Here in 2020, it seems like any time since March of 2020 (about 5 months ago in reality), seems like a literal eternity. Going back beyond that, like 16 years back, for an 80s kid that will always be a kid at heart, is a bit overwhelming to process. With practically no events, shows, or things to do, I’ve recently started getting nostalgic for the old PhillyClassic video game expos that used to take place at (what once was) the Valley Forge Expo Center, now Valley Forge Casino Event Center.
The PhillyClassic video game shows were essentially small, yet heavy-hitting events, providing classic gaming, vendors, arcade games on free play, exhibits, cosplay, and a slew of notable guest appearances. It seems the shows ran from about 2000 to 2004, and people came from near and far to attend, and what a great show it always was. Later on, with it’s progression as “VGXPO”, it hoped to evolve into a all-around gaming event with modern games as well, although I don’t think that aspect ever materialized the way the planners had hoped, and it too ended around 2009. Nowadays, you can find a similar, albeit much larger event in Magfest, which happens a couple hours south of PA, at National Harbor in Washington, DC.
Even the venue itself, the (former) Valley Forge Convention Center, hosted so many great shows. I’ve been there what seemed like a million times; mostly for various computer shows, but other events as well. The place was definitely due for some refurb as it featured vintage-looking checkered floors as far as the eye could see, but really that was part of it’s charm.
Two fingers is all I would need to count the number of times I’ve been to that complex since the casino opened. I always thought that the casino itself took over the convention space and that it was gone, and I’m sure to some degree it did, but in doing a little research to write this, it seems the space was still there, but in recent years had dealt with major flooding that hit King of Prussia, and JUST reopened last year! Wow…and I gotta say, it looks pretty good! While it’s no secret I’m not a fan of white, the huge amount of contrast with the dark ceiling and lighter floors actually gets my seal of approval.
