If you’re planning on attending E3 or making early plans for PAX or one of the other giant gaming cons, VULCAN has a handy list of ways to make the most of your experience.
Most people, when first attending a huge event like PAX or E3, find themselves overwhelmed with the lights, the people, the sounds, and the hustle and bustle of the showroom floor. Believe it or not, you can enjoy these events without being bogged down by the excitement if you follow a few simple rules.
Number One: SEE EVERYTHING!
A lot of times, first timers over-book their daily schedules with panels, live demos and concerts. My advice, DO IT. The more you can see, the more people you can meet and the more free swag you can get, the better. Don’t bother getting upset at time delays because the line is too long, just learn to expect it! I’ve seen kids stand in line for two hours to demo Left 4 Dead 2 just to play it and get a free shirt!
Number Two: Expect not to sleep!
Although we’re all exhausted from traveling to the event, the actual event can wear you out. DEAL WITH IT! Go to as many parties as you can, stay out late to experience the city (especially if you’ve never visited the location before) and grab a bite at a new restaurant! Part of attending events is to not only experience the event itself but the city it’s held in. Also, you never know who you’ll end up meeting and hanging out with. Events can bring some long term friends to the table, too!
Number Three: Talk to as Many People as Possible!
While you’re standing in line waiting to demo a game or go to a panel, you NEVER know who is standing in line behind you. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been waiting in line to go to a panel and found out that so-and-so from this company was standing behind me. Not only will you have the opportunity to just meet these people and ask questions, but you might be able to make friends with a few people in the process.
Number Four: Hydrate. A LOT.
…and expect to lose some weight and gain some muscle in your thighs. The majority of events have HUGE showroom floors and then separate hallways (or even separate buildings!) to host the panels and gaming tournaments in. You’ll be walking EVERYWHERE, so put on your running shoes and prepare to get a work out. Keeping yourself hydrated and eating breakfast will help you keep focused, full of energy, and of course, prepare you for the run across the center so you can be first in line to demo a new game or get the best seats at a panel.
Number Five: DRESS ACCORDINGLY.
For days when you’re just walking around the event taking pictures, notes, and getting autographs, its best to strap on your Nikes instead of those heels or Vans. I made the mistake of wearing a pair of flats to a three-day event. WORST . IDEA. EVER. I still have blisters! Also, if you do attend any parties, you’ll need a nice pair of dress clothes and shoes. It makes people feel like they can approach you if you’re wearing a nice button-up shirt or a cocktail dress instead of the sweaty jeans you wore all day wandering around the event.
Number Six: SHOWER AND DEODORANT!
Plain and simple. I would suggest taking a shower every morning before the event … and although I’m suggesting it, you’ll come to find that most people completely ignore my advice. Most events have a certain stench. You’ll smell freshly opened cardboard boxes that hold all the newly printed t-shirts that companies give out. You’ll smell grease coming from the concession stands. But underneath it all, you will smell a vile, vomit-inducing smell: BODY ODOR. So for the sake of yourself and everyone around you, PLEASE take a shower.
Number Seven: Participate!
Besides the live demos you can watch, a lot of companies will have a main stage they’ll use for audience participation. Ubisoft had a main stage in PAX East and PAX West where they had a dance competition promoting their new game, Just Dance. Rock Band always has a main stage where you can show off your guitar skills a feel like a true rocker. If the main stage isn’t your style, you can always participate in tournaments. Everything from DJ Hero, Smash Brothers, Dungeons and Dragons, and even Magic: The Gathering is available at events. Not only will you be able to play against people face to face, but you’ll also get some really cool prizes.
Number Eight: Bring the Dough.
Depending on your spending habits, you’ll find that having enough money on you is essential. In most major cities, you’ll be taking a cab everywhere, which can get pretty pricey. Also, you might find a really cool pair of headsets at the Turtle Beach or Tritton booths, so why wait, be the first to have them! Lastly, concessions can also get pricey. While waiting for a tournament to start, I decided to grab a soda from the vending machine. $2.75 for a Pepsi! If you can, buy a bottle of water at the gas station down the street and tuck it away in a purse or backpack.
Number Nine: Take Pictures.
You can take pictures of almost everything at event. Not only does taking pictures remind of your experience for years to come, it can also help you remember certain companies you’ll want to check out when you get home. Besides, who knows who you might run into while waiting in line to use the restroom.
Number Ten: Do What Sparks Your Interest.
Lastly, if you’re a huge Valve gamer or a huge Bethesda fan, check out their booths. Don’t be afraid to talk to the people working the booth and ask questions. They’ll be able to tell you about any new updates or new content they’ll be releasing in the future. It’s a great way to not only meet some of the staff, but meet some new people who might like Bethesda as much as you do.
Last but not least: Take care of yourself!
Throw some vitamins and Advil into your bag when you’re headed to the convention center. Junk food, loud music, people talking and flashing lights can cause some pretty horrible headaches, so be prepared and do what I do, pop an Advil before heading to the event. You’ll save yourself the trouble and it will keep you going through the rest of the day.
I hope these tips help you as you travel across the country or maybe just down the road to your next event. These things can be a blast if you know how to manage your time, health and money. I’ve never attended an event where I didn’t enjoy myself or enjoy the company of those around me. Taking in the experience and getting an inside scoop into your favorite games is what it’s all about. Enjoy yourself, be safe, and I’ll see you at the next event!
-VULCAN
