GEN CON SoCal (Anaheim) :: Nov. 16-19

[hextr1p]

:: GEN CON SoCal ::

: November 16-19, 2006

: Anaheim Convention Center
: Anaheim, California

: LINK TO OFFICIAL SITE (http://www.gencon.com/2006/socal/)

November isn't too far off, so let's start planning!

• Who's interested?

• If interested, are you only looking to go for a day, or more than that?

• What day would work best for a Heroscape gameday at the Con?

[allskulls]

I would be down for the hotel thing but my wife is due in December (it's a girl).
Going for a day should be cool but I won't get to stay over.
Saturday the 18th for me.

Man, Hex, that's a drive!

[hextr1p]

I would be down for the hotel thing but my wife is due in December (it's a girl).
Well... hmmmmm. Can't argue with that, can I? Heh... congratulations, by the way... as late as it may be.

A bit of a drive, yeah. But it'll be a great change of pace, and a chance to get away for a weekend. So yes, bring on the drive!

VIVA LA GENCON!

[reapersaurus]

Well, I think the deciding factor for me is whether Hasbro is going to support HS at this convention or not.

[hextr1p]

Well, I think the deciding factor for me is whether Hasbro is going to support HS at this convention or not.
If I remember correctly, they were at last years GCSC. However, their presence was very weak. I could be wrong on that, though. Oog attended last year, so hopefully he'll post and let us know.

[allskulls]

From what I understand, Oog was the Heroscape presense. He ran the tourney.

[Detrimentalman]

Not sure what i'm doing yet, more then likely just one day.

[jtserick]

Oogie may correct me but there was no official Heroscape support at SoCal Gencon last year that I saw.

As far as this year goes I'll be there at least on Saturday and Sunday barring any work conflict.

I might bring my RV and stay in the area. There are a couple of RV parks within a long walk from the convention center. If I do, heroscaper guests and crashers would be welcome. With the slideouts extended there would be room to build a very large map!

[Hahnarama]

Pencil me in!

It's only

103 days, 9 hrs, 56 min, 42 sec away.

It's no

Indy Gen Con! :gencon:

But I might be up for it.

[boom]

I'll be there on Friday, 1/2 of Saturday (after my kids soccer) and Sunday, if the wife hasn't killed me by then. :wink: I'm only 25 mins away, so no hotel for me. :(

Now as far as format, good luck! Hopefully the North/South beatdown will give us a consensus on what's best.

I don't believe Hasbro will have a presence there. There was none last year. Oogie may have info of a vendor stepping in to fill that void, don't know for sure. :?: There will be a ton of other games to while away the hours.

[reapersaurus]

I might bring my RV and stay in the area. There are a couple of RV parks within a long walk from the convention center. If I do, heroscaper guests and crashers would be welcome. With the slideouts extended there would be room to build a very large map!That sounds like a really cool set-up. :thumbsup:

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

Last year there was no official HS presence.

This year... unknown.

[BIGJIM]

SUNDAY MIGHT BE GOOD FOR ME , AS FOR SATURDAY I NEED TO PLAY THAT AS IT GOES. FORGET ANY OTHER DAY BECAUSE OF WORK ! :brickwall: IF THERE WILL BE NO OFFICIAL REPERSENTATIVE LET FIGUARE IT OUT AFTER THE SOCAL/ NOCAL GAME !

[Lakai]

I am gonna try and make it again this year, the drive wasnt so bad last year from Vegas + there were a ton of awsome stuff to try out that it made up for the complete abstence of Hasbro

[hextr1p]

I am gonna try and make it again this year, the drive wasnt so bad last year from Vegas + there were a ton of awsome stuff to try out that it made up for the complete abstence of Hasbro
Well said. Even if Hasbro doesn't show up, I'll get my Heroscape fix partying with the attending 'Scapers. And I'm also going to help broaden my gaming horizons, as well as just have a great time hanging out!

[boom]

Time to bring back this thread. How about organizing something for late Saturday? That way we can enjoy the day's events in the Con and get to serious gaming when the vendor area is closed.

Let's get fired up about this. The folks back east had a great time at their's. I see no reason why we can't go for the same. 8)

[hextr1p]

Time to bring back this thread. How about organizing something for late Saturday? That way we can enjoy the day's events in the Con and get to serious gaming when the vendor area is closed.
I like that idea. A little later in the day for the gaming might also make attending a little easier for some who are not able to go to the Con. And Saturday works for me. Whenever works me, too! Heh...

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

Well .H3X., if your getting a hotel room.....

:banana: :banana: :banana:

:headbang: :toast: :headbang:

:drunk: :puke:

:jotun:


Don't plan on getting much sleep!

[allskulls]

Tell them all you need in the room is tables and chairs...and a fridge :wink:

[reapersaurus]

Reading on BGG about Gencon SoCal, it seems that the word has been out for years that this con is not a good boardgaming con.
At ALL.

I realize that's from a hardcore gamer community perspective, but the complaints are pretty convincing about how bad it is.

Has anyone read those threads, like this one: http://boardgamegeek.com/article/1019436 :?:

[ultradoug]

I had a post about this I guess it got ghost blown up, been awhile since I had a post blown up.
Anyway.. I dont forsee myself making it to this the number of people just is not epic enough to warrent anther trip to CA. Plus its SO-Ca and I dont know that aera at all so I could not sight see. Also I dont know anyone there to give me a couch to sleep on during said sight-seeing so.. . yeah wake me up if someone wants to send me enugh money to go, get me a couch to sleep on and if HS will even be there! Zzzzzzz. :p

[boom]

Reading on BGG about Gencon SoCal, it seems that the word has been out for years that this con is not a good boardgaming con.
At ALL.

I realize that's from a hardcore gamer community perspective, but the complaints are pretty convincing about how bad it is.

Has anyone read those threads, like this one: http://boardgamegeek.com/article/1019436 :?:

Hmm, interesting stuff, but basically the opinion of 4 people out of thousands that I saw there last year. Was the vendor area small? I don't know, I was there all day Friday and Saturday and didn't get to demo all the games I wanted to or could have done. Where some demo'ers indifferent or lazy? None of the ones who I sat with (although the guy who demoed "World of Warcraft" seemed a little overwhelmed).

Now I'm not a hardcore boardgamer (whatever that is, exactly), but I do enjoy boardgames, frequently play boardgames and know what I like in a boardgame. SoCal Gencon had 'em, I played 'em and had a blast for two days.

My 2 centavos. :wink:

[hextr1p]

Reading on BGG about Gencon SoCal, it seems that the word has been out for years that this con is not a good boardgaming con.
At ALL.
Yeah, I've heard that GC SoCal is pretty tame compared to the other major Cons (CC, GC Indy, and E3). However, I'm going because I wasn't able to go to CC or GC Indy this year, I'd like to get away for a while, I need to scratch my itch to go to a convention, and I'd like to hang out and 'Scape it up with some of the SoCal crew.

Lame or not, I will be there! Heh heh...

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

Had a great time last year. Plan on having a great time this year!

[reapersaurus]

oogie -

1) What events are there for boardgaming?
2) Do the events cost extra money, in addition to the entrance fee. What are those fees and event costs?
3) Are the events worthwhile? I heard about that GC7 group that is crappy at running events, and sure wouldn;t want to pay for the pleasure of having them drop the game down and say "Here ya go" then take my ticket.
4) What did the HS tournament consist of last year?
I still haven't heard anything about it IIRC, other than you ran it. :shrug:

[Grungebob]

Had a great time last year. Plan on having a great time this year!Oogie didn't you run a tourney there last year? I am also supposed to send you the banner from our Gencon tourney. I will toss it in with your Hawthorne. Hey where can I read about last year's tournament?

[allskulls]

Had a great time last year. Plan on having a great time this year!Oogie didn't you run a tourney there last year? I am also supposed to send you the banner from our Gencon tourney. I will toss it in with your Hawthorne. Hey where can I read about last year's tournament?
If I am not mistaken, it went down with HQ. I didn't make it to that one but I do look forward to this one...just wish I could go more than one day.

[allskulls]

oops :oops:

[Grungebob]

Had a great time last year. Plan on having a great time this year!Oogie didn't you run a tourney there last year? I am also supposed to send you the banner from our Gencon tourney. I will toss it in with your Hawthorne. Hey where can I read about last year's tournament?
If I am not mistaken, it went down with HQ. I didn't make it to that one but I do look forward to this one...just wish I could go more than one day.

Hey, GB, what format did you use for the tourneys?I thought it was Oogie that had the first HS event at a major con.

What do you mean by format? We had a combination of events. 9 total events that included learning events and small, medium and large tournaments. We had two themed events and I wish we had gone even more into themes. Next year we will add exhibition games for fun 'Scaping. I am going to turn the introductory events into teaching/exhibition games where we will team experienced players with new players for more interaction and fun.

[allskulls]

It was Oogie...I was just chiming in cuz I know he won't be on the boards until Monday.

I asked about format but actually tried to edit it out...I'm sure all the tourney info is on the site somewhere.

I do like the idea of teaming experienced players with new ones. I have fun everytime I teach the game. Taught a couple gamers at the ComicCon and introduced HS to a couple of old HC buddies...they both beat me and want to come back for more :wink:

[Grungebob]

It was Oogie...I was just chiming in cuz I know he won't be on the boards until Monday.

I asked about format but actually tried to edit it out...I'm sure all the tourney info is on the site somewhere.

I do like the idea of teaming experienced players with new ones. I have fun everytime I teach the game. Taught a couple gamers at the ComicCon and introduced HS to a couple of old HC buddies...they both beat me and want to come back for more :wink:Well I got this idea from Truth. See I think it would be cool if you had somebody on each team play a Valkerie General who does not have a figure but is just there to give orders, and then each newbie or participant could play a unit. the General cannot talk to his players but just places order markers on them. Whoever he gives the X to is the only one he can talk to about the strategy etc... It could be fun.

[allskulls]

That does sound fun! And not just for new player introductions...with some tweaks it could make a geat "experienced" players' game night. Should make a 6+ player game go by faster too :D

[Grungebob]

That does sound fun! And not just for new player introductions...with some tweaks it could make a geat "experienced" players' game night. Should make a 6+ player game go by faster too :DYa I really want to do this style of game. I think it would be a blast.

[Grungebob]

Hmm.... It would be really cool at Gencon next year, if we could get Craig to play as one of the generals, and maybe Rob as the other!!.....

[HouseMouseGames]

It seems that Oogie has become the "designated" So Cal Gencon Event Organizer ("...and some have greatness thrust upon them..")

I've sent him an email to begin plans for the So Cal event. I'm looking for an exceptional turnout...please don't disappoint THE MOUSE (or I'll gnaw through the wiring in your car engines.) :)

[Grungebob]

You GO Oogie!! Do it up right and if you need anything just ask!!

[reapersaurus]

It seems that Oogie has become the "designated" So Cal Gencon Event Organizer ("...and some have greatness thrust upon them..")

I've sent him an email to begin plans for the So Cal event. I'm looking for an exceptional turnout...please don't disappoint THE MOUSE (or I'll gnaw through the wiring in your car engines.) :)Wow - did I miss some off-board discussions and decisions?
It sounds as if HouseMouse games will be sponsoring the HS events at GC SoCal. :?:

Woo-hoo! Greatness! I've been hoping for more sponsorship, advertisement, and exposure for HS events for awhile now.
Thanks in advance to Sandra for bringing exposure to Hasbro. :lol:
Thanks in advance to Oogie and any SoCal guys who help in the demos/free-play/tournaments.

Grungebob - Ya, I've heard mention that Oog ran a tourney last Gencon SoCal - I've trying to get information for months about what it consisted of - what maps were played, how many people, did you run a free play or demo event, what structure did that use, etc.

Oog - Please, tell us anything you remember from last year's events.

And there's a HS banner now? That's great to hear - I was trying to cobble together anything I could for Kublacon's HS events this year.
Is there a picture of this banner?
And is there a supply of business cards to advertise HSers, or was that limited supply?

I'd love to help with approach or ideas for what may work well for HS event planning. I'm glad it sounds like there's a group of HSers wanting to take this task on.

[hextr1p]

The banner is of this image:

http://www.heroscapers.com/oldgallery/albums/userpics/10027/SFbanner_test1.jpg

Printed on vinyl.

[reapersaurus]

Sweet! :drool:

What size?
Was it captured in ANY pics @ Gencon?

[Hahnarama]

It seems that Oogie has become the "designated" So Cal Gencon Event Organizer ("...and some have greatness thrust upon them..")

Designated or sentanced! :P


Piece of advice don't pull a G Bob and spend most of your con running the games. Get plenty of helpers so you can hit the demo floor.

[Joah]

Hmm.... It would be really cool at Gencon next year, if we could get Craig to play as one of the generals, and maybe Rob as the other!!.....
That would be so cool.
I really like the game idea itself.
Way to go Truth!

GB, would that the the final match? (Provided R&C could participate)
How would you qualify to have a squad commanded by R&C?
I realize this just came up, but it is an incredible idea.

[HouseMouseGames]

The banner is of this image:

http://www.heroscapers.com/oldgallery/albums/userpics/10027/SFbanner_test1.jpg

Printed on vinyl.

The banner is 2' x 6' with grommets in the corners. We purposely made it somewhat generic so we could us if for whatever events come up.

[Grungebob]

Hmm.... It would be really cool at Gencon next year, if we could get Craig to play as one of the generals, and maybe Rob as the other!!.....
That would be so cool.
I really like the game idea itself.
Way to go Truth!

GB, would that the the final match? (Provided R&C could participate)
How would you qualify to have a squad commanded by R&C?
I realize this just came up, but it is an incredible idea.Well Truth played in a big huge game of Battlecry with Richard Borg. He told me about it and I thought that it would be cool to do an exhibition game of Heroscape using the same technique. Joah, you would not need to qualify to enter this event, just register. I really haven't talked to truth about it since I thought of doing it. Anyway, whoever is the General has the order markers. Each hero or squad or squad type if common, is played by an individual player. The decision of who to give the order marker to is the general's but that's it the actual moving and attacking is decided by the individuals. The X marker can be placed by the General on any unit and can be used at any time to communicate with the unit it is on. Seems like it would be a fun way to get a lot of people involved.

[Joah]

I gotcha. I was thinking an actual tournement event.
It is a very cool idea.
It would be fun to watch.
"Iron 'Scape" almost.

[LilNewbie]

That sounds a lot like the Overlord games in Memoir '44, GB. I think it would be a blast to play HS like you described.

Newb.

[reapersaurus]

The banner is of this image:

http://www.heroscapers.com/oldgallery/albums/userpics/10027/SFbanner_test1.jpg

Printed on vinyl.

The banner is 2' x 6' with grommets in the corners. We purposely made it somewhat generic so we could us if for whatever events come up.What a fantastic idea!
:thumbsup:

You guys were really thinking ahead..... :D

[Grungebob]

That sounds a lot like the Overlord games in Memoir '44, GB. I think it would be a blast to play HS like you described.

Newb.Yah another Richard Borg game. I am going to try this concept out and see how it works. I want to do this for next Gencon Indy.

[feekonea]

Ill just try to make it the day of the tourny, nuthin else if heroscape isnt there, if it is, perhaps ill make it another day as well, I wouldnt count me in just yet though. soccer, soccer, soccer.

[Grungebob]

The banner is of this image:

http://www.heroscapers.com/oldgallery/albums/userpics/10027/SFbanner_test1.jpg

Printed on vinyl.

The banner is 2' x 6' with grommets in the corners. We purposely made it somewhat generic so we could us if for whatever events come up.What a fantastic idea!
:thumbsup:

You guys were really thinking ahead..... :DI don't know how SoCal works but Indy would not let us put the banner up on the wall behind our tables so we ended up putting it on as a skirt at the front of one of our rows of tables. It was below eye level and mostly went unnoticed. A stand is what most other groups had and those were very noticeable.

[HouseMouseGames]

I don't know how SoCal works but Indy would not let us put the banner up on the wall behind our tables so we ended up putting it on as a skirt at the front of one of our rows of tables. It was below eye level and mostly went unnoticed. A stand is what most other groups had and those were very noticeable.

I didn't see the banner in any of the pictures so I assumed it had become a table skirt. We'll do a sign with an easel stand for Gencon SoCal.

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

Well I'm back... Another Monday at the office. The Millions of Dollars in Budgets are due tommorrow. So I'll be brief.

There were plenty of demos and events. It was my first year, so I didn't get to see everything, and most of Saturday was dedicated to HS.
Besides an entrace fee, the games cost minimum $1.50 (one ticket).
Boom and I went to some events and they were worthwhile. Some may not be.

Last years tourney was fairly small. Only about 8 people. Everyone was from the boards. We had some people asking questoins, but HS was relatively unknown back then.

I made tropheys for 8 (Everyone got a trophey). The rules were the basic rules now used at the monthly SoCal tourneys. 400 points (win-loss record determines winner). Best records face of in championship match. That's it. There was not a ton of events, just one. There was a small turnout, but we did drum up some interest from specators. No formal support of any kind, just me and Boom and all our sets and a bunch of trophies. It was a blast!

Sandra and I have talked about her involvement at GenCon SoCal. With HouseMouse's backing there should be a nice turnout.


I will contribute all I can to help make this even a success, but I don't think I can be the lead man on this one. Boom and I will be participating in the $10K and $1K Dreamblade events (Sat and Sunday... I think). But anything out side of that I will help out. (organizing, setting up, tearing down, running an event, whatever) I do hope to be able to play in some of the events as well.

Don't know who else might want to step into this role... Hextr1p???

I think finding that person (I'll be there Riker to their Picard)
and
Finding a reliable pool of helpers will be the most important things.

Any takers?

http://www.heroscapers.com/oldgallery/albums/userpics/10027/SpideyAvatar.gif

[boom]

I'll throw my hat in the ring as a helper for some events. I don't mind demoing the game for any new folks. One small request-could we possibly have any major tournies in the later hours, when the vendor areas are closed? We can take advantage of all the other demos we'd like to see, run an hour or 2 of HS demos in the interim, and play some serious stuff in the later stages. Last year, the main hall remained open late for sponsored tournaments and such. We had our tournament in the "free-play" areas, as we were not official (no fee charged to play). This way, we take advantage of the additional space in the main hall, avoid scheduling conflicts during the day and hopefully make the most of our time there.

[Grungebob]

Make sure that the events match the volunteer support so if you guys have any question then keep the events to a minimum. It would be cool to have some variety of events. I'm surprised that nobody has submitted any yet. When ids the cutoff for that. ?

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

They are not even accepting Event applications yet.

Badge Registration: May 29th (Noon PST) - October 13th (Noon PST)
Event Registration: September 11th (Noon PST) - October 13th (Noon PST).

[Grungebob]

Very cool. I think each of you ought to run a single event. Register all events at once using the EO's accaount. Submit the form for free badges and re-embursement. Advertise here in threads and on the friont page!!!

[hextr1p]

Don't know who else might want to step into this role... Hextr1p???
As much as I would like to step into this role, I can't say that I'll able to. While I am going to Cali to hang out at GC, I am also going as a vacation of sorts. Meaning, I've scheduled visits with friends and family outside of GenCon SoCal as this is my first trip back to Cali since moving to AZ. I'm not going to be able to see my brother for Thanksgiving, and was hoping to hang out with him. Unfortunately, my brother is about as anti-gamer as they come. He laughed at the fact that my decision to visit him came after I remembered that he was also in LA where GCSC is held. And I'm still trying to nail down when I'm going to be able to visit a friend so I can hang with him and meet his new wife.

I'd be more than happy to help with events, step in whenever I can. But to be designated as the lead role would not be wise considering my schedule while I am there.

[allskulls]

If we could all take a different day of heading events, would that work? I could Volunteer for Saturday (my only day there but I don't mind).

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

If we could all take a different day of heading events, would that work? I could Volunteer for Saturday (my only day there but I don't mind).

That might work.

Then I should be able to pull Thurs (or maybe even Friday)!?!


No works .H3X., I was just prodding you a little. heh heh.
Just glad we'll be seeing you again!!!

[reapersaurus]

While I don't have any say unless I drive all the way down and run them myself, I'd request that the HS events and tournament are fully-registered events, on the official schedule and getting as much notice in the schedule books as possible, for the exposure of the game and to make Sandra's sponsorship investment worthwhile.

[hextr1p]

Do we have to have events every day in order to placed on the event schedule? I know it would be prime to have events throughout the Con, but what about having events only 1 or 2 days? Giving volunteers more of a focused time slot, and possibly having more helpers at events so as to have as much help as possible?

Just a suggestion...

[Grungebob]

Well then make sure to have each day full of events and that the days are back to back so that you can leave everything set up overnight.

[MegadeV]

I'm heading to LA at that time and may be attending one day and have a few questions about how the tournaments usually work:

1) How long do the tournaments usually take? (how many battles and how much time)

2) Do you have to bring your own pre-made army that fights every battle?

3) Are all battles fought on the same map?

4) Are the map(s) known beforehand?

[srmalloy]

I didn't see the banner in any of the pictures so I assumed it had become a table skirt. We'll do a sign with an easel stand for Gencon SoCal.
Two "pickle barrels" with lids (or large paint mixing buckets), a bag of sand (poured into the buckets for stability), and some PVC pipe in a big 'U' shape (three 6' lengths of straight pipe and two 90º elbows) gives you a frame you can hang the banner from and have it be up in the air and visible.

[Grungebob]

I didn't see the banner in any of the pictures so I assumed it had become a table skirt. We'll do a sign with an easel stand for Gencon SoCal.
Two "pickle barrels" with lids (or large paint mixing buckets), a bag of sand (poured into the buckets for stability), and some PVC pipe in a big 'U' shape (three 6' lengths of straight pipe and two 90º elbows) gives you a frame you can hang the banner from and have it be up in the air and visible.I think I saw that episode of Mcguiver!!!

[hextr1p]

Two "pickle barrels" with lids (or large paint mixing buckets), a bag of sand (poured into the buckets for stability), and some PVC pipe in a big 'U' shape (three 6' lengths of straight pipe and two 90º elbows) gives you a frame you can hang the banner from and have it be up in the air and visible.
Actually, I say we have someone dress up cosplay style like this guy...

http://www.heroscapers.com/oldgallery/albums/userpics/10007/normal_orcbearer.jpg

... but replace the Utgar flag with the 'Scapefest banner!

:D

[Detrimentalman]

I dunno i would much rather see a Raelin cosplay so people will be forced to stop and :shock: at the pretty lady.

[Avenger]

I would love to come, but my schedule is largely unknown until weeks before, I'll check back later...

[Grungebob]

Hey what is the status here? Are you Cali guys going to let this chance go by!!?? Man get some events planned and drum up some interest here!! How many people do we know are going??!!

[allskulls]

Hey what is the status here? Are you Cali guys going to let this chance go by!!?? Man get some events planned and drum up some interest here!! How many people do we know are going??!!
Well, I just had some things come up that makes forseeing attendance kind of cloudy at the moment. When I know for sure I will make it then I will definately beat those drums!

[HouseMouseGames]

Hey what is the status here? Are you Cali guys going to let this chance go by!!?? Man get some events planned and drum up some interest here!! How many people do we know are going??!!

I'm still here to provide game and prize support but someone (or someones) must step forward to take charge of scheduling and running the events. Grungebob can guide you through the set-up process. But you do have to commit some time and effort to "make this happen".

[Rhydderch]

Hey what is the status here? Are you Cali guys going to let this chance go by!!?? Man get some events planned and drum up some interest here!! How many people do we know are going??!!

I would love to plan an event but I do not think I can spare the time. I would probably fail an entire round of med school finals if I did :(

If only GenCon So-Cal were 4 weeks earlier... Anyway I can help walk people through what needs to be done if needed but I expect GB can provide that kind of technical support. In other words I'm mostly useless here :P

[Rhydderch]

Ugh. Now I have GenCon on my mind darnit! Makes it hard to study! Especially when you try to think of event plans... Sigh. What I would give for an extra hour everyday! =P

Sandra (HouseMouse) just curious but would it be possible for you to PM me whatever information you sent oogie? I'd like to take a look at the plans and/or to-do list. Maybe I can throw some suggestions out there even if I cannot go. Thanks.

[DFlynSqrl]

I just booked my flight and hotel and I'm all set to be there. I'll be hanging out with some friends most of the time, but I'm definately up for some HS if anyone can put something together. :)

[RenMan]

Did anyone step up to the plate and offer to run the Heroscape events at GCSC? The board looks quiet for a while now.

Does this mean we'll just be playing pickup games?

[Detrimentalman]

I guess so, I didn't realise it was sneakin up so fast. Been so busy lately that the time just kinda passed by without me noticing. I had the idea of taking a look at it now, but registration is in two days by noon. It's just way too much to look at last minute. If anyone did register anything i'll see if I can swing coming in to help with it, otherwise I may just skip gencon all together. Isn't something I would consider going to at all if it wasn't for heroscape.

[Hahnarama]

if I can swing coming in to help with it, otherwise I may just skip gencon all together. Isn't something I would consider going to at all if it wasn't for heroscape.

Are you nuts?!!!!

Man if can get the time GO!

Where's that post from this summer.......oh ya here it is

30 Days…

30 Days…

30 Days until the BIGGEST event, you thought I was going to say the Best Four Days in Gaming but I am sure that is ©, in gaming.

If you are lucky enough to be going, consider the following. Look beyond the Halls of Valhalla. Take the time to EMBRACE this living beast that is GenCon. Even if for one brief moment consider all the other possibilities of gaming existence. You never know what undiscovered gem is waiting for you to discover it. Revel is the diversity of the Geek, the Dweebe, the social introvert, and the main stream cooperate sell out. (Even the Booth Babes and Girls in chain mail if you must) This is a time and a place where ALL are welcomed and respected. Become one with the masses. Thrive off its energy and give your own to help it grow. What ever the reason you are going whether it is to do battle and lay waste to your enemies and walk away as the grand champion or pick up the latest game…..no matter win or lose or new game in hand or not……….ENJOY IT! This only happens once a year. Before you know it four days will be gone in the blink of an eye or a roll of a die. Savor each waking moment.


GenCon :gencon: August 16-19, 2007

[Detrimentalman]

Well Hahnarama you certainly are very passionate about it. Ok maybe I won't ignore it all together, but i'm still a skeptic. I'll peruse through the events once they have them up and then decide. I guess there could be something, Comic con certainly was a lot more diverse then I thought it would be.

[reapersaurus]

It's too bad Hasbro isn't supporting HS in any way at Gencon SoCal.

If they were, there might be reason for HSers to go. But why should HSers pay for the priveledge of paying $$$ to get in, then pay $$ to play, and even having to set up and run the games themselves?

Why not just get together at a regional GameDay, where there is cheap and plentiful food and drink, no entrance fees, and more comfortable surroundings?

[Detrimentalman]

If they were, there might be reason for HSers to go. But why should HSers pay for the priveledge of paying $$$ to get in, then pay $$ to play, and even having to set up and run the games themselves?

Why not just get together at a regional GameDay, where there is cheap and plentiful food and drink, no entrance fees, and more comfortable surroundings?
Agree with you there, that's my main problem with going.

Anyone know what time the convention closes each day? I think it says 9pm, but that just might be the main hall or something. It would be great to have some after hours heroscape going on. That is something I would definately show up for.

[Hahnarama]

Well Hahnarama you certainly are very passionate about it. Ok maybe I won't ignore it all together, but i'm still a skeptic. I'll peruse through the events once they have them up and then decide.

Well to me gaming is just more than Scape or any one game, and GC :gencon: offers me the chance to demo new games and play old favorites for 20+ hours a day while I am there.

Passionate? Hell dude I've already booked the "Sweet Suite" for next year, and let me tell you that was no easy task.

If you're just into Scape and don;t want to see other games, don't waste your time or $$. You'll be severely disappointed. But if you are open to it give it a shot. It will blow your mind away.

[Detrimentalman]

I'm just more of a videogame player, mostly because of the lack of people I know who will come over consistently to play tabletop games. At least with consoles and the PC I have an unlimitted number of people to play with via the net. I find the best way to learn about a new game is having a friend show it to you, that way you definately have someone to play with =) Otherwise I just end up with a great game that I don't get to play which is frustrating to say the least.

I'll keep checking the list of events though and pay the door-price if I change my mind.

[reapersaurus]

If you're just into Scape and don;t want to see other games, don't waste your time or $$. You'll be severely disappointed. But if you are open to it give it a shot. It will blow your mind away.Are you talking about GenCon, or GenCon LA? :shrug:

[Hahnarama]

GenCon :gencon: in general. I mean if you are just going to see one game it's probably not worth your $$. Of course there are those that go and just play one game for 96 hours straight, ala LARPer funk. I love going to GC. Every year I discover new games I have to get or old favorites I've never played. Like this year it was Domaine. Killer game.

[reapersaurus]

Well, I know I'm stating the obvious, but Gencon != (does not equal) Gencon SoCal......

They are totally different animals.

Gencon SoCal doesn't have a portion of the things going on as Gencon AFAIK. I have read many reports about SoCal, and it doesn't seem to hold a candle to Gencon in those areas you mention.

[Hahnarama]

Well, I know I'm stating the obvious, but Gencon != (does not equal) Gencon SoCal......

They are totally different animals.

Gencon SoCal doesn't have a portion of the things going on as Gencon AFAIK. I have read many reports about SoCal, and it doesn't seem to hold a candle to Gencon in those areas you mention.

You're probably right. I know it's a much smaller beast, and a lot of the hype is not there becasue of GC, but you still have most of the big players, Fantasy Flight, WotC etc.... showing up. I am betting that if you were a gamer you could still go and have a good time on a smaller scale.

Wasn't last year the first time it was a 3 day event and not 4?

[reapersaurus]

It's not important whether gamers could show up and have a good time there.
That had better be a given.

The question is:
Is the travel/lodging, entrance fee, food costs, and pay-to-play fees worth the fun, when compared to a weekend of normal gaming?

From what I can gather, unless you are a gamer that does not have normal local gaming, GenCon SoCal is simply not worth the $$$.

[Grungebob]

Well, I know I'm stating the obvious, but Gencon != (does not equal) Gencon SoCal......

They are totally different animals.

Gencon SoCal doesn't have a portion of the things going on as Gencon AFAIK. I have read many reports about SoCal, and it doesn't seem to hold a candle to Gencon in those areas you mention.Have you been to Gencon Socal? These cons are what the attendees make of them. If just one dedicated person had planned ahead and picked up the tourch on this thing I think Heroscape would be a big hit at SoCal. You then have a focal point to your trip as there would be Heroscape events to participate in. Then you toss in all the other gaming and voila!

[Hahnarama]

It's not important whether gamers could show up and have a good time there.
That had better be a given.

The question is:
Is the travel/lodging, entrance fee, food costs, and pay-to-play fees worth the fun, when compared to a weekend of normal gaming?

From what I can gather, unless you are a gamer that does not have normal local gaming, GenCon SoCal is simply not worth the $$$.

It depends on what you want to take away form the experience. I go to hang out once a year with my "crew" We hit the floor together and seperately and just DEMO the hell out of everything we see. It's like a test drive. I was all stoked about Bison as my new must have game this year. HATED IT! (Two thumbs up with a twist!) Not buying that game w/o trying it paid for my 4 day pass. To me GC :gencon: is about the experience; the sights, sounds, and unfortutely the smells. :P It's about hanging about coming back aournd 6 PM, having a few cocktails and then gaming until 3 AM everyday. Not just 1 game but 30+ games. I can't get that except at GC. :gencon:

I'm not knocking your opinion, but to me I'd pay 3x what I do for the experience.

[reapersaurus]

If just one dedicated person had planned ahead and picked up the tourch on this thing I think Heroscape would be a big hit at SoCal.I've been thinking about this for a bit, and GB - can we discuss this a bit?
It seems very hard to get a handle on how much interest there is in HS in the gaming community, of course. And I'm wondering what your impressions are, all rose-colored glasses aside:

How many people do you think there actually are, even for the largest gaming convention (supposedly) on the West Coast (GenCon SoCal), who will pay the significant entrance fee and event fees to play in a HS tournament?

I don't know, but the fact that Ooogie, allskulls, detrimentalman and some pretty hardcore HSers down south didn't feel like spending the effort to get something going, I'll trust their judgement that they didn;t think it would be worth the time/effort/$$$ investiture to get a large HS event attempted.

There are 3 possible causes that come to my mind:

1) They were all busy or something.

2) They felt there wasn't enough gameplayers interest to warrant putting it all together, for little #'s of people likely to play in an organized, sponsered tournament.

3) There simply are not many people crazy enough to put forth the effort that it takes to put together HS events at conventions.

Anyone's thoughts?

[Grungebob]

If Codeman can muster up over 40 people in a bowling alley in some town called Treetown, then why can't somebody in California get a decent event going at freak'n Gencon??!! Makes no sense to me. If they were having it in Dallas (or anywhere in Texas) we would be all over it!!

[Hahnarama]

I cannot speak for anyone else but I am just too selfish. GB spent about 90% of his time in the Minis Hall running the tournys. I think that was AWESOME of him to do, but for me I just couldn't give up that much, if any, of my :gencon: time. I'm just glad I was able to help out by handling all the shipping from Sandra. When I go to GC I have a mission to accomplish. Demo, Demo, and Demo. I cannot do that by being in the mini hall 8 hours a day. It takes a very special kind of person to give of themselves. To spend their entire GC there. But a lot of folks do just that. I have afriend form Game Base 7. She's been running the Open Game Ballroom 500 @ GC for almost 15 years. To her that's what is all about.

So try not to be too harsh on the SoCal guys. Maybe they just can't find the time.

[Grungebob]

I cannot speak for anyone else but I am just too selfish. GB spent about 90% of his time in the Minis Hall running the tournys. I think that was AWESOME of him to do, but for me I just couldn't give up that much, if any, of my :gencon: time. I'm just glad I was able to help out by handling all the shipping from Sandra. When I go to GC I have a mission to accomplish. Demo, Demo, and Demo. I cannot do that by being in the mini hall 8 hours a day. It takes a very special kind of person to give of themselves. To spend their entire GC there. But a lot of folks do just that. I have afriend form Game Base 7. She's been running the Open Game Ballroom 500 @ GC for almost 15 years. To her that's what is all about.

So try not to be too harsh on the SoCal guys. Maybe they just can't find the time.Hahn I hope you realize that I did not intend to spend that much time at the miniature hall running Heroscape events. It is something that just fell in my lap so to speak. I did get to wander the hall and I saw a few things I liked but this year's games were a little less than I wanted (Next year looks awesome). Anyway, I am not trying to be harsh at all. My whole point is that if a couple of people made some effort in Cali there might be more interest from others.

[Hahnarama]

Dude, no worries. The only time you were harsh is

1 you did not let me win @ Catan Saturday night.
2 you REFUSED to sign my Sir GB card becasue you said I was going to sell it on Ebay for BIG $$$$$ :P

[reapersaurus]

Well, I'll continue this discussion attempt with asking you guys (and anyone) their opinions about this BGG thread: http://www.boardgamegeek.com/thread/121792?sk=gencon+socal

You've got a tough row to hoe. There have been three lackluster (at best) years of boardgaming so far, and the word is out in the local boardgaming community that it isn't worth the time or money to attend. Addressing and reversing that image is going to be a lot of work, and may well not be possible in the short term.

GenCon seemed to come to town with an attitude that if you just hung up the shingle, people would come, and deal with whatever, just because it is "GenCon". That may be true (to an extent) for CCG and RPG players, but it doesn't work for boardgamers.

First, a lot of the local Los Angeles-area boardgamers are used to being able to attend a day of high-quality gaming for free or for a nominal $5 fee. The local full-weekend conventions only charge $20-$35, with no event fees; but even those relatively reasonable costs put a *lot* of the local gamers off.

In order to justify GenCon's relatively high admission (not to mention the event fees (which *really* stick in the craws of the locals)) and the cost of gas and/or hotels, you have to deliver a superior product/experience.

To put it bluntly, GenCon SoCal is not doing that. There's a bit of a chicken and egg thing going on, but the reality is, without a high-quality experience, you just aren't going to get the people, so it falls on you to do what it takes to deliver.

You should prominently designate a sizable area for open boardgaming. That area should be open 24 hours a day.

That area should not be relegated to an off-site hotel; ghettoization never makes anyone happy. (And you should make sure that the lights stay *on* in that area. Last year, the lights in the off-site hotel ballroom went out repeatedly for extended periods of time; that sort of unprofessional occurance should not be tolerated or even possible.)

Game Base 7 should not be involved in running events unless and until they are able to deliver an acceptable level of customer service (at a minimum, this means being polite and professional, and being able and willing to properly explain the rules of the games they "run").

*Every* boardgamer I've spoken to about it has a GB7 horror story, and no one involved with GenCon seems to know or care. They are doing you more harm than good; you'd be better off with a relatively bare schedule than with them running a lot of events. Whatever their level of service at Indy, they are just too far from home in SoCal to do a decent job.

Have an ombudsman available (and prominently labeled and visible), with the knowlege and power to deal with issues like incompentent "help" from event runners, table-space conflicts, etc.

Something has to be done about the exhibitor hall. SoCal is a shadow of Indy, and that hurts badly. A lot of sins would be forgiven if the exhibitor area was compelling. Do what you have to do to get more and better exhibitors, particularly boardgaming-oriented ones.

You need to do better outreach to the local community; they are your attendees, and the ones that will run events that people actually want. That means doing more than setting up a table for a few hours at the local game conventions and leaving a few stickers and flyers once they leave (well before the day is over) or flyering the local gamestores.

Run more tournaments. That means more than Settlers and Puerto Rico.

Minimize overlap between prominent events (like tournaments); you don't want or need your big guns cannibalizing each other.

To recap, you have an image problem and an execution problem.

You have to address both; fixing the execution problem isn't enough, you have to fix it, and then convince people who've been turned off by the last three years to give you another chance. You also have to convince people to attend that haven't yet, either through not being convinced in the first place, or being put off by bad word of mouth.
It appears there is a systemic problem with GenCon SoCal. :shrug:

And SoCal has a boardgame event every 2 or 3 months that is superior to Gencon SoCal, apparently and doesn;t cost much $$ to get great boardgaming in: http://www.socalgamesday.com/

So maybe SoCal just doesn;t have as much need for a pay-to-play boardgame event?
Perhaps that could explain the general disinterest in spending massive amounts of time/effort/$$ to make a HS event happen @ GenconSoCal?
Maybe the guys instinctively know there isn;t much boardgaming action going on, and we all know (AFAIK) that there's little vendor support, and Hasbro's not going to be there in any capacity for HS....

I'm trying to figure out the main reasons why a convention as big as Gencon SoCal will not be having a HS event.
I'm also wondering if it is worthwhile running any HS events @ Kublacon, also. As GB knows (and I'm sure anyone who saw him could attest) it takes a lot of effrot to make these things happen.

I just don;t know if there are many people that are crazy enough to want to bother.
ESPECIALLY (critical point here) when HS seems to work better in an environment AWAY from the hustle and buslte of a major game convention.

It seems to fit better at a HSers house, or local gamestore, or even a bowling alley. :lol:

Any discussion/thoughts about these aspects are welcomed.

[Detrimentalman]

There are 3 possible causes that come to my mind:

1) They were all busy or something.

2) They felt there wasn't enough gameplayers interest to warrant putting it all together, for little #'s of people likely to play in an organized, sponsered tournament.

3) There simply are not many people crazy enough to put forth the effort that it takes to put together HS events at conventions.

Anyone's thoughts?

Personally GenCon and Cons in general are a new thing for me and I started up school recently after a big break so that was weighing on my brain a lot. That plus a drop in activity in the SoCal community and I just wasn't thinking about heroscape very much so I let it all slip past me. Otherwise I would have been up for organizing at least a day of hosting or helping out.

With everyone downplaying GenCon socal on top of the difficulty in just trying to get consistent gamedays in the area i'm not sure how big of a success we could have had with a tournament. We definately could have got more local interest in the game with some demos and that would have been worth spending my time to do.

I think #1 most important factor is the absence of hasbro. The entry fee alone would be worth it for me with being able to spend some time with the heroscape people and get my hands on a certain figure or possibly see the next wave behind glass etc. Forget the active socal people not doing anything, the company itself deems us not worth their time and effort which says a lot. For that reason alone I have mixed feelings about missing the opportunity to spread the heroscape bug.

I'll continue to try and keep local things happening, been on a mission to try and find a gaming store near me that I can try and convert to heroscapism and hopefully next year Hasbro will reconsider our gencon.

[Grungebob]

Very interesting read Reaper. Perhaps California will need to do things differently. I wonder if Gencon Socal will survive. You guys seem to have a hard time finding a venue. There are so many players out there it is a shame that you are not having big events. Yours should be the biggest.

[reapersaurus]

As detrimentalman says, a little speck of corporate effort would go a long way towards making people want to come to Gencon SoCal, GB.

It really does boil down to - if companies don't send much (or any) support for their games to Gencon SoCal, they can't be too shocked when there isn't much interest. :headshake:

And since it is distinctly applicable to this subject, I want it noted that I offered my (and my group's) efforts as an Envoy for conventions like Gencon SoCal and Conquest SF, and Hasbro doesn't want to support HS events run for them.

[Hahnarama]

I guess I am at a loss. I cannot comprehend why an event that showcased most of the latest games and offered you a chance to game would fail. I'm not sure it's the location, which is changing after this year, or just the fact that it is very anti climatic after GecCon :gencon:. I do not know anyone who has been to both so I don't have a frame of reference to compare the two events. I was hoping to be In Cali around SoCal time but it just is not going to work out. I would have liked to have gone for a day and seen what it was all about/compared to Indy.

[Rhydderch]

Another possible reason for the lower Socal turnout may be the demographics of the population here. I'm not sure there are as many indoor game players. Many of my California friends are too busy at the beaches or hiking to care about games like Heroscape. When they do play indoor games its more likely to be games like Halo or poker. When I was in Chicago on the other hand there were a decent number of gamers and some fairly large game shops. The same seemed to be true of Vermont. So part of the problem with GenCon SoCal could be the people who live out here.

Even the SoCal GamesDay Reaper mentioned seems to only get a hundred or so people. A pretty good turnout but not exactly the several thousand you would expect at a serious convention like GenCon.

Then again we have ComicCon out here and it seems to do well enough so who knows? :shrug:

[Detrimentalman]

Rhydderch makes a very good point. The socal gamers are generally of the casual console player. Plus the pace out here is always so rushed.

ComicCon is amazingly diverse in their exhibitors which is why it does better here I think. You have comic books fans of all ages on top of celebrity fans from broad spectrums. Then you have video games, board games, movies, and anime. I was really shocked at the variety there was. All you need is something important to someone to pull them in and there's a little of everything "geeky" to do just that.
On the otherhand GenCon SoCal so far has a variety of games most people haven't heard of and events that you pay for on top of your ticket price. I'm scratching my head as to how they get anyone to come at all. It does sound like there are some interesting roleplaying events, but my generation missed that bus and if I was to try it out it wouldn't be with a bunch of strangers.

[Hahnarama]

......ComicCon is amazingly diverse in their exhibitors which is why it does better here I think. You have comic books fans of all ages on top of celebrity fans from broad spectrums. Then you have video games, board games, movies, and anime. I was really shocked at the variety there was.

The SD Comic Con is successful because it is the premier event for the genre. It's just not about the printed media but also TV and Movies. I am getting the feel that GC can only suppoort one event per year.

On the otherhand GenCon SoCal so far has a variety of games most people haven't heard of and events that you pay for on top of your ticket price.

A four day pass to GenCon :gencon: costs me $65. I'd gladly pay $200 for all the fun I have. Most of that coin is to pay the FT GC staff, and processing fees. GC makes its $$ from the big sponsors like WotC, and Fantasy Flight. All of the game tourneys have "very small" fees associated with them. They have to rent the floor space and/or pay for their supplies. House Mouse paid for the Scape tourneys this year. Yes you pay to play in a tourney. Most of them have prizes for the top finishers. But it cost you NOTHING to get in on a pick up game.

[Detrimentalman]

But it cost you NOTHING to get in on a pick up game.
Except for the door cost and if you are really only interested in one game then thats an exorbitant price to possibly play a few pickup games. Even more so when you consider the price of hosting your own game day, $0.
I'm sure trying demos of these different games would be interesting and likely fun, but most of these games require a heavy investment to really get into which isn't something I am willing to shell out. Not with a great game i'm already involved in on top of all my electronics.

It's not really worth arguing about I guess; we are talking about two different events and are both looking to get different things from them. It's obvious we'll disagree about the pros and cons.

I still just want to know what I can do to squeeze some heroscape out of this that doesn't involve me lugging all my stuff into GenCon on the hopes I can convince some people to play with me :wink:

[jtserick]

I'm still planning on taking my RV and staying nearby for at least Friday and Saturday nights. However... my wife is having carpal tunnel surgery and I may have to cancel attendance entirely depending on her level of incapacitation.

[Hahnarama]

It's not really worth arguing about I guess; we are talking about two different events and are both looking to get different things from them. It's obvious we'll disagree about the pros and cons.

Dude,

No one is arguing with you, at least I'm not. I'm just trying to stand on my soap box and preach the good word of GenCon :gencon:!

[reapersaurus]

Dude,

No one is arguing with you, at least I'm not. I'm just trying to stand on my soap box and preach the good word of GenCon :gencon:!Dude,
isn't it kind of hard to preach about something you haven't attended? ;)

:shrug:

:poke:

Gencon SoCal != Gencon

[Hahnarama]

Huh, argument is mentioned and guess who shows up. :boxing: :P

[DFlynSqrl]

I'm with Hahn. I'm going to demo as many games as I can stand. Meet up with some friends. Probably go to Disney one day. And make the best of it whether there is any Heroscape or not. And not give a flip whether it is = or != to GenCon Indy.

[Hahnarama]

I'm with Hahn. I'm going to demo as many games as I can stand. Meet up with some friends. Probably go to Disney one day. And make the best of it whether there is any Heroscape or not. And not give a flip whether it is = or != to GenCon Indy.

I like this guy!! :D

Let me know how the new and improved Space Mountain is.

[Grungebob]

I'm with Hahn. I'm going to demo as many games as I can stand. Meet up with some friends. Probably go to Disney one day. And make the best of it whether there is any Heroscape or not. And not give a flip whether it is = or != to GenCon Indy.

I like this guy!! :D

Let me know how the new and improved Space Mountain is.Everybody likes this guy!! He was voted as best sport at our last big tourney by a very large margin.

[DFlynSqrl]

I like this guy!! :D

Let me know how the new and improved Space Mountain is.

Thanks! I will definately let you know about Space Mountain. I'm just hoping my friends don't make me go through "It's a small world"... or is that only in Florida? <crosses fingers>

Everybody likes this guy!! He was voted as best sport at our last big tourney by a very large margin.

:oops: Thanks for the kind words Grungebob.

[Hahnarama]

hanks! I will definately let you know about Space Mountain. I'm just hoping my friends don't make me go through "It's a small world"... or is that only in Florida? <crosses fingers>

No a Small World is there. The original one from the Worlds Fair in fact. And no complaining out of you mister. I have small kids and the last time I was there I had to ride the d a m n thing 14 times over 4 days. But on the bright side depending on what time of year you are there its a great ride for some free A/C.

You must ride the Indy Jones ride.

:hijacked:

[Detrimentalman]

I'm still planning on taking my RV and staying nearby for at least Friday and Saturday nights. However... my wife is having carpal tunnel surgery and I may have to cancel attendance entirely depending on her level of incapacitation.
Well I hope everything goes well with her surgery!

No one is arguing with you, at least I'm not. I'm just trying to stand on my soap box and preach the good word of GenCon !
Well maybe not so much an arguement as two people talking in circles without getting anywhere =)

[Hex_Enduction_Hour]

, I am not trying to be harsh at all. My whole point is that if a couple of people made some effort in Cali there might be more interest from others.

The only thing remotely feasible for me to do is something local. I've even considered having a Friday HS demo/workshop at my school for the 4th-6th grade students.

Honestly, does this sound stupid? Probably not appropriate for an elementary school...

I could do something at the Junior High or High School too. And this would be a 'next year' thing. My assignment this year is insane...

[Rhydderch]

, I am not trying to be harsh at all. My whole point is that if a couple of people made some effort in Cali there might be more interest from others.

The only thing remotely feasible for me to do is something local. I've even considered having a Friday HS demo/workshop at my school for the 4th-6th grade students.

Honestly, does this sound stupid? Probably not appropriate for an elementary school...

Meh. Depends on the kind of people who live in your area. Most parents probably will not care since they probably do not pay enough attention to their kids and what they see/play anyway. You may have the occassional unhappy parent though so I'd consider a permission slip for the kids so they can obtain their parents' approval. Helps you avoid the people who might say the game is Satan Worship though they might show up anyway just to bug all the other kids and parents :roll:

As for helping out with GenCon, for my part, I have un-avoidable school assignments which conflict with it and no income to pay for it. Even so I did ask for the event information some people sent to ODB but no one bothered to get back to me. I'm not really that interested in hosting an event I do not actually have time or funds for if I get no feedback or support. Maybe I can help out next year if I have time and more people are interested. Would be fun. Would be nice if Hasbro made an appearance too...

[sexymama]

Hey guys,

Can you explain a little bit about the whole idea of GenCon. Is this a convention for different games and HS may be there or not?

Please fill me in or guide me to the right place to read upon it.
Thanks to whoever helps!

[Hahnarama]

Sorry I don't know anything about it. :P

I can only speak about the "Big One", write your own jokes, here in Indy.

There is a general room that has almost all of the big players in the Industry. Most of larde demo areas set up to try old favs or brand new releases. There are halls dedicated to minis, CCGs, etc.....You can find/DISCOVER any game out there.

You can look here for advice on Indy

http://mypage.iu.edu/~wrporter/

or the forums over at gencon.com are a good place to start

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

I know there has been some questions about GCSC, but it is to close for me not to atttend (about 20 mins away from home).

I'll be there and probably be able to do some Scaping after the main Convention Hall closes (after 6pm).

I added the Saturday Date to the Events Calander. You can RSVP for it.

We are beyond the event submission deadline, but can still meet for a big game in one of the many gaming halls.

Check it out.

http://www.heroscapers.com/events/

[hextr1p]

I RSVP'd, but yeah, I can make it on Saturday. I'll be in town, and Saturday is the day I've set aside for a full day of GenCon and whatever. And later in the day works fine, too.

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

Woot Woot!!!

Boom and Allskulls will be there as well.

ODB

P.S. - I still have your glasses.

[jtserick]

Saturday for sure for me. RV trip for the whole weekend is still up in the air.

[hextr1p]

Boom and Allskulls will be there as well.

ODB

P.S. - I still have your glasses.
Excellent! We'll definitely have to set something up. I plan on driving in on Friday night so I can be there all day Saturday. So any time works for me.

And you know what... I'd completely forgot about those sunglasses until you mentioned them just then. Heh...

[Runehardt]

I'll be there saturday and sunday. I was helping run Hidden City Games Clout booth but they apparently just pulled out. Now I can participate in all of the CLOUT events instead. I would be happy to bring an army or two and play some Heroscape if something as going to happen.
On a side note - I know that GenCon SoCal is supposed to be pretty small but I have a feeling there will be a massive turn out for the Warcraft TCG tournaments. The top prize is $100,000.00 and they're giving out 1000.00 to each of the top 100 players!!! That kinda dough will bring out a large crowd!

[Runehardt]

I've kinda quickly looked through this thread and I still can't tell if there is going to be any Heroscape battles at GenCon SoCal. If there is, please confirm it here.
Thanks!

[hextr1p]

I've kinda quickly looked through this thread and I still can't tell if there is going to be any Heroscape battles at GenCon SoCal. If there is, please confirm it here.
Thanks!
Rune, we're trying to put something together on Saturday. Time and location still has yet to be determined, but it will most likely be later in the day, toward the evening. Looks to be more of a laid back event, nothing too competitive or organized. The event might even be offsite of GC, at a different location. I think Oog and the SoCal crew are going to try and nail down the details in the days ahead.

That's really all I know at this point...

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

.H3X. is right.

It looks like it's gonna be laid back.

Currently the plan is...

When: Sat night 6:30pm
Where: Open Gaming Area in Hotel Ballrooms (last year someone sat in the main lobby, next to the True Dungeon setup, and told Scapers "Hey, were in Ballroom B".

Note: To play in the Open Gaming areas you need to have a GenCon Badge ($25 for a day pass - I think). That's part of the reason we are doing after the main hall closes. So everyone can look around and demo games, play in event, etc.... Then after the main hall closes it's "Scape till you Drop!!!"

If there is anyone else who might want to offer up a Hotel Room or other "Free Admission" location to game, it will be considered (the closer to Anaheim Convention Center the better).

Looking forward to Scapin',

ODB

[allskulls]

READY TO SCAPE!

[Hahnarama]

Will any of you be willing to pick up the Exclusive figure they are handing out?

[boom]

This info has slipped past me. What exclusive? (And yeah, I'd be willing to pick up any freebies I can for 'ya.)

[hextr1p]

Will any of you be willing to pick up the Exclusive figure they are handing out?
Is this sarcasm, Hahn? Heh heh... or are you aware of a company who will be at the con handing out a decent exclusive?

SPECIFICS, MAN! GIVE US SPECIFICS!!

;)

[boom]

Will any of you be willing to pick up the Exclusive figure they are handing out?
Is this sarcasm, Hahn? Heh heh... or are you aware of a company who will be at the con handing out a decent exclusive?

SPECIFICS, MAN! GIVE US SPECIFICS!!

;)

Yeah! And can I trade it for a Sir Hawthorne? :lol:

[Hahnarama]

Exclusive figure? That's news to me.

[Hahnarama]

So did ANYONE make it to GenCon SoCal?

[Oogie_Da_Bruce]

I need to chime in and say that I won't be making GenCon SoCal (50/50 chance for Sunday).

Let's just say....

E coli SUCKS!!!!

[hextr1p]

So did ANYONE make it to GenCon SoCal?
I'll be there late morning tomorrow.

And sorry to hear of Oog's misfortune... but I hope he or whoever came down with ecoli is okay.

[Hahnarama]

Oogie man that just blows chow!

Hex....make sure to take some pics.

[hextr1p]

Hex....make sure to take some pics.
I will do my best. Though for some reason, the timing of my flash has been jacked. It's not syncronized correctly with the shutter, so pictures needing a flash still come out dark. Lame.

If anything, I'll take some pics and do my best to adjust the lighting in Photoshop. Perhaps the lighting indoors will be decent enough that I can do this.

[Hahnarama]

If you are taking requests try and look for the new Horrorclix release. I've seen the Predator but I'm hoping they have the Lab set for display.

HAVE A BLAST MAN!

[hextr1p]

If you are taking requests try and look for the new Horrorclix release. I've seen the Predator but I'm hoping they have the Lab set for display.

HAVE A BLAST MAN!
Request taken.

[jtserick]

Looks like I've got to bail along with Oogie. Last minute rush project at work. Maybe I can make it down to the Ballroom after hours and sneak in to get in some HS.

[Wilkerson74]

Hex....make sure to take some pics.
I will do my best. Though for some reason, the timing of my flash has been jacked. It's not syncronized correctly with the shutter, so pictures needing a flash still come out dark. Lame.

If anything, I'll take some pics and do my best to adjust the lighting in Photoshop. Perhaps the lighting indoors will be decent enough that I can do this.

If you have the option adjust your shutter speed from 1/60th to 1/30th...or close to...this will double the amount of time the aperture is open, thus doubling the light..and hopefully giving you properly exposed photos.

Now...I will not be able to make gen con this week, but I know quiet a few of the so cal league will be there to represent....Im looking forward to your photos and reports.

And....if anyone ends up with a plethora of sir hawthornes, I would be happy to pay for one, as opposed to going through ebay....just throwing that out there.

Have a great time....viva la gen con!
Cheers.

[allskulls]

I need to chime in and say that I won't be making GenCon SoCal (50/50 chance for Sunday).

Let's just say....

E coli SUCKS!!!!

Dangit! Stupid sickness.

[Hahnarama]

If you are taking requests try and look for the new Horrorclix release. I've seen the Predator but I'm hoping they have the Lab set for display.

HAVE A BLAST MAN!
Request taken.

That and maybe some pics of the overall Con floor. I would like to compare it to Indy GenCon :gencon:

Have a blast!

[hextr1p]

Okay, I've had to make a tough decision and not to go. Even with Oog and others pulling out, I was still planning on going as my brother lives in Venice Beach. So I was going to hang with him for part of the day, and then hit the con. My brother is the manager of a large retail clothing company, so I was happy to hear he was able to get the time up what with Black Friday right around the corner.

Well, he called me earlier this evening and told me he had to go in. He wasn't able to get coverage he needed, so he has to go in and help fill the void as they prep the store for the upcoming holiday. Ridiculous... so I'm not going to drive five hours tonight just to hit the con. Instead, I'm putting the money I set aside to help aid my trip to GC Indy in '07.

Apologies to those I said I'd hook up with pics, but it's just not worth it anymore for me to make the trip. :(

[Joah]

Okay, I've had to make a tough decision and not to go. Even with Oog and others pulling out, I was still planning on going as my brother lives in Venice Beach. So I was going to hang with him for part of the day, and then hit the con. My brother is the manager of a large retail clothing company, so I was happy to hear he was able to get the time up what with Black Friday right around the corner.

Well, he called me earlier this evening and told me he had to go in. He wasn't able to get coverage he needed, so he has to go in and help fill the void as they prep the store for the upcoming holiday. Ridiculous... so I'm not going to drive five hours tonight just to hit the con. Instead, I'm putting the money I set aside to help aid my trip to GC Indy in '07.

Apologies to those I said I'd hook up with pics, but it's just not worth it anymore for me to make the trip. :(
Totally understandable Hex.
I look forward to meeting you in Indy next year.
I really hope you can make it.

[Wilkerson74]

Now...I will not be able to make gen con this week, but I know quiet a few of the so cal league will be there to represent....Im looking forward to your photos and reports.

.

I retract my last statement...the numbers are declining fast. I'll be happy if someone wants to post stick figure drawings.

[Hahnarama]

......Instead, I'm putting the money I set aside to help aid my trip to GC Indy in '07.

OK I'm holding you to that....


Hopefully there will be a Scaper who is going and can post some pics.

[allskulls]

......Instead, I'm putting the money I set aside to help aid my trip to GC Indy in '07.

OK I'm holding you to that....


Hopefully there will be a Scaper who is going and can post some pics.
Yeah, I hope so too...as I am out also.

[jtserick]

Hey, lets put on our own Con. Mickey's father has a lot of tables. Judy's uncle has a barn. Auntie Sandra can supply some prizes....

[boom]

Sadly for me, work nabbing me on Friday and a surprise soccer double-header for my son on Saturday put the kabosh on my Gencon plans. Seems like I would have been the only one there. Oh well, feel better Oog and hopefully all of us who hoped to be there can get together in the not too distant future.

[Runehardt]

Here are a few pics I took.
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/th_GC9.jpg (http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/GC9.jpg)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/th_GC8.jpg (http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/GC8.jpg)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/th_GC6.jpg (http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/GC6.jpg)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/th_GC3.jpg (http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/GC3.jpg)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/th_GC2.jpg (http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/GC2.jpg)
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/th_GC1.jpg (http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l295/rdoran2001/GenCon%20SoCal%2006/GC1.jpg)
I heard that the highlight was the True dungeon. Two hours to go through it. The Laser tag arena was popular and the Segway challenge looked like fun.

[Hahnarama]

OK the Batman, Thing, and Doc Doom are all re uses from GC Indy :gencon: 2005.

So I take it no Hasbro?

And tell me more about the Clout Tourny.

[MegadeV]

So I take it no Hasbro?


Nope, no Hasbro. I was there on Thursday, but was only able to stay until 3:00 so I wasn't able to do much besides check out the exhibits. Next time, I will definitely plan on at least two full days so I can get some good gaming in.

[DFlynSqrl]

I was there on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. (Went to Disneyland on Friday instead).

NO HASBRO.

I ended up playing in the Onyxia Raid for the WoW TCG on Thursday. It was pretty tough... especially since I had not played the game but just had it explained to me about an hour before we started. I'm not really a TCG person...

I played in a CLOUT starter tournament and got some great stuff. They are very generous in their give-aways. Everyone who entered got prizes. I really like this game. I ended up buying several boosters and another starter. It's a quick game and can be played anywhere.

I also got to play a miniatures game called Rezolution by Abberant games. It was pretty fun. It's "cinematic" style so combat is really brutal and fast. We played x2 200 pt. armies in about 15-20 minutes. I ended up buying a starter because I think I'll get more of my friends to play it than I have success getting them to commit to some of my other mini's games. (I like 15mm Napoleanics and 28mm WWII mini's games.)

WoTC was there showing off their new Star Wars Space Battle mini's. It looks pretty cool... and it's definately going to be another money-sink.

OH, and for fans of the "Order of the Stick" webcomic... I was able to find a copy of the game there. I was very excited about this purchase. :D

I also went through True Dungeon with some friends. Over-all I say the concept is really cool, but not really beginner-friendly. Once you show up they just start handing you stuff and not really explaining any of it. I was a little disappointed the first time around... but if I go again at least I'll know what to expect and possibly have more fun.

As far as comparing it to GenCon Indy... well, I didn't make it to Indy this year but just from talking to other folks at the SoCal Con it's about 1/4 the size of Indy (especially in the Exhibiters area).

I might try to post some pic's, but since I'm a Miniature's gamer most of my pictures are of terrain and min's so most folks might not find it interesting. There was a lot of Flames of War on Saturday so I have a lot of pictures of that.

[Hahnarama]

WoTC was there showing off their new Star Wars Space Battle mini's. It looks pretty cool... and it's definately going to be another money-sink.

If you have any pictures of those please post them. They go on sale This Friday and I am debating whether to get sucked into the game or not.

[DFlynSqrl]

Not the best picture, but it's the only one I got.

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/1668/p1010043vn6.th.jpg (http://img75.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p1010043vn6.jpg)

Bah, my first time posting an image on here.... you should be able to click on it and see the image better.

[Hahnarama]

Wow 2 other Star Destroyers in addition to the one in the starter set.

Must buy on Friday!

[Hahnarama]

A good review of SoCal from Wesley Crusher

http://suicidegirls.com/news/geek/19269/