2019 Midwinter Review
The 2019 Midwinter Gaming Convention came to a close last Sunday at the Hilton City Center, the first of many conventions that I will likely be traveling to this year. I just wanted to give a recap of some of the things that were discussed and that I experienced at the Convention this year. Midwinter continues to be a highlight of my year and I always enjoy my time there, but this year felt different for me, and I am not sure why. I still haven’t been able to put my finger on it, which is frustrating. Perhaps by unpacking it, I will be able to figure out what is off for me and go from there.
The convention started off with the Industry Summit, which was open to those in the gaming industry who were looking to network, or those just starting in the industry and wanting some direction on where to go. It seemed very light on new attendees this year, which made 2 of the panels I was on a bit harder to do, but we still were able to accomplish a lot. We discussed things like where to get art from, what programs we use for layout, the importance of community content sites, and in general where we thing the gaming community is headed. Thank you so much Jessa of Ever After Editing, Erykah Rose, Bill Bodden, and Jessica Karels for being on the panel with me!
I was able to get in 2 alpha-tests for a card game that I have had in my head for a while now, and I got some fantastic feedback on and possible directions I would like for it to go. I’m looking to tighten up a few more spots on it, but I am very proud of how far this project has come. I will be announcing it on Facebook shortly!
I was able to run Pip System for players that have never played before, which was exciting. Everyone had a lot of fun and enjoyed playing the system. I always love introducing the Pip System to people and seeing how easily they pick it up during the course of my games. I ran Bright (based off the Netflix movie) and Gargoyles (yes THAT Gargoyles).
I was also part of the FORGE Women in Geek Culture panel, which was a great addition to Midwinter this year. It brought up a lot of good ideas, some hard discussions, and I learned some things about being a stronger ally in the community. You should check out FORGE and add your story to the group.
As always, Onyx Path continues to lead the way in the Industry by not only sponsoring Midwinter, but making themselves accessible during the convention to their fans. Not only do they host an intimate Q&A fr everyone, but they run their games, host panels and workshops, and run impromptu games with their fans the entire convention.
Midwinter is always one of my favorite conventions. I love the people. I love the conversations. I love the games. If you haven’t had the chance to check out this convention, it should be on your list. I look forward to Midwinter 2020!
And as always, Millie continues to be a source of joy throughout the convention!
Millie, the #CanineConcierge
