Finally, the eagerly-awaited NAICCON took place at the Junction Mall on Saturday 16th November. While it started out rainy and cold, it ended on a high note because people turned up in large numbers and high spirits. We all had an amazing time interacting with performers, cosplayers, and vendors. For all who attended, it was amazing meeting you, and for those who didn't, well, you kind of missed out so save the date for the next one!
Performances
To get everything started, there were a number of performers in attendance. They did dances either as a group or individually so entertainment was practically endless. K-pop was well-represented, with each dancer moving in sync to evidence the practice they must have put in. I had the pleasure of interacting with one of the dancers; Phoenix, and though we didn't get to chat a lot, (we talked in the washroom hehe) I'm looking forward to catching up at one of the other events she attends, like Otamatsuri.
Cosplay
Next, we had cosplayers who put in the work, damn 🔥 From Swordsmiths like Lordfinesse254 and Mak_ex_Machina to Goddesses and villains, I was blown away. The competition was fierce and it truly warmed my heart to see how much passion they each had. Costumes, accessories, and, most importantly, vibes, were just *chef's kiss. As a first-time cosplayer, I was encouraged to go bigger for future events, so they had a positive impact in terms of self-expression. The fact that it was inclusive and everyone, regardless of age and gender, took part made it all the more beautiful. The ever-pleasant Chevy won the cosplay as Hela, Goddess of life and death. That was a well-deserved win in my opinion, because, whew!
Mementos
Everyone got a chance to buy something to remember the event thanks to the vendors. Figurines, posters, notebooks, jewelry, and a whole lot more were on display and this was an amazing chance to discover local anime and gaming stores. Obviously, we had some amazing pieces at our Array Gato stand as well, and if you couldn't get anything on Saturday or want to stock up, you can always pass by our shop in the CBD and pick up something amazing. Shameless plug; that is what I am 😁
Comics
I'm not joking when I say that I would have given anything to be at this particular spot when I was younger. Variety in terms of content and more was the order of the day, and one of the notable stands was Uncanny Valley which had a lot in stock. The best part is that there were plenty of local comics, including one by our very own Dip Vulgar (The Clown, recently launched). I'm excited by the fact that our local scene is growing in this regard and I can't wait for more down the road. We can finally make the local comic market a thing, yaaayy!
Gaming
Gamers also had a spot, and the clear displays and amazing controllers ensured that they stayed glued to the screens (as they regularly do lol, no shade though). They enjoyed new releases and did a skill exchange of sorts, so you can be sure that a few who attended as newbies left with new skills and a refreshed attitude. That's pretty much the point of attending events and interacting with new people with whom you share interests, so kudos to all of them. Unfortunately, I didn't get to interact a whole lot with them, remember the glue and screen thing... But from their facial expressions, posture, and general mood, I know they had an amazing time!
Food!
Would you attend an event that didn't have any food in it? Yea, me neither. When I was asked to either swallow the doughnut I'd carried whole or dispose of it, I ate it amidst grumbles of how I was supposed to last a whole day without food. To this, the gracious lady and gent at the entrance told me that there were food vendors at the event so it wouldn't be fair to let people carry their food. My heart was contented, and I got to sample some amazing delicacies from the vendors (as well as some tea; never forget the tea-like, actual tea!) Anyway, if tea's not your cup of tea, you could have picked coffee, sodas, and even Sakè to warm you up- literally no excuse to stay thirsty...
I suspect that this review may not have covered everything, but it's something. It rained a lot in the morning, and the vendors with stands outside the parking lot got a little wet and cold. Thankfully, everyone was moved to the cozier indoor area and the event went on like nothing had ever happened. I plan on attending all future comic cons, and I'm sure they're only going to get better. Looking forward to meeting more fun spirits and amazing people and reconnecting with those I met this year!
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