GenCon: Two and a half months out and I feel I'm late..

[SuperPheemy]

I'd really REALLY like to attend Gen Con this year. But I've never been to one, so I'm a little lost in the planning process. Thus, I need some friendly advice from HEROdom Assembled.

1. Where should I be looking to stay? I've done a lot of searches, and I'm having a hard time consistently finding hotels inside of driving distance to the convention center.

2. Are there any shuttles from the airport to many of these hotels, and are there any shuttles from the hotels to the conventions? (Current circumstances prevent me from renting a car).

3. How much will all of this cost? I'm just looking for rough numbers here for an average stay. $500, $1000, more?

4. Anyone need a roomie? :angel: I'm clean and housebroken.

[TygerLily]

1. Where should I be looking to stay? I've done a lot of searches, and I'm having a hard time consistently finding hotels inside of driving distance to the convention center.

Most of the hotels in downtown are already booked, due to Gen Con. So you're going to need to look out by the airport or the outer parameter. The other option is to get on the waiting list for the Gen Con block of rooms in downtown.


2. Are there any shuttles from the airport to many of these hotels, and are there any shuttles from the hotels to the conventions? (Current circumstances prevent me from renting a car).

Several hotels will have shuttles from the airport to the hotel. I'm not sure about shuttles between the hotel and ICC. This is one question, where being local, I'm not as familiar with the shuttle options.


3. How much will all of this cost? I'm just looking for rough numbers here for an average stay. $500, $1000, more?

Depending on where you stay, the hotel room can be quite expensive. We are in an attached hotel and it's over $150 a night. Out by the airport, you can get closer to $100 a night. If you go farther out or cheaper brands, you can go even cheaper, but then you would need a car or need to pay a taxi to get to the ICC.


4. Anyone need a roomie? :angel: I'm clean and housebroken.

There's several rooms still looking for roomies at the Gen Con forums. I would check there if you don't get any offers at this forums.

Good luck! Gen Con can be expensive, but IMHO it's worth the trip.

[ghost-angel]

Last year my GenCon trip totaled out at just under 1000$.

That included driving out, food, buying stuff and the Hotel (by far the largest chunk).

But I don't buy much stuff. Driving was about the same as flying, maybe a little cheaper. There's some pretty inexpensive places around to eat - and I brought a bunch of energy bars/breakfast bars for mid day foods.

[RexMundi]

I usually do about a grand split three ways. Helps to have a roomie. Last year I had the Merchant Block option and was over at the Hyatt thanks to Mongoose, but it was still Pricey. Worked out to 275 a head plus parking which was 20 bucks a day.

Best prices are actually a few miles away and easy to get to, provided you have a car, which you do not so hoofing distance.

Call up the Omni Hotel downtown. I was looking just before the weekend and there were still plenty of room options at more then a few of the hotels downtown.

I miss the days when it was in my Backyard here in Wisconsin, but I have a LOT of fun in Indy, and it's not that bad of a drive unless you are coming in from, oh Alaska. I highly recommend The Slippery Noodle as a bar stop though when you get there. One of the Oldest, and Best blues bars in the country and the guys there really like the convention folks.

Once there the Indy people at the convention are pretty helpful with finding you places to eat (though it's Steak and Shake that gets bombed the most and the Subway in the basement of the Hyatt). I do recommend bringing plenty of water to drink.

Oh, and soap. And Deodorant. Much like when hunting Vampires or Wayward Kryptonians, you want to have your Crosses and Kryptonite to help hold the unwashed horde at bay. :D

~Rex

[TygerLily]

Once there the Indy people at the convention are pretty helpful with finding you places to eat (though it's Steak and Shake that gets bombed the most and the Subway in the basement of the Hyatt). I do recommend bringing plenty of water to drink.

~Rex

You mentioning Steak and Shake reminded me. The McDonald's on the first floor of the Hyatt is closed. It is being moved to a new location, but will not be open by Gen Con time. However, we do have a new option of Noodles & Company between the ICC and Steak & Shake.

[lemming]

You mentioning Steak and Shake reminded me. The McDonald's on the first floor of the Hyatt is closed. It is being moved to a new location, but will not be open by Gen Con time. However, we do have a new option of Noodles & Company between the ICC and Steak & Shake.

Noodles and Co. are actually pretty good. And a veggie option. Very cool.

[SatinKitty]

I am unfamiliar with Noodles and Company. Where is it ?

[lemming]

I am unfamiliar with Noodles and Company. Where is it ?

http://www.noodles.com/

[teh bunneh]

Noodles & Co? Awesome! They've got a mac 'n' cheese dish that I could practically live on. I grew up on that nasty powdered orange Kraft crap, and never had real mac 'n' cheese until I ate there. You'll be able to find me there at lunch time every day at Gencon! :yum:

[SuperPheemy]

Thanks for all your advice and help (both on this Thread and others). Looks like I'm able to manage the trip (with help from a HERO). So see you folks in August on Indiana time!! W00T! :hex:

[ghost-angel]

The Gumbo-Bowl joint is made of awesome. I think I ate most of my meals there last year. I have no idea what it's called, but I know where it is.

I think I'm the only person who can't stand Noodles & Co ... just... blech. Only thing I can eat there and the plain ole buttered noodles. Everything else tastes like a happy-chemical-goop to me.

[ghost-angel]

I miss the days when it was in my Backyard here in Wisconsin, but I have a LOT of fun in Indy, and it's not that bad of a drive unless you are coming in from, oh Alaska.

The drive from Hawaii is a real humm-dinger too.

[TygerLily]

Noodles & Co? Awesome! They've got a mac 'n' cheese dish that I could practically live on. I grew up on that nasty powdered orange Kraft crap, and never had real mac 'n' cheese until I ate there. You'll be able to find me there at lunch time every day at Gencon! :yum:

We'll have to meet for lunch sometime this year, Bill. We tried last year, but the timing never worked. I love their creamy pesto sauce.

[teh bunneh]

The Gumbo-Bowl joint is made of awesome. I think I ate most of my meals there last year. I have no idea what it's called, but I know where it is.

J. Gumbo's. Wonder if they're still around. Tigerlilly, you're our Jenny-on-the-Spot, are they still there? They had a really good dinner special. It was like $10 for a giant bowl of cajun goodness, plus garlic bread and a soda... :drool:

[teh bunneh]

Thanks for all your advice and help (both on this Thread and others). Looks like I'm able to manage the trip (with help from a HERO). So see you folks in August on Indiana time!! W00T! :hex:

Good deal! See ya there, Keith! :cheers:

[TygerLily]

J. Gumbo's. Wonder if they're still around. Tigerlilly, you're our Jenny-on-the-Spot, are they still there? They had a really good dinner special. It was like $10 for a giant bowl of cajun goodness, plus garlic bread and a soda... :drool:

I haven't ever eaten there, so I did a search for them and didn't find a location listed in Indiana. You said you ate there last year? I'll do some checking around and see if I can find out if their website is just out of date or if they are closed.

[mattingly]

J Gumbo's is still going strong here in Louisville (just opened up another one a couple months ago), just two hours south of Indy, so there's a good chance that the Indy one is still there.

[teh bunneh]

Well, here's the website. Looks like they don't have a shop in Indy anymore. :(

http://www.jgumbos.com/locations.html

[ghost-angel]

sonuva rat...

maybe it's a franchise not listed on the corporate site. That's the sliver of hope I shall cling to for now.

[rjcurrie]

Unfortunately, this appears to confirm that J. Gumbo's in Indy is closed.

http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/40/452088/restaurant/Wholesale-District/J-Gumbos-Indianapolis

[ghost-angel]

You have crushed my last sliver of hope.


I bet you're happy with yourself!

:tonguewav

[TygerLily]

Yeah, I was just coming back to post that it has been confirmed. J. Gumbo apparently closed not long after Gen Con last year. Sorry guys! :(

[teh bunneh]

Dang. :(

Well, at least I'm consoled in that I didn't cause their demise. I must've eaten there 2 or 3 times over the course of the weekend.

[hooligan x]

Don't forget our Hero Karaoke night at the Ugly Monkey on Thursday.

[Chris Goodwin]

Any Portland peeps going to GenCon? PM me if you are.

[SatinKitty]

What time is Karaoke Night ?

[hooligan x]

What time is Karaoke Night ?

9ish?

[teh bunneh]

I think the kareoke officially starts at 10, but if you want a seat you should probably be there by 9ish, like HX said.

Hey, who's hosting the Wednesday night pre-con Hero party? Surbrook?

[ghost-angel]

I am.

[hooligan x]

I am.

Will there be pie?

[ghost-angel]

No. Cake or Death?

[teh bunneh]

I am.

Aren't you rooming with us?

[ghost-angel]

I am.

Hence. . . the positive answer. It's gonna be hard to get away...

[teh bunneh]

I certainly don't mind hosting. But we ain't got a suite. It's gonna be hard to cram all those geeks into our little room, is all I'm saying.

[mattingly]

I believe the susano/mattingly room is this year's par-tay place, but I probably won't be around very much, what with exhibitor hall setup chores and such.

[ghost-angel]

I misread... I think you asked whose gonna be there, not whose hosting... I failed Comprehension.

. . . . as a clever smoke screen I'll lop off the bunneh's head and steal his quickening.

[lemming]

Cool, I should be getting into town Wednesday afternoon. Depends on how long my detour to Texas will take, but on the plus side I'll get some mileage allowance and get to take off a day early.

[hooligan x]

I had purchased my flight so that I was getting into town around 5pm wednesday. The airline has sent me notice that the have unilatterally changed my flights and I will be arriving at 10pm. Effers.

[BBstacker]

Hi guys this is my first time going to gencon (I'm coming from dallas, TX) but this is also a homecoming for me (I was born there:king:) what kind of events does the herophiles have planned cause I want maximum enjoyment there?

[Barton]

Double RED ALERT!!!
Colts Football game Friday night, so Friday will be a complete zoo at GenCon.

Add to that the construction at the convention center, this will be a real "interesting" convention.

[mattingly]

Oh, the city is having another football LARP? Where people dress in funny costumes and paint their faces and bellies? And talk in weird game jargon?

[Barton]

Oh, the city is having another football LARP? Where people dress in funny costumes and paint their faces and bellies? And talk in weird game jargon?

The problem with the football themed LARP is that the crowd could be huge and Brett Favre. Possible he will be with the MN team, if so many midwestern TV news crews will be around. This will add to the chaos. Not to mention that Colts have the right to take over convention rooms, this could lead to even more chaos.

[ghost-angel]

This happened last year too.

Beyond a buncha people all dressed in funny costumes passing in the street trying to make fun of the other people in funny costumes.... it just made street corners crowded.

I did see a group last year start to make fun of the Dungeons And Dragons crowd... right until the first scantily clad gamer-girl walked by, they failed to make coherent noises after that but seemed generally appreciative of the Gamers.

[hooligan x]

I hope to see blue horseshoes on the side of all the stormtrooper helmets.

[Susano]

I believe the susano/mattingly room is this year's par-tay place, but I probably won't be around very much, what with exhibitor hall setup chores and such.

Will I be helping you with that? I know I'll be helping DOJ with their booth as well.

[Susano]

Oh, I'll be getting in late Wednesday and am bringing a friend to his 1st GenCon.

[mattingly]

I've already got some booth helpers. And since you're not getting in until late Wednesday, it probably wouldn't be practical for you to help with setup. Teardown, on the other hand...

[teh bunneh]

Hi guys this is my first time going to gencon (I'm coming from dallas, TX) but this is also a homecoming for me (I was born there:king:) what kind of events does the herophiles have planned cause I want maximum enjoyment there?

Wednesday night welcome party at Mattingly & Susano's room.
Thursday night kareoke at the Drunken Monkey.
Various informal get-togethers over the course of the weekend.
And, of course, tons of Hero games! :celebrate

[hooligan x]

Wednesday night welcome party at Mattingly & Susano's room.
Thursday night kareoke at the Drunken Monkey.
Various informal get-togethers over the course of the weekend.
And, of course, tons of Hero games! :celebrate

That's the Ugly Monkey there, pally.

[Susano]

I've already got some booth helpers. And since you're not getting in until late Wednesday, it probably wouldn't be practical for you to help with setup. Teardown, on the other hand...

Okay!

[lemming]

Not sure when I'm getting in. Was scheduled for coming in Wednesday, but may make that early Wednesday. This last couple weeks I put in an extra 40+ hours, so looks like i'll be taking an even longer vacation. Figure I'll start my drive early Sunday, after I drop off the kittens in Texas, I should have a leisurely drive to Indy.

[ghost-angel]

I'll be rolling in sometime on Wednesday. When depends on how far I can make it on Tuesday. I hope to make it to the east side of St. Louis if I do the same route I did last year.

[yamamura]

Dang wish I was making it there on Wednesday. Alas it will be Thursday when I arrive.

[hooligan x]

Anyone have experience in dealling with airlines? I was aondering if it's worth attemping to get them to change my flight back to an earlier one.

[BlackSword]

Anyone have experience in dealling with airlines? I was aondering if it's worth attemping to get them to change my flight back to an earlier one.
I have never had a problem changing my flights, but I usually travel for business so I have travel agents I can rely on. There is sometimes a surcharge ($50?) for the change; also if you change from a bargain flight time (red eye) to a more expensive flight time you would have to pay the difference in tickets.

[BBstacker]

Wednesday night welcome party at Mattingly & Susano's room.
Thursday night kareoke at the Drunken Monkey.
Various informal get-togethers over the course of the weekend.
And, of course, tons of Hero games! :celebrate
Great I won't be in till Thursday morning (just in time to pick up my 6th edition and my book of the machine!!) but karaoke is definitely a go! and hopefully I can get plenty of hero gametime in as I got a brand new group to run when I get back.

[Susano]

Dang wish I was making it there on Wednesday. Alas it will be Thursday when I arrive.

Well come by and say hello anyway!

Hmm... if people want, PM me for my cell #.

[lemming]

That reminds me, I need to get my gophone activated again. I doubt work will want me using theirs at GenCon

[teh bunneh]

Re: Cellphone.

Ditto what Susano said. If you want my digits, PM me with yours. :)

[mattingly]

And if you're not involved in a game Saturday afternoon, come by the BlackWyrm booth (#408, I think) for some autographs by our various authors.

[hooligan x]

I heard there's a heck of a game on Saturday evening, too. Something about cans and butts.

[Susano]

And if you're not involved in a game Saturday afternoon, come by the BlackWyrm booth (#408, I think) for some autographs by our various authors.

But not my book.... :cry:

[yamamura]

But not Susano's book.... :cry: Will there be a preview doc of it there Susano?

[mattingly]

We're planning on having a mostly artless and mostly edited preview of Kazei 5 at the show. And Foxbat will still be campaigning for President.

Plus, we'll have the very first 6E superhero adventure!

[ghost-angel]

it'll be awesome :thumbup:

[Susano]

it'll be awesome :thumbup:

Of course, I'll be there.

[Steve]

Of course, I'll be there.

And maybe even getting mobbed by fangirls. ;)

[BBstacker]

And if you're not involved in a game Saturday afternoon, come by the BlackWyrm booth (#408, I think) for some autographs by our various authors.
I only got games planned in the early morn so definitely I will be there!I have a Crazy request: Could you have a couple of copies of the hero version of the Algernon files vol.1 and 2 available? I have a couple of players who after seeing my MnM version of the books are interested in buying.

[Susano]

Some locations:

Hero Games -- 433
BlackWyrm -- 408
GameScience -- 2121
Chessex -- 117, 1015, 1621,
Steve Jackson Games -- 1321
Exile (Hollow Earth Exp.) -- 1701

[ghost-angel]

It's worth a note: 408 appears to be part of a mega-booth (402-408) on the map.

And Hero and Cryptic both are listed under Atari on the Exhibitors List.

I also talked to the guy who does the cons for I.C.E. - they're not going to make GenCon this year (for anyone who does play Rolemaster).

[mattingly]

Could you have a couple of copies of the hero version of the Algernon files vol.1 and 2 available?
We'll have some there, yes. Plus our True20 space opera, plus our scifi and fantasy novels, plus Gestalt, plus Foxbat for President, plus the 6E adventure.


It's worth a note: 408 appears to be part of a mega-booth (402-408) on the map.
Yes. Besides being president of BlackWyrm, I'm also this year's president of the GPA (Game Publishers Association), and the front of the 400 aisle is the GPA block.

[OddHat]

We'll have some there, yes. Plus our True20 space opera, plus our scifi and fantasy novels, plus Gestalt, plus Foxbat for President, plus the 6E adventure.

Any chance of a hardback Gestalt in color? If so, I'll buy one. :)

[yamamura]

Some locations:

Hero Games -- 433
BlackWyrm -- 408
GameScience -- 2121
Chessex -- 117, 1015, 1621,
Steve Jackson Games -- 1321
Exile (Hollow Earth Exp.) -- 1701

Thanks Susano! That is very useful. Especially as my friend I am going there with is a big GURPS fan.

PS. It looks like I may be making it there sometime on Wednesday. Still up in the air but hoping.

[mattingly]

Any chance of a hardback Gestalt in color? If so, I'll buy one. :)
We don't keep color books in stock, but we can special order them. No hardbacks, though.

[OddHat]

We don't keep color books in stock, but we can special order them. No hardbacks, though.

PMing you. :)

[yamamura]

Any recommendation on sushi in Indy? Being stuck in the northwest corner of Iowa, I hardly ever get to have it!

[teh bunneh]

There used to be a Japanese hibachi place right around the corner from the convention center. Dunno if it's still there or not.

[BlackSword]

Any recommendation on sushi in Indy? Being stuck in the northwest corner of Iowa, I hardly ever get to have it!
We usually eat at Mikado which is about a block from the convention center.

[Susano]

Any recommendation on sushi in Indy? Being stuck in the northwest corner of Iowa, I hardly ever get to have it!

I'm for that!

[OddHat]

Mikado's not bad for some quick protein on your way to or from the convention center. Bit on the pricey side for what you get, but the fish is pretty fresh. It was still there as of last year. There's also mall sushi, but that comes with the standard "do I really trust mall sushi" issue.

I'm still not done preparing my game, and the second play test is only about ten days away.

[ghost-angel]

My restaurant finder didn't hit up anything specifically Sushi, I found two Japanese places - Mikado (mentioned already) and Bistro Chopstix (also on Illinois, not sure how close to the Convention Center it is). That's all it found, I doubt my list was exhaustive though.

[yamamura]

Yelp.com also list Sakura.

Sushi and Indianapolis (http://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Sushi&find_loc=Indianapolis%2C+IN&ns=1&rpp=10)

[SatinKitty]

My badge has shipped via FedEx !!!!!! :bounce:

[Lucius]

:coach:I'm gonna be there!:celebrate




Wow....after all these years I'll finally be at a GenCon.......:shock:


:fear:Will I ever be the same?

Lucius Alexander

:mad:The palindromedary is fuming because it's not considered a "service animal.":mad:

[Susano]

Just stay away from teh bunneh and all will be find. If you do hang with teh bunneh be sure to give me an address to send some flowers too.

[mattingly]

I look forward to meeting you in person, Lucius. Be sure and introduce yourself at the BlackWyrm book (#408). And toss your name into the star-spangled hat for a chance at the "Foxbat for President" prize drawing.

[Teflon Billy]

Does anyone know anything about trying to get cancelled hotel rooms?

I've currently got a reservation out by the airport, but I'd really like to try and get closer (within walking distance) of the venue. I figure there are going to be room cancellations (I know I did back in '05.) But when is the time to do it? Wednesday in the morning, after 5PM?

Is it even worth the bother?

For that matter, does anyone staying within walking distance of the convention want a roomate?

I come with excellent references (roomed with Scott Bennie in '06, and Edsel, Input.Jack, Susano, Oddhat, Eosin all have meet me in person and know me to not be too much of a freak ;))

PM me if anyone within walking distance wants a roomate, I'll gladly split hotel costs and provide car transportation if you'd like to get rid of any necessary rental car/taxi needs, I'm staying Wednesday through Monday so I can drive people around before and after the Con.

TB

[yamamura]

:coach:I'm gonna be there!:celebrate




Wow....after all these years I'll finally be at a GenCon.......:shock:


:fear:Will I ever be the same?

Lucius Alexander

:mad:The palindromedary is fuming because it's not considered a "service animal.":mad:

Yay! This is beginning to look like quite the gathering.

[yamamura]

Does anyone know anything about trying to get cancelled hotel rooms?

I've currently got a reservation out by the airport, but I'd really like to try and get closer (within walking distance) of the venue. I figure there are going to be room cancellations (I know I did back in '05.) But when is the time to do it? Wednesday in the morning, after 5PM?

Is it even worth the bother?

For that matter, does anyone staying within walking distance of the convention want a roomate?

I come with excellent references (roomed with Scott Bennie in '06, and Edsel, Input.Jack, Susano, Oddhat, Eosin all have meet me in person and know me to not be too much of a freak ;))

PM me if anyone within walking distance wants a roomate, I'll gladly split hotel costs and provide car transportation if you'd like to get rid of any necessary rental car/taxi needs, I'm staying Wednesday through Monday so I can drive people around before and after the Con.

TB

Yea I wish I was closer (estimate about 6 miles from Town Center). Oh well, it is a lot closer then Emmetsburg Iowa!

[Susano]

There will be a Wednesday night Hero gathering at our hotel room. Dave Mattingly will have details.

[mattingly]

The Wednesday gathering party will be at 7:00 at:
Comfort Suites City Centre
515 S West St
(317) 631-9000
From the convention center, get on West St and go south two or three blocks.

[ghost-angel]

the party taking over the entire hotel? Or are we doing this Rave Style where we go to the location, get a number, call it that gets us to another location where we get the card with the address drive forty miles in the wrong direction, turn around, go back the other way and finally get to the rave?

[mattingly]

We won't know our room number until we check in, so you'll need to have the front desk call our room so we can tell you.

[OddHat]

the party taking over the entire hotel? Or are we doing this Rave Style where we go to the location, get a number, call it that gets us to another location where we get the card with the address drive forty miles in the wrong direction, turn around, go back the other way and finally get to the rave?

Bunny will be bringing the drunk girls.

[teh bunneh]

Bunny will be bringing the drunk girls.

No prob. But it's strictly BYOX. I won't have enough for everyone.

[yamamura]

The Wednesday gathering party will be at 7:00 at:
Comfort Suites City Centre
515 S West St
(317) 631-9000
From the convention center, get on West St and go south two or three blocks.

Anything we should bring to the gathering?

[mattingly]

I'll supply some snacks and soft drinks, but being a tea-totaller I won't bring anything beyond that. Those who want other beverages will need to bring them.

Don't forget the 1 XP cover charge...

[Susano]

The Wednesday gathering party will be at 7:00 at:
Comfort Suites City Centre
515 S West St
(317) 631-9000
From the convention center, get on West St and go south two or three blocks.

I should be there between 4 and 5 PM. If I'm late, I'll be asking Dave to push the start time back a little so I can get showered and all.

[Susano]

Anything we should bring to the gathering?

I'm considering bringing some beers.

[mattingly]

I'll be asking Dave to push the start time back a little so I can get showered and all.
I'm an old man. After spending the afternoon in the non-air-conditioned dealer hall setting up two booths, I'll be ready to kick you young'ns offa my porch.

[Susano]

I'm an old man. After spending the afternoon in the non-air-conditioned dealer hall setting up two booths, I'll be ready to kick you young'ns offa my porch.

I'm a year older than you. :p

[Balabanto]

I should be there between 4 and 5 PM. If I'm late, I'll be asking Dave to push the start time back a little so I can get showered and all.

I'll be there around 6:30 or so. I have this incredible desire to eat at Fogo, and if anyone brings a copy of Foxbat for President or wants to buy one off of Dave, I will sign it.

[Susano]

I'll probably be wanting dinner when I arrive too.

[lemming]

I'll be rolling into Indy on current plans pretty early Wednesday.

[hooligan x]

Folks should feel free to PM me for my mobile number.

[Susano]

Hooligan, you running anything this year?

[Balabanto]

Now that the War of Worldcraft announcement has been made, if anyone wishes to buy that one at the party, I'll sign that also.

[hooligan x]

Hooligan, you running anything this year?

I am running three Hero System Games: a CU Teen Champions game called Champions Offline, another Toon Hero game, and Astrozombies vs the Teenagers From Mars.

[Susano]

I feel like it's a week before Christmas....

[Lucius]

There's a sushi restaurant within walking distance of where I live, and another place not too far off that has sushi on the buffet.

But I live out on the East Side a considerable distance from Downtown.

How much are rooms going for downtown? Anyone looking for a roommate? I'm wondering if it might be worth it just to not have to make my way home (and I HATE the traffic downtown and don't want to have to hassle with parking either)

Lucius Alexander

:mad: The palindromedary is still fuming because it's not considered a "service animal":mad:

[hooligan x]

I feel like it's a week before Christmas....

and I haven't started my shopping.

[yamamura]

I know the feeling. I can hardly wait to be out there. I am really looking forward to adding faces the names here on the boards. This will be my first time in another time zone.

Ps. Will I experience anything when I go from CDT to EDT;)

[Susano]

I know the feeling. I can hardly wait to be out there. I am really looking forward to adding faces the names here on the boards. This will be my first time in another time zone.

Ps. Will I experience anything when I go from CDT to EDT;)

Nausea, vomiting, double vision, and disorientation. Nothing to get alarmed about.

[yamamura]

Nausea, vomiting, double vision, and disorientation. Not to get alarmed about.

Right my normal state:D

[Susano]

Right my normal state:D

And if you have an erection lasting for more than 4 hours, consult your doctor.

[lemming]

Only 2.5 days more of work! Well, real work.

[hooligan x]

4 days until vacation!

[teh bunneh]

Anyone else want to give up those digits to teh ebil bunneh? I promise no 2am drunk-dialing. ;)

[hooligan x]

Anyone else want to give up those digits to teh ebil bunneh? I promise no 2am drunk-dialing. ;)

What about 2am sexting?

[Susano]

Anyone else want to give up those digits to teh ebil bunneh? I promise no 2am drunk-dialing. ;)

Same here. If you want my cell # so you can contact me at GenCon, just send me a PM.

[lemming]

Looks like I'll be picking up a new card for my go phone on my way. So #'s will be sent probably this coming Sun or Mon.

[yamamura]

Sure if anyone wants my number, I will happily let it out. Just PM me.

[hooligan x]

US Air has changed my flight again so I won't miss Wednesday! Thank you, "Dave" who is pretending not to be in Chenai!

[BBstacker]

well I'll be leaving out on Thursday morning straight from my job......So is there any plans for Thurs. night?

[yamamura]

well I'll be leaving out on Thursday morning straight from my job......So is there any plans for Thurs. night?

I think that would be Karaoke.... shudders.... ;)

[hooligan x]

I think that would be Karaoke.... shudders.... ;)

Karaoke at the Ugly Monkey. You don't have to sing, just don't boo me.

[Susano]

I'm wondering when Can of Wupp-Ass is and if there'll be a Haymaker Jam.

[Darren Watts]

For those who find karaoke less than amusing, there's also Beer-Con (the Goodman Games party) followed by more drinking probably at Ike & Jonesy's Thursday night. dw

[Susano]

I like the sound of that!

[lemming]

For those who find karaoke less than amusing, there's also Beer-Con (the Goodman Games party) followed by more drinking probably at Ike & Jonesy's Thursday night. dw

Excellent.

Actually I'm ok with being a spectator of karaoke. You either hear some good voices or you pick up some stories for later.

[mattingly]

I'm wondering when Can of Wupp-Ass is and if there'll be a Haymaker Jam.
Whupass will be Saturday night (I think at 7:00), and Friday night is open for anyone who wants to run a Haymaker Jam, but it won't be me this year.

[yamamura]

Haymaker Jam???

[Susano]

Whupass will be Saturday night (I think at 7:00), and Friday night is open for anyone who wants to run a Haymaker Jam, but it won't be me this year.

I have Saturday open, but I think my Friday night is spoken for. Ross Watson from FFg wants me to attend the Ennies in case Creatures Anathema wins.

[Lucius]

To facilitate communication:

I can be reached on Yahoo Mess as lucius_p_alexander



Lucius Alexander

Palindromedary is my middle name!

[mattingly]

Haymaker Jam???
Haymaker Jam is a private game run by Haymaker authors/artists for Haymaker authors/artists, using only material that ran in Haymaker during its run (17 years and counting).

Usually, I run the game, but I won't be able to this time around.

And Haymaker is probably still looking for contributors...

[hooligan x]

I am beginning my last workday before vacation. Then 5 days to print & pack for GenCon. We'll be in Indy Intl by 1:15 Wedneday afternoon. We may wait there for Ali to arrive and share a limo. When are all the other Hero flyers hitting the airport? I'll be in the bar.

[BBstacker]

hmmmm beer and bad singing I love the con already......I got a situation guys. I am coming from the airport but I do not know of any good transportation. Any suggestions?

[Boll Weevil]

hmmmm beer and bad singing I love the con already......I got a situation guys. I am coming from the airport but I do not know of any good transportation. Any suggestions?Where are you staying?

[lemming]

I just had my last day of work, packing and leaving in the morning. Will be picking up a temp phone on the way, numbers will be distributed in the next couple days.

[lemming]

There are a few of us staying near the airport. I believe carpooling will be attempted.

[Lucius]

hmmmm beer and bad singing I love the con already......I got a situation guys. I am coming from the airport but I do not know of any good transportation. Any suggestions?

From the Airport, I believe the number 8 bus will take you to the Convention Center for $1.75

If you mean you are staying in a hotel at the Airport, ask the hotel - they probably run a shuttle to the Convention Center or at least to downtown.

If you want to call a cab, I used to call Indy Airport Taxi.

Lucius Alexander

I think the palindromedary has their number

[Balabanto]

If you want, there are usually a lot of other congoers on your flights. If you don't see the bus, pool the money for a cab.

[hooligan x]

There is usually a shared limo that is a few bucks cheaper than a taxi.

[BBstacker]

well I am stay at the omni severin..... the front desk told me of a service called carry indiana that charges $16 but will take to the hotel. I am definitely looking for an alternative to me and my two homeboys :confused: oh and thanks guys I've never seen cohesion like this since I was in the military

[Lucius]

Anyone else I haven't traded phone numbers with yet? :)

It's been a while since I've had much call for a cab, but my reccommendation is Indy Airport Taxi.
(317)381-1111

http://www.indygo.net/green_line.htm

Indy's bus company has something called "green line" that is apparently an express bus from the Airport to Downtown (including the Convention Center.)


The Green Line Downtown/Airport Express delivers non-stop service from the Indianapolis International Airport to Downtown Indianapolis daily from 5am – 9pm. Frequency is every 20 minutes (estimated travel time is 15 minutes).


It's $7.00 but sounds a lot faster than the regular number 8 bus which makes frequent stops between the Airport and the Convention Center.

Incidentally, they know we're coming, Gencon is on the list of events that may cause bus delays downtown

http://www.indygo.net/route_updates.asp


Map and Schedule of bus #8 PDF

http://www.indygo.net/PDF/maps/8-Washington_St.pdf

If you want the same info in Excel, it can be downloaded here

http://www.indygo.net/routes.htm

Summary: On weekdays, your first bus from Airport to Downtown departs at an excrutiatingly early 0457 hrs, seems to run every 30 minutes thereafter most of the day, and your last two chances are at 2142 hrs and 2251 hrs. Expect a 45 min trip, or more if delayed. If returning from the Convention Center to the Airport, your penultimate and last chance buses run at 2241 and 2354 hrs (just before midnight) but those times are for the Ohio & Meridian stop - I think most buses go by the Convention Center, but having looked at the map I fear the #8 will only get you within a couple blocks.

Here's the map of the "Downtown Loop"

http://www.indygo.net/PDF/maps/Downtown_Loop.pdf

Saturday, the last buses back to the Airport are at 2230 and 2345 hrs. Sunday it's 1910 and 2010, but how many people are staying that late anyway?


Lucius Alexander

The palindromedary notes that the questions are going into the next post.

[Karmakaze]

Bunny will be bringing the drunk girls.

Sadly, I have a really high alcohol tolerance.


As far as getting downtown from the airport, I've used these folks before - http://www.careyindiana.com

Basically, across from the luggage pickup, there's an office with a few shuttle services (including Carey), which will send out shuttles as they get enough people to fill one. On Gencon arrival day, that's fairly frequently. You can also make a reservation. Last time I did it, it was $10 a head, but it may have gone up a bit in subsequent years.



I'll be arriving at the airport at 2:30 (assuming no flight delays) and staying at the Omni. If anyone needs my cell #, PM me.

[Lucius]

So what are "Generic Tickets" good for? How many will I need to buy? When and where are they available?

Lucius Alexander

The palindromedary has no answers and isn't even sure of the questions

[Susano]

Generic tickets can get you into almost any gaming event. You get them at the registration desks. I'd get 10-12.

[yamamura]

Anyone else I haven't traded phone numbers with yet? :)

It's been a while since I've had much call for a cab, but my reccommendation is Indy Airport Taxi.
(317)381-1111



Are they a general city taxi company or will they only do the airport? I ask because the person I am coming with does not want to drive down town and as we are 6 miles away, it is a little far to walk.

[Lucius]

Are they a general city taxi company or will they only do the airport? I ask because the person I am coming with does not want to drive down town and as we are 6 miles away, it is a little far to walk.

They drive anywhere. "Indy Airport" is just a name. Heck, I've ridden with one of them all the way up to Kokomo.

Where are you staying?

Lucius Alexander

Insert palindromedary tagline here

[yamamura]

I will be staying at the Holiday Inn Express Southeast.

http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hotel/indjz

[Balabanto]

I'll be at the Hilton Garden Inn, and my room is loaded with D+D Championship gamers, so when I'm not doing that, I'll be playing Hero events or in the Dealers room at the Blackwyrm Booth. If people want a formal signing time for Foxbat for President/War of Worldcraft, let me know now and Dave and I will try and set something up.

[Susano]

Wouldn't the Black Wyrm event on Saturday afternoon be perfect for that?

That's when I was going to be in the booth to talk to people about K5.

[Boll Weevil]

I'll be at the Fairfield Inn Marriott Airport.

[lemming]

Ok, just sent my cell phone info out to a few.

[incrdbil]

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Indianapolis City Centre.

One of the few paces nto to block out the convention early on, so I snuck in long ago and reserved at the government rate. Definitely affordabel and close, just a suggestion for those seekign accomodation in the future.

[hooligan x]

Guess who is sick as a dog? me. I have until Wednesday morning to get over this or I may be Con Crud's patient zero.

[CpSpalding]

I'm staying at the Conrad, which I absolutely love. I think the bathroom at the Conrad is nicer than the ROOM I used to stay in at the Embassy. I do miss rooming with Leah and Dave though although my new roommates are pretty cool too. I still remember than Gen Con 10th anniversary party with that chocolate cake that managed to stay fresh and delicious until Sunday. I think at it's peak we had about 80 in the room.

As for Indy taxis, I have only taken two and I had a bad experience with one of them. My brother in law registered late and he was pretty far from Union Station where my game was. I left a map I needed with him by mistake and I had the hotel call for a cab. As I looked out the window I saw a cab and mistook it for the one the hotel called for. I didn't reallize this until I saw another cab pull up behind his and guessed why he got there so quick. Anyway, the fare was about $6 to my game and he tried to charge me $15. I flat out told him that I was from the South Side of Chicago and I had way too much self-respect to be ripped off by an Indianapolis cabbie. I gave him exactly $6 as I walked off and he was yelling behind me. It may have been fortunate I ran into a player I recognized shortly after. The thing is I would have given him $10 if he hadn't been a jerk. Being a cabbie is not easy and I tip well.

[Watchdog]

To answer Michael's question, Can of Whupass will be held on Saturday at 7:00 pm in the Hyatt. The event is sold out but if you get there early you have a good chance of getting in with generics. We hope to see all of you there - we really believe it's the best event at Gen Con.

[Susano]

So noted!

[BBstacker]

ok so who are giving out #s cause as this is my first GEN CON I don't want to miss the good stuff!

[Susano]

ok so who are giving out #s cause as this is my first GEN CON I don't want to miss the good stuff!

If you go back a few pages you should find the listing for the Wednesday night HERO Party at the room Dave Mattingly, myself, and some others are sharing.

[Lucius]

Should I bring anything to the party? Bag of ice, bag of chips, bag of dice?

Lucius Alexander

Bag of palindromedaries?

[mattingly]

Bring some Experience Points. I'm saving up for that next level of Wealth...

Some chips or something would be handy, but not necessary.

[Susano]

Ice might be useful. And plastic cups.

[lemming]

Hmm, have Costco card will travel...

I'll see if I can swing thru one tomorrow or early Wednesday and pick up chips and cups.

[Balabanto]

Wouldn't the Black Wyrm event on Saturday afternoon be perfect for that?

That's when I was going to be in the booth to talk to people about K5.

If my team qualifies for the Championship Semifinals, it is likely that we will be in the Saturday Afternoon Qualifier, since we're playing the first round on Thursday.

[Susano]

24 hours from now, I'll be on the road to GenCon!

Woohoo!

:celebrate

[OddHat]

I still have 3-4 hours of work to do to get my game together. All of the sheets need one last going over and re-writing, then re-printing and copying. I also need to write short Player Information cards to cut down on the time I spend playing Basil Exposition and to get players to talk to each other instead of me.

That said, I'm looking forward to the con. :)

[yamamura]

About 10 hours and I will be making my way across Iowa. Maybe hit Illinois tonight. Then it will be onto Indiana.

[teh bunneh]

Anyone else want to trade numbers? Last chance before the con!

[Mostlyjoe]

Lord. If I ever went to GenCon...the number of people I would have to hook up with. It's staggering.

[Susano]

Lord. If I ever went to GenCon...the number of people I would have to hook up with. It's staggering.

I'll pass... I don't trust anyone who can wipe out NeoTokyo with their mind. :D

[yamamura]

Anyone else want to trade numbers? Last chance before the con!

PM me Bill and I will give you mine. It will be nice meeting you again. It has been a long time since Nuke-con.

[Mostlyjoe]

I'll pass... I don't trust anyone who can wipe out NeoTokyo with their mind. :D

This coming from someone who hits people with moon sized golden orbs...and considers it an attitude adjustment.

[lemming]

I got in early, have my room. Now if they get internet in my room as opposed to the lobby. Heading out just to look around for a bit.

[Teflon Billy]

Just to save PM tag and other things:

(325)212-2519

I'm available for carpooling if you are close to the airport.

Ugh, I just got off of work.

TB

[OddHat]

Just finished printing and sorting the last of the materials for my Hong Kong Superheroes game. Almost 30 hours of work went into this. But, in my opinion, it's going to be good.

[incrdbil]

All is packed and ready. 48 miniatures finished, terrain done, schedeul checked..and for the drive, the entire extended directors cut version of the Lord of the Rings. I'm looking forward to the madness..and I'm escorting 4 other GenCon first timers as well.

[Lucius]

Just finished printing and sorting the last of the materials for my Hong Kong Superheroes game. Almost 30 hours of work went into this. But, in my opinion, it's going to be good.

I hope I can get into one of the sessions. Pregenerated characters I assume?

Lucius Alexander

The palindromedary wonders if you can play the game, write up the character afterwards, and call it postgenerated...

[OddHat]

I hope I can get into one of the sessions. Pregenerated characters I assume?

Lucius Alexander

The palindromedary wonders if you can play the game, write up the character afterwards, and call it postgenerated...

Come on by. There are always no shows, and I usually have extra characters. :)

(Yup, pre-gens)

[ghost-angel]

Well I'm now 3-4 hours outside Indy. had to stopfor the night to catch a few hours sleep. This time I stopped on the east side of St. Louis. I should be in town for lunch.

[lemming]

Well I'm now 3-4 hours outside Indy. had to stopfor the night to catch a few hours sleep. This time I stopped on the east side of St. Louis. I should be in town for lunch.

Cool. You're probably around here now.

[ghost-angel]

I am arrived.

[Remjin]

Well, haven't checked here for awhile. I'm gonna be there. Hopefully Susano's and Bunneh's #s are still good, as I'll call when I get there. There a Hero Party this year?

[Remjin]

I may have internet access when I get there, so feel free to PM me your phone #s if you want a call. I have bunneh's and susano's from last year, if those are still legit.

[hooligan x]

We are here, checked in, and waiting for our roomie to arrive. When & Where is the party?

[Karmakaze]

I've landed. Soon to head over to the limo/shuttle area. I think the bunneh may be arriving soon and I may try to track him down.

[hooligan x]

Anyone know when we can check in at the convention center?

[lemming]

If you mean registration for the Con, already happening.

I just got back to my hotel for a little bit, on my way to the Con via a store

[Karmakaze]

Woo - I'm in my hotel. Now to get my badge...

[rjcurrie]

All checked in and settled in at the Omni. Heading off to get my badge.

[lemming]

And saw both of you at the party. Along with quite a few others.

I like the new look to the 6th edition. Will have to actually read the dang thing to really have an opinion though.

[Susano]

I'm here. Helped set up the Hero booth. Took a look at the preview copy of Kazei 5 and of the 6E books. Picked up my swag bag and realized there was almost nothing in it worth keeping (expect for M:TG cards as bookmarks). Met a lot of people at the Hero party in our hotel room and had a great dinner with Darren, Steve, and others.

[Mostlyjoe]

Did you get the bonus preorder CD?

[Boll Weevil]

I am here, actually at the hotel. Anyone else near the Fairfield Inn Airport?

[lemming]

I am here, actually at the hotel. Anyone else near the Fairfield Inn Airport?

Yep, just down the street from you at the La Quinta. Just got back to the hotel

[Boll Weevil]

I'm headed down soon. My friends are going home tonight, leaving me an extra bed if anyone is in need of a place to crash tonight.

[CorPse]

Man, how did I miss lemming!

He's hard to miss.

Got to meet Surbrook and many others...

[Susano]

I'm back and very tired. AAR tomorrow.

[incrdbil]

feet..still..hurting.

Other than that, pretty good. Had to bow out of two of my scheduled Hero games, but had lots of fun with the other two. Did more gaming at this Con than all of the others combined.

so, what goodies did everyone get ?(beside the sixth edition CD.) (hmm, maybe I'll just call it 'd'6 edition...)

[Susano]

Swag for running the booth (hat, do-rag, tote bags, buttons, dice bags). Lots of books, dice, two DVDs via Can of Whup-ass, Cthulhu figure, free t-shirts, and 300+ photos.

[CorPse]

Swag for running the booth (hat, do-rag, tote bags, buttons, dice bags). Lots of books, dice, two DVDs via Can of Whup-ass, Cthulhu figure, free t-shirts, and 300+ photos.

Dude,

What do I have to do to get one of those cool hero totes! Perhaps a picture???

http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk238/Original_CorPse/Hero/hero_surbrook.jpg

Michael Surbrook!

I thought this was one of the better police photos.

[lemming]

Man, how did I miss lemming!

He's hard to miss.



Danger Sense and a decent DCV. :D

[teh bunneh]

Made it home a few hours ago. We had a great time. It was wonderful to see old friends again, and meet new people. Sorry if I missed anyone! I met Corpse, Boll Weevil, and Lemming for the first time in person. Sorry I seem to have missed Remjin and Incredibl! :(

Pictures are posted at http://www.flickr.com/photos/teh_bunneh/sets/72157621946566647/

It'll take me a while to give them all titles and descriptions, but feel free to comment! :)

[incrdbil]

Sorry to have missed the Hero Crowd..unless anyone played in the Thursday League of Unextraordinary Gentleman or the Stargate Atlantis Hero game.