Learning Bitcoin through Games - A Gameschooling Case Study
Summary:
Curious how to incorporate games into eduction? Learn how to make it work with this interactive session with the designer/author as he walks through his game/book journey.
Description:
The game designer and author of the accompanying lesson plan book will start the session with an overview of gameschooling. Then he will dive into an overview of the game, why he created it, and how it helps teach critical concepts simply through play. Lastly, the session will wrap up with Q&A.
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.
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.
Poisons in Gaming/Literature: High Level Assassin Poisons
Summary:
A new, system-neutral presentation by a physician toxicologist on poisons invented or discovered in the last 100 years that have been used for murder with game/writing suggestions. 8th year at GenCon.
Poisons in Gaming/Literature: High Level Assassin Poisons
Summary:
A new, system-neutral presentation by a physician toxicologist on poisons invented or discovered in the last 100 years that have been used for murder with game/writing suggestions. 8th year at GenCon.
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 and concerns common among new Game Masters.
Description:
The primary goal of this seminar is to address the anxieties and concerns that are most common for new and novice gamemasters, but everyone is welcome regardless of your experience level. We will talk about fears, improvisation, safety tools, "session zero", preparation, and many other topics. This is a non game specific session, and will not focus on the mechanics of any particular game. This is all about all the other parts of GMing, which truth be told is actually 90% of what you do behind the screen. Bring your questions, bring a friend, but most importantly bring your imagination, an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a sense of humor.
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 and concerns common among new Game Masters.
Description:
The primary goal of this seminar is to address the anxieties and concerns that are most common for new and novice gamemasters, but everyone is welcome regardless of your experience level. We will talk about fears, improvisation, safety tools, "session zero", preparation, and many other topics. This is a non game specific session, and will not focus on the mechanics of any particular game. This is all about all the other parts of GMing, which truth be told is actually 90% of what you do behind the screen. Bring your questions, bring a friend, but most importantly bring your imagination, an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a sense of humor.
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 and concerns common among new Game Masters.
Description:
The primary goal of this seminar is to address the anxieties and concerns that are most common for new and novice gamemasters, but everyone is welcome regardless of your experience level. We will talk about fears, improvisation, safety tools, "session zero", preparation, and many other topics. This is a non game specific session, and will not focus on the mechanics of any particular game. This is all about all the other parts of GMing, which truth be told is actually 90% of what you do behind the screen. Bring your questions, bring a friend, but most importantly bring your imagination, an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a sense of humor.
Learn how starting a family game night can improve your relationships between parents and children. Additionally, learn about the lasting impact a family game night has on families.
Description:
Strategies and ideas for starting your own game night will be provided after the presentation. Presenters are Mark Lowe (Psychology Professor at Ivy Tech) and Chris Stier (Owner of Tier One Games).
How do copyrights, trademarks, and patents affect the world of gaming and content creation. From protecting your game to not stepping on toes with content creation, come learn about IP.
Description:
Intellectual Property touches all corners of the gaming world. Creators have a multitude of ways to protect their games from copying, while not closing off avenues of gaming from others. Content creators and game creators both straddle the line of fair use and infringement. Come learn how to protect your games and yourself in the vast world of IP and games.
Do your RPG sessions feel stiff or lifeless? Are you trying to take things to a higher level, but still feel stuck like you're playing a board game?
Description:
Come learn about conversational GMing - a way of injecting life into any tabletop RPG. A conversational approach is more natural than you might think, and enables much more fluid stories to be told. The game you're playing is irrelevant. You can make Conversational GMing a part of anything from D&D to Fiasco.
Do your RPG sessions feel stiff or lifeless? Are you trying to take things to a higher level, but still feel stuck like you're playing a board game?
Description:
Come learn about conversational GMing - a way of injecting life into any tabletop RPG. A conversational approach is more natural than you might think, and enables much more fluid stories to be told. The game you're playing is irrelevant. You can make Conversational GMing a part of anything from D&D to Fiasco.
Tabletop Media & You: What We Do, Why We Do It, And How To Use It
Summary:
A panel of media creators from both board games and tabletop RPG discussing how we got into our areas, how we work with publishers, and some of the challenges we deal with in the industry.
Description:
Featuring Charlie Hall (Tabletop Editor, Polygon), Lin Codega (Gizmodo/io9), Suzanne Sheldon (Master of Fireworks, Restoration Games), and Aaron Shanks (Marketing Director, Paizo Publishing). Q&A To Follow.
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.
You Can Make Anything With This: An Intro to Foamsmithing
Summary:
Learn the basics of why, when, and how to use EVA foam to create props, armor, and other creations from EVA foam!
Description:
EVA foam can be a cosplayer’s bread and butter: from armor to props, from leather to wigs, from feathers to leaves! In You Can Make Anything With This, you’ll learn the entire foamsmithing process from choosing foam to detailing and weathering, including tips on the best ways to get started and what you’ll need to buy. Includes lots and lots of hands-on examples so you can see for yourself the miraculous material!
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!
Learn how to make a big prop that's safe for the con, light to carry, and will fit in your car!
Description:
Big props are one of the best parts of cosplay, but they can also be stressful to design and build, hard to carry around a con, and a tad risky at crowded events! At The WOW Factor, you’ll learn how to solve these problems and confidently tackle your big builds. Includes lots of examples and project walkthroughs!
Panelists give some basic tips about presenting the hobby in accessible ways, suggest that D&D might not be the game to attract everyone, and suggest classic starter RPGs.
Description:
Authors and panelist James D'Amato, Jef Aldrich, and Jon Taylor dive into classic starter RPGs like For the Queen, Fiasco, Ghost Court, Dread, Honey Heist, etc. and explain how to get friends into RPG and expand the community.
Journalist Linda Codega and a panel of experts (including Jim Butler and Ryan Dancey) break down what happened with the OGL 1.1 and the fan backlash around Wizards of the Coast.
Description:
From fan backlash to third party publishers, everyone had a reaction to the leaked OGL. This seminar will go over exactly what happened when, and why. It will focus on fandom, media response, and community movement, and dive a little bit into the history of the OGL, SRDs, and why the proposed January 2023 change was so hated. The group will also discuss how the backlash affected D&D--from books to movies to players' trust. Panelists currently include Ryan Dancey, one of the OGL 1.0's champions, Jim Butler, President and CEO of Paizo, and one of the original architects of the OGL, and Noah Downs, a lawyer who has extensive experience in the TTRPG industry.
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.
Invitation to the Ball: A History of Ballroom Dance and Culture
Summary:
The masquerade ball is a classic trope of film & fantasy. Learn the culture and find out what makes a waltz Viennese, how to behave when the Duke asks you to dance, and why vampires love tango.
Description:
In this seminar, we will go over the history of partner dancing from the "chaste" dances of the middle ages to modern salsa and hustle. We will conclude with a discussion of how to use this information in writing and games.
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!
A free-ranging discussion of the Traveller role-playing game rules system with system designer Marc Miller, covering concepts and philosophies of the Traveller rules. Will include a Q&A session.
A wide-ranging discussion of the Traveller universe with designer Marc Miller. He will cover the concepts and philosophies of Traveller, its background and history, including a Q&A session.
Secrets of the Traveller Universe Seminar with Marc Miller
Summary:
An intriguing discussion of where the Traveller universe came from and where it is going. Marc will cover the ideas to make adventures interesting and fun. Includes a Q&A session.
BBQ Dragon? Gelatinous Cube Aspic? This panel discusses how to cook and eat your favorite monsters. Join us for foodie fun and free recipe cards!
Description:
You've raided the dungeons. You've killed the monsters. What better way to celebrate than with a feast? In this panel, food blogger The Gluttonous Geek joins with other RPG foodies to discuss what fantasy creatures would taste like and how they would cook them -- starting with some favorites and then taking audience requests. Have your smartphone ready for FREE recipe cards via QR code!
Making the most of your cosplay budget, time, and skill level.
Description:
Between the Halloween store and the ultra-detailed screen-accurate showstopper lies... the vast majority of cosplay! Let's discuss how to plan your build to make the most of your budget, time, and skill level.
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.
Mental Health in TTRPGs (And how safety tools help, not hinder)
Summary:
We will explore and talk about the mental health status in TTRPGs, and how it provides an outlet to those needing it.
Description:
This panel will include 5 panelists, and the support of Geek Therapeutics and will focus on the ways in which TTRPGs can positively impact mental health, as well as how the community can use safety tools to ensure that all players have a safe and enjoyable experience. In addition, we will explore how safety tools, such as lines and veils, are not meant to hinder the creative process, but instead provide a safe space for players to explore sensitive topics and to provide support if needed. The panel will provide a platform for open and honest discussions about mental health, and will help to raise awareness of the importance of mental wellness in the TTRPG community.
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.
The Kumano Kodō is 1 of only 2 UNESCO pilgrimage trails in the world, used since the 10th century by ascetics, samurai, emperors & monks. Learn the trail’s cultural history from someone who hiked it.
Description:
The Kumano Kodō is one of only two UNESCO-honored pilgrimage trails in the world, used since the 10th century for physical and spiritual journeys and helping to create a millennium of peaceful religious syncretism. Join a thousand years of ascetics, samurai, emperors, and monks to learn about the cultural history of this trail network from someone who has hiked it herself. We’ll discuss the historical context, the development of the trail network, the purpose of the pilgrimages and the resulting thousand years of religious syncretism, political implications, and how the trails can be experienced today.
Learn about a few of the amazing moments in Japan's long history—from the Genpei War to the Meiji Revolution, girl power to magical red cows, archery contests to smallpox. With illustrations & photos!
Description:
As the oldest monarchy in the world, Japan's had plenty of time for some amazing moments in history. Hear a few of the most important, most famous, or most fun—from the Genpei War to the Meiji Revolution, from girl power to magical red cows, from archery contests to smallpox—with illustrations, photos, ties to your favorite anime/manga, and plenty of geekery.
How did a hostage situation lead to the rise of Cup Noodles? Who were the Shitennou before they were Sailor Moon villains? Come pick up a few more intriguing stories and facts from Japanese history!
Description:
How did an earthquake lead to the development of ramen and a hostage situation to Cup Noodles? Who went "Gotta paste 'em all!" about religious stickers? Who were the Shitennou before they were Sailor Moon villains? What will you eat at a Buddhist temple, and why is it so good? Come pick up a few more intriguing stories and facts from Japanese history!
Welcome to the Jianghu: An Introduction to Chinese Fantasy Drama
Summary:
Cultural context can help you more fully enjoy Chinese cinema! We’ll cover the history of the wuxia & xianxia genres, Confucianism, censorship, fantasy tropes, Daoism, forms of address, recs, & more.
Description:
More than half the world’s TV dramas are produced in China, with some titles achieving international mainstream popularity. Don’t miss out on this global phenomenon! This overview of the wuxia and xianxia genres will give you the necessary background and cultural context to enjoy these hit films and TV shows to the fullest. We’ll cover topics from Confucianism to censorship, from fantasy tropes to forms of address–and throw in some of our recommendations as well!
The First Superhero: A History of The Scarlet Pimpernel
Summary:
Long before Zorro or Batman, a colorful crusader with a secret identity revolutionized the world of adventure fiction. Learn the origin story of this seminal hero and the woman who created him.
Description:
Plus, see rare antique Scarlet Pimpernel memorabilia from a local collector's archives!
Have you ever wondered samurai swords? Join ITK for a learning session about the history and art of these weapons!
Description:
We will be hosting a lecture on the art of the Nihonto - or traditionally made Japanese sword. We will discuss history, forms, features, and schools of Japanese sword smiths. This is a great opportunity to learn more about these fabled weapons, and even learn how to begin a collection of your own!
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.
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.
Rivers are barriers, travel routes, and watering places. Place your players/readers in memorable river scenes! Examine their distinctive challenges with a GM/geologist.
Description:
This session is for GMs, game designers, and writers (any genre). Your adventurers make journeys on rivers, struggle to cross them, and seek them to sustain life (also maybe for a badly needed bath). See how your story can be enhanced by richly depicting one of the distinctive types of river channels, considering natural patterns of sandbars and islands, and incorporating tricks that currents and streambed erosion can play on unwary travelers. How does a river’s look and behavior change as you travel downstream? What interesting, game-changing terrain elements inhabit river floodplains? How are floods different from one river to another? Make each river scene memorable, with the help of 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.
Intro To Cosplay Crafting - Prop Making and Makeup
Summary:
Join Valtir Faye, a talented cosplayer with experience in absolute transforming makeup techniques and styles, as well as unique prop crafting of varying skill levels of basic, to mind blowing.
Description:
Valtir Faye will guide a seminar on cosplay crafting, including tips and tricks on how to begin, develop and execute techniques used in makeup design for a cosplay and prop making. Having made anything from complex clothing to more simple styles, and the same goes for props, from small props using foam and other simple materials to fully functional bows. Valtir is a non-binary cosplayer who will be able to share their knowledge for those unsure how to go about creating transformative looks in their cosplay. For details on their crafting feel free to check out their instagram at: @valtirdesigns
Cosplay Repair- Do’s and Don’ts with Costume Corpsman
Summary:
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.
Michael is a 35+ year veteran of running RPGs and will share some of his top tips and tricks to get started running games with a focus on fun for you and the players.
Description:
Join long-time DM/GM Michael Ross from The Rpg Academy podcast for a presentation of his top tips and tricks for new(er) DMs to get started running games with a focus on fun for you and the players. While some of the material is focused on D&D 5e a lot of the ideas and suggestions would be applicable for any RPG. If possible Michael will bring along a guest or two to assist and offer a wider spectrum of experiences to draw from. The presentation will last approx. 1 hour with about .5 hour left for audience Q&A
An attorney talks about the original purpose of the OGL, modern intellectual property law, and what the OGL was and was not actually doing. Discover that you never actually needed the OGL and why.
Description:
This seminar discusses some of the modern intellectual property law that surrounds the Open Gaming License, and why the OGL, though well intended, never actually did what most people think it does. We go over what the OGL's actual legal effect is and how a world without certainty in the OGL hurts the gaming world, but not in the way you might expect. Hosted by a National Security and International Business Law attorney, this seminar is a great place to come talk shop about the differences between copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property concerns as they relate to tabletop RPGs.
The LGBTQIA+ community has always been an active part of the gaming industry. In games we all can find empowerment, escape, inspiration, community, and purpose.
Description:
Join Hero Forge and others in a discussion on queerness, and how it exists and thrives in the games space. How can we as gamers and industry professionals actively create inclusive environments and products? Panelists will share personal stories, and engage in positive highlights about queer characters. Everyone is welcome, all LGBTQIA+ community members and allies!
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.
Get all of your burning questions about custom miniatures answered!
Description:
For the first time, join Hero Forge leaders in an "Ask Me Anything" panel! Directed by the audience, learn more about Hero Forge's custom minis, the company, and exciting projects being worked on by the team.
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?
Love horror? Dream of a more diverse future? Come learn how to give voice to those who are not often heard and gain tools necessary to co-create a more equitable and representative horror landscape.
Description:
Horror has long been a genre of storytelling used to explore themes of fear, power, and justice. This seminar seeks to empower underrepresented voices in horror, allowing participants to gain a better understanding of how to recognize and utilize their voices in the genre. Through presentation and interactive discussion, we will explore how horror can be used to examine and challenge issues of inequity and injustice. Participants will be encouraged to share their ideas and perspectives on how horror can be used to amplify the stories of those who have previously been underrepresented in the genre. Those attending will leave the seminar with a better understanding of how to create and use their talents to bring about meaningful change.
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
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.
Join Alphinius Goo, Director of Gooey Cube, for an exciting, informative, and entertaining fireside chat about brightening up your table and making games memorable.
Description:
Do you want to have that wow factor at your table? Do you want your players to come back session after session eager for more? Do you crave that moment when the players say, “best game I’ve ever played”? Then this is the seminar for you. It will be fun, entertaining, and a little be gooey…okay, maybe a lot! But come any way.
Join veteran TTRPG players as we go over the ever evolving genre, our favorite systems, and what it means to be Black in the table top role playing community.
Description:
Obsidian Brews is a collective of Black creatives making space within the Table Top RPG world and bringing the love of the genre to newcomers and veteran players through outreach, education, and community building. Join us at GenCon '23 as we discuss the Black experience in the realm of TTRPG.
Hear what it takes to create amazing TTRPG music from behind the scenes or on the world stage from Arcane Anthems, Denkles, Ginny Di, Lindy Day, Omega Jones & Will Savino.
Description:
Join us as we explore the realities of being an independent musician in the TTRPG space. Learn how to use music in the right way to enhance your games, engage your players and entertain your audience. Audience Q&A at the end of the panel!
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.
Want to publish a gaming resource for a pre-existing system? This is the panel for you. We've run the gauntlet of licenses so you don't have to. Q&A to follow.
Curious about kink? What does BDSM really mean? How can you do it safely by yourself or with partner(s)? Start your kinky journey with a good foundation here by covering introductory kink topics.
Description:
Kink is all around us in society but how do you engage in it? Kink isn’t all dark dungeons and dangerous situations. Kink can be serious or silly, dark or colorful, heavy or light, but most importantly…fun! Kink is customizable and with this class, you’ll have the knowledge to start having your own fun in a risk aware and responsible way. In this class, taught by two experienced lifestyle kinksters, we will cover consent and safety, what kink is and isn’t, how to negotiate play, and some common terms used in the lifestyle. The goal of this class is to give you the foundation you need to start exploring with yourself or with partner(s) in a risk aware way. There will be no play in this class and questions will be answered if time permits.
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.
A Board Game Creator's Guide to Creating Your Space on TikTok
Summary:
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!
Learn how to be a more effective GM, how to deal with disruptive personalities & how to ensure that everyone has a good time. Covers basic and advanced gamemastering techniques.
Session Zero! What is it? Why is it? Learn how Session Zeros can manage expectations, set the tone, develop safety tools and polish characters to fit inside the adventure.
Description:
Featuring panel members Dead Aussie Gamer, Rayna Rai of Careful Cantrip, Em of Blackwater DnD, Mháire Stritter of Orkenspalter TV and Peter of DnDwMe.
Get some freshly baked hot takes & tips on streaming! Featuring panelists: DM Jason (RealmSmith), Duke (One Shot Questers) & cast members from Careful Cantrip: DM Dave, Dead Aussie Gamer & Rayna Rai!
Description:
Also featuring international guest Mháire Stritter of Orkenspalter TV. This panel will be moderated by Peter of DnDwMe.
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
RPGs for Social Good: A Conversation with Authors and Designers
Summary:
What are the possibilities for socially conscious gaming? Join Patrick Mooney (Lead Designer, Nations & Cannons), Lucas Zellers (Author, “The Book of Extinction”), and more for a panel discussion.
Last year, Morningstar shared the background behind the "Choose Your DEI Adventure Program" for corporations to increase DEI participation. What quests should we highlight for 2023-2024?
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.
Fantasy. Science fiction. Horror. How wishes can be worked into stories and campaigns without completely breaking time and space. For writers, game developers, GMs, and even players.
DPS. Healing. Tanking. A mental triangle for many gamers. However, powerful ideas exist outside this. Ideas that end encounters and shape stories. Let's get you thinking outside the triangle.
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.
How did a $40 million company that started the tabletop RPG industry go belly up? Dozens of interviews and anonymously-sent secret documents tell the surprising truth of what happened to TSR.
4th edition D&D radically changed the game's mechanics and lore. Is it an overlooked gem or an aberration? Journalist Ben Riggs interviewed the game's creators to try to get to the bottom of 4th ed.
Historian Ben Riggs tells the tale of the OGL and those who created it, those who tried to destroy it, and those who may have saved it. Based on dozens of interviews and confidential sources.
How did a $40 million company that started the tabletop RPG industry go belly up? Dozens of interviews and anonymously-sent secret documents tell the surprising truth of what happened to TSR.
4th edition D&D radically changed the game's mechanics and lore. Is it an overlooked gem or an aberration? Journalist Ben Riggs interviewed the game's creators to try to get to the bottom of 4th ed.
Historian Ben Riggs here tells the tale of the OGL and those who created it, those who tried to destroy it, and those who may have saved it. Based on dozens of interviews and confidential sources.
Struggling to learn a new game system? Sit down with our panel of authors and expert game masters as we share insights into how to make first contact with a vast world of new and exciting TTRPGs.
Description:
Featuring: Dead Aussie Gamer, Tomas Härenstam (Free League Publishing), Brian Colin (Vast Grimm), Jason (Critical Dice/Quincy's Tavern), Sarah Moore (Pixies & Pins) & Rayna of Careful Cantrip.
Real People in a Fantasy World - Leveling Up Your D&D Character
Summary:
How do you make your TTRPG character to feel like a real person? Join the Avantris crew as they discuss their process for bringing three dimensional characters to a world of imagination.
Description:
If you want your TTRPG character to not just feel like a game avatar, the first step is ripping up your character sheet! Find out what that means at this panel on the "Avantris Process" of character creation, and learn why theme reigns supreme!
Reflecting on DEI Success and Failures in Tabletop Gaming
Summary:
In this discussion, we will talk about DEI and how once it was a hot topic and now it is nowhere to be found.
Description:
Three years ago, the wave of protests following the death of George Floyd sparked promises of change from many within the tabletop gaming community. Today, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are still hot topics...but many aspects of tabletop gaming remain inaccessible to historically excluded communities. Join us for a workshop in which we reflect on the success and failures of DEI initiatives in tabletop gaming with an eye toward developing new ways to create equitable and inclusive experiences in our spaces. Let's work together to learn from the past and forge a better future!
It's been awhile! Here's your chance to chat & joke with the folks behind DG & ZOE's assortment of entertainment options -- updates on projects, Q&A, & general geekdom.
Kieron Gillen and Grant Howitt chat DIE: the RPG with Lin Codega
Summary:
Games journalist Lin Codega interviews comics writer Kieron Gillen and game designer Grant Howitt about their project DIE: The Roleplaying Game - and probably several other things too.
Description:
Veteran comics writer, RPG enthusiast and creator of DIE in both RPG and comic form, Kieron Gillen will be in conversation with Grant Howitt, creator of Honey Heist, co-writer of Heart and Spire, and game designer on DIE.
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
Join our panel of scientists & engineers in a discussion focused on the real science behind your favorite science fiction & fantasy shows, movies, stories, & games.
Join our panel of scientists & engineers in a discussion focused on the real science behind your favorite science fiction & fantasy shows, movies, stories, & games.
After 30+ successful campaigns, Kobold Press knows what it takes for a successful Kickstarter. The Kobold Press creative team breaks down what it takes & answers your questions directly.
Description:
This panel is moderated by Little Red Dot, and includes Wolfgang Baur (CEO), Alexander Stangroom (COO), and Celeste Conowitch (Senior Game Designer) as panelists. They will cover tips and tricks, best practices, and what it really takes to raise funds to bring your gaming projects to come to life on Kickstarter, like their successful Tome of Beasts 3.
How to Take Down a Billion-Dollar Company in 3 Easy Steps!
Summary:
Hear the inside scope and the untold stories from the people on the front lines of the OGL 1.1 battle between Wizards of the Coast, Hasbro, and the TTRPG community.
Description:
In a matter of weeks, Wizards of the Coast nearly destroyed a dozen years of community reputation and goodwill with their OGL 1.1 debacle. Hear the inside scope and the untold stories from the people on the front lines of the OGL 1.1 from the people who broke the story and helped bring Hasbro to its knees. Features Stephen Glicker from Roll For Combat, who originally broke the story live on the air while doing his weekly YouTube show.
Swords, Spies & Shoggoths: The Pelgrane Press Panel
Summary:
Join Simon Rogers, Cat Tobin & others from the Pelgrane team for a behind-the-scenes look at what the award-winning UK publisher's been up to this year, & what they've planned for the coming year.
Robin D. Laws and guests teach RPG structures & techniques to turn emotional confrontations between PCs from frustrating roadblocks into rich moments of human drama.
Robin D. Laws & Kenneth Hite talk roleplaying, history, conspiracy, occultism, writing, food, movies, & whatever you ask them about in this live edition of their award-winning podcast.
Mystery scenario masters Kenneth Hite, Robin D. Laws and guests train their magnifying glasses on clue-gathering adventures to reveal the unlikely suspects behind your tabletop woes.
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.
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)
Come explore GameMastering (GMing) beyond specific game systems and campaigns. One law any GM could use. Pacing combat. Senses and roleplaying. Various ideas for GMs new or veteran.
Ben Milton from Questing Beast and Professor DungeonMaster of DungeonCraft share their top tips for designing awesome scenarios.
Description:
Professor Dungeonmaster and Ben Milton of Questing Beast talk about what it's like to start and run a TTRPG Youtube channel. Topics include: where to start, how we did it, how we manage workflow, how we choose topics, and more!
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.
A deep dive into horror in the modern age of roleplaying. We'll discuss safety tools, the evolution of horror, mechanics of monsters, & the marriage of atmosphere and gaming that makes horror unique.
Hacking in Fiction, Games, & the Media - The Good, the Bad, & the Bizarre
Summary:
Join our panel of professional hackers as we discuss interesting & absurd portrayals of hacking of 2020-23 in games, movies, TV, & books. Learn ways to depict hacking in a fun but accurate manner.
Description:
We're back, baby! Join our annual panel of professional (and slightly inebriated) white hat hackers as we discuss the best and most dreadful portrayals of hacking over the pandemic years (2020-2023) in games, movies, TV, and books. Ask questions you've been dying to about real hacking, cybercrime, infosec, and malware. Learn ways that you can depict hacking in a fun but accurate manner.
Learn about different games and systems to scratch your TTRPG itch when your gaming group consists solely of you and your imagination!
Description:
You want to roll some dice, tell a story, explore lands unknown, and fight some fearsome beasts. Everyone knows that Tabletop Roleplaying Games (TTRPGs) are awesome ways for you and your friends to come together to do all of that and more. Fewer people Maybe you're an extreme introvert. Maybe you can't seem to align schedules with your friends. Maybe it's 7:30 pm on a Wednesday night and you just want a low-stakes, meditative guided journey through your own imagination. Whatever your motivation, there is a solo TTRPG game for you. In this session, we will discuss: types of solo TTRPG games, modifying your favorite systems for solo play, recommended games and creators to start with, and even SRDs you can use to make your own solo game!