most hotels check out is noon at the latest so you would have to bring your stuff. I did this last year and was not a issue at all only pain in the ass was carrying my stuff through the convention center to get it to the coat check area.
Do we know if they're planning on doing anything about the showroom floor this year as far as crowd control?
Last year it was so ridiculously crowded that it felt like a safety hazard at times. One time I got stuck in a soup of people for 10-15 minutes in one aisle that was so packed nothing was moving in any direction. Part of the folk wanted to watch a popular booth, part of the folk were trying to move in either direction. I just wanted to get across the isle. >.<'
The poor Enforcers couldn't do enough crowd control either since it was so many people.
1) I've already read the schedule front to back, and haven't seen anything regarding Video Game Orchestra. Can anyone confirm whether or not they will be at PAX East in any way shape or form? They have been, by far, my favorite group to see on Saturday nights for the past 2 PAX conventions, and I'll be bummed if they aren't there this year.
2) Will a map of the expo hall be released prior to the con, like in 2012 and 2013? It didn't happen in 2014, and I don't exactly know why (maybe the booths weren't finalized until just before the convention last year?).
3) Any indication as to whether the expo floor will be bigger or smaller in size compared to past years? 2014 was understandably small, since 2014 was a pretty pathetic year for gaming. Any hopes that 2015 Will be a comeback for PAX?
4) Anybody know if Omeganauts have been selected yet? I'm just curious, as I want to keep my hope alive for as long as humanly possible! :biggrin:
1) I've already read the schedule front to back, and haven't seen anything regarding Video Game Orchestra. Can anyone confirm whether or not they will be at PAX East in any way shape or form? They have been, by far, my favorite group to see on Saturday nights for the past 2 PAX conventions, and I'll be bummed if they aren't there this year.
2) Will a map of the expo hall be released prior to the con, like in 2012 and 2013? It didn't happen in 2014, and I don't exactly know why (maybe the booths weren't finalized until just before the convention last year?).
3) Any indication as to whether the expo floor will be bigger or smaller in size compared to past years? 2014 was understandably small, since 2014 was a pretty pathetic year for gaming. Any hopes that 2015 Will be a comeback for PAX?
Thanks!
1. Since VGO isn't performing I doubt they'll be there in any other capacity. I missed the concerts last year, so I was bummed that they aren't back this year, but Triforce Quartet and Super Guitar Bros look like neat acts, so I'm not too broken up about it.
2. Having South and East so close together seems like it's made everything a little tighter, schedule-wise. I'm not sure I'd expect the expo floor map early given that. I can't remember if it was in the Guidebook app last year, but if it was that might be your best bet for seeing it early this year.
3. I have no earthly clue on this one.
1) I've already read the schedule front to back, and haven't seen anything regarding Video Game Orchestra. Can anyone confirm whether or not they will be at PAX East in any way shape or form? They have been, by far, my favorite group to see on Saturday nights for the past 2 PAX conventions, and I'll be bummed if they aren't there this year.
2) Will a map of the expo hall be released prior to the con, like in 2012 and 2013? It didn't happen in 2014, and I don't exactly know why (maybe the booths weren't finalized until just before the convention last year?).
3) Any indication as to whether the expo floor will be bigger or smaller in size compared to past years? 2014 was understandably small, since 2014 was a pretty pathetic year for gaming. Any hopes that 2015 Will be a comeback for PAX?
Thanks!
1. Since VGO isn't performing I doubt they'll be there in any other capacity. I missed the concerts last year, so I was bummed that they aren't back this year, but Triforce Quartet and Super Guitar Bros look like neat acts, so I'm not too broken up about it.
2. Having South and East so close together seems like it's made everything a little tighter, schedule-wise. I'm not sure I'd expect the expo floor map early given that. I can't remember if it was in the Guidebook app last year, but if it was that might be your best bet for seeing it early this year.
3. I have no earthly clue on this one.
1) I've already read the schedule front to back, and haven't seen anything regarding Video Game Orchestra. Can anyone confirm whether or not they will be at PAX East in any way shape or form? They have been, by far, my favorite group to see on Saturday nights for the past 2 PAX conventions, and I'll be bummed if they aren't there this year.
2) Will a map of the expo hall be released prior to the con, like in 2012 and 2013? It didn't happen in 2014, and I don't exactly know why (maybe the booths weren't finalized until just before the convention last year?).
3) Any indication as to whether the expo floor will be bigger or smaller in size compared to past years? 2014 was understandably small, since 2014 was a pretty pathetic year for gaming. Any hopes that 2015 Will be a comeback for PAX?
4) Anybody know if Omeganauts have been selected yet? I'm just curious, as I want to keep my hope alive for as long as humanly possible! :biggrin:
Thanks!
1. Unlikely. But they will be playing a concert at the Wilbur Theater in Biston March 16th.
2. Yes, likely through the Guidebook app.
3. No way of knowing this prior to the map, but it's been about the same size for the past 2 years now.
4. The calls have gone out but the final roster has not be published yet.
1) I've already read the schedule front to back, and haven't seen anything regarding Video Game Orchestra. Can anyone confirm whether or not they will be at PAX East in any way shape or form? They have been, by far, my favorite group to see on Saturday nights for the past 2 PAX conventions, and I'll be bummed if they aren't there this year.
2) Will a map of the expo hall be released prior to the con, like in 2012 and 2013? It didn't happen in 2014, and I don't exactly know why (maybe the booths weren't finalized until just before the convention last year?).
3) Any indication as to whether the expo floor will be bigger or smaller in size compared to past years? 2014 was understandably small, since 2014 was a pretty pathetic year for gaming. Any hopes that 2015 Will be a comeback for PAX?
4) Anybody know if Omeganauts have been selected yet? I'm just curious, as I want to keep my hope alive for as long as humanly possible! :biggrin:
Thanks!
1) they will not be there, afaik.
2) All signs point to yes, in fact it was last year too in the guidebook app I believe.
3) Bigger. Also the 2014 Expo floor was bigger than the 2013 expo floor. Not sure why you thought it was smaller. It's increased in size and content each year.
4) They have, there's a thread around here somewhere for it I believe, it may have gotten pushed to the second or third page.
Do we know if they're planning on doing anything about the showroom floor this year as far as crowd control?
Last year it was so ridiculously crowded that it felt like a safety hazard at times. One time I got stuck in a soup of people for 10-15 minutes in one aisle that was so packed nothing was moving in any direction. Part of the folk wanted to watch a popular booth, part of the folk were trying to move in either direction. I just wanted to get across the isle. >.<'
The poor Enforcers couldn't do enough crowd control either since it was so many people.
The harsh reality is that it's always going to be crowded on the expo floor. Honestly, the crowds have been a lot better than in previous years if you ask me. It's always possible you will he lucky and get stuck behind a gawking group or people waiting for a raffle.
It's much better than years past when booths would just fling Merch into the masses. Pretty sure they're not allowed to do that now.
Just be polite but firm. If you need to cut across just say Excuse me loud enough to be heard. People will move for you as long as you're not a jerk. Tap someone on the shoulder if they don't hear you and just be polite. I'm a wimpy 5'1" myself so while I can squeeze through tight spots, it's easy for me to get swept away if I'm not assertive enough in the crowd.
lol ya you prob wont get any ahole's who will get mad if you tap them on the shoulder I went to a concert last night and the guy got mad cause i was tapping him on the shoulder cause i wanted to get past him and he didnt move or turn so i did it again and he got pissed at me lol. You should not have to deal with this at pax
2) All signs point to yes, in fact it was last year too in the guidebook app I believe.
Seriously, if you have never used the Guidebook app, it is practically a necessity. While you don't need it to have a good time, this amazing app will have maps, event listing, reminder for events, and a nifty scheduler that I absolutely adore. Make sure you get the Guidebook app. I cannot stress this enough.
While I agree that being insensitive is an issue, so is being oversensitive.
This is going to be my first PAX East, and I wanted to get some insight on the shuttles.
1) Regarding which hotels have shuttle service, can I expect any hotel through Onpeak to have one designated to it? I see the shuttles listed under 'Exclusive Promotions' for all the hotels I'm looking at, but I don't want to pick someplace too far away without having convenient access to the convention. It seems like info about this year's shuttles hasn't been posted yet, so I wanted to get an idea of how broad the availability has been in past years.
2) During what hours do the shuttles normally run? I'm the kinda person that stays all the way until midnight when things start shutting down, but if I have to leave sooner to catch a shuttle that's something I'd wanna be aware of.
Thanks in advance for any info you guys can offer.
Quick, possibly stupid, question. I plan on attending two panels in the same theater ( one is right after the other ). Will I have to leave the theatre or can I wait in the theater until the next panel I plan on attending. Yeah, as I said, stupid question, just curious. Thanks
Do any of the locals know if, because of how much snow Boston's received this winter, if parking will be harder to come by this year? I'm coming up from Rhode Island, so I was initially planning on driving up (cosplaying too, so I need a place to stash my gear) but I'm thinking now I may just want to take the train up. If that service is available *crosses fingers*
Thanks!
Quick, possibly stupid, question. I plan on attending two panels in the same theater ( one is right after the other ). Will I have to leave the theatre or can I wait in the theater until the next panel I plan on attending. Yeah, as I said, stupid question, just curious. Thanks
If it's not the main theater, you will have to leave and re-queue. If it is the main theater, it depends on which panels you're speaking of.
This is going to be my first PAX East, and I wanted to get some insight on the shuttles.
1) Regarding which hotels have shuttle service, can I expect any hotel through Onpeak to have one designated to it? I see the shuttles listed under 'Exclusive Promotions' for all the hotels I'm looking at, but I don't want to pick someplace too far away without having convenient access to the convention. It seems like info about this year's shuttles hasn't been posted yet, so I wanted to get an idea of how broad the availability has been in past years.
2) During what hours do the shuttles normally run? I'm the kinda person that stays all the way until midnight when things start shutting down, but if I have to leave sooner to catch a shuttle that's something I'd wanna be aware of.
Thanks in advance for any info you guys can offer.
1) not 100% of the hotels have had shuttle service in the past. Many do though.
2) the pax shuttles run on split schedules. They run very regularly first thing in the morning, less regular in the mid day, and very regularly again at the end of the night. They expect that many people will stay till midnight and so far, all the pax shuttles have run until after midnight to accommodate that.
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whypick1PAX [E] Info Booth Manager~2' from an LCDRegistered Userregular
This is going to be my first PAX East, and I wanted to get some insight on the shuttles.
1) Regarding which hotels have shuttle service, can I expect any hotel through Onpeak to have one designated to it? I see the shuttles listed under 'Exclusive Promotions' for all the hotels I'm looking at, but I don't want to pick someplace too far away without having convenient access to the convention. It seems like info about this year's shuttles hasn't been posted yet, so I wanted to get an idea of how broad the availability has been in past years.
2) During what hours do the shuttles normally run? I'm the kinda person that stays all the way until midnight when things start shutting down, but if I have to leave sooner to catch a shuttle that's something I'd wanna be aware of.
Thanks in advance for any info you guys can offer.
1. Not all of the OnPeak hotels do. I know that the Westin/Seaport/Renaissance don't (since they're a stones throw from the BCEC), and I'm pretty sure the one's by Logan have not either (although you can get there for free on the Silver Line, getting back isn't free though).
2. Shuttles run during the hours around show open (8-11), expo hall close (5-7), and show close (11-1). Those times aren't exact, just going off of memory.
Quick, possibly stupid, question. I plan on attending two panels in the same theater ( one is right after the other ). Will I have to leave the theatre or can I wait in the theater until the next panel I plan on attending. Yeah, as I said, stupid question, just curious. Thanks
Not a stupid question. You will have to leave and re-queue for the 2nd panel, unless it's part of the Keynote/Q+A/RoosterTeeth block, since Main Theater is not clearing between panels then.
whypick1 on
Is it PAX <insert nearest future PAX here> yet?
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BekerChild's Play Program DirectorSeattleRegistered User, Penny Arcade Staffregular
Quick, possibly stupid, question. I plan on attending two panels in the same theater ( one is right after the other ). Will I have to leave the theater or can I wait in the theater until the next panel I plan on attending. Yeah, as I said, stupid question, just curious. Thanks
Almost all theaters are cleared between panels. If there is at least a half hour between panels (an hour in Main Theater) they will clear it. Less than that, and they likely do not intend to clear it. You can always double check with the enforcers staffing that theater to be sure.
Do any of the locals know if, because of how much snow Boston's received this winter, if parking will be harder to come by this year? I'm coming up from Rhode Island, so I was initially planning on driving up (cosplaying too, so I need a place to stash my gear) but I'm thinking now I may just want to take the train up. If that service is available *crosses fingers*
Thanks!
I drive in from the MA/RI border every year. If you get to the convention center around 7:45 - 8 am parking isn't that bad. If there are still massive piles I would think the would push them to the back edge of the lot Out of the way of most of the parking. The only times I end up in the overflow lot, which is a pain if your cosplaying, is when i get there around 9:30 - 10. I'm more worried that there wont be an overflow lot since it's just an empty lot by the water.
Do any of the locals know if, because of how much snow Boston's received this winter, .
Boston has received almost 7 feet of snow so far this winter .. as has most of New England-- of course you are from RI so you already know this .. its been a bad winter. I have my fingers crossed that this means an early spring and that we will be getting rain by the first week of March but given its the next to the last week of February and still below zero outside and still snowing I don't have much hope of that- even with the "its New England, wait a minute and the weather will change" phenomena. But a person can keep hoping that they won't have to haul their behinds across Boston on a subway in below zero temps
I hate to be the first person to ask, but I didn't see the question yet.
Is there any word on the bathroom situation and if they are going to alter them this year as well? Did this happen at PAX South? Are we going to see more gender neutral bathrooms instead of the single one?
I know last year was a mess and if the PAX guys had it thirt way their wanted more unisex bathrooms.. Just wasn't sure if they got their wish this year or if they are going to be converting women bathrooms to men bathrooms.. again.
This ^ does anyone have more information about this?
Last year was a nightmare, being a lady, and I left so much feedback about it. Its so hard navigating through the crowds of people only to discover the womans bathroom has been converted to mens only. Absolutely needs to be fixed this year.
I hate to be the first person to ask, but I didn't see the question yet.
Is there any word on the bathroom situation and if they are going to alter them this year as well? Did this happen at PAX South? Are we going to see more gender neutral bathrooms instead of the single one?
I know last year was a mess and if the PAX guys had it thirt way their wanted more unisex bathrooms.. Just wasn't sure if they got their wish this year or if they are going to be converting women bathrooms to men bathrooms.. again.
This ^ does anyone have more information about this?
Last year was a nightmare, being a lady, and I left so much feedback about it. Its so hard navigating through the crowds of people only to discover the womans bathroom has been converted to mens only. Absolutely needs to be fixed this year.
I have yet to hear any information about the situation, but what I do remember from last year is that it was a last-minute-ish thing and was out of the control of PAX.
Trust me, it's not ideal for us, either. Our data continues to show that more and more women attend PAX, each year, and I've been spending the last few days compiling additional info for the city. My preference is to not switch any, but last year the building changed 6 of the 40 over.
Doing what I can, but ultimately it's out of the show's control. All we can do is lobby, lobby, lobby.
Quick, possibly stupid, question. I plan on attending two panels in the same theater ( one is right after the other ). Will I have to leave the theater or can I wait in the theater until the next panel I plan on attending. Yeah, as I said, stupid question, just curious. Thanks
Almost all theaters are cleared between panels. If there is at least a half hour between panels (an hour in Main Theater) they will clear it. Less than that, and they likely do not intend to clear it. You can always double check with the enforcers staffing that theater to be sure.
Additional info:
ALL theatres are set to be cleared each and every session EXCEPT Keynote->Gabe/Tycho Q&A
Trust me, it's not ideal for us, either. Our data continues to show that more and more women attend PAX, each year, and I've been spending the last few days compiling additional info for the city. My preference is to not switch any, but last year the building changed 6 of the 40 over.
Doing what I can, but ultimately it's out of the show's control. All we can do is lobby, lobby, lobby.
this is totally understandable and i think we all appreciate the efforts on the pax end, but if they do wind up switching bathrooms again, is there anything that can be done to make it more clear which bathrooms have been switched? as @yutani san pointed out, one of the biggest issues with the switching (besides the principle) is that it's a really large building and it can take a while to make your way to a restroom, only to find you aren't allowed to use it so you have to roll the dice and try again.
This is my second year for PAX East and last year we drove to it, is that the best option of travel? (Western Pennsylvania)
As well, I also saw something about an Amiibo tournament, and would bring mine, but I am scared it will break or get lost. Should I bring one or 2 and if so, how should I carry it?
Finally, any guess as to when the guidebook will be released, the wait to see if Nintendo is going or not is killing me.
Quick, possibly stupid, question. I plan on attending two panels in the same theater ( one is right after the other ). Will I have to leave the theater or can I wait in the theater until the next panel I plan on attending. Yeah, as I said, stupid question, just curious. Thanks
Almost all theaters are cleared between panels. If there is at least a half hour between panels (an hour in Main Theater) they will clear it. Less than that, and they likely do not intend to clear it. You can always double check with the enforcers staffing that theater to be sure.
Additional info:
ALL theatres are set to be cleared each and every session EXCEPT Keynote->Gabe/Tycho Q&A
So it is being cleared after Q&A?, given the 30 minute window inbetween.
Gaymer, Nerd and Fan of Freeman's Mind/Half-life/GTA/Red Vs Blue
Attended: East 14, 15 and West 16
Attending West 2019
This is my second year for PAX East and last year we drove to it, is that the best option of travel? (Western Pennsylvania)
Finally, any guess as to when the guidebook will be released, the wait to see if Nintendo is going or not is killing me.
You could take the Amtrak train from PA to Boston that could be another option.
I'd give it a week or two before the event for that to show up on the site and App. Nintendo wasn't there last year if I recall I wouldn't think they would not be there back to back events.
Trust me, it's not ideal for us, either. Our data continues to show that more and more women attend PAX, each year, and I've been spending the last few days compiling additional info for the city. My preference is to not switch any, but last year the building changed 6 of the 40 over.
Doing what I can, but ultimately it's out of the show's control. All we can do is lobby, lobby, lobby.
this is totally understandable and i think we all appreciate the efforts on the pax end, but if they do wind up switching bathrooms again, is there anything that can be done to make it more clear which bathrooms have been switched? as @yutani san pointed out, one of the biggest issues with the switching (besides the principle) is that it's a really large building and it can take a while to make your way to a restroom, only to find you aren't allowed to use it so you have to roll the dice and try again.
Seconded. Something in the guidebook saying this would be great too. I know it wasn't PAX's fault last year - just wanted to know how the situation will be this year since their hands were tied.
This is my second year for PAX East and last year we drove to it, is that the best option of travel? (Western Pennsylvania)
Well, I see $138 for a non-stop round trip on Jetblue with a Thurs arrival and a Monday morning departure (Pittsburgh-Boston). To me, a 1.5 hour flight vs 9 hours in the car, is certainly worth that price. (And if driving alone, might even be cheaper if you factor in all the side costs of driving 1000mi on your car).
On the other hand, you aren't going to beat driving with a group in terms of "cheapest possible way of getting there". And if you've got a complex cosplay, are doing BYOPC, etc flying may present large other obstacles to you.
I would not recommend Amtrak, given that it's the length of driving or longer from your location AND the same price or more expensive than flying.
In short: Flying for you is probably at least worth considering.
This is my second year for PAX East and last year we drove to it, is that the best option of travel? (Western Pennsylvania)
Well, I see $138 for a non-stop round trip on Jetblue with a Thurs arrival and a Monday morning departure (Pittsburgh-Boston). To me, a 1.5 hour flight vs 9 hours in the car, is certainly worth that price. (And if driving alone, might even be cheaper if you factor in all the side costs of driving 1000mi on your car).
On the other hand, you aren't going to beat driving with a group in terms of "cheapest possible way of getting there". And if you've got a complex cosplay, are doing BYOPC, etc flying may present large other obstacles to you.
I would not recommend Amtrak, given that it's the length of driving or longer from your location AND the same price or more expensive than flying.
In short: Flying for you is probably at least worth considering.
My issue is I may want to bring my computer, and easily breakable things like Amiibo, so I am not sure if I want to fly, since I don't want anything to break
This is my second year for PAX East and last year we drove to it, is that the best option of travel? (Western Pennsylvania)
Well, I see $138 for a non-stop round trip on Jetblue with a Thurs arrival and a Monday morning departure (Pittsburgh-Boston). To me, a 1.5 hour flight vs 9 hours in the car, is certainly worth that price. (And if driving alone, might even be cheaper if you factor in all the side costs of driving 1000mi on your car).
On the other hand, you aren't going to beat driving with a group in terms of "cheapest possible way of getting there". And if you've got a complex cosplay, are doing BYOPC, etc flying may present large other obstacles to you.
I would not recommend Amtrak, given that it's the length of driving or longer from your location AND the same price or more expensive than flying.
In short: Flying for you is probably at least worth considering.
My ossue is I may want to bring my computer, and easily breakable things like Amiibo, so I am not sure if I want to fly, since I don't want anything to break
If you're bringing a desktop, I think you pretty much have to drive. Even nicely packed with lots of foam, I personally wouldn't trust it to an airline. Suitcases get dropped significant distances regularly, and I just can't see that being good for the computer even if it's packaged so nothing outright breaks/dents, the shock is still significant. Maybe if you pull the drives (if not using SSDs) and check things over carefully upon arrival before connecting it, but I'd still be concerned with something like an aftermarket (large) CPU cooler breaking or causing damage from the shock. I'm sure the BYOPC thread/people can give better advice though.
Amiibo seems like you could wrap them up nicely/individually and then put them in a hard case and bring them on the plane with you for safety. Realistically, I think you need to plan to do that either way as the convention environment would be risky with something fragile that's poorly protected as well.
I'm sure the BYOPC thread/people can give better advice though.
Amiibo seems like you could wrap them up nicely/individually and then put them in a hard case and bring them on the plane with you for safety. Realistically, I think you need to plan to do that either way as the convention environment would be risky with something fragile that's poorly protected as well.
BYOCer here. I just use a small Mini-ITX case, carry it on with me, and stick it in the overhead. I also have no mechanical drives in the computer. You also have to make sure that the case is small enough that it will fit in the overhead bin of a CRJ/ERJ if you're flying on an airline that uses them.
As for traveling from pa; flying from philly is real easy and $60, the only problem is there aren't many cheap options for coming back late if you wanted to stay for the whole convention. Train isn't much shorter and neither is the bus but they do run almost all night and are pretty cheap.
This is going to be my first PAX East, and I wanted to get some insight on the shuttles.
1) Regarding which hotels have shuttle service, can I expect any hotel through Onpeak to have one designated to it? I see the shuttles listed under 'Exclusive Promotions' for all the hotels I'm looking at, but I don't want to pick someplace too far away without having convenient access to the convention. It seems like info about this year's shuttles hasn't been posted yet, so I wanted to get an idea of how broad the availability has been in past years.
Thanks in advance for any info you guys can offer.
Posts
Do we know if they're planning on doing anything about the showroom floor this year as far as crowd control?
Last year it was so ridiculously crowded that it felt like a safety hazard at times. One time I got stuck in a soup of people for 10-15 minutes in one aisle that was so packed nothing was moving in any direction. Part of the folk wanted to watch a popular booth, part of the folk were trying to move in either direction. I just wanted to get across the isle. >.<'
The poor Enforcers couldn't do enough crowd control either since it was so many people.
Witty signature comment goes here...
wra
1) I've already read the schedule front to back, and haven't seen anything regarding Video Game Orchestra. Can anyone confirm whether or not they will be at PAX East in any way shape or form? They have been, by far, my favorite group to see on Saturday nights for the past 2 PAX conventions, and I'll be bummed if they aren't there this year.
2) Will a map of the expo hall be released prior to the con, like in 2012 and 2013? It didn't happen in 2014, and I don't exactly know why (maybe the booths weren't finalized until just before the convention last year?).
3) Any indication as to whether the expo floor will be bigger or smaller in size compared to past years? 2014 was understandably small, since 2014 was a pretty pathetic year for gaming. Any hopes that 2015 Will be a comeback for PAX?
4) Anybody know if Omeganauts have been selected yet? I'm just curious, as I want to keep my hope alive for as long as humanly possible! :biggrin:
Thanks!
1. Since VGO isn't performing I doubt they'll be there in any other capacity. I missed the concerts last year, so I was bummed that they aren't back this year, but Triforce Quartet and Super Guitar Bros look like neat acts, so I'm not too broken up about it.
2. Having South and East so close together seems like it's made everything a little tighter, schedule-wise. I'm not sure I'd expect the expo floor map early given that. I can't remember if it was in the Guidebook app last year, but if it was that might be your best bet for seeing it early this year.
3. I have no earthly clue on this one.
Thanks! Any idea on Omeganauts?
1. Unlikely. But they will be playing a concert at the Wilbur Theater in Biston March 16th.
2. Yes, likely through the Guidebook app.
3. No way of knowing this prior to the map, but it's been about the same size for the past 2 years now.
4. The calls have gone out but the final roster has not be published yet.
1) they will not be there, afaik.
2) All signs point to yes, in fact it was last year too in the guidebook app I believe.
3) Bigger. Also the 2014 Expo floor was bigger than the 2013 expo floor. Not sure why you thought it was smaller. It's increased in size and content each year.
4) They have, there's a thread around here somewhere for it I believe, it may have gotten pushed to the second or third page.
The harsh reality is that it's always going to be crowded on the expo floor. Honestly, the crowds have been a lot better than in previous years if you ask me. It's always possible you will he lucky and get stuck behind a gawking group or people waiting for a raffle.
It's much better than years past when booths would just fling Merch into the masses. Pretty sure they're not allowed to do that now.
Just be polite but firm. If you need to cut across just say Excuse me loud enough to be heard. People will move for you as long as you're not a jerk. Tap someone on the shoulder if they don't hear you and just be polite. I'm a wimpy 5'1" myself so while I can squeeze through tight spots, it's easy for me to get swept away if I'm not assertive enough in the crowd.
1) Regarding which hotels have shuttle service, can I expect any hotel through Onpeak to have one designated to it? I see the shuttles listed under 'Exclusive Promotions' for all the hotels I'm looking at, but I don't want to pick someplace too far away without having convenient access to the convention. It seems like info about this year's shuttles hasn't been posted yet, so I wanted to get an idea of how broad the availability has been in past years.
2) During what hours do the shuttles normally run? I'm the kinda person that stays all the way until midnight when things start shutting down, but if I have to leave sooner to catch a shuttle that's something I'd wanna be aware of.
Thanks in advance for any info you guys can offer.
Thanks!
2) the pax shuttles run on split schedules. They run very regularly first thing in the morning, less regular in the mid day, and very regularly again at the end of the night. They expect that many people will stay till midnight and so far, all the pax shuttles have run until after midnight to accommodate that.
1. Not all of the OnPeak hotels do. I know that the Westin/Seaport/Renaissance don't (since they're a stones throw from the BCEC), and I'm pretty sure the one's by Logan have not either (although you can get there for free on the Silver Line, getting back isn't free though).
2. Shuttles run during the hours around show open (8-11), expo hall close (5-7), and show close (11-1). Those times aren't exact, just going off of memory.
Not a stupid question. You will have to leave and re-queue for the 2nd panel, unless it's part of the Keynote/Q+A/RoosterTeeth block, since Main Theater is not clearing between panels then.
Almost all theaters are cleared between panels. If there is at least a half hour between panels (an hour in Main Theater) they will clear it. Less than that, and they likely do not intend to clear it. You can always double check with the enforcers staffing that theater to be sure.
Just got my badges today!
\hype-train, choo choo!
Witty signature comment goes here...
wra
Attended: East 14, 15 and West 16
Attending West 2019
This ^ does anyone have more information about this?
Last year was a nightmare, being a lady, and I left so much feedback about it. Its so hard navigating through the crowds of people only to discover the womans bathroom has been converted to mens only. Absolutely needs to be fixed this year.
I have yet to hear any information about the situation, but what I do remember from last year is that it was a last-minute-ish thing and was out of the control of PAX.
Doing what I can, but ultimately it's out of the show's control. All we can do is lobby, lobby, lobby.
Additional info:
ALL theatres are set to be cleared each and every session EXCEPT Keynote->Gabe/Tycho Q&A
this is totally understandable and i think we all appreciate the efforts on the pax end, but if they do wind up switching bathrooms again, is there anything that can be done to make it more clear which bathrooms have been switched? as @yutani san pointed out, one of the biggest issues with the switching (besides the principle) is that it's a really large building and it can take a while to make your way to a restroom, only to find you aren't allowed to use it so you have to roll the dice and try again.
This is my second year for PAX East and last year we drove to it, is that the best option of travel? (Western Pennsylvania)
As well, I also saw something about an Amiibo tournament, and would bring mine, but I am scared it will break or get lost. Should I bring one or 2 and if so, how should I carry it?
Finally, any guess as to when the guidebook will be released, the wait to see if Nintendo is going or not is killing me.
So it is being cleared after Q&A?, given the 30 minute window inbetween.
Attended: East 14, 15 and West 16
Attending West 2019
You could take the Amtrak train from PA to Boston that could be another option.
I'd give it a week or two before the event for that to show up on the site and App. Nintendo wasn't there last year if I recall I wouldn't think they would not be there back to back events.
Seconded. Something in the guidebook saying this would be great too. I know it wasn't PAX's fault last year - just wanted to know how the situation will be this year since their hands were tied.
Well, I see $138 for a non-stop round trip on Jetblue with a Thurs arrival and a Monday morning departure (Pittsburgh-Boston). To me, a 1.5 hour flight vs 9 hours in the car, is certainly worth that price. (And if driving alone, might even be cheaper if you factor in all the side costs of driving 1000mi on your car).
On the other hand, you aren't going to beat driving with a group in terms of "cheapest possible way of getting there". And if you've got a complex cosplay, are doing BYOPC, etc flying may present large other obstacles to you.
I would not recommend Amtrak, given that it's the length of driving or longer from your location AND the same price or more expensive than flying.
In short: Flying for you is probably at least worth considering.
My issue is I may want to bring my computer, and easily breakable things like Amiibo, so I am not sure if I want to fly, since I don't want anything to break
If you're bringing a desktop, I think you pretty much have to drive. Even nicely packed with lots of foam, I personally wouldn't trust it to an airline. Suitcases get dropped significant distances regularly, and I just can't see that being good for the computer even if it's packaged so nothing outright breaks/dents, the shock is still significant. Maybe if you pull the drives (if not using SSDs) and check things over carefully upon arrival before connecting it, but I'd still be concerned with something like an aftermarket (large) CPU cooler breaking or causing damage from the shock. I'm sure the BYOPC thread/people can give better advice though.
Amiibo seems like you could wrap them up nicely/individually and then put them in a hard case and bring them on the plane with you for safety. Realistically, I think you need to plan to do that either way as the convention environment would be risky with something fragile that's poorly protected as well.
BYOCer here. I just use a small Mini-ITX case, carry it on with me, and stick it in the overhead. I also have no mechanical drives in the computer. You also have to make sure that the case is small enough that it will fit in the overhead bin of a CRJ/ERJ if you're flying on an airline that uses them.
As for traveling from pa; flying from philly is real easy and $60, the only problem is there aren't many cheap options for coming back late if you wanted to stay for the whole convention. Train isn't much shorter and neither is the bus but they do run almost all night and are pretty cheap.
Things may not be the same for 2015, but I'd figure you'd want to take a look.