I came to the convention pretty early; I wasn’t sure if the buses would get me there in time, but in hindsight, I don’t think I should have worried. Being early, I was asked to help set up the convention, and I did so, bringing down tables and chairs, setting up booths, among other things.

I ended wandering a bit throughout, helping when I could and watching when I couldn’t. Eventually, I found myself drawn to the Super Smash Bros. Wii U stand; it had been a few years since I last played a Super Smash Bros. game, and so I immediately took the opportunity to reacquaint myself with the game. I had been a pretty good player beforehand, so it didn’t take long for me to resume playing somewhat well. Over the course of the convention though, I would get my rear end handed to me a multitude of times, as a few hours of practice was definitely not enough to regain what had been lost. I also signed up for a Smash tournament that was to take place later in the day.

The gates opened around fifteen minutes after that, and people started to trickle in. I continued playing Super Smash Bros. Wii U for a while longer, before I moved on to the other console section. Every game there was a fighting game, from Tekken to Injustice to J-Stars Victory Vs. They even had Super Smash Bros. Melee, in which I completely trounced a bunch of noobs.

VICTORY IS MINE!

In the intervening hours between this time and the start of the Smash tournament, I played games (mostly Smash Bros. Wii U), toured the place, talked to friends, and took pictures.

Unfortunately, I didn’t do very well in the tournament; I got knocked out in the second round by a veteran player. I stayed for a little while to watch the other players, but I found it too hot and stuffy in the room, so I left. I got lunch, and took quite a long break, and just watched everyone else. I also removed my costume, as I found that it was getting too hot to walk around in. I played more games, sat around, enjoying the atmosphere.

Because panda

After a while, I met my friend Chen; we chatted for a bit, and he introduced me to the people who were organizing Summer Con. After an intense discussion regarding preparations, I excused myself, and went to see how the Smash tournament was faring. The final games were the most intense Smash matches that I’ve ever seen, and I was very impressed at the level of skill shown. Behold, the final rounds:

And these were the winners! Congrats!

Not long after this, I packed up my things, and left. The convention had its share of issues; lack of proper air conditioning, only fighting games being available, and a shortage of other events that one could participate in should one like to take a break from the games (as I did). Still, I did have a decent time, and I think that I wouldn’t mind having another go next year.

(the full album can be found here)

If you are aware of any convention taking place here in Israel, or some other interesting event taking place, please notify me, and I will do my best to report on it!