What is gencon?

Gen Con is one of the largest and longest-running gaming conventions in the world. It focuses on tabletop gaming, including board games, card games, role-playing games (RPGs), and miniature games. The convention takes place annually in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

1. History: Gen Con was first held in 1968, making it over 50 years old. It was founded by Gary Gygax, a co-creator of Dungeons & Dragons, and his business partners. The convention began with a few dozen attendees and has now grown to attract tens of thousands of gamers from around the world each year.

2. Size and Attendance: Gen Con is a massive event, taking place over four days in the Indiana Convention Center and several surrounding hotels. It has consistently grown in attendance, with the record-breaking year of 2019 hosting over 70,000 unique attendees. The convention covers several hundred thousand square feet of exhibition space, hosting thousands of events and game demos.

3. Game Exhibitors: Gen Con serves as a platform for game publishers, designers, and manufacturers to showcase their latest releases and upcoming projects. The exhibit hall features hundreds of booths where attendees can explore and purchase games from various publishers and indie designers. It is an excellent opportunity to discover new games and interact with industry professionals.

4. Gaming Events: The convention offers an extensive schedule of gaming events, known as "events catalog." These events include scheduled game sessions, tournaments, workshops, seminars, and panels. Attendees can sign up and participate in a wide range of gaming experiences, from learning how to play a new game to competing for prizes in high-stakes tournaments.

5. Costume and Cosplay: Gen Con embraces the cosplay culture, encouraging attendees to dress up as their favorite characters from various games, movies, and franchises. Many people spend months preparing elaborate costumes, adding to the vibrant and immersive atmosphere of the convention. The convention offers cosplay events, contests, and dedicated areas for professional and amateur cosplayers to showcase their creations.

6. Community and Networking: Gen Con is not only a place for gaming enthusiasts but also a hub for the gaming industry. It brings together game designers, publishers, artists, bloggers, and fans, providing excellent networking opportunities. Many events specifically cater to industry professionals, allowing them to discuss new trends, share ideas, and establish connections.

Overall, Gen Con has become an iconic event in the gaming world, offering a diverse and inclusive gaming experience for attendees of all ages and interests. It combines the thrill of discovering new games, the excitement of competition, the joy of cosplay, and the sense of community that comes with being surrounded by fellow gamers.