The Domain of Steven

Wizards of the Coast had an elaborate setup as always, with a big portion dedicated to Magic the Gathering. After you waited in line to play MtG on their iPads and consoles, you were given a sweet exclusive Pinny Arcade pin of Chandra Nalaar, and were invited to take a quick photo with her in […]

  After taking this picture, I thanked the cosplayer, who uncharacteristically handed me her card. Of all the pictures I take at conventions, I will probably only get two cards, so I know she means business. I was still admiring the costume when I heard a voice pierce through the convention hall din, and out […]

  Every convention, at least one publisher has the bright idea to distribute paper hats, knowing that attendees will look ridiculous but wear them anyway, becoming walking advertisements and inciting others into clamoring for hats of their own. I usually resist, but I regret not having a hat for this picture.

  The next tabletop RPG I jumped into was Dread, a horror game. Instead of using dice, we would influence our characters’ success and safety by pulling off blocks from the Jenga tower in front of us. As the story progressed, we pulled more blocks, as the tension built up; until finally the tower, and […]

  Games on Demand is a gaming event held at lots of conventions, dedicated to setting up tabletop RPGs (in the vein of D&D) for pickup groups. No reservation required, no planning needed, no familiarity required, just swing on by on the hour and see what games are going to be running. I first played […]

  Warface’s free-to-eat food truck (wordplay on free-to-play) camped out by the entrance to the convention center. While supplies lasted, convention goers could pick up a quick bite of sliders or mini grilled cheese sandwiches. We weren’t hungry, but I couldn’t resist!

  I don’t know why Jade and Sub-Zero were at the Machinima booth posing with people, but frankly I didn’t care. Yet another recurring sentiment at PAX.

  I have no idea who these people are, but I liked their costumes. Bit of a recurring theme throughout PAX, though usually “League of Legends” is a good guess.

It might be in poor taste to joke about hyperactive midgets, but even when this fellow wasn’t in character, he was definitely juiced up on something. True to the game, and terribly creepy.

  This Firefall thumper has always made an appearance since the game first debuted at PAX. This is the first sight you’re treated to as you enter the convention, with its piston pounding, pneumatics blaring, and booth babes hawking beta invites. This pair was kind enough to take a moment to pose with me, military […]