Day two of PAX East today, and I’m getting much the same feeling as I had last time I came: the feeling that I’m among “my people”, and that everyone here is having a good time, whether they’re fat bearded nerds wandering around ogling the latest excitingness in gaming or computer parts, or some of the staggeringly beautiful cosplayers who have been gracing the show floor.
Today we caught the Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward panel, which gave some details about the upcoming expansion pack for the reason we’re all here. It’s releasing on June 23rd, so that’s some time to get caught up — though it’s also just before our wedding, so… well. Honeymoon in Eorzea it is… or, rather, honeymoon in Ishgard, I should say.
One thing that’s struck me during this visit is quite what an all-encompassing medium video games is. People here are passionate about their hobby. In the Final Fantasy XIV panel, for example, people gave director/producer Naoki Yoshida two standing ovations (aside: how many other game makers can truly boast a fanbase that passionate?) Elsewhere, there’s beautiful artwork based on video games, live music performances based on classic video game tracks, incredible, distinctive T-shirt designs and all manner of other goodness. It’s a pleasure to be a part of.
I’ve managed to pick up a couple of PSone games that I used to own, too; there’s quite a few “retro” game stores around the show floor, so I’ve managed to pick up copies of Parasite Eve, which I played back in the day, and Chrono Cross, which never released in Europe and which I’ve always been curious to play. I don’t know if I’ll play them immediately, but I’m happy to have them on my shelf.
Tomorrow I’m not sure what the plan is, but hopefully we’ll have the opportunity to get our hands on a few games. There’s a few interesting indie games that I’m hoping to have a play around with, ranging from the entertaining-sounding party game Move or Die to some Japanese PC doujin goodness from Playism.
For now, we’re probably going to play a maid-themed RPG then head to bed. I’m exhausted, but I’m having a great time.
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I have been super busy and not paying attention. I had no idea you were at PAXEast. I am here too. Should I run into you, I need to thank you personally for letting me write at games are evil back in the day.