INDIANAPOLIS -- With a record-breaking number of attendees in 2015, Indianapolis' Gen Con is as big as it's ever been. But what exactly is going on this weekend? Here are six things to know about the convention:
What does Gen Con stand for?
The second part is easy - you probably guessed that one (convention). The "Gen" part though, has a little more history. According to Gen Con's official website, it stands for Geneva. No, that's not from those Geneva Conventions. The first Gen Con took place in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
Who goes to Gen Con?
Well, for starters, a lot of people. In 2015, Gen Con set an attendance record with 61,423 people. The convention has doubled in attendance since 2010. But as far as what kind of people go to Gen Con - the best answer is "Gamers." The exhibit hall is filled with board game vendors, but there's plenty of other spaces for RPG (role-playing game) players, video gamers, even some life-size games.
What goes on at Gen Con?
Games. A lot of games. People play board games, card games and video games. This year, Gen Con is taking over Lucas Oil Stadium for True Dungeon, a live-action gaming event that takes up 40,000 square feet and involves dozens of people at once. Imagine an Escape Room, but the size of an NFL stadium. Watch the video below for more on True Dungeon.
Is that why there are people around Indianapolis all dressed up?
Yes. People dress up for the convention, planning their costume for months. There is even a contest to see who has the most creative cosplay at the convention. You'll see characters from: Star Wars, Star Trek, Mario, Halo, comic book characters and many crossovers people think of. You don't have to have a costume to go, but if you do, it's welcomed.
LAST YEAR | PHOTOS: Gen Con 2015
What are people excited about?
That depends on why you're going. True Dungeon is one of the big selling points for the more hardcore Gen Con attendees, but some people just go to people watch and check out the cosplay contest. Others go to try new board games before they're officially released, such as Seafall, Scythe and Cry Havoc. Some are amateur designers, hoping to get their game noticed and picked up by a publisher. You could also go simply because some of your favorite authors will be there for panels and to sign copies. There certainly isn't a shortage of things to do.
Can I still go?
Yes, but be warned. It'll cost you. A 4-day badge costs $120. Going for one day will cost you $75. Gen Con runs Thursday-Sunday. The exhibit hall is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. every day (except Sunday, when it closes at 4 p.m.), but you'd be able to find more specialized things to do much later into the evening, like game rooms and panel discussions.
