Always had questions about a certain part of our fandom that you always wanted to talk with other on? Interested in checking out something new that you've never heard of before? Our wide variety of panels from talks with our guests to discussions about your favorite series might just be what you've been looking for.
You've all seen them around conventions: those overpriced, disturbingly realistic yet terribly alluring ball-jointed dolls. But what are they, and why are they so popular? We plan to give you a brief but informative overview of what these dolls are all about, and do our best to answer any burning questions you may have. So drop by and see what's up in this hobby that's growing by the minute!
A collection of anime music videos that wouldn't have made it into our contest. A block full of ultra violent, hentai, and just plain wrong AMVs! For adults only.
BAR-1 leads a tutorial on basic body-building. Them big darn eyes, where the catgirl's tail goes, and more body parts will be touched on.
Even though Adult Swim only plays anime in English it's impossible to ignore the fact that 99% of anime is made by Japanese people for Japanese people. There are many, many things that simply get lost in translation as an anime in converted to English. This panel is an overview of the benefits of knowing Japanese while watching anime. A simple grasp of Japanese language and culture can make anime much more enjoyable! Links to learning Japanese for the casual student will also be presented.
One of the most influential anime of the 80's, Macross changed much in the way of character development, mechanized combat, and how music and animation were integrated, on both sides of the Pacific. More importantly, it spawned one of the first generations of American-born otaku with its epic story of war.
Manga means more than your favorite character in pose after pose—time to tell a story through your art, and here are some tips on how!
A.K.A. the "I woke up in the hallway of a hotel in a city I don't know, dressed like a hooker, covered in marker, surrounded by freaks... and I remember all of it!" panel. This panel is both about helping newer fans learn the secret arts of how to get the most out of a convention, as well as experiences shared by veteran con-goers. Also, learn a little about what goes into making a successful convention, and how to do your part to make sure everyone has the best time possible!
Is this your first time cosplaying, or have you been doing it for years? It doesn't matter what skill level you are, just stop on by this panel and pick up a few pointers. Having trouble with a part of your costume? Want to know what kind of material to use? How to cosplay on a budget? Any questions you ask we will do our best to answer.
This is the stuff you won't be told in other cosplay panels! From the ins and outs of making cheap and effective armor and props to making moving wings, this is for the cosplayer who is looking to broaden their horizons and get more than their feet wet. Learn techniques that anybody can apply in the comfort of their own home with a minimum of tools or supplies. Come prepared to tinker with materials, however, as we have some fun hands-on experience in store!
Tips on how to create adventures, villains, settings and suspense, handling hard to manage players, and much more. Some basics followed by questions and answers with the audience. Panel hosted by Kevin Siembieda, game designer, writer, GM, and owner of Palladium Books, Inc.
This panel is all about the anime that keeps you up at night for weeks. The shows you need to watch five times to fully get everything. The anime that drives you crazy, that makes you collapse in a drooling, giggling mass on the ground when you finally "get it". The movies that make you want to give up and join the navy when it shoots off in a random direction...or say a character's arm falls off, or something like that. This is an open forum for talking about your favorite deep anime, looking at the theories behind them, investigating the deeper themes and messages, and asking the questions you have never been able to answer!
Fansubs have been around since the days of the VCR, when fans would translate and subtitle anime not yet licensed for the U.S. and send copy after copy to fans. With the advent of the Internet and broadband, fansubs transitioned into digital form, and today, almost every anime series that premieres in Japan is adopted by an English fansub group. Learn about the process that goes on behind-the-scenes in fansubbing, and discuss the concerns of today's fansub world.
Nothing can be gained without sacrificing something. That is the basic rule of alchemy. So give us some of your time and in exchange we'll give you the knowledge you desire. We'll discuss the in's and out's of the hit series "Fullmetal Alchemist", from the manga to the anime, from the Japanese to the English. And, get the age-old question answered: Just how tall is Ed?
Notice the growing number of FUNimation titles in your collection? We've just got started! Find out the latest information on current and upcoming shows and we promise you'll be entertained.
Check out exclusive sneak previews of new upcoming shows from FUNimation.
Gainax is one of the most notable studios in anime. With works ranging from the legendary "The Wings of Honneamise" to the revolutionary "Neon Genesis Evangelion" and recently with FLCL! We will look at the roots and top directors of Gainax, as well as having an open forum on their impressive collection of works.
Talk about the three different giant monsters—Godzilla, Mothra, and Gamera—and see the roads that all three of there careers have taken. Topics will include powers of the monster, the highs and lows of their careers, and the lessons that they try to teach us.
Ever wonder what those board games are that they're playing in all those anime? Then come and learn the intricacies of the world's oldest still-played board game with go. Go can be learned in a few minutes but takes many years to master. Then learn Shougi, the Japanese game similar to chess where the pieces you capture can be turned aginst your enemy.
Bio Booster Armor Guyver, one of the longest running manga to date in Japan, has been translated all over the world, produced three animations after it, and even two American-made live action movies. So why is it not on most anime and manga fans' radars...?
Love cosplay? Don't have the time/money/motivation/talent to make a really awesome costume? Neither do we! Duct-tape Gunblades, thrift store miniskirts, $5 wigs... It's open discussion about the tricks to passable cosplay, and how we're proud to be the anti-elitists of the cosplay world!
Anime is a medium in which expert storytellers tell epic tales of love and romance, with universe-spanning love stories playing out in an almost Wangerian fashion. But never mind that junk—let's see what happens when epic tales of love and romance are replaced by pure unadulterated carnal fantasy! Where's the Buffet? is calling all the dirty-minded, fun-loving hentai fans in attendance to a celebration of the human (and tentacle beast) form. We never know what topics will be touched upon, so repeat attendees are encouraged to return. Due to the necessarily graphic nature of this panel, all attendees must be 18 or older. No exceptions!
So you're making AMVs, but they don't seem to gather a following. Find out just what you could be doing wrong, and what you could be doing right.
With the gaining popularity of series like Initial "D", street racing — and specifically drifting — have experienced a rising interest both in the U.S. and Japan. This panel will discuss the fine points of drifting, including footage of real cars praticing the art of drift. We'll talk about some of the real cars found in Initial D and touch on the series itself. Naturally, there will be time for questions and answers at the end. "Initial D"...don't miss it!
Follow us down the old bone-eater's well to Feudal Japan where you'll meet everyone's favorite dog-eared hanyou. We'll discuss the series in general, including speculation about what's to come with the anime, and compare sub vs. dub and manga vs. anime. Find out what drives Rumiko Takahashi's most popular series and maybe even discover just what Sesshoumaru's fluff really is.
A place where fangirls and fanboys can discuss J-rock and Visual Kei artists, their music, fanservice, and why we like to cosplay them so much.
An introduction and overview to many types of Japanese fashion including Gothic Lolita (and its many variations), FRUiTS, Ganguro, and Decora and their impact on Japanese and American culture.
When an extremely obsessive video game otaku is sucked into another world, MÄR Heaven has finally found its hero...right? Join us in this panel as we talk about the newest of Nobuyuki Anzai's works "MÄR" (by the creator of "Flame of Recca"). We'll discuss the manga, the anime, the differences, the characters, the fairy tales...anything relating to "MÄR" and its new sequel, "MÄR Omega"!
Here's the chance for Sailor Moon lovers everywhere to get together and talk about our favorite super girl in a miniskirt! Discuss all things Sailor Moon: the manga, the anime, and the live-action series!
Here is a chance for all fans Naruto to ask any questions having to do with the series. In this panel, we will discuss many aspects of the hit show. Topics include opinions on it being dubbed, questions about characters, theories of some of the big mysteries in the series, and many others. So if you enjoy Naruto and want to meet other fans, this is the panel for you.
Where's the Buffet? cordially invites you to a night of discussion about the ins and outs of yaoi. Come learn more than you thought was possible, as we not only have fun exploring modern yaoi works, but also delve into the history and cultural impact of male homosexuality in Japanese society through the ages. Due to the graphic nature of this panel, it is strictly 18 and up.
An in-depth look at Organization XIII member Axel, discussing his past life, his life as a member of the Organization, and his friendship with Roxas, as well as looking into the other members.
ParaPara is a style of dancing born in the nightclubs of Japan nearly 20 years ago. It consists of choreographed arm movements (and minimal leg movement) to "Eurobeat" music. To this day, in huge clubs like Twinstar, ParaPara lessons are given weekly. There is also an arcade game based on ParaPara called ParaParaParadise.
The beginners' panel is for people unfamiliar with ParaPara. They will be acquainted with Eurobeat music, ParaPara terminology, etc. A dance from the ParaParaParadise arcade will be taught and performed.
The Advanced panel is a continuation of the beginners' panel, or for people who already have some knowledge of ParaPara. A more difficult song from the Super Eurobeat series will be taught and performed.
A Parent’s Guide to Anime invites parents, especially non-fans, who are chaperoning at the con to come in and learn what exactly their kid is getting into. We cover what conventions are and what parents can expect to find at them, some recommended anime and manga titles for each age group, what topics are covered in anime and manga, and how to choose manga and anime that are compatible with a family’s values.
"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." -Psalm 118:24
Don't let the con keep you from church, or church keep you from the con! Sunday morning, join voice actress Caitlin Glass for a time of worship, reflection and discussion, and be blessed.
Alchemy is the pseudoscience of transmuting one or more things into an even cooler thing or things. Join Caitlin Glass (voice of Winry Rockbell in "Fullmetal Alchemist") as she transmutes ordinary paper into cranes, hats and other funky stuff—not through alchemy, but through the ancient Japanese art of origami. You might even win free stuff! (Band-Aids for paper cuts will be provided.)
Come and chat with Kevin Siembieda, game designer and owner of Palladium Books, Inc. Ask your questions about the Robotech RPG, game design, and publishing, and hear stories about his many experiences with "Robotech", "Ninja Turtles", other licenses and the world of gaming.
Learn the ins and outs of making a good Sailor Moon costume. We will cover making said costume on a budget or going to the higher end of the scale. Soldier or villain, we want to show you how to do it right! Topics covered will include fabric choices (and what to avoid!), patterning, and attention to detail. Our overall goal is to show people how to make a costume, but at the same time, have a bit of fun with it.
Sit down with the guests in this panel and ask your questions about voice acting and the business in general. Our voice acting guests will be available to answer your questions, but leave your demo tapes and autographables at the door, please.
Ever wanted to learn what it takes to make an anime music video? Learn the programs, techniques, and insider hints on how to mix music and anime together.
Learn the history behind the heady early days of video games, as well as details on more modern history.
Allow the ladies of Where's the Buffet? to do the impossible as we discuss boys' love anime while staying well within the limits of good taste and the limits of what minors are legally allowed to view and learn. We'll explore the cultural and social facets that surround the medium, and discuss the medium itself—all without staining the innocence of the youth! Please note: Although this panel is 100% safe for all ages, it is about art depicting homosexuality, and this should be taken into consideration.
Delve through over 30 years of mecha action from the dawn of the era with "Mazinger Z" to the most recent of mecha shows.
There is a chance you've never heard the term "superflat", coined by Japanese artist Takeshi Murakami to describe a burgeoning art movement in Japan, but there's a good chance you'll recognize some of the impact it has had worldwide. Come help Where's the Buffet? explore the roots of superflat, the impact it has had on Japanese pop culture, and the implications it has for the future of anime and manga. We'll look at the various artists who are considered part of the movement, the works they have produced and the direction they're heading right now—and we'll also look at anime and manga that both influenced the development of and enjoyed the fruits of the superflat movement.
Join a team of professionals as we play survival horror games deep into the night. Bear witness as we beat Resident Evil in under an hour, with no saves and no first aid sprays and get a perfect grade. Stare in awe as we unravel the mysteries of Silent Hill without getting the message "This lock is broken." And be the first ever humans to witness someone actually play Alone in the Dark.
Returning from last year, we will discuss the philosophy behind Silent Hill and Resident Evil as well as their respective characters. We will also compare and contrast the plot, imagery and symbolism. The movies will also be discussed, along with opinions on whether they lived up to the movie names. There will be a Q & A section towards the last 15 minutes, as well as an open floor for debate. Please come with an open mind, and be wary of spoilers, as they will be welcome!
Rumble Roses. R. Mika. La Mariposa. All of them come from Japan's dedicated community of women's wrestling fans. Some have online fiction, some have massive galleries of their work, and others are Internet legends. Touka, NO. 13, Kaze Tanuki, Tenkaimei, TOM, and many others are whispered in Japan's subculture as amazing doujinshi creators. See images from these artists, learn about japanese women's wrestlings origins, and view many lesser-known games and manga featuring women's wrestling. 18 and older please.
Where's the Buffet? has seen a lot of strange, scary things in their years as panelists and fans. From obnoxious panel attendees to pop culture oddities to the wildest Internet phenomena, there's nothing we don't like to discuss and, more importantly, mock. Join us for an evening of derision, confusion, and that essence known only as "WTF?!" Bring your sense of humor, and don't be surprised if we call you out. Abandon all hope ye who enter here. Due to the graphic and obnoxious content of this panel, only those 18 or older may attend.
Most game fans are familiar with Final Fantasy and Uematsu's amazing work with the music of the games. But what about Akira Yamaoka, Yasunori Mitsuda, and Michiru Yamane? Do you know and love these composers as well? Or haven't you a clue to whom these people are? Either way, if you're a gamer or just love game music, join us as we explore a wide variety of music by various Japanese composers — beyond the almighty Nobuo Uematsu!
"You anime fans think your little cartoons are so great, the best thing that happened to media since the invention of cable TV, right? Well, you're all morons! Anime is the stupidest load of crap I've ever seen, and I'm going to prove it to you! Just tell me your favorite title, and I'll tell you why it sucks!" Obviously this panel is all for fun, and not to be taken seriously. The premise is simple: You give us a title, and we'll make fun of it! It's a good time for all!
Dive deep into the crazy and chaotic world that is known as Yu Yu Hakusho. Learn about the storyline, characters, voice actors, music, and more, and get answers to your questions about Hiei and Kurama's relationship. Contains information from both the sub and the dub.