SimuCon 2019: Difference between revisions

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Revision as of 12:05, 25 June 2019

SimuCon 2019 Logo

SimuCon is a yearly gathering in St. Louis near Simutronics headquarters usually taking place near the end of the summer.

OFFICIAL dates for 2019 are Wednesday, July 10 through Sunday, July 14, 2019 at the Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel. We have a room block reserved at the Chalet at $109/night + taxes/fees. You can do so by creating a reservation using the following link: Hotel Booking Link

2019 Schedule

SimuCon 2019 Schedule
ALL TIMES CST
(CENTRAL TIME)
Day Time Activity Game
Wednesday
July 10th
TBD TBD TBD
Thursday
July 11th
ALL DAY Check-in and Socalize ALL
8:00 AM Breakfast Snacks ALL
11:30 AM Lunch (On your own)
1:00 PM Live Alteration Sessions ALL
8:00 PM Tacky Tourist Pool Party & Murder Mystery Pool Party
8:00 PM Tacky Tourist Costume Contest ALL
9:00 PM Shaving for Charity Side Quest
9:30 PM Bourbon Social Must be 21+ to participate (Side Quest)
Friday
July 12th
ALL DAY Check-in and Socialize ALL
8:00 AM Breakfast Snacks ALL
11:30 AM Lunch on your own
1:00 PM Story Telling Contest ALL
3:00 PM POKER Tournament (no buy ins) ALL
6:30 PM Alchemy Contest Side Quest
8:00 PM State of Elanthia TBD
9:00 Radio Free SimuCon ALL
Saturday
July 13th
ALL DAY Check-in and Socialize ALL
8:00 AM Breakfast Snacks ALL
11:30 AM Lunch on your own
7:00 PM Ultimate Werewolf ALL
Sunday
July 14th
TBD TBD TBD

Notes:

  • All event schedules subject to change without notice.

Shaving for Charity

Thursday at 9:00 p.m.

Host: Majorly

DragonRealms player Majorly has been growing a mighty beard for an extensive period of time. But before his wife divorces him, it's time to shave it all off! He will do so live, for your entertainment. The purpose of this event is to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Family Foundation. Your donations to this charity will be gratefully accepted.

Critical Update: Majorly has agreed to swim in a Borat-style mankini if he raises $2,000 or more during the event!

Bourbon Social

Thursday at 9:30 p.m.

Host: Evician

Good day one and all, we will be having Evician's Annual Bourbon Social! All are welcome (as long as you are over 21). If you can bring something, you are welcome to do so. If not, come share a taste of Kentucky at our table. We look forward to seeing you there. We also encourage you to bring snacks to fortify your liver. See you there!

Alchemy Contest

Friday at 6:30 p.m.

Hostess and Royal Taster: Maylan, Grand Alchemist: Qualeric

Alchemy Masters: Gemstone player Maags and DragonRealms player Shenney

Unlock the secrets of transmutation as you concoct exotic alchemical creations in this mixed drink contest! You are tasked with creating a fantasy-themed beverage for a panel of judges, as they imbibe live on Radio Free Simucon. Back stories and elaborate presentations are encouraged. May the tastiest beverage win!

Rules:

  • All entries must be safe to drink.
  • All ingredients must be disclosed in the recipe, and the recipe may be published.
  • Each entry must contain two or more ingredients.
  • The Alchemy Masters, in their sole discretion, will select the winning drink and honorable mentions, if any.
  • Alchemy Masters shall use, but not be limited, to the following scoring criteria in descending order: taste, creativity, presentation, and incorporation of fantasy or Elanthian elements.
  • The Grand Alchemist shall vote as a tiebreaker if needed.
  • Alchemy Masters' scoring tabulations shall be available at the conclusion of the event.
  • Non-alcoholic beverages are allowed. You must be 21 or older to present an entry containing alcohol.

Scoring Criteria: The Alchemy Masters, in their sole discretion, shall use the following scoring criteria (listed in order from most to least important):

  • Taste
  • Creativity
  • Presentation
  • Incorporation of fantasy or Elanthian elements

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Simucon cost?

Simucon is free! However, Simucon operates entirely on donations from attendees via the annual Indiegogo Campaign. This campaign is optional, but it allows attendees to select from several fun perks that may enhance their Simucon experience.

Where do I sign up?

By now you should have received an email from the Indiegogo Campaign asking you for additional registration details. If you did not receive this email, please reach out to GM Palvella.

If you did not select an Indiegogo perk, you do not need to complete the registration form. You can register for Simucon on-site when you arrive.

Who organizes Simucon?

Typically GameMasters from Gemstone IV and DragonRealms are the official organizers. However, many players pitch in to plan unofficial events or to offer support. All work is strictly volunteer, so please be sure to thank your organizer team!

What is it like to attend a Simucon?

Simucon is a gathering of players and GameMasters for Simutronics games, including Gemstone IV and DragonRealms. The convention includes several events, as listed in the 2019 Schedule, that are planned by both players and staff. In-between events, attendees typically gather at conference tables similar to a large LAN party to play. Board games and other activities are frequently available as well.

How many people attend Simucon and when do they show up?

Simucon has experienced a growth spurt over the past three years or so. A current rough estimate would be 100 attendees (GS and DR combined) over the course of the weekend. The main convention days are Thursday through Sunday, although several people arrive on Wednesday and stay through Monday. The convention room is typically setup by Wednesday evening.

What equipment should I bring?

Bring your laptop/computer so that you can play Gemstone during the convention. Internet access and power strips are typically provided. Note: It is not recommended that you leave your equipment unattended in the conference room.

Will I need a car?

Many attendees never leave the hotel. However if you are planning to explore St. Louis, a car is recommended as public transportation options are slim. Lyft and Uber are both operational in St. Louis and are ideal for single trips. For any excursions listed in the schedule, carpool options may be available. A shuttle may be available to and from your hotel for airport travel, but don't forget to bring cash for a tip!

Is Simucon family friendly?

In general, yes. Some attendees do bring children but activities in the convention room may be of limited interest to them. Note the Attractions section listed below for additional kid-friendly activities available in St. Louis. Please expect to encounter explicit language and consumption of alcoholic beverages, which will increase in the late night hours.

What is the weather typically like?

Missouri is nicknamed "Misery" for its hot and humid summers. For a current local forecast, click here: https://www.ksdk.com/weather

Do I need to bring food or beverages?

Depending on funds available, basic snacks will be provided. You are generally on your own for meals and can purchase food at the grocery or restaurant options listed in the Dining/Eating section. Simucon is strictly BYOB.

What should I wear?

Family friendly costumes are encouraged, and there is often a costume event included in the schedule. In general, however, attendees come in casual / comfortable attire.

Is there a pool?

YES! Pack your bathing suits because the official Simucon hotel has an outdoor pool! There is even a poolside bar with snacks and beverages, and towel service is available. It is recommended that you pack sunscreen ahead of time, because the hotel and nearby shops do not stock any! It is also recommended that you bring pool noodles, because pool noodles are wicked cool.

Visitor Information

The convention is typically held at the Sheraton Westport Chalet, located at 191 W Port Plaza Dr, St. Louis, MO 63146. Below are some nearby shops and other information for visitors. All distances calculated from the host hotel.

Accommodations

Name Distance Address Link
Sheraton Westport Chalet (Official Hotel, Discounted Rate) onsite 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 Booking Link
Sheraton Westport Plaza (Sister Hotel next to the Chalet) onsite 900 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 Booking Link
Staybridge Suites 0.3 miles 25 Progress Pkwy, St. Louis, MO 63146 Booking Link
Comfort Inn Suites 0.7 miles 12031 Lackland Rd., Saint Louis, MO, 63146 Booking Link
Residence Inn St. Louis Westport 0.6 miles 11918 Westline Industrial Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146 Booking Link
Farfield Inn and Suites St. Louis Westport 0.6 miles 11918 Westline Industrial Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146 Booking Link
Courtyard by Marriott St. Louis Westport 0.7 miles 11888 Westline Industrial Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146 Booking Link

Dining/Eating

Name Type Distance Address Link
Drunken Fish Sushi onsite 639 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 https://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
Fuzzy's Taco Shop Baja Tacos onsite 302 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 https://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
IMO's Pizza Pizza onsite 318 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
Kobe Japanese Grill Japanese/Hibachi onsite 645 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
McDonald's Fast Food onsite 25 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
Paul Mineo's Trattoria Italian onsite 333 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
St. Louis Bread Company Coffee/Sandwich/Soup onsite 147 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
Smoothie King Smoothies onsite 324 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
Starbucks Coffee onsite 111 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
Trainwreck Saloon American/Grill onsite 314 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.westportstl.com/drinkdine
Dino's Deli Mediterranean onsite 314 West Port Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://dinosdeli.us/
O'Fallon Brewery Beer/American Food 0.3 mi 45 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 http://www.ofallonbrewery.com/
Companion Bakery Bakery/Sandwich 1.2 mi 2331 Schuetz Rd, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.companionbaking.com/

Off-Site Dining

For attendees who want to explore St. Louis cuisine, local players recommend the following restaurants.

Name Type Distance Address Link
DD Mau Vietnamese / Bao 1.3 mi 11982 Dorsett Rd, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 http://www.ddmaustl.com/
Guerilla Street Food Filipino 1.6 mi 11658 Dorsett Rd., Maryland Heights, MO 63043 https://www.guerrillastreetfood.com/menu-dorsett/
Gobble STOP Smokehouse BBQ 2.8 mi 1227 Castillon Arcade Plaza, Creve Coeur, MO 63141 http://gobblestopsmokehouse.net/
Nudo House STL Ramen / Japanese 3.0 mi 11423 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63141 http://nudohousestl.com/
Dave & Tony's Premium Burgers 3.2 mi 12766 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63146 http://www.daveandtonys.com/
Sugarfire Smokehouse BBQ 6.0 mi 9200 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63132 https://sugarfiresmokehouse.com/locations/mo-olivette/
Salt + Smoke BBQ 9.8 mi 6525 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63130 https://saltandsmokestl.com/
Midwestern Meat & Drink BBQ 20.4 mi 900 Spruce St, St. Louis, MO 63102 https://facebook.com/midwesternstl
Broadway Oyster Bar Cajun 23.7 mi 736 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102 http://www.broadwayoysterbar.com/
Ted Drewes Famous local ice cream 21.6 mi 6726 Chippewa, St. Louis, MO 63109 http://teddrewes.com/
Bombay Food Junkies Vegan Options 5.2 mi 3580 Adie Rd, St Ann, MO 63074 https://www.bombayfoodjunkies.com/

Shopping/Groceries

Name Distance Address Link
Target 5.9 mi 12275 St Charles Rock Rd, Bridgeton, MO 63044 website
Costco 13.3 mi 200 Costco Way, St Peters, MO 63376 website
Schnucks Dorsett (Grocery Store) 1.5 mi 2030 Dorsett Rd, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 website
Gateway Newstands onsite 519 W Port Plaza Dr, St. Louis, MO 63146 https://www.westportstl.com/specialty
Walgreens 1.6 mi 12509 Dorsett Rd, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 website
BP Gas Station 0.3 mi 11988 Westline Industrial Dr, St. Louis, MO 63146
ALDI 2.6 mi 11745 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141 website
Trader Joe's 2.4 mi 11505 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141 website

Attractions

Most attractions are a 15-30 minute drive from the hotel. For tourism information, click here: https://explorestlouis.com/

Name Description Address Link
The Gateway Arch Oh look, it's the Arch 200 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102 https://www.gatewayarch.com/
Busch Stadium Cardinals Baseball Stadium 700 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102 https://www.mlb.com/cardinals/ballpark
Forest Park Large public park, home to several free attractions 5595 Grand Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112 https://forestparkmap.org/
St. Louis Zoo Free zoo, located inside Forest Park Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110 https://www.stlzoo.org/
St. Louis Art Museum Free art museum, located inside Forest Park 1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110 https://www.slam.org/
Creve Coeur Lake Park 3.4 mi from the hotel. Trails, kayak rentals, Go Ape 13725 Marine Ave, St. Louis, MO 63146 website
The Muny Outdoor theater, located inside Forest Park 1 Theatre Dr, St. Louis, MO 63112 https://muny.org/
Missouri Botanical Gardens Outdoor garden 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110 http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/
Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery Main brewery, offers tours 1200 Lynch St, St. Louis, MO 63118 https://www.budweisertours.com/locations/st-louis-missouri.html
City Museum Architectural Anomaly/Interactive Art/Climbing Museum 750 N 16th St, St. Louis, MO 63103 https://www.citymuseum.org/
Grants Farm Free wildlife park with tram tours and free beer 10501 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, MO 63123 https://www.grantsfarm.com/home.html
The Butterfly House Indoor butterfly pavilion 15193 Olive Blvd, Chesterfield, MO 63017 http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/visit/family-of-attractions/butterfly-house.aspx
Science Center Kid-friendly interactive museum, includes IMAX and planetarium 5050 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110 https://www.slsc.org/
Magic House Kid-friendly interactive museum, includes magic 516 S Kirkwood Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122 https://www.magichouse.org/
Fox Theatre Historic theater, offers tours 527 NORTH GRAND BLVD., St. Louis, MO 63103 https://www.fabulousfox.com/visit/tours
St. Louis Neighborhoods Shopping/Nightlife/Exploring Various https://explorestlouis.com/things-to-do/neighborhoods/
Live Music Venues St. Louis is known for its blues and jazz scene Various https://explorestlouis.com/discover/st-louis-music-lovers/st-louis-live-music-venues/
Casinos Gambling Various https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g44881-Activities-c53-Saint_Louis_Missouri.html

Attendee List

The below lists are of those people that have made mention that they are attempting to attend the 2019 conference. You may edit this page to add your character to the list.

Prime Players

  • Achernar
  • Beldannon
  • Balley
  • Bristenn
  • Clown
  • Clunk
  • Darcena
  • Dergoatean
  • Ewin
  • Fromer
  • Hoodtralfeck
  • Iseo
  • Juspera
  • Katze
  • Kragdruk
  • Kronius
  • Laeech
  • Laraynis
  • Lylia
  • Licel
  • Maags
  • Maylan
  • Misun
  • Naamit
  • Naimon
  • Neopuron
  • Nodyre
  • Obsalyn
  • Raelee
  • Rencelas
  • Rhayveign
  • Rozy
  • Sabotage
  • Sentral
  • Synyster
  • Tool
  • Tysong
  • Vhorg
  • Xorus
  • Ysharra
  • Zangow

Platinum Players

  • Athias
  • Jaynon
  • The Josh
  • Qualeric
  • Tanai
  • Whick & Nehor

Shattered Players

  • Ponbiki
  • Rak
  • Tykus
  • Jirraturd

Game Staff

  • Aulis
  • Avaluka
  • Estild
  • Galene
  • Haxus
  • Palvella
  • Sleken
  • Tamuz
  • Ubiq

Indiegogo Campaign

The annual Indiegogo Campaign's purpose is to fund expenses for SimuCon, and all funds raised are used for the direct support of the convention. Any funds raised beyond the original goal are used for additional perks such as extra snacks and prizes for attendees. Purchasing an Indiegogo perk is how you buy admittance into the convention. Organizers may send a survey to request further attendee details in addition to the information you provide through the campaign.

Note: Some perks are for DragonRealms players only. Please ensure you select a Gemstone perk for Gemstone-related content.

Indiegogo Campaign 2019

Goodie Bags

Goodie bags this year are broken up into two different selections.

Non-Attendee Goodie Bags

This item is limited to one per account. You cannot purchase an attendee Goodie Bag if you purchase this option.

Attendee Goodie Bags

Requires attendance at Simucon in order to be eligible to purchase & redeem. Cannot buy/claim a non-attendee option if buying this selection. This item is limited to one per account.

  • Same Rewards As Non-Attendee
  • Unique Title
  • Live alteration to be performed at Simucon

Additional Options

  • Apparel: SimuCon 2019 branded tank top, t-shirt, and hoodies.
  • SimuCon 2019 branded travel mug
  • Lunch with a GameMaster

See Also