This year was a milder Otakon than the last. For the last few years, Otakon has been the “fun” combination of oppressive heat and overwhelming humidity. This year, while it was clearly summer, you did not feel like nature was punishing you for stepping outside into the world beyond the air-conditioned buildings. But it was also milder in terms of spectacle. Last year was full of unforgettable events, huge guests, and a lot more glitz and glamor because it was the 20th Otakon. This year did not have that same level of grandeur. At the same time, I can’t say that I ever really had that much down time. I stepped inside the convention center at around 9AM on Friday and Saturday and did not leave until sometime past 10PM except to get dinner. That is a fairly busy schedule. Last year’s might have been the power of 1,000 suns but 800 suns really burns bright enough for most people not to notice a difference.
Last year, it was announced that Otakon will be picking up its toys and leaving Baltimore for Washington D.C. in 2017. This made me wonder what, if any, improvements the staff was prepared to make for its last few years in Baltimore. I’m pleased to say they haven’t been lying down on the job or taking it easy knowing everything is going to change soon. Otakon is sticking by its motto of being a very fan-oriented convention. As with any con in any year, not everything went right but when will it ever?
Reverse Thieves 