So I'm going to my first Video Game Convention ... want help

[PacoDG]

I'm a little nervous for whatever reason. I'm not sure what exactly I am going to do there. I am not an interviewer, but I know eventually I'll have to start asking someone some questions.

My goal is to try and play as many games as possible for lots of "Hands On" type write ups.

Anything else though you could think would be something good to cover?

(VGXPO in Philly is the one I'm going to, not a big con, but big enough)

[the7k]

Well, as a photojournalist, I'd tell you to bring any camera you can get your hands on and take many pictures. Then, talk to some big wigs if you can. And of course, don't fall into the trap so many gaming journalists get into and let the excitement get to you. Excitement (or perhaps something more unethical) is what made EGM give Vice City and Halo 2 perfect 10s, and ever since that day, I've never been able to trust them. Sure, they're good games, but perfect? I feel like EGM owes me money.

Just remember, people are trusting you to help decide where their entertainment budget is going. You don't want your fans to feel like you owe them money.

The only thing you need to cover in a convention story is the main attraction (games, in this case) and the guests. Just remain objective.

[nickfil]

oh shit- i didn't know this was here. I might hop on the subway to that if only to hit up some free arcades for a few hours.

thanks for the heads up

[fastbilly1]

Take the first day to get the feel of the area, then plan what you want to do the second day over dinner. It has worked for me at almost every con I have gone to - atleast for those cons that dont post their schedules beforehand.

Remember to stay hydrated.

[superlarz]

i had no idea this was coming! unfortunately this weekend is not good for me to attend.. hopefully i find out about it earlier next year.. have fun!

[bobbynewmarkiii]

Watch Genshiken anime for inspiration. You are on your way to being the one true otaku.

[Daniel Primed]

Anything else though you could think would be something good to cover?

Are you reporting for a site or something? If so, I'd suggest using your head and reporting on anything that is not coveed as much by other media. As long as you are creative enough you can pull something really worthwhile out of these sorts of situations.

And yeah, drink water too, that's a good piece of advice.

[PacoDG]

I'm having lunch with co-workers right now (well im just cruising message boards while they eat).

I must say, so far this is a disappointing convention. I will post every picture/video I get (which is a lot). Good amount of tables with old games for sale (and systems too, in fact they had a JVC Genesis/SegaCD system I don't remember ever seeing before).

[mobiusclimber]

I seriously hope you aren't referring to the JVC X'Eye. It's rare, but not to the point that it should stump anyone that knows about retro gaming. How much was it selling for?

[PacoDG]

I seriously hope you aren't referring to the JVC X'Eye. It's rare, but not to the point that it should stump anyone that knows about retro gaming. How much was it selling for?

I stick by my stumped claim. I never had seen this system in person (and I honestly know a lot of systems). The only 'combo' sega one I remember was the "cdx" system (which i still think was a cool looking system).



By the by, since posting, the convention has got a little bit better. I ended up doing some shit on stage with some chicks from the PMS clan, it was amusing and embarrassing (but I did end up getting some Rock Band/Guitar Hero guitar for doing it, so at least its some decent swag to give away on my site)