So, you're a VIG, what does that mean once you get to the Con? Come learn all the details about the Lounge, buying tickets, and exclusive events. VIG and VIG Companion only.
So, you're a VIG, what does that mean once you get to the Con? Come learn all the details about the Lounge, buying tickets, and exclusive events. VIG and VIG Companion only.
So, you're a VIG, what does that mean once you get to the Con? Come learn all the details about the Lounge, buying tickets, and exclusive events. VIG and VIG Companion only.
Join PFS Venture-Officers and veteran GMs as they explore the many facets of judging scenarios for Pathfinder Society Organized Play utilizing break-out sessions and the Deck of Many Situations.
Description:
Join Pathfinder Society Regional Coordinators and experienced GMs for an interactive workshop designed to make you a better Pathfinder Society Game Master. This introductory program focuses on improving GMing skills, handling challenges, and giving a great table experience. PFS GM 101 includes four break-out sessions covering Roleplaying and Lore, Combat and Rules, Running the Game, and Advanced Topics. The second half will include GMs leading a humorously instructive game that challenges its players to handle tough GMing situations based on real, in-game dilemmas. Participants will have the opportunity to play the parts of both the GM and the troublesome players. Judges will offer feedback for each round, giving everyone the opportunity to learn.
Keeper, Dungeon Master, Game Master…there are many names for the job. Thinking about taking the reins at your game table? This seminar focuses on the issues and concerns common among new Game Masters.
Description:
We'll talk about what works and what doesn't. We'll talk about common traps to avoid, but most important, we'll get right to the heart of why its great to GM a game, and how you can have a blast doing it. The GM's Workshop series is always interactive. The wall between presenter and participants is torn down as we explore these topics together. With the speaker acting as moderator and guide through the topics, you are sure to learn, laugh, participate, and have a great time.
Same old, same old caves in your RPGs? Join a GM/geologist to tour a variety of real cavern layouts, passage types, formations, unusual terrain, vertical features, and tricky subterranean conditions.
Description:
This session is for GMs, game designers, and writers (any genre) wanting to level up their cave adventure settings. Let’s get past overly artificial RPG caves that are basically rough-walled dungeons with fewer traps! Drawing on the worldwide diversity of cavern systems - and lots of images from real caves – we’ll add variety, realism, challenge, and drama to your cave encounters and adventures.
Introduction to LARPing (Live Action Role Playing)
Summary:
We dispel the myths, discuss the different types of events that all use the name LARP, and explain what to expect. Q&A session follows. The panelists are presenting two different LARPS this year.
Description:
New to LARPing? Aren't sure if you should try it? Aren't even sure what "it" is? We will dispel the myths, discuss the very different types of events that all use the name LARP (from plot-driven to boffer combat), and explain what to expect. So bring any questions you may have, and get ready to take your gaming to the next level! The panelists have over 60 years of combined LARP experience writing, running, and playing, and this year we are presenting the "Conspiracy of Ravens" and "Carnival Arcane" LARPs, sponsored by Midnight Syndicate.
GM Workshop: Maintaining Drama in the Face of Relentless Dice Rolling
Summary:
Dice towers at the table - in the middle of the big scene! Why is no one interested?. Let's explore what makes people care about RPG stories and how to get your table as excited about it as you are.
Description:
We've all been there. It's a climactic moment in an epic story - or at least we thought it was. What went wrong? Where did the players excitement and interest go? This session of the GMs Workshop digs into ways of keeping everyone, player and GM alike enthusiastic and in the moment during game time.
Join experienced RPG industry professionals John Dunn, Jason Marker, and Ross Watson as they discuss the current and future industry standards of professional behavior.
Come join a discussion in which the presenter explores how playing different RPG systems, including many 'independent' systems can contribute to a better command of GMing and better gaming in general.
Description:
Cortex+, FATE, Dungeon World, Fiasco, and other smaller press and Indie games have been making a lot of buzz in the hobby the past few years. Having played and GMed many of them has contributed to a new insight into my own GMing style and skills. Let's spend an hour discussing what be learned by widening your horizons, and how you can bring the many pieces together to make for better gaming.
Beaches and sea cliffs hide surprises - so do other, more unusual coastal scenes for stories and RPG encounters! View some remarkable sites and discuss gameplay factors with a GM/geologist.
Description:
This session is for GMs, game designers, and writers (any genre). Touring key sites for encounters at land’s edge, we’ll explore interesting terrain and natural shoreline processes that heroes and villains alike ignore at their peril. Tombolos, sea stacks, karren, baymouth bars, and other weird features.
Pathfinder 101 is your introduction to the Pathfinder RPG. Learn the backstory of Golarion, its iconic characters, and how you can become legendary in a worldwide campaign.
Description:
Whether you’ve never played a tabletop roleplaying game in your life, or you’re a veteran dice-roller looking for something fresh, Pathfinder 101 is your introduction to the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game and the ever-growing world around it. Learn the backstory of Golarion, its iconic characters, and how you can become legendary in a worldwide campaign. Panelists: Adam Daigle, Liz Courts, James L. Sutter, John Compton
Fighting your Inner-Demons: Gamers Dealing with Depression
Summary:
Depression and anxiety strikes many gamer lives. Join a panel of designers and freelancers who deal with mental illness. We’ll share stories about taking back control of our lives. You aren’t alone.
How to collect art for your self published or small press endeavour without breaking the bank. How to talk to artists, the inside track on their habits and crazy ways.
Ever wonder what Archaeologists really do in the first place? Or what Cult Science is? Come find out with your friendly neighborhood Archaeologist. We'll examine this & much more!
New to Dungeon World? Come learn how to play and run the Golden Geek 2012 Game of the Year - Dungeon World - A Game with Modern Rules & Old-School Style.
Description:
Based on the revolutionary Apocalypse World game engine created by Vincent Baker, Dungeon World takes the story driven game style of AW and brings it to fantasy adventures in lost dungeons and ancient kingdoms. Easy to learn, fun to play - Dungeon World is an award winning RPG blending the old a new schools of thought into a game that is stirring up the gaming world. Come find out what it is all about, learn to play and GM the game, and have a good time while doing it. --The GM's Workshop series is always interactive. The seminar wall between presenter and participants is torn down as we explore these topics together. With the speaker acting as moderator and guide through the topics, you are sure to learn, laugh, participate, and have a great time.
In-depth seminar: join author Maxwell Alexander Drake as he “shows” you some tricks to a more immersive writing style.
Description:
Ever wonder how the really good books suck a reader in and hold their attention page after page. It's not the characters, nor the plot of the book. It is the way in which the author writes that separates their story from the pack. Join award-winning author Maxwell Alexander Drake as he presents his class "Don't Tell Your Story, Show It!" During this class, you will gain insight into how to put your story together in a compelling way that will have your readers turning page after page to see what happens next. Download the handout for this class from www.maxwellalexanderdrake.com and bring it with you as they will not be provided.
Managing your community is now a crucial part of everyone's life. Our guests share their insights on dealing with trolls, Goons, the easily offended, rockstars and evangelists.
Veteran GM Dr. Rich Staats describes two methods for designing worlds for gaming or fiction. He provides tips and tricks that are of value to both first time and experienced world creators.
This is a presentation/discussion about the role of computer and other digital devices around the gaming table, both as GM and player tools. We will touch on both their uses and potential drawbacks.
Take a close look at the Reign of Winter Adventure Path and preview the new AP debuting at Gen Con: The Wrath of the Righteous! We’ll also announce the NEXT AP!
Description:
The Adventure Path development team takes a close look at the Reign of Winter Adventure Path and previews the new campaign debuting at Gen Con: The Wrath of the Righteous! We’ll also announce the NEXT AP and answer your questions about Adventure Paths past, present, and future. Panelists: James Jacobs, Adam Daigle, Andrew Vallas
Are you new to True Dungeon? Are you a veteran fan? The Dungeon Delver's Anonymous members will present a game mechanics primer, and they will share how to enjoy your time in True Dungeon.
As a game goes through more than 1 edition, or even more than 1 printing, the rules evolve away from the originals. Our panel of industry pros talk about how to keep the rules changing for the better.
Shadowrun has been around over twenty years. How? A freelance writer/designer leads a discussion about Shadowrun's popularity and plain ol' awesomeness. Curious newcomers and long-time fans welcome!
Join Pathfinder Society Venture-Officers and veteran GMs as they explore the many facets of judging scenarios for PFS Organized Play. They pick up where GM 101 left off to explore 5 new areas.
Description:
Now that you know the basics of running a game, join the Pathfinder Society venture-officers as they examine the more delicate and complicated aspects of gamemastery: using subtlety to build atmosphere, adding extra depth to roleplaying encounters, making effective use of props, dealing with troublemakers, and building a positive roleplaying community. Participants will circulate between stations and practice what they learn with an updated Deck of Many Situations Panelists: John Compton
This presentation introduces concepts of Gamification and its use in our education system.
Description:
Gamification is the technique of using elements from classic and modern gaming to solve problems and learn in more exciting and complex ways. With the mechanics of gamification students are motivated to engage in desired behaviors by providing paths to mastery and autonomy in a way they have become accustomed through gaming technologies. This method takes advantage of humans' psychological predisposition to engage in gaming. By drawing techniques from table-top and modern video games parents and teachers might be able to take the “boring” out of learning!
Getting Started in the Industry: Freelancing and Self-Publishing
Summary:
One of the questions that gets asked a lot is how to get started in the industry. Our panel of Freelancers and self-publishers will take your questions and swap stories from their own perspective.
Description:
One of the questions that gets asked a lot is how to get started in the industry. Our panel of Freelancers and self-publishers will take your questions and swap stories from their own perspective. Wether its pitching your ideas to publishers, answering a call, or trying to decide between kickstarter or bootstrap production, we'll share our experience on getting our name in print. Prospective panelists include Brian A Liberge (Beer Star Games, Kobold Press, Raging Swan Productions), Tracy Hurley (Kobold Press, Wizards of the Coast), Matt James (Kobold Press, Paizo, Wizards of the Coast), Jerry LeNeave (Kobold Press, SVD Press, Obsidian Portal) and Phil Menard (Kobold Press, Margaret Weis Productions, Wizards of the Coast).
A panel of independent game designers are here to help! Hear about the major schools of rpg design. Learn some GM techniques from indie designers. Discover new games that match your interests!
Introduction to LARPing (Live Action Role Playing)
Summary:
We dispel the myths, discuss the different types of events that all use the name LARP, and explain what to expect. Q&A session follows. The panelists are presenting two different LARPS this year.
Description:
New to LARPing? Aren't sure if you should try it? Aren't even sure what "it" is? We will dispel the myths, discuss the very different types of events that all use the name LARP (from plot-driven to boffer combat), and explain what to expect. So bring any questions you may have, and get ready to take your gaming to the next level! The panelists have over 60 years of combined LARP experience writing, running, and playing, and this year we are presenting the "Conspiracy of Ravens" and "Carnival Arcane" LARPs, sponsored by Midnight Syndicate.
Games have been called "Voluntarily overcoming unnecessary obstacles." So why do we do it? Can we define games? Quantify fun? Come to this interactive session and let's see if we can do just that.
Some of Paizo’s most experienced in-house GMs reveal their best GM secrets & help you troubleshoot your Pathfinder campaign. Panelists: Erik Mona, F. Wesley Schneider, James Jacobs, Ryan Macklin
Description:
Some of Paizo’s most experienced in-house game masters reveal their best game mastering secrets and help you troubleshoot your Pathfinder campaigns. Panelists: Erik Mona, F. Wesley Schneider, James Jacobs, Ryan Macklin
Raising new gamers doesn't happen by itself. Parents need games that meet kids where they are at each age. Guests will talk about games for different ages, & what gaming with kids can teach adults.
Everyone can design games, and we are here to help show you the way. We will teach you the basics and give you the resources to learning rpg design on your own.
How, why, when and where of making your art pay. How to get into professional gaming art, with a comparison of experiences, war stories and straight talking advice.
Paizo discusses decisions on what products to publish. Pitch suggestions for Pathfinder products directly to folks responsible for making them. Panelists: Erik Mona, F. Wesley Schneider, James Jacobs
Description:
Join Paizo’s senior creative staff for a look at how we decide what products to publish for the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Then, pitch your suggestions for Pathfinder products directly to the folks responsible for making them. Who knows, the next great Pathfinder product idea might come from YOU! Panelists: Erik Mona, F. Wesley Schneider, James Jacobs
Part live AMA (Ask Me Anything), part town hall meeting, part interactive design session, this candid discussion is your chance to build, dissect, and talk shop with Crafty Games staff.
Join local ghosthunters and Michael O. Varhola, author and series editor for the “America’s Haunted Road Trip” travel guides, for this seminar on some of the most interesting haunted sites in Indiana.
Learn the basics of collecting books such as how to identify & preserve first edition books, how to grade & describe collectible books, what to collect, & tips on buying and selling collectible books.
Come meet Cryptic Studios to talk about Champions Online and what we've got planned for our fifth year of operation. We'll be talking about future content plans and answering questions from the crowd.
How does a Pathfinder product go from a designer’s head to your gaming table? Join Paizo staff for an insider look behind the curtain at Paizo Publishing.
Description:
How does a Pathfinder RPG product go from a designer’s head to your gaming table? Join Paizo editors, developers, and graphic designers for an insider look behind the curtain at Paizo Publishing. Panelists: Adam Daigle, Ryan Macklin, Andrew Vallas, Chris Carey
"Gamification" is a buzzword, and more and more people are using it for education. But what does it mean? One gamer and teacher describes how he made his courses into a game, and how it succeeded.
Both RPGs and fiction draw heavily on historical cultures and narratives, even for a new setting. Our Industry Insider Guests of Honor will talk about how to use primary sources to enrich your play.
Come join the creative team behind the brand new RPG Numenera and learn what it's all about, get some behind the scenes stories, and maybe even get free stuff.
Learn how to be a more effective GM, how to deal with disruptive personalities, and how to ensure that everyone has a good time. Covers basic rules and gamemastering techniques.
In a supportive environment, hear about gaming industry professionals talk about their struggles and their treatments as they cope with depression and anxiety, but still make products.
Description:
This seminar is more a conversation between people who are struggling with mental illness (and are now in various stages of treatment), yet don't let their illness(es) define them or stop them from producing the material they love. Come hang out with us and let's talk openly about how not to let the monsters win while we make awesome games.
Find out the skinny on what's happening with Evil Hat in 2013 and beyond! Plus an inside look into the making of our products. Find out who wears the Evil Hat.
Come and discuss what it's like to be a woman working in the Geek Industry, or to just be a part of the fandom as a female. Talk about pitfalls, stereotypes, and experiences.
A Song of Ice & Fire Roleplaying and the Chronicle System
Summary:
Based on George R.R. Martin's Westeros, ASIF allows you to play out the intrigues of this rich setting. We'll also discuss the Chronicle System materials, which expand the scope of the rule set.
Description:
Come meet Line Developer Joseph Carriker and see what the gaming in the world of Westeros is about. We'll discuss direction for the line, plus plans for additional Chronicle System materials, providing deeper options and new rules for use in any setting utilizing the game's rules engine.
Come check out the latest Pathfinder licensed toys, comics, games, and goodies, and get a peek at what’s to come from our Pathfinder partners.
Description:
From Pathfinder Battles miniatures to Pathfinder Online to the devious goblin plush dolls, the Pathfinder universe is growing larger by the minute. Come check out the latest Pathfinder licensed toys, comics, games, and goodies, and get a peek at what’s to come from our Pathfinder partners. Panelists: Erik Mona, Lisa Stevens, Vic Wertz, Mike Kenway
Guildies! Our first annual meet up where it all started! If you are new to this band of fans or are interested in joining come talk to a member. The only requirement is to be a fan of The Guild.
Description:
Guildies! Our first annual meet up where it all started three years ago as nine of us waited for the advertised posted panel for the The Guild. Only to have out hopes crushed when it was a "website glitch from the previous year". But we banded together and forged a friendship and group. Yes we are a guild of fans for The Guild! If you are new to this band of fans or is interested in joining I suggest you talk to a member. We are all very friendly, but you can also just show up and talk to us at the event. Pretty much the only requirement is to be a fan of The Guild.
Under the covers of creating, polishing, and posting your own gamer-oriented podcast/video blog/web series. Digital media has made things easier. Has it made them BETTER? Opportunities, tips, & traps.
Are you new to True Dungeon? Are you a veteran fan? The Dungeon Delver's Anonymous members will present a game mechanics primer, and they will share how to enjoy your time in True Dungeon.
Award-winning game designer and author (and 11-time Gen Con guest of honor) Matt Forbeck released a trilogy of thriller novels set at Gen Con. Come meet Matt and learn who lives and who dies.
Description:
Award-winning game designer and author (and 11-time Gen Con guest of honor) Matt Forbeck released a trilogy of thriller novels set at Gen Con. Come meet Matt and learn who lives and who dies. He will discuss the books, read from the stories, and then take questions from the audience. From the first book's back cover: WELCOME TO THE BIG SHOW! Once a year, the greatest tabletop gamers in the world descend upon Indianapolis for Gen Con — the Best Four Days in Gaming — to play games, see friends, and have fun. Mostly the competition is friendly. Sometimes it is not. When a world-famous game designer turns up murdered at the convention, Liam Parker — the young game designer who stumbles across the body — makes it his quest to figure out who killed the man, and why. In the end, Liam must figure out the rules of this most dangerous game fast — or risk losing his life.
Kickstarting Your Project - How to Run a Successful Program
Summary:
Our Industry guests talk about how Kickstarter works and how it can be used to fund and market projects. Experiences will be shared as well as tips on how to crowdfund your next project.
I know more than 200 fascinating stories. Why did T.S.R. take over S&T magazine & void all lifetime subscriptions? How Crystal Cast earned $10,000 from a disaster at Gen Con? And more!
Do you love BJD's and want to meetup with others in the hobby? Bring yourself, bring your dolls and bring some stuff to swap. If you want to that is, you don't have to own a doll to come!
Game Design Business: Getting the Attention of Publishers
Summary:
Publishers get hundreds of queries a year: how can you differentiate yourself from the crowd? Dr. P wrote McFarland's book "Game Design" and designed Britannia, Dragon Rage, etc. See Wikipedia.
Fantasy novels are commonly set in medieval Europe, except for the food which is usually wrong. Learn how medieval cuisine worked as a system, and how to create believable fictional foodways.
Moon Design will showcase their largest and most detailed work to date: The Guide to Glorantha. We will be going through the art and maps included in particular, plus Q&A with the authors.
Moon Design will discuss its future publications schedule, as well as how it is developing Glorantha in general. RPGs and Board Games are just the beginning.