaxed, social engagement. A financial services company could introduce a “Build Your Fortune” giant Jenga, where each block reveals a financial tip or discount offer. This adds an educational layer while keeping the game fun and interactive.
Unlike fast-paced games, giant board games encourage longer engagement, allowing exhibitors to have more meaningful conversations with attendees as they play.
7. Arcade games
Classic arcade-style games offer instant engagement and tap into nostalgia. Whether it’s a branded Pac-Man challenge, a claw machine, or a punch bag strength test, these games encourage repeat plays and leaderboard competition.
A fitness brand could set up a “Power Punch” arcade machine, where attendees test their strength by landing the hardest punch. A leaderboard tracks the top scorers and daily champions win branded gym gear, personal training sessions, or a VIP fitness experience. The mix of competition and instant gratification makes it a crowd magnet.
8. Social media photo booth
A well-designed selfie station encourages attendees to share their experience online, boosting brand reach beyond the exhibition. Themed props, AR filters and branded backdrops make it even more engaging.
A beauty brand could set up a “Glow-Up Booth” where visitors receive a mini makeover before taking their picture. Anyone who posts using the brand’s event hashtag could be entered into a draw to win a luxury skincare set, ensuring the brand gets continuous online exposure.
9. Augmented reality (AR) product showcase
AR adds an interactive, futuristic element to your exhibition stand. It allows visitors to explore your products in detail, without the need for large physical displays.
For example, a trainer brand could offer an AR-powered custom trainer experience, where exhibition stand visitors design their own shoes by selecting materials, colours and patterns. Once complete, their unique creation appears in 3D, fully rendered and lifelike. To take engagement even further, the brand could run a raffle, giving lucky participants the chance to have their design brought to life as a real, wearable pair.
10. Digital graffiti wall
A creative, interactive experience where attendees use digital spray cans or touchscreens to create their own artwork. This game works well for brands looking to inspire engagement through design and self-expression.
For example, a furniture brand could invite visitors to design their own patterns. The designs are then projected onto the actual furniture on the stand, bringing each creation to life and turning the product into a dynamic centrepiece.
11. Tabletop games
A quick, engaging game that encourages one-on-one or team-based interaction. A tech startup could host a “Startup Showdown” foosball tournament, where winning teams earn an invitation to an exclusive networking event, tying the game directly to business opportunities.
Tabletop games create an informal, relaxed atmosphere that keeps attendees engaged while allowing for casual conversations about your brand. has a completely different atmosphere. Visitors pick up on that energy – and they stay longer because of it.
12. Buzz wire game
A steady-hand challenge that builds suspense and keeps visitors focused. A car manufacturer could design a buzz wire in the shape of a racetrack – the person who completes it the fastest without touching the wire wins a VIP test drive in the brand’s latest sports car.
This game requires skill but is easy for anyone to understand, making it accessible and addictive.
13. Digital raffle
A modern take on the traditional raffle, where attendees enter digitally using a tablet or QR code. A luxury hotel chain could run a “Lucky Stays” digital raffle, where visitors submit their details for a chance to win a weekend getaway at one of their premium resorts.
Digital raffles allow exhibitors to collect leads effortlessly while offering a high-value prize that ensures engagement.
14. Fairground games
Carnival-style games bring nostalgia and excitement to any stand. Whether it’s a hoopla, duck fishing, or a coconut shy, these games create a playful, competitive atmosphere.
A drinks brand could set up a “Bottle Toss Challenge”, where attendees try to land a ring on oversized bottles of their latest product. Winners receive exclusive flavours or VIP tasting experiences, turning a simple game into a memorable brand experience.
15. Interactive touchscreen game
Simple, engaging and easy to play, touchscreen games encourage interaction while reinforcing brand messaging.
A sustainable fashion brand could run a “Match the Material” game, where attendees pair eco-friendly fabrics with their benefits. Those who complete it fastest could win a discount on their next purchase or a free tote bag, linking the game directly to product awareness and sustainability messaging.
Choosing the right trade show games
Feeling inspired? Before you get started, make sure the game you choose aligns with your brand:
- Start with your audience. What excites them? What challenges them? Choose a game that speaks their language.
- Balance budget with impact. If you’re operating on a budget, use creativity to get the most out of your games. Simple games can be just as effective as high-tech experiences when designed with strategy.
- Digital or physical? Both have their place. Digital games grab attention fast, while physical games create hands-on engagement. If your target audience spends a lot of time using technology, digital could be the way to go.
Benefits of games for exhibition stands
What opportunities do games present?
Increase footfall
A busy stand attracts more visitors – people follow the energy. Interactive games create movement, noise and excitement, making your event space stand out. Whether it’s a live competition, a digital leaderboard, or a physical challenge, a game turns your stand into a must-visit destination.
Placement matters. Set up games at the edge of your stand, so passers-by can see the action. Use bright visuals, engaging hosts, or live countdowns to build anticipation. The goal? Make stopping irresistible.
Generate leads
Games make lead generation effortless. A quick contact form before play, a QR code for leaderboard tracking, or entry into a prize draw ensures you capture key information while keeping the experience smooth.
Enhance brand visibility
Every leaderboard, screen and interactive element reinforces who you are. Customise game visuals with your company logo, integrate your messaging and make sure every touchpoint reflects your brand identity.
Social media takes this even further. A selfie challenge, social media contest, or shareable in-game achievement extends your reach beyond the exhibition hall. Visitors don’t just engage with your brand – they showcase it to their audience. The result? Exposure that lasts long after the event ends.
Create memorable experiences
Attendees won’t always remember pitches, but they will remember an experience that made them feel something.
The key? Engagement with purpose. When people compete, win, or even just laugh at their own attempts, they’re connecting with your brand on a deeper level. That positive moment sticks.
For exhibition stands that command attention
An exhibition stand shouldn’t just take up space. It should own it.
At Tecna, we turn ideas into show-stopping, high-performance exhibition stands. Bold, immersive and built to deliver results.
Whether you want dynamic gamification, digital engagement, or an experience that sparks curiosity, we design stands that don’t just look incredible – they work hard for your brand.
- Creative? Always. Our team blends big ideas with expert craftsmanship to create unforgettable brand experiences.
- End-to-end service. We take care of everything – from daring design to flawless build, installation and dismantle.
- Modular, easy, sustainable. Our modular system is fully customisable, lightweight for transport, quick to set up and designed for reuse, so you get a stand that’s flexible, cost-effective and eco-friendly.
