SimuCon 2024
SimuCon is a yearly gathering in St. Louis near Simutronics headquarters usually taking place near the end of the summer.
OFFICIAL dates for 2024 are Wednesday, August 7 through Sunday, August 11, 2024 at the Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel. Room reservation link Room reservation link here.
2024 Schedule
Main Schedule
| Day | Time | Activity | Open To | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
| Thursday | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
| Friday | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
| Saturday | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
| Sunday | |||||
| 0:00 AM | Blank | ALL | |||
1 You must bring your own laptop and have an active account to participate
2 D&D One Shots: These will be 60-90 minutes sessions. You must pre-register for a session in the Box Office. Try to make Session 0!
3 Live Alteration Sessions: First come, first served! There are several sessions scheduled, and everyone is allowed to claim one alteration but they MUST make it to one of these sessions.
Tune in to our livestream at http://www.twitch.tv/simuradio to view Some of our GS panels! Other activities will be streamed ad-hoc throughout the 'Con
Panel Schedule
| Day | Time | Activity | Panelists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | 0:00 PM | Name | People |
| Saturday | 0:00 PM | Name | People |
Main Events & Side Quest Announcement
Attendee List
Prime Players
- Azanoth
- Dergoatean
- Ghommpikk
- Maylan
- Obsalyn
- Rozy
Platinum Players
- Ashanor
Shattered Players
- Sue
- Drekoi
- Omrii
Game Staff
- Aergo
- Ivry
- Marstreforn
- Nyxus
- 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 likely be handled via the play.net Box Office when available. 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 2024 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 | onsite | 900 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146 | Booking Link |
| Sheraton Westport Chalet | 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 likely to be handled through the play.net Box Office page. To attend in-person, a badge is required and all attendees must display their badge at all times while in the official event rooms.
Non-Attendee
Attendee
See Also
- SimuCon Website (official SimuCon website)
- SimuCon Channel (official Discord server)
- Unofficial SimuCon Server (unofficial SimuCon dedicated Discord server)
- DragonRealms Simucon Page (DR's Wiki Page)