[originally written after Labor Day weekend; updated today with photo links]
Despite my earlier expectations, I got to 'play hookie' and visit the 'Con for a some hours over the weekend. My report follows: [ since this is the Web and all, I'll add links as I discover pictures online.]
This was an 'opposite year' for me. Usually I book a room, take the train, spend all four days playing games and wandering random panels, and miss the Masquerade. This year, I was working over the weekend, stopped by Sat/Sun night and Mon afternoon, spent almost all my time in the hotel lobbies, and caught the tail end of the Masquerade.
Good things, in general:
- The layout. The dealer rooms felt like they were in the right spots this year. Gaming looked like it would be cramped, but I didn't stop by during a heavy-load hour. Even so, those rooms have much better access to Perimeter Ctr (food, caffeine) from their positions.
- The Mariott: The lounge feel is pervasive; I like it. Once the renovations are complete, this hotel should become the center of gravity for the party.
Brainstorming: How about using the Walk of Fame space as a nighttime photo area?
Favorite costumes (aka "one year, I'll bring a real camera"):
Other enjoyable sightings and events:
- The Front of the Cruxshadows Line: six hours of waiting!
- Monday's Violin Quintet
- Drum "circlet" in front of the Mariott -- outside, like it should be.
- 12+player "Are you A Werewolf?" circle, reduced to the final 3 before Werewolf gave it away.
- The
"Sailor Moulin" act from the Masquerade was brain-bleach for Project A*Kon's 40-year old guys in stock s
ailor costumes.
- Plush Facehuggers! [Ok, that one isn't plush. But it was thirsty.]
- The Art Show: I only saw the Monday leftovers, but there were still some really good pieces. And, the Stor
mtroopers vs. Jawas display rocked.
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