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Roleplaying conventions, frequently referred to as cons or gaming conventions, are social gatherings where people meet to play table-top roleplaying games (TRPGs), participate in workshops and panels, acquire gaming materials, and socialize with others who share their enthusiasm for the hobby. These gatherings range in size from modest local events to substantial national and international conferences.
Roleplaying conventions have been held since the early days of roleplaying. They made their debut in the 1960s with gatherings like the Gen Con gaming convention and grew in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s with the development of popular games like Dungeons & Dragons. Today, roleplaying conventions are a global phenomenon, with hundreds of events held each year in countries all over the world.
Conventions bring together like-minded individuals and offer a chance to connect with a wider community. Read on to learn various forms of conventions and their key characteristics.
roleplaying conventions
Social gatherings for tabletop roleplaying games.
- Gaming and socializing
- Workshops and panels
- Buying and selling games
Conventions bring together like-minded individuals and offer a chance to connect with a wider community.
Gaming and socializing
One of the primary reasons people attend roleplaying conventions is to game and socialize with others who share their hobby. Conventions offer a chance to meet new people, make friends, and connect with fellow gamers from all walks of life.
At conventions, there are typically many different gaming opportunities available. Attendees can participate in organized games, such as tournaments or one-shot adventures, or they can simply find a group of people to play with in the open gaming area. There are games for all levels of experience, from beginner-friendly games to complex and challenging adventures.
In addition to gaming, conventions also offer a variety of social activities. There are often parties, dances, and costume contests, as well as panels and workshops on a variety of gaming-related topics. These activities provide a chance for attendees to relax, have fun, and learn more about their favorite hobby.
Gaming and socializing are two of the most important aspects of roleplaying conventions. These events provide a unique opportunity for gamers to come together, share their passion for the hobby, and make lasting memories.
Conventions also offer a chance to meet the people behind the games, such as game designers, artists, and writers. This can be a great opportunity to learn more about the creative process and get insights into the games you love.
Workshops and panels
In addition to gaming and socializing, roleplaying conventions also offer a variety of workshops and panels. These sessions provide attendees with an opportunity to learn more about their favorite hobby, improve their gaming skills, and get insights from industry experts.
- Game design workshops: These workshops teach attendees the basics of game design, including how to create characters, stories, and game mechanics. Attendees can learn from experienced game designers and get feedback on their own game ideas.
- Gamemastering workshops: These workshops teach attendees how to run roleplaying games as a gamemaster (GM). Attendees can learn how to create compelling stories, manage encounters, and adjudicate rules.
- Art and writing workshops: These workshops teach attendees how to create art and write fiction for roleplaying games. Attendees can learn from experienced artists and writers and get feedback on their own work.
- Panels: Panels are discussion sessions where experts in the gaming industry share their insights on a variety of topics. Attendees can learn about the latest trends in game design, hear about upcoming releases, and get advice from experienced gamers.
Workshops and panels are a great way to learn more about roleplaying games, improve your gaming skills, and connect with other gamers who share your interests. They are also a great opportunity to get feedback on your own game ideas and learn from industry experts.
Buying and selling games
Roleplaying conventions are also a great place to buy and sell games, gaming supplies, and other merchandise. There are typically many vendors at conventions, selling everything from the latest roleplaying games to vintage games and collectibles.
- New releases: Conventions are often the first place where new roleplaying games are released. Attendees can purchase the latest games and expansions before they are available in stores.
- Rare and out-of-print games: Conventions are also a good place to find rare and out-of-print games. Vendors often sell games that are no longer available in stores, including classic games from the 1970s and 1980s.
- Gaming supplies: In addition to games, conventions also sell a variety of gaming supplies, such as dice, miniatures, and maps. Attendees can find everything they need to play their favorite games.
- Merchandise: Conventions also sell a variety of merchandise, such as t-shirts, hats, and other items with gaming themes. Attendees can show their love for their favorite games by wearing or using this merchandise.
Buying and selling games at conventions is a great way to find new and exciting games to play, as well as rare and out-of-print games that you may not be able to find anywhere else. It is also a great way to connect with other gamers and learn about new games and trends in the hobby.
FAQ
Introduction: Roleplaying conventions can be a lot of fun, but they can also be overwhelming for first-timers. Here are some frequently asked questions about roleplaying conventions to help you plan your trip.
Question 1: What is a roleplaying convention?
Answer: A roleplaying convention is a social gathering where people meet to play table-top roleplaying games (TRPGs), participate in workshops and panels, acquire gaming materials, and socialize with others who share their enthusiasm for the hobby.
Question 2: What kind of games are played at conventions?
Answer: A wide variety of games are played at conventions, including fantasy, science fiction, horror, and historical games. There are games for all levels of experience, from beginner-friendly games to complex and challenging adventures.
Question 3: What are workshops and panels?
Answer: Workshops and panels are sessions where experts in the gaming industry share their insights on a variety of topics. Attendees can learn about the latest trends in game design, hear about upcoming releases, and get advice from experienced gamers.
Question 4: Can I buy and sell games at conventions?
Answer: Yes, many conventions have a vendor hall where attendees can buy and sell games, gaming supplies, and other merchandise. This is a great place to find new and exciting games to play, as well as rare and out-of-print games that you may not be able to find anywhere else.
Question 5: What should I wear to a convention?
Answer: There is no dress code for conventions, but many attendees like to dress up in costumes. This is a great way to show your love for your favorite games and characters. However, it is important to remember that costumes should be comfortable and allow you to move around easily.
Question 6: What are some tips for first-time convention attendees?
Answer: Here are a few tips for first-time convention attendees:
- Plan your trip in advance and purchase your tickets early.
- Pack comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Bring a backpack or bag to carry your games and supplies.
- Be prepared to spend money on games, food, and other merchandise.
- Be open to trying new games and meeting new people.
- Have fun!
Closing: Roleplaying conventions are a great way to learn more about your favorite hobby, meet new people, and have fun. By following these tips, you can make the most of your convention experience.
In addition to the FAQ, here are some additional tips for making the most of your roleplaying convention experience:
Tips
Introduction: In addition to the FAQ, here are some additional tips for making the most of your roleplaying convention experience:
Tip 1: Plan your trip in advance.
Conventions can be large and overwhelming, so it is important to plan your trip in advance. Purchase your tickets early, book your hotel room, and make a list of the games and events you want to attend. This will help you make the most of your time at the convention.
Tip 2: Pack comfortable shoes and clothing.
You will be doing a lot of walking at a convention, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes. You should also dress in layers, as the temperature can vary inside the convention center. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or too restrictive, as you will need to be able to move around easily.
Tip 3: Bring a backpack or bag to carry your games and supplies.
You will need a way to carry your games, supplies, and other belongings around the convention. A backpack or bag is a good option, as it will allow you to keep your hands free. Make sure to pack everything you need, including dice, pencils, character sheets, and snacks.
Tip 4: Be prepared to spend money.
Conventions can be expensive, so it is important to be prepared to spend money on games, food, and other merchandise. Set a budget before you go and stick to it. You can also save money by bringing your own food and drinks.
Closing: By following these tips, you can make the most of your roleplaying convention experience. Remember to relax, have fun, and meet new people.
Roleplaying conventions are a great way to learn more about your favorite hobby, meet new people, and have fun. By following these tips, you can make the most of your convention experience.
Closing