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PAX East 2018 Information, FAQ, and Q&A Thread (Ask Questions Here!)
*Note: and yes, we mean any sort of question, especially if it's not covered by the FAQ. Please do NOT make a new thread to ask your question, just post it here. It will be answered. If there's another thread that is topical to your question already, that might be a good place to ask it as well, but this is a catch-all for the many many questions that don't need their own multi-page thread for a topic.
This thread is a place for people to ask questions, and for the PAX experienced to provide answers (and some general PAX wisdom). Please keep focused on the Q&A nature of this thread.
When: April 5-8th (yes that's now FOUR DAYS of PAX East!)
Where: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston MA
What:
Created in 2004, PAX has doubled in size each successive year until it started taking over the Cites of Seattle, Boston, Melbourne, San Antonio, and Philadelphia.
Most of the information found in this FAQ plus many more interesting tidbits and guides can be found on our PAX Community Wiki
Links:
Penny Arcade
PAX East Official Website
What this forum is: This forum is for the discussion of PAX East and for interacting with the PAX East community. Many folks use it for finding people to carpool or caravan with, finding people to split the cost of a hotel room, and general questions and information about PAX as well as community events and gatherings.
Click here for the Official PAX East FAQ
Without further ado, here's the community-based FAQ
Table of Contents
This thread is a place for people to ask questions, and for the PAX experienced to provide answers (and some general PAX wisdom). Please keep focused on the Q&A nature of this thread.
When: April 5-8th (yes that's now FOUR DAYS of PAX East!)
Where: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston MA
What:
Wikipedia wrote:The Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) is an annual gamer festival held in Washington. PAX was created by Jerry Holkins and Mike Krahulik, the authors of the Penny Arcade webcomic, because they wanted to attend a show that gave equal attention to video gamers, computer gamers, and tabletop gamers. No such show existed, so PAX was born.
Created in 2004, PAX has doubled in size each successive year until it started taking over the Cites of Seattle, Boston, Melbourne, San Antonio, and Philadelphia.
Most of the information found in this FAQ plus many more interesting tidbits and guides can be found on our PAX Community Wiki
Links:
Penny Arcade
PAX East Official Website
What this forum is: This forum is for the discussion of PAX East and for interacting with the PAX East community. Many folks use it for finding people to carpool or caravan with, finding people to split the cost of a hotel room, and general questions and information about PAX as well as community events and gatherings.
Click here for the Official PAX East FAQ
Without further ado, here's the community-based FAQ
Table of Contents
zerzhul on
+1
Posts
HOW DO I FIND ANYTHING IN THIS FAQ?!? give me the tl;dr!
Use the Table of Contents! Use search! If you still can't find the answer to your question, ask it in the thread!
When will <this thing I need to know about> be announced?
Sometime before PAX! Don't expect any definite announcements any sooner than 3-4 weeks before PAX. Don't expect a final schedule and show map until about 2-3 weeks before PAX. If you're curious if your favourite game developer, journalist, internet personality is going to be there, shoot them an e-mail and ask directly, because if it hasn't been announced, we don't know either.
How do I register for PAX?
Registration will be open on the PAX East website. Follow http://twitter.com/pax_badges for the announcement of when registration goes up!
What types of passes will be available?
East 2018 is the first FOUR DAY East. There will be Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday single day badges available!
Do the PAX passes have my name on them?
No.
It's after March 1st, if somehow I managed to order my ticket this late and it wasn't sold out, where do I pick it up?
Head to Will Call/Registration at PAX to pick them up!
I’m from outside of the US and I did not choose a shipping option, where do I pick up my pass?
Head to Will Call/Registration at PAX to pick them up!
Can I apply to be an Enforcer and help out at PAX?
If more enforcers are needed, an announcement will be made with a link to the application on the PAX East site.
What are the hours of PAX?
EVENT HOURS
Thursday - 10am - 12am
Friday - 10am - 12am
Saturday - 10am - 12am
Sunday - 10am - 7pm
EXHIBIT HALL HOURS
Thursday - 10am - 6pm
Friday - 10am - 6pm
Saturday - 10am - 6pm
Sunday - 10am - 6pm
What does BYOC stand for?
Bring Your Own Computer. This is a large LAN party within PAX! You can purchase a BYOC badge in addition to your admission badges in order to bring your gaming computer and get playing!
Hint! Follow THIS FORUM for updates on the BYOC room AND for updates when BYOC passes go on sale!
I bought a BYOC pass but now I don't want it! Where can I sell it??
You have two choices. BYOC passes are being mailed out along with regular passes. You can either give it to a friend or if you feel you have a very special circumstance you can ask for a refund (though the policy is no refunds), email pax_questions@paxsite.com
What is the EXPO floor like?
The exhibition hall is full of all sorts of exhibitors and vendors. There are upcoming games, and hardware showcased as well as things for sale from games, to guides, to t-shirts, to dice. Prices are comparable with standard retail pricing, or a little cheaper, even. Also, there are sometimes free shirts and other swag being handed out by various companies.
The ticket says the Exhibit Hall closes at 6PM but the Event stays open until 12AM. Does this mean there will be actual things happening and things to look at until 12AM or does it just mean people are allowed to co-mingle in the building until they close the doors at 12AM?
Once you hit the later hours, the Expo Hall will be shut down. However, you'll still have the Concerts, Panels, Console/PC Freeplay, Handheld Lounge, Tabletop Area, BYOC, etc. In previous years, there have sometimes been movie/webisode screenings fairly late as well. Basically, it's "Make your own fun with people" time!
How do we transfer tickets? I bought a registration and BYOC pass, but recently found out I won't be going, and have a friend who wants to buy my tickets from me, but neither of us have any idea how to get the ticket to be transferred.
BYOC ticket registration is sometimes done differently than the main PAX passes, look to the eventual BYOC thread for your answer. For general admission passes you just have to mail it to the person when they are shipped out. If you would like to actually officially transfer the ticket it may not be possible anymore, and it was a little more involved. If you have or are buying tickets that must be picked up at will call, email pax_questions@paxsite.com
I have moved since buying my PAX passes. How do I change my address information to ensure that my passes get mailed to my current address and not my previous address?
First, you should submit a change of address through the USPS (and possibly through UPS, FedEx, and other shippers that ship to your home). This will ensure all mail sent to your previous address is sent to your current address. Once you've done that, log in to My Tickets at Showclix. If you didn't already have an account, one was created for you using the email address you used during registration. Use the forgot password link to get your password and then log in. Once you've logged in you will be able to edit your address as long as it's before the address cut-off deadline. The deadline is usually around a month prior to PAX. Email pax_questions@paxsite.com for the exact address cut-off date. Lastly, email pax_questions@paxsite.com to let PAX know about the change of address as well. This will cover all your bases.
I didn’t receive my PAX Badges in the Mail!! What do I do?
If you live outside of the US, or you purchased your pass after the cut off date for badges to be mailed, you will need to pick up your badge at Will Call using your confirmation number AND a valid piece of photo ID. If your badge really is lost in the mail, email pax_questions@paxsite.com and they will take care of you. Generally they will tell you to keep waiting unless it's within a week prior to the actual PAX dates.
I have my badge; do I need the paper ticket with the bar-code on it?
Nope! You’re good to go.
I really don't want to lose my badge! Any tips?
YES! use this style loop with the provided lanyards for extra security if the clip seems weak or ineffectual
Will there be WiFi accessible at PAX?
Yes! Since 2016 the BCEC wifi has been pretty great outside of the Expo Hall floor! We don’t recommended relying on wifi, but it will probably be solid!
Are there iphone/android apps for pax?
Yes! The official Guidebook app will be linked via http://east.paxsite.com once the schedule is released.
Are there going to be a ton of people this year?
There's going to be a ton of people.
Will just one day will be enough PAX?
No matter who you ask on this forum, we're all going to say no. If you don't want to believe us, that's fine, but when you get to PAX for that one day and realize you could have had three days of that, you're going to regret not buying the whole weekend.
I'm disabled/ have a mobility impairment/ use a wheelchair, how easy will it be to get around PAX?
No problem, apply for a medical pass, and you get special accommodation getting into panels and the like. You can apply for a pass for yourself and a +1 so you can have someone help you. To register, email pax_questions@paxsite.com. YOU STILL NEED A REGULAR PAX BADGE TO GET IN TO PAX.
I'm lost, alone and terribly scared! What Do?
Help is never far! Cast your gaze upon the crowd and look for awesome people wearing shirts that say ENFORCER on the back. They can direct you to where to go and provide any help you need. In addition to finding an Enforcer, the AFK lounge may be just what you need.
I have an amazing idea for a panel!! Who should I contact?!?
If you just have an idea email pax_panels@paxsite.com with your pitch! If you actually want to run your own panel head over to east.panels.paxsite.com once panel submissions are opened with your proposal. If accepted you and your participants will receive a complimentary Speaker (or special guest) Pass for PAX East 2018. Good luck!
Just how BIG is PAX?
It's HUGE!!
I was expecting to get my badge in the mail and all I received is this bobcat? Wut??
Bobcat is working as intended.
How early should I get in line each day?
Getting in line is something that should be decided by YOU, so many of us can't tell you exactly when you should show up.
However, I would recommend getting in line fairly shortly after the doors open. If not, then feel free to show up whenever you wake up.
If you are the more social geek, I would highly recommend getting in line as soon as you can.
The people are what make PAX, and there is no better way to meet/converse/trade pokemans with these people than being in line. Remember, you are all there showing your love for games in some way, shape or form, so feel free to strike up a conversation with the person next to you!
However, if you end up befriending these people, I would highly suggest getting their contact info, as I have lost many potential friends this way, watching the people I just spent 3 hours with in line fade off into the crowd of gamers.
NOTE: doors to the building don't open until 8am at the very earliest!
My Gods! The Lines! The Crowded Crowded Lines! What do I do about the Lines?
Whichever venue PAX is in, on whatever coast in whosoever dimension, Crowding is almost omnipresent. Recent PAXen have sold out weeks in advance, and the various convention centers have been unable to contain their awesomeness in a roomy manner. There are lines for almost everything, including lines in order to get into lines (I'm talking to you, Merch line PAX East). There is little you can do to avoid them.
Neither is there a hard and fast rule for when you need to get in line for a panel or event, as it depends on demand for the individual panel, as well as what day of the Con it's on, what's going on at the same time, and whether a famous streaming personality is involved in any way. For most Panels an hour beforehand is more than sufficient, and you might be able to get away with 30 minutes, if you're lucky. The Make A Strip Panel, any major streamer panel, and Acquisitions Incorporated are likely to require more time.
Advice for surviving the lines
There are of course some people who find it impossible to wait in line for any reason. If you have a medical condition which precludes lines, talk to the enforcers, who may well be able to accommodate you (and look into getting a medical badge). If you are simply temperamentally unsuited to waiting, or don't want to take the time to do so, there are ways to enjoy yourself at PAX without waiting around. Many freeplay areas, especially Tabletop, can easily be navigated without having to wait at all, or with a simple sign-up sheet. Large portions of the expo halls also, and the Concerts have generally been accessible 20 minutes or so after the line has gone in. Play tests for the major developers are essentially impossible to get into You may need to sit or stand nearer to the back of the hall, but if you hate lines you probably aren't all that fond of mosh pits either. Not all the sessions fill up to capacity, especially later in the con. As long as you avoid the big ticket sessions, and are prepared for disappointment, you may simply be able to ask the enforcers on the door if there is any space inside.
Are the theatres cleared in-between panels / concerts?
YES! Except for a few back to back panels in the main theatre (ie, the Storytime goes right into the first PA Q&A) all theatres are cleared out between panels.
I heard the concerts were loud. Is this true?
Yes, and maybe. It's all relative, but the concerts can get pretty loud. It's a big space, with a lot of people, and everyone wants to be able to hear, right?
Can you turn the volume down? It's hurting my ears!
No, unfortunately, the volume cannot be turned down; the knobs on all the amps were taken off by sneaky Rock Gremlins. If you think that volume might be an issue, we suggest this time-tested concert junkie trick: bring a set of earplugs to help muffle the sound. Convenient personal sound dampening, available in several fun colors! Make sure you get "musician's earplugs" or "high-fidelity earplugs". These are earplugs with channels in them that attenuate all frequencies equally. Basically, they just make everything you hear quieter, without changing how it sounds. These can be found on Amazon for about $10.
Also I believe enforcers now carry earplugs to give to attendees during concerts if needed. Don't RELY on this, but it's probably a good backup.
How do the concerts work?
Much like everything else at PAX, concerts are first come, first served. However, please don't attempt to line up for them more than a reasonable time prior to the start of the concerts. Ask an enforcer in the area where the concerts will be taking place and they can tell you when you will be allowed to start lining up.
How Late do the concerts go?
Concerts are scheduled to end around 2330-midnight though sometimes they can run a tad late.
Where will the concerts be?!?
In the Main Theatre on the 3rd floor of the BCEC
What is the schedule for bands performing?
This will be released with the PAX schedule!
When should I show up to see performance X?
The Main Theatre has a very high capacity during concerts, as well as a higher turnover than during panels. More often than not, you can simply walk right in. However, to be safer, for any given band, you should attempt to show up around a half an hour to an hour before they are scheduled to start (earlier if you want to be toward the front).
What happens if the theatre fills up?
Enforcers do take count of attendance, and new admission will be temporarily denied if the theatre is full. However, concerts tend to have high turnover, and new people will be allowed in on a roughly 25-out, 25-in schedule.
Are there medical badge accommodations for concerts?
Absolutely! Just like with any other panel, if you show up before the line is capped, anyone with a medical badge will be allowed in early to find a seat.
What is the policy on moshing?
Please don’t do it. PAX concerts are intended to be a fun, enjoyable experience for everyone. Moshing is not fun for everyone, and puts people at risk. If any violent or aggressive behavior is witnessed in the crowd, you will be asked to stop by an Enforcer. Repeated action will result in a minimum of removal from the concerts. We simply ask that you control yourself and allow EVERYONE around you to have a good time!
Is food allowed in the concerts?
This is venue determined I believe. I would guess that the general policy is no, but ask an enforcer at the concerts to find out for sure!
What if I see something potentially hazardous or have other questions/concerns?
This is the same at concerts as with anywhere else in PAX: talk to an Enforcer! Enforcers are friendly, and they are there to help and to do their best to make sure you have a great PAX experience.
The PA merch booth has ITEM X that I really really really want. When should I get it?
As soon as you can. This now means THURSDAY morning at the Merch Lite booth in the entrance of the BCEC. If what you want is guaranteed to be in limited supply (like the exclusive pins, merch hats, or uncommonly sized tee shirts) get it first.
What will be for sale at the official merch booths?
The PA booth generally stocks a healthy supply of the books, the most popular tee shirts from the website in sizes S-4XL for men and S-2XL for women, some other items limited items such as merch hats and select hoodies (hats are one size, hoodies are unisex sizes S-3XL), and of course the coveted, limited PAX-specific goodies such as tee shirts and/or scarves. The limited quantity limited edition PAX Pin(s) will be available at Merch Lite exclusively (this is not the case with the Show Set, which should be available at both booths).
This info could be out of date, however. Email merch@penny-arcade.com for up to date information on the next pax if you can't wait till we get there to find out.
Will there be a PAX exclusive item?
Maybe. Follow http://twitter.com/Official_PAX on twitter and they may give sneak peeks!
The merch line is longer than longcat! When will it die down?
There may be a lull on Sunday afternoon, when much of the stock is depleted. Don't worry! The line moves quick and it's a good way to meet other people with pokemon go/magic cards/beach balls/THAT THING YOU LIKE.
Why is ITEM X sold out?! I really wanted it!
A lot of other people wanted it too. The Awesome Merch Masters do their best to estimate demand, but they are genuine meat humans. If you really want ITEM X, buy it early and don't wait until the end of the show. If it is not PAX-specific, you can probably find it on the PA Merch website.
I waited in line for a half hour and NOW you're telling me you don't have ITEM X? Sad Boosh.
This happens sometimes. It could be it sold out while you were waiting in line. It might have been the guy in front of you. It might have been 10 minutes after opening on Thursday (in which case there will hopefully be a sign posted). Don't fret. There is plenty of other stuff for you to get. Think ahead and have a Plan B of How To Spend Your Money.
When do I sign up for tournaments?
Tournament registration is Thursday or Day of. Look out for each departments Tournament thread for specific information when it gets close to PAX. If there's no thread for the tournament type you are interested in, head to that department asap when you get to pax to get the information! Get there early, most tournaments fill up within an hour or two of PAX opening.
Will x tournament or event be happening at PAX?
Possibly, announcements will be made about 3-4 weeks prior to PAX. Keep an eye on the forums for details! each department that does tournaments will usually make its own post about said tournaments and their rules.
What is the Omegathon?
The Omegathon is a grueling test of "skill" in which 32 randomly selected pre-registered attendees will battle for an amazing prize! The Omegatechs mostly make Omeganauts play crazy games like Mario Kart, Bananagrams, and Operation for our amusement. If you are not selected to be an Omeganaut, it's still a lot of fun watching and enjoying their torment fun!
How do I become an Omeganaut?
As of the last couple paxes, those who are eligible to opt-in for the Omegathon get an email with opt-in instructions. There might be a checkbox during the registration process as well! Then you just have to hope you are one of the lucky people to get a call from Penny Arcade saying you are in. Please NOTE: if you do not get a phone call from a Penny Arcade employee asking you to be an Omeganaut, then you are not an Omeganaut. There are only 32 for PAX East!
PAX is open to all ages, and many parents choose to bring their children and infants, but before you haul little Timmy and Amanda down to the show floor, a few things to consider:
- PAX is LOUD. Little ears tend to be sensitive, so take this into consideration if your child doesn't like noisy environments.
- PAX is CROWDED. People don't tend to look down; be prepared to keep the little ones from being stepped on if they're on the shorter side. This is true of any crowd situation, not just PAX. You will need to be aware of all people at all times. Also, strollers are not permitted on the show floor at any time.
- PAX breeds GERMS. Again, true of all crowded/convention situations. PAX Prime '09 saw a fairly large outbreak of H1N1 and other flu strains; keep this in mind before exposing any little ones that might be in concern categories for illness.
- PAX is full of SWEARING. The typical demographic of PAX, while fairly diverse, does contain a large number of younger people with a tendency swear. Profusely. About everything. If language is a concern for you, be aware that epithets are a time-honoured PAX tradition, and will be overheard everywhere.
- PAX is FREE for kids 6 and Under when accompanied by an adult with a valid PAX Badge. Conversely, PAX is FULL PRICE for kids 7 and older. So, budget accordingly.
Now, taking everything into consideration, it's up to you! A little planning ahead and your kids can have just as much fun at PAX as everyone else! Just be aware what hurdles there may be, and prepare appropriately!
I'm under 18. Will I be able to get into a panel for/play the demo of <insert M-Rated game here>?
It is convention wide policy to follow the ESRB ratings, even if your parents/guardians are present. Be aware that some exhibitors may ask you for your ID.
It should also be noted that there is no way for a minor's guardian to allow the minor to play/view M-Rated content without the guardian physically present for the content; there is no "permission form" or similar thing available. Also, some exhibitors might still not allow minors to view their M-Rated content with the guardian present.
I'm flying to PAX, how soon should I book my flight?
6-8 weeks before your date of travel seem to be the "sweet spot" of prices. However, keep an eye on prices with sites like http://www.kayak.com/ and you can figure out the best price for your flight from there.
Is it safe to put your DESKTOP PC into an airplane? Can you check it with your airline carrier and see it in once piece at it's destination? Can you ship it to your hotel safely and timely? What other alternatives are there?
The safest way is driving it and bringing it with you. The next safest is taking it and having it professionally packed, lots of Styrofoam and bubble wrap and shipping it one of the quicker (2-3 day) options as opposed to the 6 day or so ground transport. The absolute worst way is on an airplane. First, it's going to cost you since just about everyone is charging for bags now, second, chances are TSA is going to open whatever you have it carefully packaged in and third, baggage handlers hate you.
What should I bring with me to PAX?
What Hotels are available for booking?
How do I get the PAX discount on my hotel room?
How far away are the hotels from the convention center?
All information on hotels offering a PAX discount will be available at PAX Hotel Site
All pricing given is per night
How much do the hotels cost?
In the past hotel prices have ranged from $120-$210 per night. If you are driving to Boston, be aware that hotels will charge you for parking. This ranges from $20-$50 a night.
What days can you book for at the discounted rate?
Depends on the hotel! Some have from Tuesday Check-in - the following Wednesday Check-Out (note: There are more rooms available for Thurs-Mon than other days)
Do they charge my credit card when I reserve my room?
It depends on the hotel; most only use your credit card to hold the room. When you check in, they put a hold on the card you present them at that time for the amount of your stay and when you check out they charge that, plus any billable charges (phone calls, pay per view, room service) to your card at that time. Some hotels have started requiring a deposit equal to one night's stay. If this is the case, it should be clearly noted on the hotel's website.
How many people can stay in one hotel room?
Most hotels allow four, however be aware when you reserve a room with four people per room, they tack on an additional charge. You choose the expected occupancy of the room when you book.
When/where should I book my hotel
As soon as at PAX hotel site opens registration. Sooner the Better! Watch the forums, http://twitter.com/pax_badges, and http://twitter.com/official_pax for when this happens.
What time is check in at these hotels?
Most hotels have check in at around 3-4pm. If you're going to be arriving in town later in the evening or at night, be sure to let the hotel know when you make your reservation. If you are arriving early, most hotels will hold your luggage if you want to see the city before check-in time
I want to find people to share my hotel room, or find people to room with! what should I do?
Once Hotel Registration goes live, a “Room Share” Thread will be posted.
Is there any way for me to confirm that the Hotel got my booking and it’s correct?
Yes! About 2 weeks before PAX, the hotel booking service OnPeak will transfer its bookings to the Hotels. Once that’s done you can call the hotel directly and confirm your reservation. This is highly recommended as sometimes OnPeak makes mistakes and it’s better to correct these a couple weeks before PAX vs the day you try to check in.
Oh God, I can't leave! I might miss something important! But, what is this land you call... this land?!
Everybody coming to Boston may not necessarily be a resident. Don't be afraid to take time away from the convention with your new-found friends, check out a restaurant or two, poke down to whatever sites of local interest there are - look into joining one of the community gatherings, it may take you into the city to find things you wouldn't know about otherwise.
What's the weather like in Boston during PAX?
Expect most anything except it being hot. In early April, you can get the spectrum from a snowy icy blizzard to 65F and sunny to 40F and pouring rain.
Having said that, however, it tends towards 45-55F during daylight hours, and is usually overcast and a bit windy. Since you'll be inside most of the time, it won't be too bad if there's a blizzard. The public transportation keeps going throughout almost all weather.
Is there any free parking near the BCEC?
No. Any parking that doesn't have any obvious signs is probably for patrons of the local businesses; you run a large risk of getting towed if you park in unmarked spots. (This part of Boston is unusually good at parking signs, so this shouldn't be a problem.)
How much does it cost to park?
Parking in the BCEC event parking (highly recommended if you're driving) is around $15 a day. There is extensive and official parking information located here. However, if you're flying in, don't bother renting a car: the public transportation in Boston (usually called the T) is extensive and much more reliable than the traffic.
Where can I get something to eat near the BCEC?
Short answer: inside the BCEC there's a built in food court, and there will likely be other sources of (admittedly overpriced) snacks around. There's a Jimmy Johns on D street. The last few years there have also been food trucks around the BCEC. These have been pretty good but sometimes have long lines!
Longer answer: If you are really adventurous, and feel like walking more than 10 minutes away, there are some good options. Cheap food is rare: there's a 7-11 down by the Seaport World Trade Center (see directions below); there's also a takeout pizza place called Sal's -- there's also a restaurant, but you want the take-out pizza place that's attached to it. If you want a slightly more expensive taste of Boston, one of Legal Sea Foods test kitchens (LTK) is nearby - this is slightly less expensive than the full-blooded Legal (it costs $$$ instead of $$$$), and the food is just as good.
(Directions for all three: walk across the bridge that faces the BCEC - past the T station, over the street, go down the stairs to your right, exit the doors to your left. For the 7-11: It's directly on your right. For Sal's and LTK, cross the street directly in front of you - under the overpass you just crossed. Turn left, walk a few blocks. The LTK is on a corner, has big black awnings that say "LTK" on them. Sal's is just past that - the takeout place is a glass door with a retractable awning. If you've reached the large light-up "Salvatore's" sign, that's the restaurant entrance; you've gone too far.)
Where do the parties happen?
Hotel Rooms and local establishments.
Is there an age limit on the parties?
Usually 21+ unless there's no alcohol involved
How hard is it to get around Boston? Is driving really as horrible as I hear?
Boston is easy, as long as you take the T. (And have a good idea of where you're going -- see the next section.)
Driving is a different story. In Boston, we say that our roads were planned by cows - they're narrow, winding, and seemingly randomly placed. If you're coming in via interstate (I-90 aka the Mass Pike or I-93) and going straight to the convention center, you'll be fine. However, don't plan on driving around downtown Boston and not getting lost. Those of us who have lived there all our lives get lost. Even with a GPS; Boston is famous for having closed roads with no detour signs. Many streets are one way, and there are almost no streets that go in straight lines. It could be fun to go on a driving adventure, but if you want to be somewhere on time, it's not a good idea. (Especially if the Red Sox are in town -- then the whole city is one giant parking lot.) Also, the drivers in Boston really are as horrible as you hear. Drive with caution. Let the crazy guy cut you off.
What is this "T" thing? (RGB's guide to Boston's Public Transit System)
TL;DR
BCEC's stop is "World Trade Center" on the Silver Lines SL1/SL2/Silver Line Way (leaving from South Station)
Tickets are called "Charlie Tickets" - stored value cards, a la NYC's MetroCard or Seattle’s Orca Card
A one-way fare is $2.75. You can also get a 1-week pass that is good for downtown Boston for $21.25
The airport is on the Silver Line SL1. The bus stops at all 4 terminals.
Official website is http://mbta.com - it has maps, schedules, and fare information.
The long version:
From the airport to the BCEC (and the nearby hotels): Take the Silver Line SL1 from the airport. Buy your ticket (called a Charlie Ticket) at the machines at the airport - a one way ticket is $2.75. Get on the bus and validate your ticket at the stand next to the driver. There are luggage racks on the airport busses, and the aisles are wide. After you leave the airport (the bus visits terminals ABCE in that order), get off at the second stop - "World Trade Center, Boston Convention and Exhibition Center". Go up the escalators to the top level. Look around - see that giant hulking building (most likely to your left)? That's the BCEC.
From the airport to your hotel somewhere else: take a look at the hotel's website. Many of them have courtesy shuttles to and from the airport, and they also have public transit directions.
From the BCEC to South Station (how you get to everywhere else): Walk out the main entrance (off the North Lobby) and walk straight across the bridge ahead of you. Halfway down, there's a T station called World Trade Center. Go down to ground level and buy a ticket if you don't already have one - $2.75 one way (if you're planning on coming back, put $6.00 on your Charlie Ticket - they're stored value cards akin to NYC's MetroCard). You can transfer to other lines and trains going the same direction, as well as busses, for free. (After a certain amount of time, it charges you another fare - more than an hour at least.) Head inbound on any bus, and get off at South Station (the terminal stop for these busses). South Station is in the middle of the Financial District.
From South Station to the BCEC: Follow the signs to Silver Line SL1/SL2/Airport. Get on any bus (SL1, SL2, Silver Line Way) and get off at the second stop - "World Trade Center, Boston Convention and Exhibition Center". Go up the escalators to the top level. Look around - see that giant hulking building (most likely to your left)? That's the BCEC.
From South Station to Park Street (the hub station below the Boston Common): Hop on any inbound Red Line train. Get off at the second stop (Park Street).
Hey, I got here early/am staying late, and I want to see some cool things in Boston! Where should I go and how do I get there?
First, if possible, join the magical mystery tour with some of your fellow paxers. Keep a look out for that thread about 4-6 weeks before PAX. It’s run by awesome fourmers who will show you a whole bunch of amazing sites
However, if you want to set out on your own adventure, some highlights include: the Boston Common (a large public park) -- follow the directions to get to Park Street Station above. Duck tours (a land/water motorized tour bus Boston is famous for) leave from the science museum and the Prudential Center. (To Museum of Science Boston: from Park Street, take a Green Line train towards Lechmere to the Science Park stop. To the Prudential Center: from Park Street take a Green Line E train towards Heath Street to the "Prudential" stop.) The Mapparium (http://www.marybakereddylibrary.org/exhibits/mapparium) is a giant globe made of glass you walk through - directions are easily found at the above site.
I'm above the average age of 26 by a decade or more. Will I be the oldest person there?
No, plenty of the post-20s gaming crowd come out to enjoy PAX as well. You are not alone. PAX is geeks reveling in geekery. Age isn't much of a concern.
PAX was awesome! I want to see everything next year! Should I apply to be an Enforcer?
Even if an open call for Enforcers for East does happen, Enforcing means that you are likely to see less, not more, of PAX. When considering becoming an Enforcer it's very important to remember that you go from attending PAX for fun to attending PAX for work, and that has certain implications. Rule #2 of Enforcing is: PAX Is Not For Enforcers - it's for Attendees. (Rule #1, of course, is 'Don't be a Dick'.) If you want to see the maximum number of things at PAX, you should consider returning as an Attendee instead of applying to be an Enforcer.
Should I bring a Nintendo 3DS or Switch (or other handheld gaming device) to PAX?
YES! PAX is a HAVEN for multiplayer handheld gaming, and has near infinite potential for things like Nintendo's Streetpass and local multiplayer for games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Bomberman!
Is anybody going to be doing anything before PAX opens/after PAX closes or ends?
Yes, there will be tons of stuff going on, keep an eye on threads in this forum to find awesome stuff to do with other PAX-goers.
A bunch of people are getting together at an area bar, but I'm under 21. Will I still be able to go and hang out if I'm not drinking?
Maybe. It depends on the bar! Call them to find out.
All Costume Weapons MUST adhere to the official policy described on the pax east website
http://east.paxsite.com/safety-and-security#weapons-check-policies
What kind of restrictions on clothing are there?
Cosplaying attendees may be asked to alter or modify their costume if it is considered overtly sexual. As to what is considered overtly sexual, that's a good question to ask PAX Staff or the pax questions email pax_questions@paxsite.com.
What about booth babe policies?
These apply only to staff used by exhibitors to promote their products at PAX. The official policy can be found here: http://east.paxsite.com/safety-and-security#booth-babe-policies
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING BUYING PASSES FROM SECONDARY SOURCES
I just bought a pass on craigslist / ebay, how do I know if it's legit?
This really won't apply until after PAX East passes go on sale and subsequently sell out. If you purchase your pass from a second hand source, you are putting yourself at risk of purchasing a counterfeit pass. Second hand sources also include this forum, which is why there is no buy/sell/trade of pax passes on this forum.
AT PAX you can have badges verified by badge-checking enforcers outside the show. There is no way to verify a second-hand badge prior to being at PAX.
East 2018, here we come!
"Per badge type" = the latter
Get that information into whomever you'd like to see be there. That's probably your best bet.
My pass was purchased by a 3rd Party for me (as you saw). I need to get my handicapped badge as well. Will they still be cool even though the original badge is in a different name?
Note to anyone following this thread, BYOC registration is now up. https://forums.penny-arcade.com/discussion/215258/byoc-registration-east-2018#latest
I bought a set of passes, one for each day. A friend of mine now wants to go, so I need to buy an additional Thursday and Friday. Now, in theory, I should still be able to use all the same information because of the "Limit 4 per type per household". But I've heard tall tales of transactions being voided because of this exact same situation somehow confusing the system.
SO, simply put.... we good? No problems?
Your badge is your ticket.