Dec 31 2008
Convention Profile: Genericon XXII
Genericon XXII is exactly what is sounds like - a generic anime/science fiction/gaming convention, which is being held January 23 - January 25 at the campus of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). It is run by RPI’s Rensselaer Sci-Fi & Anime club.
This convention has been held at RPI for over twenty years. It began in 1984, and continues to grow and thrive each year. Although small when compared to other cons (about 800+ in attendance), that is not necessarily a bad thing. The small and friendly nature of this convention makes it a great stop for anyone in the New York area who doesn’t want to deal with the insanity of something like New York Comic Con. It also means it’s a lot cheaper than a lot of other cons, with registration costing you only $15 if you pre-reg, and only $25 at the door. RPI students can get in for $10.
In terms of events, Genericon features 24-hour anime viewing rooms, karaoke, cosplay events, a 24-hour video game room/competitions, role-playing games, board games, and appearances by special guests. It also has an artist alley and vendor room. Anime Pavilion, Black Knight Comics, Cartoon Passion, Gryphon Graphix, Neko-Jin Designs, Panther Dragon, and Zombie Planet have all registered for tables in the vendor area. The following guests are also scheduled to appear: Jeph Jacques, OCRemix, Uncle Yo, and Echostream.
One of the rather unique events at this convention will be Cosplay Chess:
“[A] new event that makes its Genericon debut this year! Cosplay Chess is an event where cosplayers will assemble on an enlarged chessboard, and through the direction of two ‘Game Masters’, act out a lively version of a chess game. As each piece takes another, elaborate attacks and killing moves can be executed by the players. Showmanship is encouraged!”
Sounds interesting! To view all of the cosplay rules, and for more info about the Cosplay Chess game, be sure to check out the official Genericon XXII website. You can also discuss the convention on the official forums.
Something else I wanted to note from the convention’s FAQ: “Genericon has a strict anti-bootleg policy. If you find any bootleg material in one of our vendor rooms please contact a staff member at the operations room.”
As always, if you’ll be attending this convention, please feel free to post your pictures in a comment when you return!
