May 21, 2026: A Big Con Tip From Steven: Know Before You Go

We're rapidly approaching convention season! As I've begun mentally preparing, I thought it might be fun to see if anyone had a single tip or suggestion for getting the most out of the cons you go to that isn't one of the obvious ones ("get enough sleep," "shower every day," "make sure the alien pod that controls your actions has enough nutrient-rich slurry," and so on).

Since it's my idea, I figure I can start off with this gem: Know what you want to get out of the convention.

The biggest cons – such as Gen Con – have enough hustle and bustle that it's easy to get lost . . . physically and mentally. The first couple of times I attended a large convention (Dragon Con in the 1990s), I didn't know what I was trying to accomplish; I still had a good time, but I ended the weekend with regrets about what more I could have done if I'd had a firmer idea ahead of time what I wanted to experience.

Is there some Big New Game you're looking forward to checking out? Zip to that booth first and make your decision early! I worked the Steve Jackson Games booth last year, and I saw a bunch of fans who regretted not stopping by earlier to get a copy of Purrfect Potions (even though they were looking forward to it) because we sold out within the first couple of days.

Having a firm idea in mind – "I'm looking for a fun, new strategy game," "I want to enjoy my favorite games with new players," or "I love attending cool seminars" – can whittle down overwhelming options into something more manageable.

Prioritizing your goals also makes it easier to organize your plans. Maybe Thursday is the day you explore the dealer hall for new games, Friday is the day you devote to signing up for RPG sessions, Saturday is dedicated to card games, and Sunday is free-time demo roaming and last-minute deal hunting. Or maybe cosplay is your jam and you prioritize structuring the con around the costume contest on Saturday, along with other opportunities to be out in public with your kit.

It's the season of big cons . . . but if you know what you want ahead of time, you just might make your convention purrfect.

-- Steven Marsh