From November 21–23, 2025, the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia played host to PAX Unplugged 2025, the annual celebration of tabletop gaming that has become a fixture in the convention calendar. Unlike its digital-heavy counterparts, Unplugged is devoted entirely to board games, RPGs, miniatures, and card play, which is a tactile reminder that gaming can be as much about shared space and human connection as it is about mechanics.
December’s featured video comes from JBit Vlogs, a content creator focused on documenting conventions and gaming culture. Their lens on PAX Unplugged 2025 offers viewers a first-hand look at what makes the event special in their perspective. From demo tables to tournaments, from casual play to deep strategy, JBit captures the breadth of experiences that filled the convention hall.
The video opens with sweeping shots of the expo floor, where publishers and indie designers alike showcased their latest creations. JBit’s narration emphasizes the accessibility of the event: families learning new games together, veteran players testing their skills in competitive card tournaments, and newcomers discovering the possibilities of analog play. Highlights include demos of Disney Lorcana, Magic: The Gathering events, and indie prototypes that are a wink and a nod at the possible future of tabletop design.
But, what sets this coverage apart is its focus on the people behind the games. JBit spends time with developers explaining their inspirations, cosplayers bringing characters to life, and attendees sharing the thrill of discovery. That human-centered approach mirrors the intent of PAX Unplugged itself, which is powered by collaboration, storytelling, and shared imagination.
At almost 45 minutes, the video balances the spectacle that’s so often seen on a PAX expo floor with making connections. For those who couldn’t attend, it serves as both recap and a tease to consider attending in the future. For those who did, it’s a reminder of why tabletop culture continues to have such an enduring audience: because dice, cards, and boards can be the means to authentic storytelling and making connections.
Did you attend PAX Unplugged 2025, and what aspects of the show in particular left a powerful impression with you?
Whether you are an event coordinator, press, or general attendee, if you have an event video to share with us, please let us know and we’ll be happy to feature it!
