By Devika Dalal
GnomeCon, Savannah’s first locally organized fantasy sci-fi gaming convention, expects to be a successful attempt at uniting enthused gamers.
The three-day convention, being held from April 20-22 at the Savannah Conference Hotel, will be hosting an open gaming event for all ages. The convention will consist of Euro Games ranging from card and board games to miniature, table-top, and role-playing games. Some of the most popular include Ticket to Ride, The Spoils, Defenders of the Realm, Arkham Horror, Hero Clix, and Magic the Gathering. Furthermore, discussion panels held by game designers, and a game show hosted by Professor Fear himself, will be featured. Workshops and panels will also be hosted by special guests Richard Lanius, creator of Defenders of the Realm, and Ken Meyer Jr., a local fantasy artist.
GnomeCon was founded last year by passionate board gamer Heidi Schwier and husband Philip Schwier with the hope of bringing people together through a shared interest in scientific-fiction and fantasy gaming. There are currently seven members on the board, three of whom are SCAD graduates.
The not-for-profit organization has an educational goal — to support literacy and subsequently contribute a significant portion of its proceeds to the Live Oak Public Library. GnomeCon also expects to generate revenue for Savannah’s local economy with the influx of people over the weekend for the event.
What people can expect from the family friendly convention is the opportunity to get together, participate and learn about different games in a “weekend of fun,” Schweir says. The games are enjoyable for all ages, ranging from basic to advanced levels, allowing for “creative thought” and “strategic thinking.” There will also be a children’s gaming section, jewelry-making, vendors and a flea market to buy, sell and trade games.
GnomeCon is open to the general public with a weekend admittance fee, inviting all game enthusiasts, regardless of age or skill. For a limited time, memberships are being offered for $60, inclusive of a GnomeCon T-shirt and a limited edition dice.
“I think a lot of people have been waiting for something like this,” Schweir says, “and we look forward to seeing the gaming community grow.”
