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I was told that there wasn't going to be any sword dealers this year (cause, ya know, there shouldn't be).....

Why not? There was something for everyone.  They were all very open in following all the rules and many people at the show did as requested (although it was silly to hear that these people who would be just transporting the gear to their rooms had to get it checked by con-ops. I'm pretty sure con-ops has better things to do than look over an item that will not be even used at the show.)
But that said, why do you have a problem with weapons being sold? I thought they were cool and spiced things up from the usual "retail anime/manga" shops. If we were going to REALLY childproof the con, that would mean the entire cosplay show would have to be cut, Brian Doan be replaced with Raffi, Those Yaoi and Hentai dealers be routed out, say bye bye to most of the arcade, tabletop and e-gaming rooms... and while we're at it, chuck out any dvd or item that isn't Sugar the Snow Fairy or Hello Kitty.

Yeah I DO have to agree there. You can't just say "Hey! No blades" and NOT take out hentai, games like Halo, games like DnD, and anime like Naruto (Which Cartoon Network seems to want to butcher those bastards). You can't have your cake and eat it to man......

Hentai and Naruto (maybe not Halo) work under the heading of anime. And, holy crap, Fanime is an ANIME convention.

Swords....hmm, yeah, not anime....

Humor aside, I understand that most of the people on this forum have enough sense to not go swinging blades around. Unfortunately, not everyone who has good sense who attends the con comes to this board. There have been injuries and damages done by (some) of the people who have bought this weapons (regardless of what con-ops says). Having these things around is just asking for trouble.

Well, by your logic, I guess that means all gaming at the convention needs to get the heave ho, along with Cosplaying, because that's not an animated video from japan, that's some guy from Burbank dressing up. This isn't "COSPLAY"con. Nor is it Jrockcon or Live Action Hongkongcon.
But they're all there. It's also not "MOMMYHOLDMYHANDCON".

Yes, there's some things that may make you uncomfortable. There's some elements at the convention that I can't really understand myself why it's around. But other people like it, and most are fairly responsible about these things and keep it under control. Yes, there will always be a bad apple or a "what if..." scenario but many of the people running and attending this convention trust that the average person at the show will not behave in a criminal fashion, and that any one individual that chooses to NOT follow the rules must accept the consequences.

Let's take that minor who shoplifted last year as an example. He was a repeat offender, and was stealing from the dealers for years.

Does that mean because frequent theft occured in the dealers room that the room should immediately take a policy of "no more than X people under the age of 18 in the room" or "All persons will be searched apon leaving the room and reciepts checked"?

Or should he and any other accomplaces be punished and made an example that we don't tollerate that kind of behavior?

Okay, I'll see what I can do.. I happen to have a copy of Serenity and I was hoping I wasn't the only person at Fanime who liked the program.

If you know anyone or you yourself would like to run that game or anything else, They can get in free to the con by hosting some games and entertaining the rest of us.

For right now, PMing or E-mailing me is the way to go on such matters, or if you have general questions.

-Mike

Yeah I was thinking that we could get some more games in there....like sci-fi games preferably....^^;;

So we got a genre... would that be for a Sci-Fi Role Playing Game or maybe a Sci-fi Non-Collectable Card game?

[(NEW ANNOUNCMENT - UPDATE)]

(NEW ANNOUNCMENT - UPDATE)

The Tabletop Gaming department's e-mail is up and working now. If you want to hold a game as a GM (game master) and reserve a spot, send us word at [email protected]. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

* When you submit your request for a time slot, send in the name of your game, when you want to start, and for how long you need the table for. Other details like number of players or adventure details are nice, but not required.
* Major events and tournaments should be submitted by April 23rd to appear on con handouts and other published announcements.
* May 18th is the deadline to submit events so that they'll appear on the online schedule when it is posted or updated.
* The midnight before the con begins (the evening of May 24th) is the deadline to change or submit events and their time slots through e-mail. Remember, until you receive confirmation, your time slot will not change!
* If you must, go to the Tabletop Gaming Room when it opens to change your event's time during the con.

If you want to run tabletop games as a specialized GM for an extended period of time throughout the con, contact us to see if you meet criteria for compensation. The last day for specialized GM consideration is March 17. Update!We can no longer accept specialized GMs this year. Only those willing to become a general staff member, with the additional duties it entails, along with tabletop gaming industry representatives will still be considered until March 17th. Note: This does not affect game spot reservations! You can still reserve your time slots up to May 24th.

The longer you wait, the less likely that your event will appear on the printed schedule at the con! So sign up early and your game may be announced at promotional events!

Never heard of Kyuun, what did they sell there?

Only reason to go to the great mall is Dave and Busters! LOL

I have to say that I miss wonder park as well, kinda suprised it went away since they seem to have a lot of buisness. I am guessing the rent for the amont of space there was way too expensive.

The word is that Namco had a contract that they'd be the only arcade in the mall. D&B moves in, Namco throws a fit and hauls its stuff out.

But D&B is not even worth going any more since they removed the Battletech Pods, and replaced it with a lame 2 player madden game. Oh joy of joys...

No kidding? You think they would move Wonder Park elsewhere instead of shutting it down definatly. Kinda lame if you ask me.. haha

Wow well battle tech is like what 15 years old or so? Not suprised they took it out but I wonder why they never updated it with better graphics?

I know you guys are under 18, but it is nice to have a chuck e cheese for adults. lol

While battletech is 15 years old, they often had major updates with graphic, gameplay and pod changes that would rival most modern high end PC or arcade games at the times. Advanced play was a few little readouts that didn`t quite work all the time back in 92. Advanced play now was full voice systems, ejection, weapon interfaces, multiple huds, several different layouts, jump jets and frequent mech rotations.
It was still worth about 4-5 bucks a play a few months ago.

Not true... the shirts and posters are gone, but any anime toys, like the Menchi pans, are still there last I checked. (last night)

Not really worth the rush over there, 20% off a 28 buck price tag on a dvd, when I can still get most of those cheaper at Best Buy or Fry's.

Too much Fanservice? And this is Karin we're talking about?

Outside of the opener and the next episode teaser, this program is one of the most innocent and fanservice free programs of the "School/Teenager comedy/drama" genre. I've really enjoyed the program so far (up to episode 6) and Kenta's mom was just awesome after she got bit, some cases stealing the show.

Having never read the comics (I can't understand Tokyopop changing the name to "Chibi Vampire"), I think the blood flying out like flowers, or her running to a bush with a blood guyser going off, is an artistic choice that may have been made to circumvent Japanese censors and so far, like what I'm seeing.

I've seen much much much worse here in the realm of Fan Service, and anyone who knows me can attest that a show with too much Fan Service = insulting my intelligence.

Never heard of Kyuun, what did they sell there?

Only reason to go to the great mall is Dave and Busters! LOL

I have to say that I miss wonder park as well, kinda suprised it went away since they seem to have a lot of buisness. I am guessing the rent for the amont of space there was way too expensive.

The word is that Namco had a contract that they'd be the only arcade in the mall. D&B moves in, Namco throws a fit and hauls its stuff out.

But D&B is not even worth going any more since they removed the Battletech Pods, and replaced it with a lame 2 player madden game. Oh joy of joys...

[PLEASE BE PATIENT.]

Exactly. I'd ask everyone to keep their eyes peeled very soon on this very forum as we'll be announcing the event, which looks like it'll be officially a recognized portion of Fanime.

So far a good chunk of the main staff like the idea, and it seems we'll be the first convention on the west coast (correction please?) to have such a shindig and I can tell lots of you here are chomping at the bit, but right now, I only need one thing from you guys:

PLEASE BE PATIENT.

Once we have everything sorted out like rules and policies, we can begin sign ups for all the games and dates. I'm not one to post up policies and just yank em out at the last minute if I can help it, so it's crucial we're all on the same page.
Also since almost everyone here is a "Do-it-yerselfer", Just kick back on providing material at the moment. I'd rather have the convention foot the bill before making someone get stuck with a tab.

But please by all means offer your services and let us know what you can do. My PM works just fine. Or throw out things you'd like to see handled or run at the games right here. I'll be sure to read them.

Mike Stevens

I think I mention this before, but perhaps somebody can tally up the "votes" of guests and make a poll from that list. See who is the ultimate survivor!


Perhaps this will get somebody motivated? LOLOLOLOL

Now you KNOW those are implants!

No... that's the magic of Inverse Kinematics.

At this time, it may be best to hold off on any construction. This doesn't mean that the Cosplay Chess is canceled in the least, it's simply to avoid confusion and having more than one board constructed as the head of Programming has taken a shine to this idea (very good news really)

More updates when I can give them.

I'd say bishop. Knights should be the defending or assualt guys we see in alot of anime- Fighter or Kakashi would be fine examples of Knight. Bishops should be the religious/magic guys...

[Battle Chess:]

YAY! alright, so I'm high mistress until Kris returns...

Hmmm... what to do... what to do?

~_^

Naah, alright, so, I suppose the question is, where do we want to do all the planning for this?

Anyone with questions/comments as far as this is concerned, feel free to contact me via AIM, PM, or MSN. I'll respond to any of them, but be prepared to tell me who you are.

So, Tabletop gaming'd be willing to host it? Awesome. ^__^ I'm thinking... I'll be making more complete lists and such later. Any more suggestions from people?

Battle Chess: Yes, some more pondering

Well, I think that not everyone's  going to be able to get weapons that are costume-appropriate, and still useable. For example, Meg from Burst Angel (who I'm cosplaying) always has a very large gun. That's hardly appropriate for a game of chess, so I'll be finding something different just for the game.

I'll probably also bring a few spare pieces, for the spur-of-the-moment players.

Prizes:
We keep talking of a tournament, and every good tournament has prizes. I need someone to take charge of figuring out what we're going to do as far as prizes are concerned... Food, Anime Stuff, Random Strange Stuff... suggestions, anyone? (Plausible, and either cheap, or with an explanation about where to get the money for it)

Location:
We've pretty much decided. Objections, or alternate suggestions?

Well, Santana Row, while a safe and secure place, hasn't heard of this idea yet. Lets not count our chickens before they hatch. I'll visit them soon and see where to go from there.

Also I wouldn't worry about theme of the weapons displayed being appropriate for chess- have them more appropriate for the character much like the many themed battle chess software titles like star wars chess. (The only thing we should be concerned about is having the character appropriate for the role they're in- Since Meg uses what seems to be a snub nosed .38 in many episodes, you can wheel out a snubnosed .38 as you'll just do still battle poses in "combat") and seeing how it's not on convention center or hotel property and strictly on Santana Row property (if they give the thumbs up) the weapon policy may or may not be different for better or worse. Regardless- and we should make this ABSOLUTELY clear from the get-go: No matter how fake or real the weapon looks, never to draw or brandish a weapon at a spectator, use caution/courtesy and all weapons should be looked over before the game begins to assure safety.

All pieces and players could recieve some sort of participation prize, awards for best performance (as I'm sure many will be playing in character- be friendly though: I'm looking at you, genocidal maniac cosplayer.) and best costume and the winning side gets some sort of bonus.

How does that sound?

Spiritsnare... Roy Mustang as a Rook... I can see that. Nice :)

E, I'm the not only a staff member of Tabletop, I'm also the high mucky muck of the dept. :)

You do bring up a good point with the fact it's not exactly in walking distance within the con. However I see this counterbalanced with

A) Many non-con goers checking out the event and said "pieces" and enjoying the show by itself. If it works, this could be one of those events that can "enrich" the comunity and perhaps help slay the idea that these cons are just weirdo havens and instead people who just like to have a good time.

B)  Easy transit- If cars are an issue, Transit runs directly from downtown to Valley Fair mall, which is right across from Santana Row.

C) As Great Teacher Largo put it: Knowledge is Power! We make the event known in either the program guide or the newsletter. Preferably both as well as directions to and from santana row and the SJCC.

The battle chess idea originally came from the age-old PC game of the same name. It was chess that would have cool combat animations when each piece captured another to spiff up the game- Frankly just telling the chess pieces to bring character appropriate weapons (paper fans, squeeky hammers and giant foam mallets for the catgirls/school kids for example) to the event is good enough. Expect alot of research on Boffo weapons, kids.

Oh good... I wasn't just imagining the Santana Row chessboard X3  Not sure if that would work out as far as transportation... but yeah, it would save quite a bit of work as far as making a board, and it could house the tournament as well.

Transportation should be easy enough. It's close for a quick carpool drive or barring that, a ride on the 23 VTA bus line. The 23 runs often enough where it won't be a problem as long as there's enough prep time.

Although I for one would NOT mind lunch at Blowfish Sushi before/afterwards... they're pretty good.  :D

I've never eaten there, but I'll keep that in mind...

As far as notation goes, if it comes down to it, I'm sure we'd have enough idle "watchers" who aren't actively participating that would be willing to hold up signs and stand around the board.  Then the cosplayers could just look at the signs and move to the right square.  That might get a bit crowded or disrupt the aesthetics of the scene... but it's something to consider.  Plus, it would give the watchers something to do instead of just milling around awkwardly.  :3

Each player could have laminated cards indicating what piece they are and a chart on the other side so they can navigate easily. It could help the actual players that there's a real chess game set up to represent the players.  

The Yaoi chess seems to be a bit too... overkill.  I agree that it's definately not something that would cater to all the participants, and while I would love to see it done... perhaps that's something Y-con attendees (I know there's at least a few of you in this thread...) should think about organizing at Y-con?  I'm sure if someone mentioned it to the Yaoicon staff, or requested it as a panel or something, that it would go over well.  And you wouldn't have the problems with carding, since obviously, you've got to be 18+ to register for the convention!  :)  There may or may not be enough time for it... but if someone wants to set up a modified version of this for  this year's Y-con and gets it approved, I'd be more than willing to help out.  I'm registered, but I doubt I would have the time to organize everything since I'm starting summer school in like, two weeks.  I'm sure I could whip up the signs designating the pieces by the time Y-con rolls around, though.  I just need some advance warning.  ^_^

Amen on that. There's a proper time and place for everything I suppose. I'm quite sure Y-con would just dig that sort of thing and everyone's happy. Want Yaoi? Go to the con with the dang word in it's name and there can be a clean fun game of chess that you wouldn't be embarassed to take your mother to

I think the action shot for captured pieces sounds really neat, I'm all for that, and I can bring my photo printer (little portable one) and each player who "dies" can have a copy of the image.  I would do the "killers" as well, but that would take up way too much ink...  Or maybe I should just do the "killers"?  :: shrugs ::  Or I could just charge a buck or two a photo for whoever wants them.  :3  It's kind of too expensive to do for free... :/

Maybe once they've "died" they get to do something embarrassing to the person who was controlling them, in exchange for having been killed/sacrificed?  Like... dropping an ice cube down thier shirt, or getting to 'haunt' them (whispering silly moves, tickling them, trying to make them lose concentration)?  Maybe nothing that drastic... but it'd be incentive for the actual players to not let any of thier pieces die if they had to endure something each time they lost a piece.  Maybe it would make the other person feel better about having their time on the board cut short, as well.  X3  Just an idea.


I like where this is heading...!

Same here- at the very least the photo taking could be used to see the most action packed post game chess report you'd ever see. Other conventions has done this kind of event, and I'd have to go for the concept where the role fits with the character being cosplayed- Wolfwood for Bishop, Priss for Knight, Vash for King, Regina or Mai for Queen, Meg for Rook, Various mook ninjas for pawns on one side and Catgirls/ School girls for the other side and so on...

Just one problem that was brought up by one of my gaming helpers: Unless this game has timed moves, it can go on for over an hour and even then pawns or other pieces might get stuck in one space for the whole duration of the event... it would also help to have some sort of commentator/host who knows Chess really well and is quite enthusastic about it so people aren't bored to tears watching someone get indecicive and think they're the next Bobby Fisher.

This is a really cool idea and I wouldn't mind having the Tabletop gaming dept sponsor the event- just wanna pitch in my two cents on the matter:

+ The battle chess concept is really cool. We see a bunch of characters in some neat poses and it makes for fantastic pictures.

- Glomping just leads to grief, especially with costumes. Now that it's considered a flying tackle hug, there's a chance with complex outfits in play, people can be hurt or equipment damaged just by being near the glomped piece. Who really wants to Glomp the Sandrock gundam when we can have Sana-Chan whack it with a Pico Pico hammer?

+ Using Santana Row's gonzo sized chess board is an awesome idea, just as long as we get permission from the place in advance. There may be some slight advantages for the cosplay pieces and random non-fanime people would really enjoy the costumed folk assembled. (right next to the chess board is a place called Blowfish, which serves sushi while piping anime over tv sets during work hours)

- While the ladies (and some of the men) may enjoy Yaoi, lets be quite honest here without going to slam or defend someone's fetish: It's very slim niche and while it may not have tentacle monsters that are featured in some straight hentai, it is still hentai as most of the people who go to those events would love to see the characters hop in the sack. Yes, I know the difference between Yaoi and Shonen AI- one is explicit and the other hints at it, how loud is up to the program but it simply hints. It would certainly be a no-no to do that at Santana Row (or any public place), and even if it was held at the show, it would just exclude too many people from visiting something that could be enjoyed by all without feeling uncomfortable.

Anywho, if those who'd like to head up this event for Fanime, feel free to give me a holler at [email protected] and we'll go from there.

Most of the games we tried were specifically to make it "a true show" complete with the song at the end. This was (as far as I know) the teams' first crack at Improv and we could only limit ourselves to things that we could do without equipment. We couldn't do "sound effects" nor did we have a proper buzzer, music guy or be able to run the great games like the one where you have a conversation and then have to read lines suggested by the audience. This was the pilot. Anyone see the original Mystery Science Theater videos from their KTMA year or the first season? They look really shoddy and quickly assembled. Which is why A. They were the first attempt and B. They don't show them anymore.

We got enough of a response that we'll do the show again and this time with a better prep time getting down to a proper science, like the GTL show. (perhaps making a "Who's line" survey and drop box in the Tabletop room so we can get a larger amount of audience participation material and screen it for quality than just simply having a form before the show.) Whadya think Sirs?

That's because D here had planned a little of it out, we got our team and figured the crowd would follow. With one quickly constructed sign and having found a strategic location to hold our event, we just went with it.

Special kudos for everyone who showed up and watched us try our hand at this stuff for the first time.

Unlike 2004 there wasn't ever really a time when I was the only staffer in there.

I was not trapped. I was having fun. Where else would you find out that my highest match for the green apple card "Cute" would be the red card "Meat Cleaver?"

hehehehe.

-Ð

What Mike doesn't know is that he WAS trapped in there and we had attached a small bomb on his person and if he left... well, we all saw that segment in Battle Royale, right? Good.

<laughs maniacally>

I was told that there wasn't going to be any sword dealers this year (cause, ya know, there shouldn't be).....

Why not? There was something for everyone.  They were all very open in following all the rules and many people at the show did as requested (although it was silly to hear that these people who would be just transporting the gear to their rooms had to get it checked by con-ops. I'm pretty sure con-ops has better things to do than look over an item that will not be even used at the show.)
But that said, why do you have a problem with weapons being sold? I thought they were cool and spiced things up from the usual "retail anime/manga" shops. If we were going to REALLY childproof the con, that would mean the entire cosplay show would have to be cut, Brian Doan be replaced with Raffi, Those Yaoi and Hentai dealers be routed out, say bye bye to most of the arcade, tabletop and e-gaming rooms... and while we're at it, chuck out any dvd or item that isn't Sugar the Snow Fairy or Hello Kitty.