Instead of the usual recap, I decided to just summarize the things that went well and the things I should remember for next year. Overall, I really enjoyed PAX this year. I definitely did more than last year and had more fun!
Things that went well
- Downloaded and used the Guidebook app for iOS (very helpful before and during PAX!)
- Made a schedule beforehand
- Looked over the map(s) beforehand and noted important locations
- Took off work on Friday to get to PAX early
- Surveyed the convention center Friday morning
- Talked to some industry folks
- Participated in some tournaments (won 3rd in Mario Kart 7 out of 95, 4th in Mario Kart DS out of 17)
- Brought food, only spent money on dinner once
Things to do next year
- Plan more in advance! PAX will sneak up on you due to work & Made in MA party.
- Make an expo hall plan in addition to a panel/tournament plan to prevent idle wandering.
- Make a packing list; plan what to bring before the night before.
- Allow 30-60 minutes for waiting in lines for panels, more for popular panels.
- Network with people you know again, but also meet new people.
- Play more games on the expo floor, especially lesser-known indie games.
- Demo lines in the expo hall shrink close to closing. Don't waste time waiting in line if you can play quickly right before closing time.
- Spend some time in the classic arcade, console free play, and other rarely-visited places.
- Meet up with and hang out with friends sometime.
Unlike last year, I was actually sad that PAX was over this year. I hope to get just as much, if not more, out of the convention next year!
