SimuCon 2023
SimuCon is a yearly gathering in St. Louis near Simutronics headquarters usually taking place near the end of the summer.
OFFICIAL dates for 2023 are Thursday, July 13 through Sunday, July 16, 2023 at the Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel. Room reservation link Room reservation link here.
2023 Schedule
| Day | Time | Activity | Open To | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday July 12 | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
| Thursday July 13 | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
| Friday July 14 | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
| Saturday July 15 | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blanks | All | |||
| Sunday July 16 | |||||
| NA | Blank | ALL | |||
- This is still subject to revision! Check back later!
- *You must bring your own laptop and have an active account to participate
Tune in to our livestream at http://www.twitch.tv/radiofreesimucon to view the GS State of Elanthia and panels! Other activities will be streamed ad hoc throughout the 'Con
Panel Schedule
| Day | Time | Activity | Panelists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Name | People |
| Saturday | 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Name | People |
Main Events & Side Quest Announcement
SimuCon Main Events: Live Alterations
Back again this year, there will be two sessions per day on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday where you will be able to sit with a GameMaster and get an alteration done. Look for posted GM names when our schedule is solidified!
SimuCon Main Quest: Roarin’ 20’s Themed Casino Night!
Join us in the main room for an exciting and fun Roarin’ 20’s Costumed (or Casual!) Event as we dive into a Speakeasy to play Craps, Texas Hold ‘em, Roulette, Blackjack, and 3-card Poker! Elite Events will be providing this entertainment for us, while Simutronics will be providing the funny money for the games. There will be prizes and purchases that can be made with your earnings! Come ready to play!
SimuCon Side Quests: Jackbox Games
During SimuCon, we’ll be hosting a Jackbox Party. Attendants will enter a raffle to see if they are a player in the game. We’ll run several rounds this way, and then all the winners will have a head-to-head battle to see who reigns supreme!
We will be using one of the SimuCon Breakout Rooms for this event and anyone not playing gets to be in the audience!
Non-attendees watching on Twitch will also get to be part of the audience!
Don't know what Jackbox Games are? Here's a handy link: Jackbox Games
SimuCon Side Quest: D&D
Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the game or have never played before, this fun session based in Elanthia is open to all! There will be a ZERO Session to help you understand the basic mechanics, assign roles, and prepare you for the campaign.
There will be 6 sessions, all running the same one-shot, throughout SimuCon. This is a sign-up event, which will include a set of dice and several hand-outs.
DragonRealms GMs Mazrian, Irenos, Miskton, Ben, Melindrha, and Gemstone IV GM Thandiwe will each be a Dungeon Master for one of the sessions of this exciting event. Be sure to sign up for the fun at the Box Office Under SimuCon 2023 for GS Attendees – D&D One-Shot Game!
SimuCon Side Quest: Sip & Paint
Join us for a Sip (BYOB) and Paint session at SimuCon where you will get to paint a Dragon Miniature to bring home with you! Sit with fellow players and GMs for this engaging experience. This is a sign-up event, so be sure to sign up for the fun at the Box Office Under SimuCon 2023 for GS Attendees – Sip and Paint, miniature painting!
SimuCon Side Quest: Dungeon Mayhem
Based upon iconic Dungeons and Dragons characters, but with a comical twist, this deck-based game involves beating the other players to be the ultimate winner!
Each game can host 12 players. Players can pick from either heroes or monsters with choices like:
Heroes: Sutha the Skullcrusher (barbarian), Azzan the Mystic (wizard), Lia the Radiant (paladin), Oriax the Clever (rogue), Shapeshifter Jaheira (druid), and Minsc the ranger with his hamster friend Boo.
Monsters: Lord Cinderpuff (a banker dragon), Hoots McGoots (circus owlbear), Dr. Tentaculous (therapist mind flayer), Blorp (hungry gelatinous cube), Delilah Deathray (narcissistic beholder), and Mimi LeChaise (a mimic).
For more information on the game, visit: Dungeon Mayhem
SimuCon Side Quest: Spirit Beasts (Gemstone Only)
Join us on Saturday before the panels start for an in-game session of Spirit Beasts, hosted by players Obelin and Starletdawn. This session will follow the previous day’s panels of Spirit Beasts hosted by players Obelins and Starletdawn, with a special (remote) guest appearance of GM Auchand.
Attendee List
The below lists are of those people that have mentioned they are attempting to attend the 2023 conference. You may edit this page to add your character to the list.
Prime Players
- Azanoth
- Dergoatean
- Desorceri
- Deza
- Eruheran
- HebrewToYou
- Katie
- Kragdruk
- Licel
- Maylan
- Melivn
- Naamit
- Obelin
- Obsalyn
- Raelee
- Rinualdo
- Rozy
- Tranquia
- Treeva
- Tysong
- Vhorg/Drekoi
- Zangow
- Zhagen
Platinum Players
- Blank
Shattered Players
- Jirraturd / Rencelas
Game Staff
- Caconym
- Chris in Billing
- Flannihan
- Haliste
- Haxus
- Kveta
- Lydil
- Lyneya
- Mestys
- Sindin
- Skippy
- Sleken
- Thandiwe
- Valyrka
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does SimuCon cost?
Attendance badges cost $40. Please see the Ticketing section for more details.
Where do I sign up?
Ticketing will be handled via the play.net Box Office. Please see the Ticketing section for more details.
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 2023 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. Alcohol can be purchased in most grocery stores and gas stations in Missouri.
What should I wear?
SimuCon is casual attire unless the schedule for a specific event indicates otherwise. Some events may encourage costumes or themed 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 (open Friday through Sunday), 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 in the St. Louis area, home of Simutronic's headquarters. While the host hotel may very, it is usually held at one of the many convention spaces at or near the Westport Plaza. For specific details on the official hotel, please see the below accommodations list. Also below are some nearby shops and other information for visitors. All distances calculated from the host hotel.
Accommodations
| Name | Distance | Address | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheraton Westport Plaza (Official Hotel, Discounted Rate) | onsite | 900 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 | Booking Link |
| Sheraton Westport Chalet (Sister Hotel, next to the Plaza) | onsite | 191 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| O'Fallon Brewery | Beer/American Food | 0.3 mi | 45 Progress Pkwy, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 | http://www.ofallonbrewery.com/ |
| Giola's Deli | Sandwiches | 0.8 mi | 11855 Adie Rd, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 | https://www.gioiasdeli.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/ |
| Gobble STOP Smokehouse | BBQ Poultry | 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/ |
| Taqueria Durango | Mexican | 3.5 mi | 10238 Page Ave, Overland, MO | https://www.facebook.com/TaqueriaDurangoSaintLouis |
| Nick & Elena's Pizzeria | Pizza/Italian | 5.4 mi | 3007 Woodson Rd, Overland, MO 63114 | https://www.facebook.com/NICKnELENAS/ |
| Sugarfire Smokehouse | BBQ | 6.0 mi | 9200 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63132 | https://sugarfiresmokehouse.com/locations/mo-olivette/ |
| Salt + Smoke | BBQ | 9.0 mi | 501 S Main St, St. Charles, MO 63301 | https://saltandsmokestl.com/ |
| BEAST | BBQ | 17.1 mi | 4156 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110 | https://beastbbqstl.com/ |
| Pappy's Smokehouse | BBQ | 18.7 mi | 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103 | https://www.pappyssmokehouse.com/ |
| Bogart's | BBQ | 20.8 mi | 71627 S 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104 | https://www.bogartssmokehouse.com/ |
| Broadway Oyster Bar | Cajun | 23.7 mi | 736 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102 | http://www.broadwayoysterbar.com/ |
| Ted Drewes | Famous local frozen custard | 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 |
| D&J Liquor | 1.5 mi | 1914 McKelvey Rd, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 |
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 Aquarium at Union Station | Opened Dec. 2019, the otters and spitting fish are worth the admission, skip the wheel | 201 S 18th St, St. Louis, MO 63103 | https://www.stlouisaquarium.com/ |
| 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 |
| Cahokia Mounds | Ruins of the largest prehistoric civilization north of Mexico, 30 min drive from hotel | 30 Ramey Street Collinsville, IL 62234 | https://cahokiamounds.org/ |
| A Gathering Place | Massages within walking distance of convention center | 12140 Lackland Rd, St. Louis, MO 63146 | https://www.agatheringplace.com/ |
Ticketing
Ticketing is currently handled through the play.net Box Office page. Currently there are 4 offerings for non-attendees and 9 for attendees. To attend in-person, a badge is required and all attendees must display their badge at all times while in the official event rooms. For additional details about each offering, please visit the Event Details page.
Non-Attendee
#1 Goodie Bag ($40)
- 4x RPA orb (account attuned)
- Chronomage Spheres, 1x per town
- Urchin Guide, 90 days
- Adv Guild Vouchers, 20 uses
- Quest Orb, 1 use
#2 Friend of the Con Support ($50)
Support the 'Con even if you can't make it to STL!
#3 Friend of the Con Support ($5)
Support the 'Con even if you can't make it to STL!
#4 Extra special item ($40)
A unique Spirit Beast available only at SimuCon 2023! (account attuned)
Attendee
#1 Badge & Goodie-bag ($40)
- 4x RPA orb (account attuned)
- Chronomage Spheres, 1x per town
- Urchin Guide, 90 days
- Adv Guild Vouchers, 20 uses
- Quest Orb, 1 use
- Special Attendee-only Scripted Item! (account attuned)
#2 Extra special item ($40)
A unique Spirit Beast available only at SimuCon 2023! (account attuned)
#3 Character Portrait ($250)
A rendering of your character, copy to be provided to you and included in your character's LOOK in game.
Provide your character's full LOOK description. Include as much detail as possible to convey to the artist a clear vision of your character.
- You may note one or two items that you want specifically depicted. If you prefer a certain pose, specify it.
You will be provided with a composite sketch and allowed one round of revision before the final product is completed. Images will be delivered in the following formats:
- Low res:
830x1080 (to fit within the Wiki upload file size limit, if you want to display your image there) - High res:
2400x3000 pixels. (print size of 8x10)
#4 Custom Room ($175)
Purchaser will work with a GM to create a unique room that will be deployed to all instances of the game.
#5 D&D One-Shot Game ($5)
Participate in one of the Elanthia-themed One-Shot campaigns. You will receive a pouch of dice to play the game with!
#6 Friend of the Con Support ($50)
Support the 'Con even more than you already are by attending it in STL!
#7 Friend of the Con Support ($5)
Support the 'Con even more than you already are by attending it in STL!
#8 Lunch with a Gemstone GM ($150)
Either participate in the small group lunch on Friday at noon with DR PM Lyneya, GS PM Wyrom, and Simutronics CEO Skippy, and Chris in Billing…. Or share a quiet meal with a GS GM! (Dutch style - each will pay for their own).
#9 Simu swag ($40)
SimuCon Swag Bag containing:
- SimuCon Notebook
- SimuCon Pen
- 17oz Ceramic Mug
- ... and other items!
#10 Sip and Paint ($60)
Join professional 3D artist Jonathan Bombard as he guides you through an evening of painting your very own beautiful and fearsome adult dragon miniature! Each step will be explained and demonstrated, along with some helpful tips and tricks to bring out the best in your personal dragon.
This price includes a unique to SimuCon 2023 collectible statue only available through the box office, as well as all of the supplies you'll need to complete your dragon - you just need to bring your own booze! Registered guests who want to get a lot of paint time in may wish to bring a hair dryer, but it is not required. You may also bring your own painting supplies if you wish.
Dragon approximate measurements: 205mm from wingtip to wingtip, 140mm tall, on a base of 100mm Sip and paint a 3D miniature Simucon c (205mm x 140mm on a 100mm base) with Jonathan Bombard.
See Also
- SimuCon channel (official Discord server)
- Unofficial SimuCon Server (unofficial SimuCon dedicated Discord server)
- DragonRealms Simucon Page (DR's Wiki Page)