So… did Ars Technica drop the ball and release the news of a new PAX to early?
He and Holkins repeatedly mention “PAX culture” as a guiding principle—as in, creating a relatively open playground of floor space, free games, new-game previews, and game-friendly events. Holkins says the live-music concerts at traditional PAX events may not fit, but he already has an idea for a replacement.
“I see us taking a cue from community there: what does a theater get used for in the evening?” Holkins says. “Right now, streamed RP [role-playing] is blowing up. The theater experience we offer at a PAX Unplugged will take cues from that community, as far as what they want to watch.” Holkins didn’t confirm whether PAX’s popular Acquisitions, Inc. series of live, on-stage Dungeons and Dragons sessions would be part of that.
So, Acquisitions Inc replacing concerts, could be interesting.
Unplugged info will start to flow in April, with badge stuff happening in “early Summer.” I’m going to be lead Tabletop [E] for the show, and all you Philly local people are strongly encouraged to come help.
If hotel selection changed at all from yesterday to today it was likely a momentary error (god dammit onpeak). The full hotel block opens up at same time as badges.
But by all means go ahead and book now while pre-sale is still available. It’s the same hotels and rates, etc. Just additional quantity held back for people actually buying badges.