For me there are two important events not to miss at Gen Con:
The ENnies and the costume contest.
The ENnies (Friday night) should be a no-brainer. Assemble with EN Worlders (and other board readers) and the crème of the publishing world. Participate in the excitement that is the world's première RPG awards.
The costume contest is on Saturday afternoon, and features filk/dementia artist The Great LukeSki performances as well as some brilliant costuming. You can also count on a few EN Worlders participating in it as well.
If I had to pick two days, Friday and Saturday would be it. If you can stand crowds, it is quite the experience to be swept into the dealer's hall by the masses when it first opens in the morning. I find it exhilarating to be in the middle of so many like-minded geeks, it's like coming home- or at least being beamed back up to the mothership.
As for what to do now, check out what events you'd like to attend. There are seminars, games, and non-gaming events aplenty. Check out the Gen Con planning thread for games planned by ENW'ers. Start saving your money, and planning what you're going to pack. A comfy pair of shoes and a water bottle should be at the top of your list!
Don't forget to drop by the ENnies booth to say hi!
johnsemlak said:
I've just sorted out summer travel plans that allow me to visit Gen Con for the first time ever. Can I get some quick advice on what planning I need to do now? I'm planning to drive from the Bloomington-normal IL area. I'm assuming that it' makes more sense to drive rather than try to find a hotel. Which days are the best to choose, if I only want to do a couple?
The fact that some people seem to plan for GC months in advance intimidates me a bit. Is there still time for me to do some cool stuff.
John