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Gen Con gets bigger as tabletop gaming grows
Gen Con gets bigger as tabletop gaming grows

Axios

time10 hours ago

  • Entertainment
  • Axios

Gen Con gets bigger as tabletop gaming grows

The longest-running tabletop gaming convention in the nation is making a habit of shattering records. Why it matters: Gen Con, which has been held in Indy since 2003, has become synonymous with summer and is the city's largest annual convention. It was a driving force behind the city's expansion of the Indiana Convention Center and addition of a 38-story Signia by Hilton hotel after convention leaders warned the event was outgrowing Indy and needed more space. Gen Con has agreed to stay through at least 2030. Driving the news: When Gen Con opens its doors Thursday, it will mark the start of the biggest event in the convention's nearly 60-year history. Last year was its first-ever sellout, and officials started the week by announcing they did it again in 2025. It's also adding attractions as it adds attendees. This year will feature a record 595 vendors selling games, merchandise, costumes, art, books and more. By the numbers: Last summer, Gen Con drew more than 71,000 people and delivered an economic impact of $77 million. The big picture: The biggest Gen Con ever arrives amid a global gaming boom that started in the late 2010s as the rise of crowd-funding allowed more developers to get in the game and millennials took to tabletops to disconnect from their devices. The industry got another boost during the pandemic as families stuck inside searched for new ways to spend time together and entered the worlds created by brands like "Dungeons & Dragons" or "Warhammer" to escape. Research suggests that gamers who got into the hobby during lockdown are sticking around. What they're saying:"This incredible growth reflects the enthusiasm and increasing interest in the tabletop gaming community, and we are delighted to welcome thousands of attendees to celebrate our shared love for games," Gen Con President David Hoppe said in a statement. "Together, we are not just creating memories; we are shaping the future of this vibrant culture." Yes, but: Developers and publishers are bracing for a potential crash caused by President Trump's tariffs because many tabletop games are made overseas. Earlier this month, the Game Manufacturers Association reaffirmed its opposition to tariffs on toys and games. "These tariffs create unnecessary financial strain and disrupt supply chains critical to our industry," the association said in a statement. Zoom in: Although the show is a sellout, there is still plenty of fun to be had outside of the convention center.

Why Dungeons and Dragons Is Good for Your Brain
Why Dungeons and Dragons Is Good for Your Brain

Scientific American

time13 hours ago

  • Health
  • Scientific American

Why Dungeons and Dragons Is Good for Your Brain

Researchers and therapists explore the mental health benefits of tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons. By & Kelso Harper On supporting science journalism If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today. From building confidence to processing trauma, tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons are proving to be powerful tools for mental health. Science Quickly's Rachel Feltman spoke to researchers and professional Dropout's dungeon master Brennan Lee Mulligan to explore how collaborative storytelling can help us thrive—and even be used as therapy.

Step Inside A Real-Life Replica Of Stranger Things' Byers' House In Georgia
Step Inside A Real-Life Replica Of Stranger Things' Byers' House In Georgia

News18

time2 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • News18

Step Inside A Real-Life Replica Of Stranger Things' Byers' House In Georgia

Built by the fans for the fans, this Stranger Things inspired rental vacation home in Georgia will take you back to the 1980s. With Stranger Things nearing its highly anticipated fifth and final season, fans are finding creative ways to celebrate the end of an era. One of the most immersive options? Booking a stay at a fully decked-out replica of the Byers' house. Tucked away in Fayetteville, Georgia, just outside Atlanta, this rental vacation home offers a surreal trip back to the 1980s, complete with show-inspired decor and nostalgic detail in every corner. This isn't just a themed rental, it's a tribute to Stranger Things built by dedicated fans for fans. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to Hawkins, Indiana. Each room is packed with references from the show's early seasons: authentic retro furniture, old-school board games, and even shelves stacked with VHS tapes. There's the iconic alphabet wall glowing with fairy lights, and themed bedrooms that reflect the personalities of characters like Will and Jonathan Byers. One of the most talked-about features is the Upside Down-themed room, complete with dark tendrils snaking along the walls and a Dungeons & Dragons setup perfect for recreating your own in-show moments. The home comfortably sleeps six across three uniquely styled bedrooms. Jonathan's room features vinyl records and a vintage Amiga 500, while Will's room showcases his original 'Will the Wise" artwork. The Upside Down room, designed to mimic the show's parallel dimension, includes two sets of bunk beds and atmospheric lighting. Local regulations limit the number of guests per room to two, so group planning is key. Modern Comfort Meets Retro Cool Despite its period-accurate style, the rental home doesn't compromise on modern convenience. The fully equipped kitchen has updated appliances, and there's a 75-inch Samsung Frame TV ready for your watch party marathons. Central air conditioning, a dishwasher, and laundry facilities ensure that comfort isn't sacrificed for aesthetics. Even the kitchen, with its vintage green cabinetry, ties perfectly into the 80s theme while remaining highly functional. Explore Real Stranger Things Filming Spots Nearby Your journey doesn't have to stop at the front door. Just a short drive away, fans can visit real-life filming locations across Georgia, including Jackson – the stand-in for downtown Hawkins. Stop by the Hawk Theatre (actually Bradley's Olde Tavern), walk the alley where Jonathan and Steve had their iconic showdown, or sip a Demogorgon Latte at Lucy Lu's Coffee Café. view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 14:00 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Cloak, wolf pelt and blades: Rankin Inlet sword expert takes Proust Questionnaire
Cloak, wolf pelt and blades: Rankin Inlet sword expert takes Proust Questionnaire

Hamilton Spectator

time3 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • Hamilton Spectator

Cloak, wolf pelt and blades: Rankin Inlet sword expert takes Proust Questionnaire

Tristan Logan Quasa Duffy-Taparti is not afraid to be called a nerd. To him, that's a good thing. 'I own more swords than I ever cared to count,' Duffy-Taparti says matter-of-factly, while wearing a green cloak and wolf pelt. He walks around the streets of Rankin Inlet in his medieval outfit, making friends and 'embracing the nerd.' He has been doing it for so long that it would be more of a shock for locals if he didn't carry a sword replica on his way to the grocery store. Recently, Rankin Inlet's most visible sword expert, artist, Dungeons and Dragons master and owner of a genuine Samurai sword answered the Proust Questionnaire. What is your idea of perfect happiness? My perfect life or my perfect happiness, I suppose, is just when I am happy effortlessly. What is your greatest fear? A lack of self-control — inability to control or enact my own will. What is your greatest extravagance? Currently, probably my LARP [live action role-playing] gear. I am wearing a $200 breastplate, this sword is $200, my rings are about $300 together, my cloak is another $200 and that wolf pelt is $400. I can wear more than I make in a month. But all of my things are gonna be here by the end of the day, so it's more like an investment. What traits do you most dislike in yourself? Sometimes I'll say my apathy, when I just can't bring myself to care. I guess it's like that ADHD moment where you feel like you can't do things that you know you should be doing. What is the trait you most dislike in others? Ignorance and disrespect. When someone just dismisses others, other people's differences or other people's experiences, I immediately do not find any interest in that person. Which living person do you most admire? My mom. She raised me and I admire her dearly. But there are many people. I know everybody has faults, and I know everybody has things that they're really good at. I can admire what they're good at and admire if they persevere beyond things that they're not. What is your current state of mind? I'm in a happy place. On what occasions do you lie? I do my best not to lie unless I have to avoid discomfort. But I could also say that as a dungeon master for D&D [Dungeons & Dragons] I lie all the time, given that I tend to play characters who are duplicitous and act as people who often lie. What do you most dislike about your appearance? I could lose another 20 pounds or so. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? 'Hey, check this out.' It will probably be one up there when I show something to a friend of mine. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I know being able to find motivation easier would be nice. Where would you most like to live? Anywhere I'm comfortable. I'm perfectly fine here. What is your motto? I rather be quiet than stupid. How would you like to die? I don't know if that's how I'd like to die, but I've always imagined that I'm probably gonna die doing something stupid for somebody else. Nunatsiaq News is borrowing the old Proust Questionnaire parlour game to get to know people who are in the news. If you know someone in your community who our readers should get to know by taking this questionnaire, let us know by email: editors@ . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .

The Mighty Nein Season 1: Release date, cast and plot details – Everything we know so far
The Mighty Nein Season 1: Release date, cast and plot details – Everything we know so far

Business Upturn

time6 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • Business Upturn

The Mighty Nein Season 1: Release date, cast and plot details – Everything we know so far

By Aman Shukla Published on July 25, 2025, 17:30 IST Last updated July 25, 2025, 11:03 IST If you've been counting down the days since The Legend of Vox Machina wrapped up its latest season, you're not alone. But now, there's even more to get excited about: The Mighty Nein —the next animated series based on Critical Role's second Dungeons & Dragons campaign—is officially dropping on November 19, 2025, on Amazon Prime Video. Yep, the chaotic crew of lovable outcasts, accidental heroes, and emotional wrecks (in the best way) is coming to life in animation. And if you thought Vox Machina brought the drama, just wait until you meet this bunch. When Exactly Is The Mighty Nein Coming Out? The release date was finally confirmed at San Diego Comic-Con 2025—and it's set for November 19. While there haven't been a ton of production updates, the creators have said the show is well past the halfway point. Voice work, animation tests, and storyboarding are mostly locked in, and fans got a sneak peek in 2024 of Fjord and Jester's first meeting. That short clip already had fans buzzing about the tone, style, and emotional depth. We don't have an official episode count yet, but it's expected to follow a similar format to Vox Machina —so around 30 minutes per episode, and yep, a TV-MA rating. Expect swearing, blood, trauma, and some very questionable decisions (you know the drill). Who's in the Cast? The best part? The original Critical Role cast is back to voice all of their characters. That means we're getting: Travis Willingham as Fjord , the broody half-orc warlock with a sea monster problem (hi, Uk'otoa). Laura Bailey as Jester , your favorite chaos-loving tiefling cleric who leaves drawings of dicks in holy books. Liam O'Brien as Caleb , the traumatized wizard who smells like old books and regret. Sam Riegel as Nott the Brave —later known as Veth —a goblin rogue trying to find her way home. Ashley Johnson as Yasha , a quiet barbarian with a seriously tragic backstory and a lot of swords. Marisha Ray as Beau , the human monk who punches problems until they stop being problems. Taliesin Jaffe doing double duty as Mollymauk Tealeaf , the flamboyant blood hunter, and later Caduceus Clay , the tea-drinking firbolg cleric who talks to mushrooms. And of course, Matthew Mercer will voice all the extra characters, monsters, and villains—just like he did in Vox Machina . On top of that, we've got Ming-Na Wen and Mark Strong joining the voice cast in undisclosed roles, which is already giving us chills. You just know they're going to be incredible. What's The Mighty Nein Actually About? Set in Wildemount, about 20 years after Vox Machina's big adventure, The Mighty Nein follows a group of broken, messy, occasionally criminal people who somehow end up saving the world (kind of). At first, they're just trying to survive. But when a dangerous magical artifact shows up—one that could literally reshape reality—they get dragged into something way bigger than themselves. This story leans more into political drama, redemption arcs, and serious emotional baggage, compared to the more traditional fantasy quest vibes of Vox Machina . Expect moral gray areas, inner demons, and some truly heartbreaking moments. Some standout arcs that will probably make it into the show: Fjord's connection to Uk'otoa , and the yellow orb that starts it all—leading the gang onto a stolen ship ( The Mistake ) and into high-seas danger with the pirate Avantika. Nott's journey to become Veth again and reconnect with her family, which is way more emotional than you might think. Caleb's past with the Cerberus Assembly , especially his old mentor Trent Ikithon, and how Dunamancy magic (read: timey-wimey chaos) plays into it. The gang's role in the War of Ash and Light , a tense conflict between the Dwendalian Empire and the Kryn Dynasty. Oh, and the whole city made of brains and nightmares arc—aka Cognouza—which introduces Tharizdûn, the god of eternal darkness. It gets weird in the best possible way. Also, heads up: Mollymauk dies pretty early on. But don't worry, Taliesin's still around as Caduceus , who brings a completely different (and deeply comforting) vibe to the group. Ahmedabad Plane Crash Aman Shukla is a post-graduate in mass communication . A media enthusiast who has a strong hold on communication ,content writing and copy writing. Aman is currently working as journalist at

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