This paper aims at making available an interpretative framework to cast the different contributions on the economic assessment of mega-events by means of a computable general equilibrium model. A taxonomy of existing models and approaches is carried out, to clarify to what extent the differences in results are due to the various modeling choices. Their differences and relationships are highlighted, while also providing a standardized reference for future studies. A computable general equilibrium modeling solution that can balance the need to keep the model simple and the need to understand if the hosting country obtains long-term economic gains is suggested.