AA: What brought about the addition of music, toys and film to the expo?
RF: We're trying to branch out and offer something more to our audience. There are a few huge gaming cons and then there are a bunch of “me-too” cons. Some probably throw us in the “me-too” category and we recognize this and are trying to change that perception. Of course we know we're special!
As a game journalist/commentator, while planning the East Coast Gaming Expo I constantly ask myself “what would make me come out to cover this event?” We want the media to recognize that the East Coast Gaming Expo is a blast and that we'd make a great story!
AA: What are your thoughts on the competition the video game tournaments bring to the expo?
RF: Hmm, I always realize how I need to practice. I used to live and breathe fighting games and now I'm over the hill. We have some really impressive players that come out. Watching some of these players compete is nearly as fun as playing.
We have all sorts of tournaments spanning different genres and eras. It's always great to watch players that are “on their game.”
AA: How far away have people traveled from to attend the expo?
RF: I live right outside of New York City so people have traveled at least three hours to the show! I believe the furthest were some gamers from L.A. That's pretty hardcore. So I guess all the way across the country.
AA: How long does it take to plan together such an event and how many volunteers do you have for the 2006 expo?
RF: We started planning this year’s event during the planning of the second show. We’re hoping as time goes on things will fall into place quicker so we can all get a little more sleep! As far as the volunteers, I believe we have 10-15.
AA: Are their any standout plans for the 2007 yet, or do you still have your hands full with the upcoming expo?
RF: We’ve been tossing around some ideas for the 2007 show. Nothing concrete. I’d like to get some girls in bikinis to walk around and distract the good Street Fighter players while I’m playing them so I can win!
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