In "All Year I Dream About Gaming Conventions," your hosts Ben and Quarex discuss how to prepare for, how to get to, and how to have the best time at gaming conventions. We interview the people who attend, exhibit, and yes even run gaming conventions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Sep 29, 2026 · 33:02
On this episode, the dreamers really step up and spread their wings to help interview cool folks attending Gen Con and Necronomicon 2026, like: Jonah with Goodman Games at Gen…
Sep 22, 2026 · 31:48
On Thursday night of Origins, a gaggle of dreamers packed into the GAMA Media Events room to hear about how our Origins had been so far! If you missed it, the second best thing…
Sep 15, 2026 · 35:21
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are releasing the audio from our three annual Live Podcast Recording and Killer Fourth Meal.. with absolutely no meal or fourths (although some of…
Sep 8, 2026 · 38:00
On this episode, Quarex and Ben talk about the conventions that we attended (and those we wish we could have attended). Listen in to hear about our time at: Anime Magic in…
Sep 1, 2026 · 20:46
On this episode, we're getting you ready for the thirteenth version of Gamehole Con 2026, held in gorgeous Madison, WI! Referenced on this episode is: Dane County Regional…
Aug 27, 2026 · 8:05
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are talking about the importance of budgeting for a summer of gaming conventions in 2027. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, you can attend five of…
Aug 25, 2026 · 35:25
Are there too many conventions! Hardly, even if our convention roundups are routinely our longest episodes! Conventions in September (after Labor Day) are plentiful and include:…
Aug 20, 2026 · 21:35
On this episode, Quarex and Ben award our Games of the Convention for the 2025-26 Gen Con Ludinal Year! Whether the games are freshly released, a little older, awaiting…
Aug 18, 2026 · 26:03
On this episode, Quarex and Ben review the drama at Gen Con 2026... from the big stuffed owlbears at the D&D Carnival to the tornado touchdown that didn't involve the Colts to…
Aug 13, 2026 · 28:56
On this episode, Quarex and Ben talk about everything that wasn't gaming or drama at the best four to eight days in gaming. Video evidence that Ben attended the Block Party (go…
Aug 11, 2026 · 19:54
On this episode, we're focusing on the most important part of the Best Four to Arguably Eight Days in Gaming... the games! Listen in to hear about: The new board games! The new…
Aug 6, 2026 · 7:24
Have you gotten your badge for PAGE 4 yet? This amazing convention in the Philly suburbs of Oaks, PA is held from January 14-17, 2027, and it's one of the fastest growing, most…
Aug 4, 2026 · 4:35
On this episode, Quarex and Ben have just gotten back from Gen Con, and they're already covering the next one? You wouldn't expect any less from the premier podcast for gaming…
Aug 2, 2026 · 14:50
For the third year running, we're coming to you live from Elf Con at Elf N Moon in Indianapolis, IN. Listen in to get our hot takes from Gen Con that are fresh out of the oven…
Jul 31, 2026 · 17:09
On this episode, Quarex and Ben commit our thoughts about Gen Con 2026 to recorded memory with everyone else at the Oceannaire this evening... including MIke Carr at Gen Con 60…
Jul 30, 2026 · 18:23
Quarex and Ben record our fourth annual live episode from Gen Con. From the Rathskeller to the regular Marriott to the Omni Severin to now the regular Hilton, it's a Gen Con…
Jul 28, 2026 · 19:59
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are talking about everything else you need to know for Gen Con 2026 beyond the games... including the traffic, the construction in and around the…
Jul 27, 2026 · 17:37
On this episode, we review everything gaming at Gen Con 2026... at least that will fit into a 20 minute previewsode! Highlights include: Forest Shuffle: Smoky Mountains Potemkin…
Jul 23, 2026 · 15:15
On this episode, we're talking about the dietary restrictions that dreamers might have to contend with at Gen Con 2026. Listen in to hear our tips, tricks, and advice for the…
Jul 21, 2026 · 29:38
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are talking with three cool creators and designers who are doing cool things at the coolest convention around... Gen Con! Adam from Tabletop Vibes…
Jul 20, 2026 · 31:35
On this episode, we're talking to the only, the only, the amazing, the incomparable Felicia Day. Her golden voice graces screens of all sizes, from silver to small to computer,…
Jul 16, 2026 · 21:26
On this episode, we are talking with Carolyn from SHE! Super Heroines, Etc. is a joyful and inclusive non-profit organization that uses the power of fandom to fight for equity…
Jul 14, 2026 · 21:01
On this episode, we're focusing on one of the events that you can only play at the biggest conventions like Origins, PAX Unplugged, and of course... Gen Con. On this episode,…
Jul 10, 2026 · 10:57
On this episode, Quarex and Ben return to a very special topic that should be near and dear to the heart of every dreamer: proper sleep practices at gaming conventions. In the…
Jul 9, 2026 · 8:54
On this episode, we discuss two great topics to get prepared for events at Gen Con 2026! This year, Gen Con has pushed for more electronic ticketing, which means your event…
Jul 8, 2026 · 12:58
This prepisode is our kinda early and not entirely complete because where is the food truck list, Mr. Hoppe ! However, it is the first of our episodes that approach the topic of…
Jul 7, 2026 · 22:08
On this episode, Quarex and Ben talk about all the ways that you get into Indy, around the city, through the conventions spaces, out to dinner, and back home with all your games.…
Jul 6, 2026 · 25:59
Everything that you wanted to know, and probably a few things you hadn't considered when it comes to packing for the best four, five, or even eight days in gaming: GEN CON 2026…
Jul 2, 2026 · 15:08
On the event of our third anniversary, Ben and Quarex remember: Cosmo Joe of Studio 6d6, RPEX, and Phoenix Con fame Tim Kask, the curmudgeonly TSR editor and public school…
Jun 30, 2026 · 32:38
On this episode, Quarex and Ben give our unvarnished—but still pretty positive—opinion about our time at Origins 2026. Whether we're yammering about our travel and lodging, the…
Jun 25, 2026 · 31:07
On this interview episode, Ben, Quarex, and Ben interviewed designers at conventions earlier this year! Stuart from Warcradle Studios , who was showing off Armoured Clash at…
Jun 24, 2026 · 22:37
On this episode, it's chatting from the Origins exhibitor hall about RPGs and merch! Kelly with Red Raccoon Games , who was the lead at the Origins Merch Booth on Saturday! The…
Jun 23, 2026 · 23:52
On this episode, it's chatting from the Origins exhibitor hall about board games and components! David from Intersection Games , who was showing off Flip Draw: Mondrian and…
Jun 16, 2026 · 29:03
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are previewing Origins at the speed of GAMA! The following is a list of things that we talk about... The security and metal detector FAQ that was…
Jun 11, 2026 · 12:10
Coming up on Friday, June 12, it's the deadline to elect to have your Gen Con badge shipped to you! No need to brave the will call line, because your badges and event tickets…
Jun 9, 2026 · 32:32
On this episode, we're talking with three creatives who will be at Origins Game Fair 50 Plus 1! Bug Boll of 9th Level Games , who is running so many games in the Hyatt while also…
Jun 4, 2026 · 23:44
On this episode, your hosts talk with game designer Ian Zang, who is a board member of the Unpublished Games Network! Check out the Unpub Network ! Get involved at Unpub Festival…
Jun 2, 2026 · 22:28
One of the more unique programs at Origins Game Fair is the Tournament of Pieces ! This section of the exhibit hall is filled with all kinds of puzzling — speed puzzling, fun…
May 29, 2026 · 26:56
In the first part of our patented convention review, Quarex and Ben discuss all the conventions we attended in March, April, and May 2026 that we haven't already reviewed,…
May 28, 2026 · 22:46
In the first part of our patented convention review, Quarex and Ben discuss all the conventions we attended in January and February of this year that we haven't already reviewed,…
May 26, 2026 · 34:48
On this episode, Quarex and Ben bring back Alex Kammer for another interview: this time, about gaming auctions, consignment shops, and flea markets. Alex isn't just talking about…
May 21, 2026 · 7:15
On this very special, very quick episode, your hosts Quarex and Ben remind you when and why you want to get your badges for Gamehole Con 2026... the badger mitzvah! Don't miss…
May 19, 2026 · 13:46
Everything you need to know to get ready for Origins 2026—just under a month away! Buy Night City 2045 and pick it up at Origins! Play in some great cyberpunk themed events !…
May 17, 2026 · 12:41
On this episode, Quarex and Ben take stock of the best and/or worst afternoon in the Mays of Gen Con: Wishlistmas! How did your wish list process? And also: consider attending…
May 14, 2026 · 28:58
On this episode, your hosts interview Ben Reed, who is renowned as both a progenitor of the dungeon synth AND for being one of the 23 Mike Carrs of the JoCo Cruise. Listen in as…
May 12, 2026 · 33:02
Ahead of the upcoming wish list processing day, your hosts Quarex and Ben go through the highlights from the event catalog depending on your flavor of Gen Con. Session Zero…
May 7, 2026 · 12:40
Over the weekend, Gen Con published its biggest ever day 1 event catalog — over 23,000 events! While our next episode is our summary of the events you want to check out, we…
May 5, 2026 · 21:50
On this episode, Quarex and Ben interview Yoshi, the director of gaming of one of the oldest sci-fi conventions in the US... Balticon, the 60th anniversary that was held from May…
Apr 28, 2026 · 31:22
On this episode, we are talking about a number of conventions in 2026 you can attend from May Day to Labor Day! May Conventions Ecclesicon Beefy Wizard Con Richmond Open Wagoncon…
Apr 21, 2026 · 40:20
Can you believe it's already been 200 episodes? We can't, but we also recognize that a big occasion deserves a big celebration. Neither Quarex nor Ben could think of any guests…
Apr 16, 2026 · 31:57
On this episode, we bring you interviews from our convention travels over the first four months of 2026, including: Tiger Wizard of Exalted Funeral ( link ) at a birthday party…
Apr 14, 2026 · 27:59
The event submission process has opened up for Gamehole Con 2026. To help our dreamers get their submissions in before space fills up, we're talking with Gamehole Con's Director…
Apr 7, 2026 · 34:18
On this episode, your hosts review their time at some of the best conventions of the year — each inconveniently held in the month of March! Listen in to hear about: Gary Con (…
Mar 31, 2026 · 22:49
On this episode, we talk with Wes from DM Tales about the charity convention he hosts in Palmyra, NJ: Ecclesicon! Ecclesicon is held May 1-2, 2026 — check out the games at…
Mar 24, 2026 · 32:58
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are talking with esteemed author Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan about his past works, the Irish RPG scene — and of course, his upcoming project for the DIE…
Mar 17, 2026 · 14:56
Adepticon 2026 is returning to the Baird Center in Milwaukee, WI! From March 25-29, you can attend the preeminent miniatures convention in the United States. This year is shaping…
Mar 12, 2026 · 7:21
The pride of Madison, WI itself—Gamehole Con has grown from being just a regional convention and is now the largest RPG-focused convention in the US! Starting on Monday, March 16…
Mar 10, 2026 · 16:44
It's not quite 8 days to Gary Con XVIII in Lake Geneva, WI—here's what you want to know. The Opening Ceremonies (Flaming Polyhedrals Optional) The Gary Con Shuttle Friends of…
Mar 3, 2026 · 33:11
On this episode, we're talking with three creators who are bringing new games to crowdfunding while they attend Gary Con and Adepticon. Yoav Niv is bringing books 2 and 3 his 5E…
Feb 24, 2026 · 11:06
On this episode, your hosts Quarex and Ben help you get over your Lottery Day blues and figure out how to get the room of your dreams by the time Gen Con rolls around. Tools: The…
Feb 22, 2026 · 5:53
As the Gen Con housing lottery for 2026 has come and gone, you undoubtedly have feelings. We're here for you now—solutions come on Tuesday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy…
Feb 17, 2026 · 14:36
On this episode, we're getting you prepped for Gary Con XVIII from March 19-22, 2026! You'll want to be sure to: Buy that badge! Book that hotel! Park that car! Take that…
Feb 10, 2026 · 25:05
On this episode, we talk with Gregoire Boisbelaud, the Events Director for Origins Game Fair! Listen in as Get your badge for Origins 2026 ( link ) — only the Premier badges have…
Feb 3, 2026 · 20:09
Gen Con Badges go on sale on Sunday, February 8, and the Gen Con Housing Lottery kicks off at 12 pm ET on Sunday February 22. Only one podcast helps you understand and maximize…
Jan 29, 2026 · 18:32
Listen in to hear all about the conventions we attended in the last third of the year, like EuroQuest, Vintage Computer Festival Midwest, Tabletop Central, Quad Con Dubuque, and…
Jan 27, 2026 · 25:18
Quarex and Ben don't often attend the same convention at the same time, so when you can find them at the same convention in the middle of January, you gotta know it's something…
Jan 20, 2026 · 35:18
Shortly after this episode releases, the fine folks at Steve Jackson Games are releasing the long awaited 2nd Edition of Munchkin! As better explained on BackerKit , this new…
Jan 13, 2026 · 28:37
Starting this Thursday, January 15, you can attend PAGE 3 in the Philly suburbs! To get you ready, we're talking with a special guest and a creator who will be at this year's…
Jan 8, 2026 · 26:16
On this episode, Quarex and Ben tell you everything you wanted to know about running events at Gen Con but were too afraid to ask. Key links include: Gen Con Events Page:…
Jan 6, 2026 · 18:40
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are getting you ready for the third annual Philadelphia Area Gaming Expo, known to all as PAGE 3 ! Both your hosts will be in attendance,…
Dec 30, 2025 · 16:52
On this episode, Ben T. Barackus talks with the following vendors at BGG Con using his real life press badge: Steve Jackson Games , makers of Purrfect Potions, Car Wars, and just…
Dec 26, 2025 · 27:57
On this special Boxing Day release, our dreamers get five more interviews with creators in the indie RPG design space who came to PAX Unplugged! Brian Liberge, designer of fine…
Dec 23, 2025 · 28:10
On this episode, our dreamers can unwrap an early Xmas gift — five interviews, hung with care from the All Year I Dream About Gaming Conventions' chimney. In each gift box, you…
Dec 18, 2025 · 20:39
Just in time to get excited for Gen Con 2026 event and badge season! Listen in as Aimee of the Pod, Aimee interviews Rachel, Bethany, Drake, Jayden & Lily, NotThatDrake, and Vino…
Dec 16, 2025 · 23:50
On this episode, Quarex and Ben review a gaming convention we didn't attend: BGG CON in Dallas, TX! The flagship convention from the Board Game Geek team, this is perhaps the…
Dec 9, 2025 · 36:58
On our second longest episode to date, Quarex and Ben provide you with all the conventions you'll want to check out during the first third of 2026, including: Super MAG Fest,…
Dec 2, 2025 · 22:43
We hope our dreamers have enjoyed their Thanksgiving as much as we did! On this episode, we review Ben's time at PAX Unplugged 2025 in beautiful, marathon-ridden Philadelphia,…
Nov 25, 2025 · 29:06
On Saturday of Gen Con, Quarex and Ben recorded a live episode of our podcast in the presence of nearly 30 dreamers! As we recover from PAX Unplugged, we are releasing most of…
Nov 18, 2025 · 22:47
On this episode, Quarex and Ben provide all the late and late-breaking news from PAX Unplugged 2025, such as: Philadelphia Marathon Road Closures Special Guests from Sit Down &…
Nov 17, 2025 · 15:21
On this very off-cycle episode, your hosts are reviewing some important deadlines you'll want to pay attention to (and soon), like: Gen Con VIG Badge Applications are open! Get…
Nov 11, 2025 · 30:29
On this episode, we're joined by three creators doing cool stuff in and around the expo hall at PAX Unplugged 2025! Not only have they designed Garbage & Glory , Wrastlevania ,…
Nov 6, 2025 · 9:29
On this very special episode of All Year I Dream About Gaming Convention, your hosts dig into some of the details you'll need to know about the overlap and overlay of PAX…
Nov 4, 2025 · 21:03
PAX Unplugged, the last of the 2025 Rushmore conventions, is being held in Philadelphia, PA from November 21-23 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Not only will your other…
Oct 30, 2025 · 27:12
On this episode, Quarex and Ben are strangely silent while Aimee of the Pod, Aimee, handles the interviews in the Gamehole dealer hall! Listen in for interviews with: Matt with…
Oct 28, 2025 · 28:07
On this episode, your hosts are joined by Aimee of the Pod Aimee to talk about our time spent at Gamehole Con XII. But also! Quarex and Ben review the newest member of the Street…
Oct 21, 2025 · 32:59
On this very special episode of All Year I Dream About Gaming Conventions, Quarex and Ben delay the dealer hall interviews to bring you an interview with Ron and Phil from PAGE:…
Oct 13, 2025 · 17:05
This is our previewsode for Gamehole Con 2025... the XII-ening. On this episode, we get you ready for everything you need to know... and the things you don't know you need to…
Oct 6, 2025 · 24:11
On this episode, your hosts Ben and Quarex get a chance to speak with Madison area illustrator, game designer, and charity biker John Kovalic! In addition to being the artist of…
Oct 3, 2025 · 24:10
Everything you wanted to know about applying to exhibit at Gen Con but you were too afraid to ask! (Or read.) Gen Con Exhibitor Page New Exhibitor Application Appendix A:…
Sep 30, 2025 · 29:41
On this episode, your hosts Quarex and Ben held court for a crowd of attentive dreamers on the 2nd floor of the Greater Columbus Convention Center. You've heard our after action…
Sep 22, 2025 · 29:22
On this episode, we're talking with Lyla Fujiwara ( link ) and Ethan Yen ( link ), who are both amazing game designer in their own rights. However, Ethan and Lyla are the driving…
Sep 16, 2025 · 22:26
All the leaves are brown, and the sky is gray... but we won't be feeling forlorn on some Madison autumn days! Gamehole Con is being held from October 23-26 at the Alliant Energy…
Sep 11, 2025 · 22:13
At the prompting of a dreamer, your host Ben checked out a convention in Northern Virginia called Final 3 Con , which focuses on social deduction games like Blood on the…
Sep 9, 2025 · 27:39
From May 1 to September 2 of this year, your hosts Quarex and Ben made it to the following conventions: Congress of Gamers, Spring Session Des Moines Con ... or was it Des Moines…
Sep 2, 2025 · 22:47
On this episode, your hosts Quarex and Ben go through all the conventions you'll want to attend* from September 2 to December 31, 2025, including: Dice Tower Retreat, Council Con…
Aug 28, 2025 · 30:58
In this selection of interviews from the exhibit hall floor at Gen Con 2025! Luke of Limithron, publishers of Pirate Borg ! Corey from Amigo Games , fine makers of Where Is…
Aug 26, 2025 · 14:03
On this dreamer-requested episode, Quarex and Ben discuss their best practices for constructing and following a convention calendar to keep track of all the key dates and…
Aug 21, 2025 · 17:37
Rarely imitated, never duplicated — Ben and Quarex are back with our second annual Games of the Convention!!! This is the only annual award given out by a podcast about gaming…
Aug 19, 2025 · 28:44
On this episode, Quarex and Ben discuss what passed for drama at Gen Con 2025... which, much like the weather, was mild and manageable. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for…
Aug 14, 2025 · 26:17
On this very proud conventioncast, your hosts Quarex and Ben talk about everything Gen Con 2025 that didn't involve a game -- from the travel to the parking lots to the TSA…
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