In the comments on an earlier post, “qasbah” asked:
I’m planning to go to Origins Con.. Any advice on things to look for from a wannabe game designer perspective, or for the con itself?
That’s a good question. What’s your answer?
About Fred
Fred Hicks does layout and art direction for role-playing games. He also publishes and plays them. He likes his television and he likes his cooking. He loves his wife and daughter. Life is good.
10 Comments
Contrary to my expectations, answers are actually happening in part over on LiveJournal. See the post’s echo, and its comments, there: http://drivingblind.livejournal.com/474993.html
Play as many games as you can. The more different from what you usually play, the better.
Meals are the most important social opportunities you will have. If you are there strictly to play, then feel free to treat them as tiny sprints as you go from game table to a game table, but otherwise, treat every meal as an opportunity. Invite industry folks to lunch (and, if your feeling your oats, pick up the tab) – Origins is a mind-blowingly good con for its food, and no one in their right mind passes up a chance to partake. And yes, they will sometimes say “no thanks” because they have commitments or plans, but that’s fine, because you’re at least that guy who asked. It drastically increases the chances you’ll get swept up in something.
Do not limit yourself to industry luminaries. The con is full of awesome people and you won’t know which ones they are until you start talking. Compliment costumes. Ask questions. Engage people. And ask questions, no mater how incredibly interesting your pet topic is.
Beyond that, either pay attention to names or get VERY good at reading badges surreptitiously. That whole “I’m great with faces but bad with names” line? In grown-up world it doesn’t actually fly. Our monkey brains are ALL good with faces and bad with names. Don’t fall back on an excuse, just practice. People like being called by name.
Lastly, if you think you maybe should, then *do*. Conventions like this are opportunities, opportunities to meet, talk, do and play. Hesitation does not lead to good war stories.
-Rob D.
Sorry; force of habit. My name is Daniel.
Has Evil Hat really spent all it’s mad Dresden Files advance money already?
I got the hint…
Hey, here’s a crazy idea. “Would you guys like to go to lunch?”
Just read the live journal.
To clarify. I’m not looking to pimp myself or my prospective game.
I’d like to complete my first game under my own steam. Once done then I’ll be in the words of The 40 Year Old Virgin “cramming pimpage”.
Origins is a great con to meet and talk to people.
Play games. You never know who’s going to be at the table. They might be designers themselves, bloggers, podcasters, or any of a number of people. That’s a great way to get to know people, because you have the game you’re currently playing to talk about. It’s the perfect icebreaker.
Also, hang out in the dealer’s room. Origins is relaxed enough that most people are willing to chat. Seek out people whose stuff you really like. Talk to people about what they’ve done. You might be able to make a pitch if you catch someone the right way.
Finally, don’t limit yourself to games. There are all sorts of social events at Origins. Go to meetups. Check out writing seminars. Go to parties. Anywhere is potentially a good place to talk to and meet designers. Compared to some other cons, Origins is a really easy place to network. There were very few people that I approached there who were unfriendly.
Bring lots of business cards. And if you have some with an old phone number on it, throw them away and get new ones. Business cards are CHEAP. And I can’t tell you how many times I’ve asked someone for his or her card, and they say “oh, I’ve run out already” or “I forgot to bring some”. Also, I have this great card that’s printed on cardstock like a “Nuclear War” card, and actually it’s a problem, since you can’t scribble notes on the back of it. Just get some regular business cards that have all the vital data including email address and phone. And yes, talk to folks away from their booth. Don’t block customers from getting to their merchandise. And ESPECIALLY don’t stand in front of someone ELSES booth while chatting with a friend or contact. Very rude. Most business in this industry is done with friends, and you don’t get friendly with a guy who is rude! (grin)
Heh. No, we’re ok, but I speak form my own experience the last time I was at Origins, where I can draw a straight line from buying Mike Mearls lunch to a freelance gig for WOTC.
And as to Lunch, well, ask us there! Damned if I know what our plans are beyond “BE IN THE BOOTH”
-Rob D.
lol. Okay.
See you there.