12/04/2026
1/2 Well... just... WOW! Thank you so much to everyone who came to OLL '26 and made it utterly, utterly brilliant!
We have so much content to go through and share to showcase the day but I wanted to just put something out today to acknowledge the INCREDIBLE efforts made by our team and everyone involved in making OLL '26 my most memorable day of the entire nine years that OLL has existed.
Firstly, I must acknowledge the legend himself - Dominik Diamond. His support and commitment to our event from concept to ex*****on has been extraordinary. We've had plenty of great guests at other events in the past, but no-one has actively engaged with our ambition in such a positive manner than what I've experienced around this weekend. Dominik gave his time for everyone, stayed later than planned and then delivered an evening show which completely tore the house down.
Watching the show unfold live, I couldn't help thinking what 12-year-old Jon would say to knowing that one day I'd be here doing this now, it's all rather surreal! I can't express my gratitude enough.
I don't think we even acknowledged that Dominik's Dangly Bits prizes (as they will now forever be known) were in fact genuine joystick ball-tops, which to be honest just made things even better :D
As always, impeccable hosting by Levelupleroy and some superb crowdwork by Middle Aged Gamer Guy (who may never play Mario 64 ever again after last night...)
Thank you to our artists and traders who put on a fantastic market area. I know we had challenges with the lack of car park spaces near the venue (thanks Anglia Square!) but everyone handled it brilliantly and delivered a superb offering to everyone to came along.
Then, onto our gaming communities. You guys already know this as we've done this so many times now, but I'll say it again. These events don't happen without you. Norwich Retro Gamers, Nintendo Norwich, Norwich Amiga Group, Coastal Retro, Albion Games Cafe, The Fort - Lowestoft Immortal Joysticks (too many to list!). I know you guys spend weeks planning your setups and curating your game lists, and this passion is what sets OLL events apart from anyone else. You are what makes OLL events unique. We don't ship in games and arcades from random hire companies or just take on sponsored exhibits. It's all designed to prioritise the experience of the day - and it shows.
More below...
