Gamecon is on its way to West Cork
Get your decks in order and charge your controllers because West Cork is about to celebrate its very first game convention!
The West Cork Sudbury School has announced its inaugural GAMECON event taking place at Bantry Boys Club on 18 May.
GAMECON 2024 is a celebration of gaming in all its forms, welcoming enthusiasts of every stripe to indulge in their favourite pastimes. From classic board games to cutting-edge computer games, retro console gems to online multiplayer adventures, there's something for everyone at this diverse and inclusive event.
Attendees can look forward to an array of thrilling activities, including a Dungeons and Dragons game and discussions led by renowned Holistic Dungeon Master, Steve English.
Elite Rubik’s cuber Greenman Dave will challenge guests to attempt to beat his record, while Cork Open Tournament Director Philip Newton has a backgammon tournament in the planning.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to witness the creativity of local talents with one student set to test a racing simulator he built with the help of a school facilitator. There will also be demos of board games currently being designed by students under the tutelage of Angelo Nikolaou, a local game designer and GAMECON committee member who has been volunteering at the school for two years.
Tabletop gaming shop Sandbox from Cork city will oversee collectible card games, such as Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Magic: The Gathering. Dakota Irish joins the event from Kilkenny to exhibit their handcrafted dice and game accessories, alongside local and visiting traders and artists presenting their unique games, goodies, and merchandise. In addition to all the fun and games, attendees can indulge in tasty treats from the onsite cafe.
GAMECON is the brainchild of a dedicated committee comprising students, parents, volunteers, and staff of West Cork Sudbury School, all of whom share a deep passion for games.
Tickets for GAMECON 2024 will be available at the door, priced at €15 for adults, €10 for students, and free for children aged five and under. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
A limited number of tickets will be available online, with further details to be announced on westcorksudburyschool.ie/gamecon2024 and social media channels.
All proceeds of GAMECON 2024 will go to the West Cork Sudbury School, with the aim of generating funds for the school’s solidarity fund, an initiative that supports families and students who would otherwise be unable to attend.
Board Member and Lead Organiser, Tracy Wall, said: “As we don't adhere to the government-mandated curriculum, we are ineligible for government funding. However, with students travelling from locations as distant as Schull, Skibbereen, and Castletownbere, alongside many local students, our school serves as a vital resource for the community.”
Traders, artists, volunteers and sponsors are invited to come on board by contacting the organisers by emailing gamecon2024@gmail.com.