I've attended Crisis for many, many years, and was sad to see its demise due the combined effects of Covid and Brexit. It was by far the largest tabletop wargaming convention on the European mainland at its hight, and was the hobby highlight of the year for me and my friends.
Last year, the Tin Soldiers of Antwerp, who were the organisers, did a bit of a swap meet at their clubhouse and while fun, it was of course a far cry from the huge event they used to organise.
So I was very pleasantly surprised to see that they were once again putting together a proper convention this year.
The venue is different; it's smaller and located a ways outside of Antwerp, but it fit the size of the event perfectly; three smaller halls, with one doubling as the entrance and sitting area, although there too were several games and vendors to be found.
In the main hall, there were about two dozen vendors and about a dozen or so games and demo's. In the second, smaller, hall, I'd guess there were maybe 20 vendors present, and another handful of games.
The entrance hall held two vendors and another handful of games.
It bears mention that the club lowered the entrance fee from €12,- to €10,- because of last minute cancellations by some vendors. Considering the success of the event, I'm sure those vendors will not make that mistake again though
Games ranged from the historical to scifi and even board games, but with an emphasis on historical battles. Lots of big batallions and WW2 on some beautiful tables. I especially liked a scifi table with a huge Gundam in the streets.
Attendance was good. There were enough people there to comprise a healthy queue before the doors were opened, but it was not so crowded that tables and stands were unreacheable.
What did I think of the event?
I liked it; it was great to rub elbows with likeminded hobbyists again after such a long hiatus. However; due to the fact that the friend who would be going with me cancelled last minute as well and the reduced size of the show, I was back in the car after about 2.5 to 3 hours, whereas before we'd be headed back only in the late afternoon.
That's not to say I did not like it; it was great! But for me, it's just an hour's drive, and I'm not confident that I would fly and stay overnight for an event like this. However; I'm not one for participation games; I'm mostly there to spend my money and gawk at nicely painted stuffs. If you were so inclined, and would combine the event with some museums and other interesting sights, it might well be worth your time and money
For sure
I will be there again next year!
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October 04, 2024, 10:15:49 PM
August 08, 2024, 10:39:51 AM