Gen Con's longest running Kickstarter seminar. A Q&A event with top industry experts across design, publishing, manufacturing, pledge management, fulfillment, distribution, & retail sales. 1 day only!
Description:
A Q&A-based panel discussion featuring the best industry experts across design, publishing, manufacturing, pledge management, fulfillment, distribution, and retail sales. Every event has a new panelists, and new questions. Past panelists have included: Jamey Stegmaier (SM Games) Michael Lee (Panda GM) Lance Myxter (Undead Viking Reviews) John Coveyou (Got Genius Games) Jeff King (All Us Geeks) Adam Clark (Creator of Kicktraq) Forrest Bower (Bower’s Game Corner Reviews) Joel Eddy (Drive Thru Reviews) Max Salzberg (Backerkit) Dan Halstad (League of Nonsensical Gamers) Jonathan Liu (Geek Dad) Allison Chase (Quartermaster Logistics), and many more. Come see the new faces for this year as we discuss the evolving world of Kickstarter.
1948, a Year of Big Changes: 75th Anniversary, National Security Decision Making (NSDM) Panel
Summary:
Panel discusses year of "big deal" stuff that shapes us: Tojo et. Al. executed adds closure to WW2, but Cold War firming, Berlin, Koreas; Gandhi assassination/India; Israel formed, war. NSDM staff.
Description:
Stuff happens, especially in 1948. 75th Anniversary of a year of "big deal stuff, panel reviews key events that continue to shape the world today. Gandhi assassination, India breaking from UK, Tokyo war crimes trials & executions, Alger Hiss/Whitaker Chambers and communist hunting, Truman beat Dewey, Israeli Declaration of Independence, First Arab-Israeli War, Czechoslovakia goes communist, Marshall plan passed, Berlin blockade and airlift, Voice of America jammed, World Health Organization formed, Treaty of Brussels (precursor to NATO), Tito-Stalin split, Malayan Emergency, South and North Korea established, Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Panel discussion by the National Security Decision Making Game staff, featuring Merle Robinson, lead designer and retired DoD analyst, and Captain Mark McDonagh, USN/Ret. formerly at the Naval War College.
A Board Game Creator's Guide to Creating Your Space on TikTok
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TikTok is one big game and just like any good game, you need a solid strategy if you want to win! Join some of #boardgametiktok's biggest names as we share about everything we've learned so far!
Description:
Are you a small TikTok creator looking to grow your following? Maybe you're a brand or publisher looking to reach a new audience? Or maybe you've always wanted to make content but don't know where to start? If you said yes to any of these, this event is for you! Come join a panel discussion with some of #boardgametiktok's most well known creators, like Kasey from @brain_in_a_jar, Alex from @boredboardgames, and Grant from @grantsgamerecs! These awesome creators with more than 500k followers between them will be sharing their tips, tricks, and best practices to help you navigate the new world of TikTok and become your niche's next big thing!
A crash course for game designers and publishers on game manufacturing. Tips on component choices and the production process. Ideas for running your crowd-funding campaign will be up for discussion.
Description:
Are you a game designer looking to get your game published? Are you just interested in the ins and outs of the board game industry? Join the team from Panda Game Manufacturing for a behind the scenes look at game manufacturing.
Luke Crane—designer of Burning Wheel, Mouse Guard, Torchbearer—presents a theory of design for roleplaying games.
Description:
In the past five years, while teaching game design at NYU, Mr Crane has developed a set of concepts for analyzing and discussing RPGs from the point of view of the designer, rather than the player or game master. His hope is to create a common language of design which will facilitate productive dialogue, as well as provide tools for new designers and allow educators to more easily convey important ideas about the medium.
As an Art Director and Illustrator at FASA Games, lets discuss the impact of this new technology on the industry, as well as how the industry has been impacted and dealt with technology in the past.
Description:
I am not trying to debate the legalities of the sourcing. I am hoping to discuss how the new tech will shape how game companies are likely to move forward with this, and in my opinion, how artists may be affected by the decisions that the industry makes.
What was the inspiration for Battle Cards? Will Fiblthp ever be totally found? Questions like these will be answered by Magic: The Gathering's Principal Game Designer, Gavin Verhey!
How we can move forward to allow more space accommodations for those with disabilities, as well as for companies to consider whether their games reach all audiences equitably?
Description:
When you come to conventions, you will find all types of demographics and range of players in one space with the goal to have fun with friends, family or sometimes by themselves. However, there is a population of individuals that are often forgotten. In this discussion, we are going to explore what accessibility and inclusion have in common and how they differ. We are going to talk about disability accessibility and how we can transfer these tools and learn how to modify and adapt popular games so that all individuals in and outside the industry can be more aware of the changes we still need to do to have everyone be welcomed.
As the games industry is constantly changing and growing, accessibility in gaming has become a major topic. Panelists share their experiences and offer solutions for change.
Description:
Join Hero Forge and other industry experts to discuss everything from adaptive tech and thoughtful design, to raising awareness about ergonomic standards helping gamers with our perpetually aching spines! Accessibility is a broad topic, and this lively panel will share personal stories while empowering audience members with current accessible games and tech, as well as some new habits all die-hard gamers can use.
American Revolution, Land & Naval Strategy 1775-1783
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American Revolution, Land & Naval Strategy 1775-1783, Sinews of War#3. Examines land & naval strategies on five fronts: Europe, India, East Indies, West Indies, Americas. By Merle Robinson, NSDM staff
Description:
American Revolution, Land & Naval Strategy 1775-1783, Sinews of War#3. Capstone examination of the land and naval strategies of this "American" war including all five fronts of the conflict (Europe, India, East Indies, West Indies, & all of the Americas). Focus is on historical goals, overall capabilities, national factions & their perspectives. Explores the preconceptions/fallacies held by participants that impacted events, factual/counterfactual choices & challenges. Discusses the military campaigns in each theater, lightly delving into battlefield tactics & addresses the impact of sheer luck on the outcomes. Presented by Merle Robinson, retired DoD analyst on the National Security Decision Making Game (NSDMG) staff. NSDMG presentations have been enjoyed by more than 30K attendees since 1990, at GenCon, Origins, DragonCon & other gaming, government & educational venues.
American Revolution, Rebels & Redcoats 1774-1781, Sinews of War#1. Examines levers of power used by Colonials, England, Allies, mercenaries in 1st stage of conflict. Merle Robinson of the NSDM staff.
Description:
American Revolution, Rebels & Redcoats 1774-1781, Sinews of War#1. Examination of the critical levers of power used by Colonials, England, and their Allies and mercenaries through the first stage of the conflict in the colonies. Focus is on the diplomatic, intelligence, military & economics (DIME) of the conflict. Lecture covers how forces were financed, organized, trained, assembled, moved, supplied & commanded. This primarily addresses the land conflict in North America. Presented by Merle Robinson, retired DoD analyst on the National Security Decision Making Game (NSDMG) staff. NSDMG team presentations have been enjoyed by more than 30K attendees since 1990, at GenCon, Origins, DragonCon & other gaming, government & educational venues.
American Revolution, Worldwide War 1781-1783, Sinews of War#2. Examines levers of power used by France, Spain, Indigenous & International actors in 2nd stage of conflict. By Merle Robinson, NSDM staff
Description:
American Revolution, Worldwide War 1781-1783, Sinews of War#2. Examines the critical levers of power used all participants (e.g. France, Spain, Indigenous & International actors) through the 2nd stage of war in the colonies. This is when the colonial revolt became a World-Wide War. Discusses the stance & involvement of other world powers including Russia, Prussia, Austria, Netherlands & Ottomans. Focus is on the diplomatic, intelligence, military, & economics (DIME) of the conflict. Covers how forces were financed, organized, trained, assembled, moved, supplied & commanded. This primarily addresses land conflict in North America. By Merle Robinson, retired DoD analyst on the National Security Decision Making Game (NSDMG) staff. NSDMG presentations have been enjoyed by more than 30K attendees since 1990, at GenCon, Origins, DragonCon & other gaming, government & educational venues.
An "Infernal" Salon—A Fun, Low-Stakes Writing Workshop
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An interactive gaming and storytelling event with writers and game designers C. S. E. Cooney and Carlos Hernandez.
Description:
Join C. S. E. Cooney and Carlos Hernandez for a special interactive event. Each participant will be given a prompt of one or more cards from the very spooky deck that C. S. E. Cooney, Carlos Hernandez, and artist Rebecca Huston invented for their TTRPG, "Negocios Infernales." Once every writer has their prompt, they'll set a timer for 20 minutes. When the timer dings, the writers who want to will share their infernally-inspired works with all of us! This dymanic team has run Infernal Salons at cons, charity events, and libraries, and without fail, much revelry and fun is had by all. If you're looking for your next story idea or a way to shatter writer's block, have we got a salon for you! Track: GCWS Event.
Ask Me Anything Panel with Castle DMs and Special Guests
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Ask Mark Meer, Jason Charles Miller, Jason Azevedo, and Chris Lindsay about the premier D&D vacation event. Past White Wolf Publishing president, Mike Tinney will moderate the discussion.
Description:
Ask all your burning questions about D&D in a Castle - what is it like to play 24 hours of D&D with a world-class DM in a luxurious setting? How does it feel to DM that much in a short span of time? The panel will feature several of our esteemed Dungeon Masters (DMs), as well as a member of our staff. The panel will be led by industry professional Mike Tinney as the master of ceremonies. This panel is your chance to unveil the mystery behind the premier D&D vacation: D&D in a Castle.
Gabrielle Harbowy and James Farner are on agent paths at two different literary agencies. What's that like? Join them for a chat, as they discuss and take your questions!
Do you struggle to craft backstories that feel compelling, avoid tropes, and connect you to the game's world? Learn to craft backstories that really bring your character to life.
Description:
Backstories aren't just for Player Characters--important NPCs need them, too. This is for players, GMs, and people who just enjoy world building and character crafting! We'll cover some classic backstory tropes--why they're so easy to fall back on, and a variety of ways ranging from simple to complex to turn tropes to your advantage, or to come up with something entirely different without having to start from scratch. We'll also learn why it's useful to build your character into the world, what makes that hard, and why it can make for an amazing experience.
BPI has been in a state of transition. The company management would like to address the fans of our products directly.
Description:
We will discuss the current state of undelivered titles as well as new products that are in production and the direction the company will be taking moving forward.
Sit down with the Designers and Writers of Project Black Flag from Kobold Press. Ask your questions about the process of streamlining, designing, and creating a new core fantasy roleplaying game.
Description:
Host: Dot Steverson Panelist: Wolfgang Baur (CEO), Celeste Conowitch (Lead Game Designer), Alexander Stangroom (COO), Thomas Reid (Editorial Director), and Sarah Madsen (Freelance Writer)
This panel will go over red flags to look out for, tips to keep yourself safe, making trans characters in a tabletop game, media good trans representation, and other related topics.
Description:
Traversing nerd culture can be difficult at the best of times but being transgender can add a whole new layer of difficulties. From gatekeepers to bigots to elitists there is a lot of uncertain ground to cover. This panel will go over red flags to look out for, tips to keep yourself safe, making trans characters in a tabletop game (for our cis friends), streams/podcasts/shows with good trans representation, and other related topics.
Black Lace and Candles: The Future of Gothic Fiction
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Writers discuss current directions in the gothic fiction genre.
Description:
The darkness of the soul, the black and lace aesthetic, the contemplation during midnight hours, the dash across the wind-swept moors: all of these elements have been part of the gothic genre, but what does it mean today? From Victorian gothic roots to southern gothic, non-Eurocentric gothic, and everything in between, join our panel of experts as they examine how this subgenre has permeated in books and pop culture in recent years, and what we can expect from it in the future. Panelists: Sarah Hans (moderator), Richard Lee Byers, Brandon O'Brien, Diana M. Pho. Track: GCWS Genre.
Join paranormal podcaster, Bob Anderson of Bob After Dark, as he shares his experiences, tells some ghost stories, listens and gives feedback on your encounters.
Have you ever felt that you couldn't cosplay because of your body type? Or because you're a person of color? This encouraging panel goes over, and helps remove the stigmas and hesitations.
Description:
In this panel, we'll go over some of the hesitations people may have about cosplaying due to being a person of color, or because of their body type. Tips on how to brig out your best features, improve your confidence, and help people see that cosplay is indeed for everyone.
Boston Tea Party as a root of the Revolution. The basis for event. What were the causes, what happened that night, and what were the consequences. Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., on NSDM staff.
Description:
Roots of revolution: on the 250th anniversary of the 1773 Boston Tea Party, part of a multi-year National Security Decision Making Game staff lecture series on key events in the American Revolutionary War. This examines the Boston Tea Party, in context of events affecting American & English discontent with affairs in the colonies, including the outcome & aftermath of the French & Indian War (the Seven Years War), English policy of restricting westward expansion, Stamp Act, Townshend Acts, Tea Act & other taxes. Lecture will go on to discuss the escalating violence in Boston in particular, the conditions that led to the Tea Party, the Tea Party itself, & the outcome in terms of the direction that Anglo-American affairs took. Presented by Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., with 12 years' experience at the Naval War College, on the National Security Decision Making Game staff.
Bringing Dragonlance and the Forgotten Realms to Organized Play
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From the misty isles of the Moonshaes and the shrouded upper plateau of Thay to the soaring Tower of High Sorcery in Palanthus, join the Baldman Games story leads as they discuss OP.
Description:
From the misty isles of the Moonshaes and the shrouded upper plateau of Thay to the soaring Tower of High Sorcery in Palanthus, join the Baldman Games story leads as they discuss capturing the feel of different worlds and different stories all while staying true to the Adventurer's League open play concept.
Daniel "Doc" Myers teaches techniques for building a fictional language from the ground up.
Description:
Just a few snippets of a fictional language can add a lot of depth to a story. However, for someone without experience in linguistics, it can be a daunting task to create something that is plausible and isn’t just a code superimposed upon existing grammar. In this seminar, experienced worldbuilder Daniel "Doc" Myers will provide a step-by-step method for constructing a fictional language. Track: GCWS Classroom.
Building exciting & functional cities for your TTRPG games can be daunting. Join some of the best minds from Kobold Press as they discuss creating vibrant cities and towns for your games.
Description:
Moderator: Erik Frankhouse Panelist: Wolfgang Baur, Celeste Conowitch, Alexander Stangroom, Sarah Madsen
Building Character: Introducing Kobold's Tales of the Valiant & Eldritch Foundry's Custom Mini Maker
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Design experts from Kobold Press & Eldritch Foundry offer a character creation crash course; walk away with a FREE character sheet & resin mini perfect for the TotV playtests running all weekend long.
Description:
Tales of the Valiant (aka Project Black Flag) is an exciting new TTRPG system in final public playtest at Gen Con, and the folks from Kobold Press and Eldritch Foundry are here to walk you through character creation from conception to character sheet to custom physical miniature. We'll talk design philosophy, power selection, and more as we build one of the 6 playtest characters before your eyes, while showing you how to use Eldritch Foundry's free web-based mini maker to bring that creation to life on your table. Learn how TotV and EF compare to other systems; see how we’ve made character creation intuitive, epic, and cool. Each attendee receives a resin miniature and character sheet, usable at any of the TotV playtests running all weekend long.
Building Character: Introducing Kobold's Tales of the Valiant & Eldritch Foundry's Custom Mini Maker
Summary:
Design experts from Kobold Press & Eldritch Foundry offer a character creation crash course; walk away with a FREE character sheet & resin mini perfect for the TotV playtests running all weekend long.
Description:
Tales of the Valiant (aka Project Black Flag) is an exciting new TTRPG system in final public playtest at Gen Con, and the folks from Kobold Press and Eldritch Foundry are here to walk you through character creation from conception to character sheet to custom physical miniature. We'll talk design philosophy, power selection, and more as we build one of the 6 playtest characters before your eyes, while showing you how to use Eldritch Foundry's free web-based mini maker to bring that creation to life on your table. Learn how TotV and EF compare to other systems; see how we’ve made character creation intuitive, epic, and cool. Each attendee receives a resin miniature and character sheet, usable at any of the TotV playtests running all weekend long.
Writer Sandra Tayler teaches techniques to holistically engage your community of readers.
Description:
There is tremendous power in a devoted fanbase, it is a gift and a responsibility. In this workshop, join author Sandra Tayler as she discusses things you can do to encourage a community to build around your own work, making connections between your readers, and why it is far more important to give than to ask. Track: GCWS Classroom.
Building a Better Hand Puppet - Tips and Techniques
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The internet is filled with patterns & pictures of fleecy friends, but if you want to build your own characters, you need an approach that that gives you strong results & makes your puppet expressive.
Description:
Puppets are not sculptures, they need to move! Building a puppet that moves well, stays light, and won’t break is the real key. We will look at the function of each part of the puppet, and then explore some tried and true ways that I have been building puppets for decades. Greg Ballora will emphasize taking a drawing and creating an easy blueprint that leads to success! For more than 30 years, Greg has been a Los Angeles-based puppet builder & performer. He has puppeteered with the Muppets, Henson’s Puppet Up, & was the Puppet Captain on Disney’s Crash & Bernstein. Greg has also been a Puppet Master for the Disneyland Resort, building puppets, training puppeteers, teaching students & creating parade choreography for puppets & large floats. Greg has taught puppet construction & performance at UCLA, Pepperdine University, Penn State & Cal Arts.
We've run over three dozen RPG Kickstarter projects over the last three years. Join us as we discuss best practices for the new and semi-new creators. Q&A to follow.
We've ran over three dozen RPG Kickstarter projects over the last three years. Join us as we discuss best practices for the new and semi-new creators. Q&A to follow.
But This is How I Write: When and How to Talk to Editors About Voice
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Writers discuss when and how to stand up for one's personal style.
Description:
When an editor suggests changing something that is true to your culture or writing style, how do you decide when to argue for your version without ignoring good advice? Join our panel of expert writers and editors as they discuss developing healthy working relationships with editors, softening barriers in the publishing industry, standing up for your voice, and knowing when to listen. Panelists: Brady McReynolds (moderator), Matt Forbeck, Sarah Hans, Karen Menzel. Track: GCWS Editing.
Join designers, authors, and other creators from across the long history of the Forgotten Realms—from Ed Greenwood on down to today—to discuss their origins, past, present, and possible futures.
They actually gave us this panel! A 30-minute Careful Cantrip Meet & Greet. A place for the Trippers to finally unite! Do you have no idea who we are or what we do? Come find out! All are welcome!
Description:
Featuring cast members: DM Dave, Rayna Rai & Dead Aussie Gamer
The story is generally told to stress drama or harangue over reactors, loose with facts. This gives the physics & engineering. Capt. Mark McDonagh, physicist, retired nuclear sub officer, NSDM staff.
Description:
What really happened at Chernobyl? What we see in miniseries and documentaries largely steers clear of technical details, or worse, was written by someone overly fond of exploring the drama but clueless on the physics, nuclear engineering and radiological details. Then there are activists, often clueless as well, who exaggerate the description of the damage and the potential consequences to their own ends. This lecture attempts to separate the science, engineering and actual facts from the drama and activist demagoguery. It describes the Chernobyl reactor design, including its advantages and its vulnerabilities in light of other nuclear reactor mishaps. It goes on to describe what went wrong and why. Presented by Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., a former nuclear submarine officer and physicist with 12 years' experience at the Naval War College, now on the NSDMG staff.
Writers discuss the importance of reading children's speculative fiction.
Description:
Despite their marketing, children's books are often loaded with difficult themes and powerful messages that resonate with readers older than what may be the target audience. Join our expert panel of writers as they discuss why everyone should read children's speculative fiction. Panelists: George Jreije (moderator), Erin M. Evans, Mary Fan, Jerry Gordon. Track: GCWS Genre.
Choosing Your Path: Writing Games for Player Agency
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Game writers discuss choices and techniques for crafting interactive narrative.
Description:
Not sure how many dialog options should you provide your player in a conversation? Debating the benefits and drawbacks of large-scale choices in your narrative? Interested in procedurally generated narrative, but unsure if it's right for your game? Join our panel of experts as they unpack what tools in the toolbox are most useful for any interactive narrative experience. Panelists: Jennifer Allaway (moderator), Kelli Fitzpatrick, Grace P. Fong, Mostafa Haque, Bryan Young. Track: GCWS Game Narrative.
Join us for a discussion on the intricacies of gaming as followers of Jesus. This will be a Q&A style panel with the majority of time spent responding to questions from the attendees of the event.
Description:
Come and enjoy a Q&A session to help Christians gain discernment as we participate in the gaming community. Enjoy tips and ideas for hosting game nights, figuring out your own boundaries, building healthy relationships with gaming, etc.
Game writers discuss nuances of collaboration - including their real world experiences - in game design.
Description:
Most writing requires collaboration, but how does this manifest in the worlds of game design? Join our panel of gamewriters as they discuss. Panelists: Toiya Kristen Finley (moderator), Jeremy Bernstein, Jordan Jones-Brewster, Gabrielle Harbowy. Track: GCWS Game Narrative.
Join the Baldman Games story leads as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of creating adventures for the shared worlds of Forgotten Realms and Dragonlance in D&D Adventurers League.
Description:
Join the Baldman Games story leads as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of creating adventures for the shared worlds of Forgotten Realms and Dragonlance in D&D Adventurers League.
So you want to be a community manager? In this session, you will learn what it takes to build your own community or take your first step into a career in games as a community manager.
Description:
Community Management is an increasingly important profession not just in the gaming industry, but in the larger corporate world. Companies like Facebook, Apple, and more have community managers, but the role originated in the gaming industry. What exactly does a community manager do? What skills might you need? In this session, experienced community managers and industry professionals will break down all the details for an often misunderstood position at gaming companies.
Writers discuss techniques and considerations for broadening the spectra of intimacy in fiction.
Description:
Writing intimate scenes goes far beyond sexuality when incorporating elements such as physical closeness, emotional intimacy, sensuality, consent, ace-spec dynamics, trauma, and shared experiences. Join our panel of writers as they discuss more comprehensive elements of how to write a compelling and impactful intimate scene. Panelists: Jennifer Allaway (moderator), Erin M. Evans, Sarah Hans, Gini Koch. Track: GCWS Writing.
Do you want to create production-quality videos and live streams for your puppet characters? We're here to help!
Description:
Have you ever wanted to stream puppetry content live, or build yourself a humble (or not-so-humble) home studio setup? The folks from the Gen Con Puppetry Program are here to help you figure out cameras, lighting, monitors, workflows, streaming software, you name it for your puppet productions! Bring questions, we've got answers!
Copyrights and Wrongs: Lessons from OGL 1.1 to Blood & Honey
Summary:
We will cover recent popular events in Intellectual Property (IP) law—including D&D's abandoned Open Gaming License 1.1 and Winnie-the-Pooh Blood and Honey movie—as teachable moments for designers.
Among other Corvus Belli ambassadors, Carlos “Bostria” Llauger will host a presentation full of previews, announcements and insight information about INFINITY N4 and WARCROW Adventures.
Cosplay 101: What the heck is cosplay and how do I start?
Summary:
Want to get into cosplay but not sure how? Interested in making your own costumes, armor, or props but overwhelmed by the best way to learn? Learn what the heck it's all about at Cosplay 101!
Cosplay Repair and the Possible Mistakes w/ Costume Corpsman
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This panel will cover common mistakes made during building and wearing Cosplays.
Description:
The Costume Corpsman will sit down and walk the attendees through the common mistakes many Cosplayers make during the building and testing of their Cosplays. Also if attendee wish to bring Props, Costumes, or Cosplays and ask for advise or direction, The Costume Corpsman will welcome it.
Cosplay Repair- Do’s and Don’ts with Costume Corpsman
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This panel will go over the do and do nots of cosplay building and repairs, in the possibility of issues or failures.
Description:
The Costume Corpsman will be on hand to discuss assist and instruct everyone on what steps they can take to avoid cosplay issues and also what they can do in case they are faced with an issue. So come and ask questions and bring your props, costumes and questions.
So you want to make a Cosplay, but you don't have the funds for an expensive build. Where do you go? What can you do? Learn some easy tips and tricks to thinking outside the box.
You've made your costume, you've registered for the competition... and now you have five minutes to explain it all to the judges??? That's where your documentation (aka "build book") comes in! Join us for a discussion of how to organize and present the story of your build in a clear and memorable way.
For world builders, new GMs, and those thinking of GMing. Can you craft a campaign in one hour? An experienced GM will quickly work with attendees with the goal of starter campaigns by the end.
Professional writers discuss techniques for writing fallible, yet relatable, characters.
Description:
A protagonist's depth relies as much on their weaknesses as their strength. Join our panel of expert character writers as they discuss how to write a character who is authentically fallible without being too much so. Panelists: Karen Menzel (moderator), Richard Lee Byers, Erin M. Evans, Gabrielle Harbowy, Chris A. Jackson, Track: GCWS Writing.
Get ready to activate some Allies! Join our panel discussion creating DEI Adventure Quests with tangible actions to improve the lives of those that are most deeply affected by systemic injustices.
Fantasy writer, cook, and entertainer Daniel "Doc" Myers teaches the basics of believable medieval-inspired cuisines in your writing.
Description:
A fantasy world should have a cuisine that takes into account the resources and technology of the people that inhabit it. In this seminar, join medieval cooking expert Daniel "Doc" Myers to learn how to make up a consistent, believable fantasy cuisine using the workings of medieval European cooking as a template. Track: GCWS Classroom.
Discuss the ins and outs of putting together 3rd Party content for the sci-fi horror Mothership RPG. An ideal seminar for writers, designers, and the Mothership enthusiasts.
Description:
Zac Goins and his team sit down with peers to discuss the ins and outs of putting together 3rd Party content for the sci-fi horror Mothership RPG. An ideal seminar for writers, designers, and the Mothership enthusiasts. Q&A to follow.
Join our panelists as they discuss creating settings & rules that allow for each table that plays in their game to have unique experiences. Is there a line between too much & not enough?
Journalist Linda Codega and a panel of industry colleagues (including Charlie Hall, Chase Carter, Christian Hoffer, and Dan Arndt) discuss why gaming journalism is a critical part of the ecosystem.
Description:
Featuring journalists like Linda Codega (Staff Writer, io9/Gizmodo), Charlie Hall (Senior editor, Tabletop, Polygon), Chase Carter (Dicebreaker, Polygon), Christian Hoffer (ComicBook), Dan Arndt (Editor at Fandomentals) and possibly more, this panel will dive into why games journalism is important to the larger tabletop ecosystem, why games journalism is culture journalism, and give insight into how these writers got started. There will be time for a Q&A where people will be able to ask the journalists about their positions, work, and also get some pointers on how to get started in an increasingly shrinking media landscape.
Planning to launch a crowdfunding campaign for your next tabletop game? Join BackerKit alongside industry experts to learn what you should, and shouldn't, do to set yourself up for success.
Description:
Crowdfunding your tabletop game can feel overwhelming at times as there are so many moving parts to consider before, during, and after your campaign. Join Jason Furie (Senior Community Manager, BackerKit) alongside Suzanne Sheldon (Restoration Games), Heather O'Neill (9th Level Games), and Lindsey Rode (Rose Gauntlet Entertainment) for an in-depth conversation covering important do's and don'ts you need to consider when crowdfunding. We'll discuss how to prepare for your strongest launch possible, the most common mistakes you should avoid at all costs, and important do's and don'ts worth considering no matter your experience level. Stick around after the conversation for live Q&A between the panelists and attendees.
Crowdfunding Strategy with the Creator of Stonesaga, Mythwind & Stars of Akarios
Summary:
Join Brendan McCaskell as he walks through the strategy Open Owl Studios has used to create three massively successful crowdfunding campaigns raising a total of over $3 million!
Description:
In this seminar you will learn the process Open Owl Studios takes from pre-development to successful crowdfunding campaign. Learn how to generate pre-launch hype and craft a narrative that resonates with your community. You'll receive unfiltered commentary from a new company with a new approach.
Cuban Missile Crisis: tense, some of what we are taught is mythology. Discusses real, potential war triggers and what a war in 1962 would have looked like. Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., NSDM staff.
Description:
RThe Cuban Missile Crisis of 60 years ago has been recognized as the most tense period in the Cold War, perhaps in world history, as the two superpowers stared each other down for several days and nuclear war was potentially one unintended consequence or misinterpreted event away. Today it is heavily portrayed in popular culture, but often told to hype the drama. Discredited mythology often wins over credible historical accounting. What were the real risks, the mechanisms which might have triggered, perhaps literally, a nuclear war? What were the opposing forces, what would such a war have looked like, what would have been the outcome, and what would the fallout, perhaps literally, be today? Presented by Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., physicist and former nuclear submarine officer with 12 years' experience at the Naval War College, on the National Security Decision Making Game staff.
Join the D&D team as they give an update on the 2024 rules revision playtest, answer some commonly asked questions, and discuss what's around the corner!
Learn some best practices from Dungeon Masters at Wizards of the Coast! Also great for new DMs - learn where to start, resources available, and best beginner D&D adventures!
D&D is for everyone, and more families are playing the game than ever before! Learn from experts in kid-focused D&D play on how to make your experiences with kids exciting and memorable!
Arid landscapes present a huge variety of scenes, interesting terrain, and challenging conditions. A GM/geologist highlights unusual story elements that can enliven your next desert adventure.
Description:
Desert landscapes are classic settings for adventures, yet they hold lots of unexplored potential for plot twists and gaming experiences. Even before adding fantastic elements to a desert setting, a GM can draw on a rich array of arid region landforms and natural processes to give distinctive environmental character to a campaign. We’ll talk about worse hazards than snakes, unexpected barriers to movement, and problems with too little and too much water. We’ll visit hogbacks, star dunes, badlands, rock windows, arroyos, hoodoos, and other weird spots. This session gives GMs, game designers, and writers (any genre) a chance to discuss story opportunities and gameplay factors with a GM/geologist. Scott Rice-Snow is author of 'Landscapes for Writers and Game Masters - Building Authentic Natural Terrain into Imagined Worlds', from McFarland Books.
2 of the brothers behind Terraforming Mars talk about what makes a game good - or bad! As designers, their focus is to make games where the underlying theme shapes all other choices. Time for Q&A.
Join us for an interactive discussion on how to start and maintain a long-running RPG Campaign Learn tips and tricks from module creation and story arcs to home brew character sheets and mechanics.
Description:
Each panelist has run or participated in a campaign that has lasted numerous years, with the longest being over 35+ years. While we allotted 50 minutes for last year's panel, attendees asked for more time for questions -- so this year we have allocated 90 minutes. If you need to leave early, it's no problem.
Diaspora and Dragons: How POC's can get into and influence TTRPG's
Summary:
The Cast of the Gimme Da Loot podcast and their collaborators will discuss the on ramps, challenges, and opportunities for POC players in the TTRPG space.
Description:
The Cast of the Gimme Da Loot podcast and their collaborators will discuss the on ramps, challenges, and opportunities for POC players in the TTRPG space. Topics include updating character concepts to be more inclusive, resources for new players, and how POC's are the future of TTRPG's.
Dice are not fair; they cannot be manufactured precisely. However, some dice are fairer than others. See the latest dice testing information and a dice mechanic that rolls fair with unfair dice.
Description:
No dice are fair because you cannot manufacture them with absolute geometrical precision. The closest we can come are D6 casino dice whose manufacture is controlled by Federal and state gaming laws. They are machined to within a few ten thousandths of an inch and the material of the pips (spots) has the same density as the body of the dice. In contrast, D20s are especially problematic, because it is difficult to precisely manufacture a perfect icosahedron. For this reason, we have focused on D20s. Though all dice are unfair, some are very close to fair, and some are not. Using tens of thousands of physical dice rolls, and billions of simulated dice rolls, we have studied several statistical methods for testing dice with special attention on the power of the test. We will also show you a dice mechanic that rolls fair even with unfair dice.
Dinner & Dice Rolls - On Feeding your Adventuring Party
Summary:
This panel explores food's role in world-building and story development. Whether you're a writer, DM, or player, we'll help you go beyond the basic stew and brew with tips and free recipe cards!
Have you ever been interested in building your own fan festival, convention, or event? Maybe just making one that you are currently running run better and smoother?
Description:
If we have piqued your interest, attend my seminar and learn some of the highlights and pitfalls to avoid in running your own show. With nearly twenty-five years of experience in the trade show industry, I can provide you with real world examples of problems and how to avoid them, as well as how to begin the construction or possibly the repair, of your own event.
Robin D. Laws and guests teach RPG structures & techniques to turn emotional confrontations between PCs from frustrating roadblocks into rich moments of human drama.
Recent drone use in Ukraine & elsewhere. Synergy of drones, robotics and AI. What drones can do, combat, surveillance, auxiliary missions, the way forward. By Merle Robinson, NSDM staff.
Description:
Lecture discusses recent history of drone use in Ukraine and other theaters. Describes synergy of drone use with advanced robotic and artificial intelligence. What drones can do under the right conditions. Drone units, drone carriers, drones for combat, drones as wingmen and combat support for piloted combat aircraft, for surveillance and for auxiliary duties. Where we go from here. Presented by Merle Robinson, lead simulation designer and retired DoD analyst, on the National Security Decision Making Game staff. NSDMG team presentations have been enjoyed by more than 30K attendees since 1990, at GenCon, Origins, DragonCon & other gaming, government & educational venues.
Expert writers discuss East and Southeast Asian writing and media across science fiction, fantasy, and horror in prose, poetry, and tabletop roleplaying games.
Description:
Panelists: Bryan Thao Worra (moderator), Mary Fan, Grace P. Fong, Diana M. Pho, R.R. Virdi. Track: GCWS Multimedia.
Join Keith- the game designer & novelist known for creating the Eberron Campaign Setting for Dungeons & Dragons. Discussion of Eberron past & present, behind the scenes tales & what's next.
Description:
Keith Baker is a game designer and novelist known for creating the Eberron Campaign Setting for Dungeons & Dragons and the card game Gloom, as well as games such as Illimat, Phoenix Dawn Command, and The Adventure Zone: Bureau of Balance with his company Twogether Studios. Join Keith for a discussion of projects past and present, including behind the scenes tales of Eberron and a peek at what’s coming next from Twogether Studios!
EMP history, mechanism, worst-case potential. Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., a physicist with 12 years' Naval War College experience and currently on NSDM staff, separates fact from science fiction.
Description:
Electromagnetic Pulse, or EMP, has become a favorite boogieman of authors and screenplay writers depicting apocalyptic scenarios. But what is the real history and what is the potential for EMP weapons, terrorism and attacks? What is the mechanism and what affects the damage done? Lecture attempts to separate the facts, engineering and science from the science fiction. Presented by Capt. Mark McDonagh, USN/ret., a physicist with 12 years' experience at the Naval War College, on the National Security Decision Making Game (NSDMG) staff. NSDMG team presentations have been enjoyed by more than 30K attendees since 1990, at GenCon, Origins, DragonCon & other gaming, government & educational venues.
This will be an interactive seminar for new and experienced GMs/DMs to celebrate diversity in tabletop gaming and support others in the hobby.
Description:
Embrace the Initiative is a Tabletop Gaming RPG workshop/open forum to help teach and support dungeon and game master as they learn to be confident and comfortable leaders in their hobby. We will discuss the strength, flexibility, and fortitude they already have within them to help them grow as storytellers and be ready to adapt to new situations.
Swing by before the closing ceremonies to say hello to Writers' Symposium Guests, and Gen Con Guests including Ed Greenwood in a casual, wind-down event.
Writers discuss the incorporation of entertainment into troubled worlds.
Description:
Often in the hardest times, it is culture that provides people the energy to face them. From theatre to sports to group gaming, what does the inclusion of entertainment in your story say about your troubled world—and what does your world say without it? Join our panel of writers as they discuss. Panelists: Patrick S. Tomlinson (moderator), Richard Lee Byers, Jennifer Brozek, Gini Koch, K.B. Wagers. Track: GCWS Worldbuilding.
Attention all fan-fest coordinators! Are you looking to grow your convention and create a larger network of attendees and vendors?
Description:
Join me for a seminar on the importance of collaboration in creating a large fan-fest circuit. I'll be discussing three major steps that can help smaller events grow into larger events, including identifying your target audience and niche, leveraging the power of social media and digital marketing, and collaborating with other conventions and events. By working together, we can create a more diverse and vibrant convention scene that benefits everyone involved. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn how collaboration can take your convention to the next level.
Fantasy and Historical Fiction: Where Do They Overlap?
Summary:
Writers discuss the cross-connections of fantasy and historical fiction in a modern context.
Description:
Historical fiction has been an integral part of fantasy from the very start of the genre and remains a core influence in the works of many prominent fantasy authors. How are authors inspired by history in classic and current works? What are the pros, cons, and pitfalls of historical influence? Join our expert panel of fantasy writers as they discuss. Panelists: LaShawn M. Wanak (moderator), Howard Andrew Jones, Diana M. Pho, Dedren Snead, R.R. Virdi. Track: GCWS Genre.
Writer Sandra Tayler teaches techniques for comprehensive marketing.
Description:
In a world of social media, creative work sells better if you frame your pitch with a story. Come learn from author Sandra Tayler how to present your work so it intrigues your potential audience. This works for everything from novels to artwork to Kickstarters to growing a social media following. Track: GCWS Classroom.
Come hang out with the Fool's Gold crew from the D&D animated series "Fool's Gold" from Dingo Doodles on YouTube! Watch a brand new Fool's Gold episode with them and join the Q&A!
Fostering Great Writer-Editor Relationships (Session A)
Summary:
Agents, editors, and writers discuss the ups, downs, and goals of editorial relationships.
Description:
Writers need to know that their editors are giving feedback that will improve their stories. Editors need to know that the writers they’re working with trust them. Both writers and editors have ended up in working relationships that were rocky at best. However, the writer–editor partnership can be creatively fulfilling for both parties. How do writers and editors build trust and learn to communicate with each other so that their collaborations produce the best stories possible? Join our panel of agents, editors, and writers as they discuss what works best for them in an editorial relationship. Panelists: Brady McReynolds (moderator), Jennifer Brozek, Erik Scott de Bie, John Jennings, Gini Koch. Track: GCWS Editing.
Fostering Great Writer-Editor Relationships (Session B)
Summary:
Editors and writers - who have worked together - discuss the ups, downs, and goals of editorial relationships.
Description:
Writers need to know that their editors are giving feedback that will improve their stories. Editors need to know that the writers they’re working with trust them. Both writers and editors have ended up in working relationships that were rocky at best. However, the writer-editor partnership can be creatively fulfilling for both parties. How do writers and editors build trust and learn to communicate with each other so that their collaborations produce the best stories possible? Join our expert panel of editors and authors who have worked with each other - and certainly have stories to tell. Panelists: Bryan Young (moderator), Maurice Broaddus, Dr. Chesya Burke, Katherine Monasterio. Track: GCWS Editing.
Fostering Great Writer-Editor Relationships (Session C)
Summary:
Editors and writers - who have worked together - discuss editorial relationships.
Description:
Writers need to know that their editors are giving feedback that will improve their stories. Editors need to know that the writers they’re working with trust them. Both writers and editors have ended up in working relationships that were rocky at best. However, the writer-editor partnership can be creatively fulfilling for both parties. How do writers and editors build trust and learn to communicate with each other so that their collaborations produce the best stories possible? Join our expert panel of editors and authors who have worked with each other - and certainly have stories to tell. Panelists: Toiya Kristen Finley (moderator): E.D.E. Bell, Brandon Crilly, Jordan Jones-Brewster, Latoya Peterson, Gregory A. Wilson. Track: GCWS Editing.
Free League invites press and the public to a reveal of exciting news for the upcoming year and a chance to ask our game designers anything!
Description:
Participants at the Free League Showcase are:
- Tomas Härenstam, lead designer of Dragonbane, ALIEN RPG, Blade Runner RPG, Twilight: 2000, Forbidden Lands, and Mutant: Year Zero.
- Johan Nohr and Christian Sahlén, designers of MÖRK BORG and CY_BORG
- Carl Niblaeus, lead designer of DEATH IN SPACE
- Luke Stratton, lead designer of Pirate Borg
- Kiku Pukk Härenstam, co-writer of Seasons of Mystery and A Wicked Secret for Vaesen
Come join Product Line Developers Michael Curtis and Chris Doyle to learn what it takes to be a professional freelancer for Goodman Games.
Description:
Learn what the publisher is looking for, and what they are not looking for! Several freelance contributors will also be on hand to give their perspective on working for an RPG company and - more specifically - Goodman Games. We will wrap up with a Q&A session, and all participants will be on hand following the seminar for one-on-one meetings.
How can educators bridge the game table and the classroom? Join a panel of designers and educators in discussion on the trials and triumphs of gaming as education.
Description:
What are the best practices, challenges, pitfalls, and rewards of using tabletop roleplaying to help students learn history, think critically, and build curiosity? Join Patrick Mooney (Lead Designer of Nations & Cannons), professional educator Mollie Brewsaugh, and others in discussion about the trials and triumphs of gaming as education.
From Twitter to YouTube: Building an Online TTRPG brand with Ed Greenwood
Summary:
Ed Greenwood and his support team talk about his online engagement with the TTRPG community on various platforms. Lessons learned, and the history of moving from paper to digital.
Description:
The road of one old gamer from the Candlekeep Forums, to Twitter, to Ed Greenwood's more recent website, Patreon, a merch store, Discord, and YouTube.
From the Tabletop to the Page: Comics, Crowdfunding, and Games
Summary:
Tabletop gaming and comics are a natural pairing, and it's no wonder that many tabletop games have made the jump to comics. Game designers and comics creators, come together for this panel.
Description:
Tabletop gaming and comics are a natural pairing, and it's no wonder that many tabletop games have made the jump to comics--and vice versa. Game designers, comics creators, and more come together for this panel to discuss adapting TTRPGs for comics; creating board games and RPGs based on comics; and finding audiences and funding for these projects in different ways, including crowdfunding.
Join Dominic McDowall (CEO and Head Games Designer) and Padraig Murphy (Lead Producer) for a peek into Cubicle 7's upcoming TTRPG releases!
Description:
Join Dominic McDowall (CEO and Head Games Designer) and Padraig Murphy (Lead Producer) for a peek into Cubicle 7's upcoming TTRPG releases - from Warhammer Imperium Maledictum, Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, Warhammer 40,000 Wrath and Glory, Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Soulbound to Doctor Who, Broken Weave and beyond!