You're at Gen Con — Now What?

You made it. You're standing on the convention floor of Gen Con — the largest tabletop gaming convention in North America — surrounded by costumes, clatter, and cardboard. Whether this is your first time or your fifteenth, that rush of excitement (and low-level panic) is real. So… now what?

Here’s your guide to making the most of your Gen Con experience — whether you’re here for the games, the cosplay, the vendors, or just the vibes.

1. Take a Breath — Then Look Around

Gen Con is massive. Four jam-packed days. Hundreds of events. Thousands of people. Your first instinct might be to rush to everything. Don’t. Take ten minutes to wander the main hall or check out the program guide. Soak it in. This is your nerdy Disneyland.

Pro Tip: Head to a hotel lobby near the convention center when you need a break — it’s a little quieter and great for sprawling out.

2. Check Your Schedule (Or Make One!)

If you pre-registered for events, great — you’ve already got a plan. If not, no worries. The Gen Con mobile-friendly site at www.gencon.com.is your best friend. Look for:

• Learn-to-Play sessions for new games

• Demo booths in the exhibit hall usually require no event tickets

• Seminars and workshops on writing, game design, cosplay, and more

3. Explore the Exhibit Hall (With a Plan)

The exhibit hall can be overwhelming in the best possible way. Want to demo the hot new games? Chat with indie designers? Blow your budget on dice? This is the place.

Tips for surviving the vendor gauntlet:

• Make a wishlist before you go in — or you’ll buy everything.

• Try games before you buy — most booths love to demo.

• Be mindful of others — especially during peak hours we are all there to have a good time.

Clay’s Top 5 Most Anticipated Games of Gen Con 2025

Looking for some standout titles on the floor this year? Clay's got you covered. These are the top games worth checking out — whether you’re looking for something family-friendly, beautifully designed, or just plain fun.

1. Kinfire Council
Incredible Dream Studios — Booth 2667
A gorgeous looking and strategic game of council-building and political intrigue with stunning art and narrative depth.

2. Nature
NorthStar Game Studio — Booth 2713
A calming and clever card game with beautiful visuals and eco-friendly vibes — perfect for fans of Cascadia or Wingspan. Modules let you explore unique ecosystems and expand your game.

3. The Crew: Family Adventure
KOSMOS — Booth 259
A lighter, more accessible version of the award-winning co-op trick-taking series. Great for families or casual gamers. Players find themselves stranded on a deserted island and have to find their way around together. Eating, sleeping, making decisions — how will the adventure end?

4. Solar Gardens
Darrington Press — Booth 2841
From the publishers of Daggerheart, this game offers light hearted, tile-drafting mechanics set in a relaxing sci-fi world. Harnessing principles of sustainability, innovation, and community, encouraging players to harness renewable energy to create tranquil garden environments.

5. Vantage
Stonemaier Games — Booth 2909
A brand-new title with Stonemaier’s signature blend of elegant gameplay and gorgeous components. I want to check out this open-world, co-operative adventure game that features an entire planet to explore. Expect long lines — and a great game.

🛑 Also don't miss:

The Gen Con Balloon Sculpture - What magical balloon sculpture will appear at Gen Con Indy this year? You’ll have to wait and find out…

Leder Games — Ahoy Expansions (Booth 643)
For fans of asymmetric, pirate-themed whimsical strategy — more factions, more chaos!

Fambam Games — Not So Neighborly & Spy Outs (Booth 2567)
Two indie gems perfect for quick laughs and family game night surprises.

4. Don’t Skip the Night Life

Gen Con doesn't shut down at 6 PM. Far from it. There’s a second convention that comes alive after dark:

• Hotel lobbies turn into giant gaming lounges

• Entertainment Events - grab event tickets to one of the many options

• There’s Werewolf in every corner of the convention center

• Check for ticketed concerts, shows, and tournaments

If you’re feeling social, ask to join a game — the community is welcoming, and most people are excited to share.

Clay’s Pro Tip: Restaurants get busy around the convention center for dinner. Plan to eat at off times or get reservations!

5. Take Care of Yourself

Real talk: Gen Con can be exhausting. To keep the fun going all weekend, don’t forget:

• Hydrate — You’re walking a lot and talking even more.

• Eat real food — There’s more than just convention-center fast food.

• Take breaks — Find quiet zones and places to chill-out.

• Wear comfy shoes — Your feet will thank you by Sunday.

6. Capture the Moments (But Stay Present)

Yes, take selfies, snap pictures of your loot, and document your favorite booths. But remember to also just be in the moment. Some of the best memories happen around a table, laughing over a party game or discovering a game you never expected to love.

Final Thoughts: You're Not Just a Visitor — You're Part of the Story

Gen Con isn't just a con — it's a celebration of imagination, community, and pure unfiltered geek joy. Whether you came alone or with friends, you’re among your people. Try something new. Say hi to a stranger. Get weird with a board game you can’t pronounce.

So yeah — you’re at Gen Con. Now go make it unforgettable.