UlasanAnime.com – As Otakon 2012 approaches, the excitement builds with less than two weeks to go. The Otakon forums have become a valuable resource for attendees, and for those like the author, a three-hour drive away, it’s a significant commitment, comparable to the journey from Shimoda to Tokyo.
The official schedule for Otakon has been released. While the organizers intend to use the Guidebook app, it currently only displays information for Otakon 2011 with an outdated schedule. This schedule, like many aspects of convention planning, is subject to change.
Guests and Autographs: What to Expect
- Aya Hirano’s schedule does not appear to include a standalone autograph session. It is anticipated that she will sign autographs following her concert, likely contingent on the purchase of merchandise. This has been a common practice at past conventions. While the exact start time for her Sunday afternoon concert is still being confirmed, a separate autograph session is probable. A key question remains whether she will sign any item or if it must be a product purchased through her new label.
- Ai Nonaka and Gen Urobuchi will be attending Otakon on behalf of Aniplex to promote their work on “Madoka.” This presence suggests the likelihood of a booth autograph session, potentially including the dub actress for Kyoko, Lauren Landa. Attendees are advised to check for specific booth times.
- Otakon is set to feature its first Korean act, VIXX, a move that has generated significant buzz. This is believed to be the answer to their ongoing “guess the guest” contest and marks a potential game-changer for the convention. While the guest for their Friday night concert has not yet been announced, this artist is scheduled for an autograph session on Sunday, coinciding with Maruyama and Nonaka. This could also present an opportunity for autographs immediately following their performance.
- More guest announcements are expected from Otakon this week. There’s also a possibility of musical acts being added to the Thursday “matsuri” event, which could also bring an improved selection of food vendors compared to the previous year’s limited offerings.
- Attendees are encouraged to review the updated autograph policy. The system may involve tickets for those not at the front of the line if the autograph queue becomes excessively long. The standard one-hour lineup time remains in effect, suggesting that arriving more than two hours in advance may not offer a significant advantage, though the exact implementation could vary.
Panel Discussions to Consider
While some panels are more promotional in nature, they offer opportunities for attendees looking for activities that fit their schedule.
- Dave and SDS are returning with their mahjong panel, hoping to showcase advanced play, perhaps inspired by series like “Saki Achiga-hen.”
- Super Rats will be co-hosting a figure panel with Andy and jdcseiken. Despite a potentially conflicting schedule, the panel aims to attract a good crowd, with the possibility of giveaways.
- A Satelight panel is scheduled, with speculation pointing towards it being an industry-focused discussion given its description.
- Mangagamer’s panel overlaps with a friend’s panel on “ero for the ladies.” While Otakon is noted for hosting “serious” content late at night, Mangagamer’s panels have historically been less engaging, with the primary interest being potential new announcements.
- NISA will be hosting back-to-back anime and game panels. Following their absence last year, there’s anticipation for new content, especially for attendees on the East side. Their dealer room presence is also worth investigating.
- Funimation is organizing a Geneon retrospective panel on Sunday, which is seen as a somewhat humorous inclusion.
Food and Other Conveniences
- The skybridge is currently being dismantled, a move possibly driven by changing urban aesthetics and a desire to direct more foot traffic to ground level. This means the bridge connecting to the Korean food-by-the-pound establishment from the ex-Windham (now Sheraton) is gone, requiring a walk on the ground. Skybridges connecting the Hyatt and Sheraton, as well as the plaza area towards the inner harbor, are reportedly still intact, though their future is uncertain.
- Updates have been made to the inner harbor pavilions, with at least one undergoing renovation earlier this year, promising more food options.
- Baltimore’s food truck scene has seen improvement since last year. With the Orioles having a homestand throughout the weekend, attendees can expect food trucks near the Hilton, particularly if they walk towards the park. It’s a question whether any Japanese guests might be interested in this culinary offering.
- A significant culinary highlight this year is Otakon’s timing with Baltimore Restaurant Week. Participating restaurants will offer prix fixe menus at set prices ($15+ for lunch, $20-30+ for dinner). Reservations are highly recommended, and attendees are advised to review menus online and book in advance, ideally by Monday.
- While the weather is expected to be hot, the author notes that a slight temperature increase won’t significantly impact their plans, as they have already optimized their Otakon experience to avoid the heat. The availability of “Ice Cold Water For Only One Dollar” is a welcome relief.
- The Thursday Matsuri is shaping up to be a significant improvement over last year, with enhanced food options. This event offers an alternative to waiting in lines. Details are still being finalized, but it is expected to feature more food vendors and multiple bands. The lineup includes Taiko drums, a workshop, a DJ, a three-piece VK band, another DJ set, and a Chinese traditional/rock band. A “guess the artist” contest is running on the forums for Matsuri attendees who can identify and claim prizes.
Given the dynamic nature of many of these details, a follow-up post is more likely than an update to this one to cover further Otakon preparations.
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