Eight top tips to know before attending WASD (or other video game conventions)

Having launched in 2022, WASD is one of the UK's newest video game conventions and perhaps its best for discovering new indie games. Taking place at the Truman Brewery in London since 2023, it’s an annual show that brings hundreds of games together in one place, so there'll certainly be plenty that will pique your interest. It's a brilliant opportunity to meet like-minded folks and steep yourself in gaming culture.

And while it’s not like you’re camping in a field at a music festival, as with any huge public event there are certain steps you can take to ensure your time at WASD is as comfortable and fulfilling as possible. That’s why we thought we’d ask the convention veterans in the Just About community for some advice; if you're a first-time attendee, of WASD or any other fan convention, make sure you heed these tips and tricks!

Make a plan for the games you want to see

There are loads of games at WASD, so take a look at the list of confirmed playable games on the official site before you head to the event. Dean suggests this will allow you to prioritise your must-play titles, after which you can have a wander and pick out any other curiosities.

Install the app for your preferred gaming platform on your phone

When you are playing all these wacky, wonderful games, one very helpful tip courtesy of Martin is to make sure you have the app for your gaming platform of choice installed on your phone. Indie games often struggle to get the word out there, but one way their reach can be improved is by more prospective players wishlisting the game.

So if you can find the game on one of Steam, the PS Store, Xbox Store, or Nintendo eShop while standing with the developer and wishlist it in front of them, not only will they be absolutely chuffed to bits, but you’ll have bookmarked the game for yourself before you forget.

Prepare for typical UK weather

WASD may be in London, which typically has slightly better weather than the rainy ol' north, and it may be at the end of April, which should be the middle of Spring, but, as we Brits may have pointed out on occasion, UK weather is very temperamental no matter where or when you are.

The convention takes place indoors, but as Martin also rightly says, there's a chance you'll be queuing outside, and you may also want to leave the venue to hunt down a preferred food or drink option, or just to get the tube. Prepare for rain and hopefully we'll all be pleasantly surprised when it doesn't arrive!

Agree a meeting point with your friends

If you're attending WASD solo then you'll be able to make lots of friends with shared interests - perhaps right here on Just About! - but if you're heading there with a group of friends, you should agree on a designated meeting spot and time.

This tip comes from MargotCandy who explains signal and/or WiFi can often be poor at events like this, so to save your group from being separated, you can rendezvous at a specific booth or easy-to-find marker.

Hygiene and hand sanitiser are vital

This tip comes as a twofer, because they go hand in hand. First, remember your hygiene! You're about to spend a whole day, possibly multiple days, in a crowded venue that may get quite warm if the elusive British sunshine decides to show its face. One of Makster's many tips is that you should remember to shower and apply deodorant before attending. You should do that on most days anyway, but it's more important at a public event such as this.

Alongside that, Dave recommends that you bring hand sanitiser with you because if you plan on playing lots of different games around the various booths and stalls, this means you'll be picking up and using equipment that has been touched by who knows how many people before you. Keep yourself germ free and reduce your risk of suffering from the infamous convention flu by applying hand sanitiser before and after using public peripherals.

Cosplay does not equal consent

Gaming conventions often have many attendees kitted out in full cosplay based on their favourite games and characters, which is always awesome to see. However, just because someone is dressed up doesn't mean you can touch their outfit or take photos without being polite and approaching them first. Sturmer explains how "this small act of courtesy is often well received, as it gives the cosplayer a chance to strike the perfect pose for their character". EveOnlineTutorials adds that you should be open minded and respectful of those around you, which is simply good manners.

Be kind to event staff

Another tip from Makster is to always be kind to not only other attendees, but also the staff working at the event. Chances are they're there because they also love games, and anything that may go wrong with the event likely isn't their fault. Sometimes guests are late, panels have to be pushed back, or there are long queues for the most popular games. Be patient, everyone is doing the best they can to ensure you have a lovely time.

Wear comfy shoes

An additional tip from Dean is to make sure you wear comfy shoes! Martin also touches on it by saying you're probably going to be on your feet all day long because it can often be a struggle to find a seat, so picking this event to break in your brand new Doc Martens isn't the best idea. Of course, there is no dress code so stick on your finest, comfiest trainers and you shouldn't be aching too much by the end of the day.

Enjoy yourself!

Finally, don't forget to enjoy yourself! WASD (and other gaming conventions!) are all about celebrating video games, everyone is there to have a good time, so relax, soak up the vibes, and play some excellent games. We'll be in attendance too with plenty of WASD-specific bounties for you to enter, so come and say hello. We're looking forward to seeing you!