This past weekend, I had the honor to go to FanimeCon 2009 in San Jose, California. It was just as I had expected: cosplayers galore and so many booths and things to check out. I was really excited to see the arcade room, which took up an entire exhibit hall. I couldn’t believe there were so many Dance Dance Revolution variants, even something called ParaParaParadise that is another dancing game that uses hand motions instead of feet. Aside from the coin-operated games and claw machines, there were numerous tables for card players, as well as a giant stack of board games. There were a bunch of televisions set up in a big square with game systems hooked up to it. I saw people playing anything from Rock Band to Castle Crashers to Pokemon Stadium.

I was a little sad that so few people were playing card games. There were offerings of tournaments in Halo, Magic: the Gathering, and other things. These filled up fast, and I had hoped to enter in the Magic one, but alas, no such luck. It was still fun to watch.

All I can really say about the cosplayers is that they were all amazing. Some must have been professionals. I saw so many pokemon and pokemon trainers, as well as a lot of Bleach characters. There were some simply amazing ones like the Disney Princesses. I, however, chose to wear my fox hat all day. I saw a couple of the skits and performances on Stage Zero, including AnimeMyu and some other better-known cosplay groups. One of the coolest things, though, was a group of 8, yes, 8, Reno cosplayers. They were all together, too. There were two girls walking around dressed as a NES and N64 controller.

Outside the convention center, most cosplayers gathered and were more than willing to pose for pictures. It was really cool. Everyone seemed really happy to be there, and everyone was nice. There were a few instances of live chess games being played out. Those are always fun.

My mom came along, and she can agree that Artist’s Alley and the shopping was a lot of fun. Artist’s alley was packed with some great new artists as well as some Con favorites. One could find anything from jewelry to keychains of their favorite anime or video game characters. A lot of people offered on the spot commissions, too.

The Dealer’s Hall was packed, like it is at most conventions. Animal hats were popular, as well as various pins and other little things. Who knew so many people could be selling the same kind of food and merchandise in one exhibit hall?

With 364 more days until the next FanimeCon, I will be eagerly awaiting it. It was a real fun experience and a wonderful con. Until next year!