Hello everyone and welcome to another episode of Finder’s Archives. At the time where I’m writing this, GamerNationCon has just finished, though you’ll likely be reading this a few weeks later.
I’d planned on attending this year, but with how expensive everything got, and how quickly that happened, all that I’d set aside for it got washed away in a torrent of expenses. I still hope to attend one day, but who knows when that will happen.
At the same time, physical conventions are relatively rare where I live, and online conventions are becoming increasingly common. So here is a list of the advantages and disadvantages of both, as far as I can see them.
Physical Conventions
Advantages
- Community Building: Physical TTRPG conventions provide a space for players to connect and interact with one another in person. This is a great way to build a sense of community and forge new friendships, as I’m sure that many of the attendees of the past GNCs can attest.
- Face-to-Face Interaction: TTRPGs are all about interpersonal interaction and physical conventions provide players with the opportunity to engage in face-to-face interaction with other players, game masters, and industry professionals (GNC has been lucky enough to have some alumni attending, though I don’t know if that happened this year, sorry).
- Access to Exclusive Content: Many physical TTRPG conventions offer exclusive content, such as previews of upcoming games, special guest appearances, and limited edition merchandise. These opportunities are often unavailable outside of the various conventions, especially the bigger ones.
Disadvantages
- Cost: Physical conventions can be expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of travel, accommodations, food, and convention fees. This can be a barrier for some players who are unable to afford the cost of attending.
- Limited Access: Physical conventions are often limited to a specific location and time, which can make it difficult for players who are unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts or geographical limitations.
- Crowds: TTRPG conventions can be crowded, which can make it difficult to navigate the convention floor, play games, or engage in activities without feeling overwhelmed. GNC seems to have handled this better than almost any other Con I’ve ever attended, especially around pick-up games.
Online Conventions
Advantages
- Accessibility: Online conventions are accessible to anyone with an internet connection, which makes it easier for players who may not be able to attend physical conventions due to financial or geographical limitations.
- Flexibility: Online TTRPG conventions offer greater flexibility in terms of scheduling, as players can participate in events and activities from the comfort of their own homes. This can make it easier for players with busy schedules to participate.
- Safety: Online conventions provide a safe space for players to participate in events and activities without the risk of exposure to COVID-19 or other illnesses that may be prevalent at physical conventions. (Like the ever-infamous Con Crud).
Disadvantages:
- Limited Interaction: Online TTRPG conventions lack the face-to-face interaction that physical conventions provide. This can make it difficult for players to connect with one another and build a sense of community. There is also the problem with the actual technology used when talking. As good as Zoom might be by now, I’ve experienced far more issues with people talking over each other than I ever have in real life. Simply put, there are unspoken signals of “I’m done talking now” that we cannot pick up on when using a vid-call or voice-over problem.
- Technical Difficulties: Online conventions require a stable internet connection and the use of technology, such as video conferencing software. Technical difficulties can arise, such as lag or connectivity issues, which can disrupt gameplay, especially if participants are in different parts of the world.
- Limited Access to Exclusive Content: Online TTRPG conventions often do not offer the same level of access to exclusive content as physical conventions, as some content may only be available to players who attend in person.
In conclusion, physical and online TTRPG conventions offer advantages and disadvantages for players. Physical conventions provide an opportunity for players to connect in person and access exclusive content but they can be expensive and limited in access. Online conventions offer greater accessibility, flexibility, and safety, but lack face-to-face interaction and may have technical difficulties. Ultimately, the decision of whether to attend a physical or online TTRPG convention will depend on individual preferences and circumstances.
See you next time. 🙂
Kim Frandsen
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