Fighting Fantasy Fest 6 – A Weekend to Remember
Our trip to London this September had one main purpose: attending Fighting Fantasy Fest 6. Of course, while we were there, we also visited some of the city's famous landmarks. We explored Westminster, spent time in the British Museum and the National Gallery, enjoyed a boat trip on the Thames, and tried to soak up as much of London's atmosphere as possible. But all of that was really just the backdrop. The highlight of the weekend was undoubtedly Fighting Fantasy Fest.
Hosted at the University of West London in Ealing, the event felt much more like a community gathering than a convention. Fans, artists, writers, collectors, and creators came together to celebrate a series that has inspired generations of readers. It was also a pleasure to meet legendary guests such as Sir Ian Livingstone, Karl Kopinski, Jonathan Green, Marc Gascoigne, and many others who have helped shape the world of Fighting Fantasy.
For me, one of the most exciting aspects was attending as an exhibitor. My maps were on display throughout the day, and I had the chance to talk with many visitors about their favourite books, adventures, and memories. I was also delighted to bring along a selection of hand-drawn sketches and work-in-progress pieces, giving visitors a glimpse into my creative process and showing how a finished map gradually takes shape.
The feedback was invaluable. I learned which maps resonate most with fans and, perhaps more importantly, which ones surprised me.
I had always assumed that my map of The Warlock of Firetop Mountain would attract the most attention, but many visitors were actually more interested in Forest of Doom and The Citadel of Chaos. I also discovered that Deathtrap Dungeon remains a huge fan favourite, which convinced me that it deserves an updated map in an isometric style sometime in the future.
Another pleasant surprise was the reaction to the small gifts I had brought with me. The bookmarks and pull-tab markers I gave away proved far more popular than I expected, and it was wonderful to see visitors enjoying them alongside the maps.
What impressed me most, however, was the warmth of the community. Everyone was welcoming, enthusiastic, and eager to share ideas and stories. Whether someone had been collecting the books for decades or was attending their very first festival, there was a genuine sense of friendship and shared passion. People were even kind enough to overlook the occasional moment when my excitement outran my English vocabulary!
Fighting Fantasy books may be solitary adventures on the page, but FFF6 was a reminder that they also bring people together. Fans from different countries and backgrounds all connected through a shared love of these books, illustrations, and adventures.
When we headed back to the airport early on Sunday morning, we took home far more than photographs and souvenirs. We returned with new ideas, useful advice, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable community.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by my table, looked at my maps, shared their thoughts, or simply stopped for a chat. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved in organising the festival. The event ran smoothly from start to finish, and the volunteers were incredibly friendly, helpful, and welcoming throughout the day. Their hard work and enthusiasm played a huge part in making the festival such an enjoyable experience.
Hopefully our paths will cross again on another adventure.
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