Are mass-market collector toys dying? The price of raw materials and costs of the production process continue to skyrocket. Action figures that were $7.99 five years ago are now in stores for over $20. At that price can you still be a "completist?" Is Kickstarter the better way to go for an up-and-coming toy company to get figures in the hands of collectors? Are toy collectors prepared for the onslaught of all of the new Star Wars figures that will come from the new movies? A panel of toy industry insiders and collectors examine just what is going on today and where it's all going in the future. Moderator DanielPickett (ActionFigureInsider.com, host of Geek Shall Inherit podcast) is joined by industry experts JustinDonaldson (collector, director, TheTournamentofNerds), JasonLenzi (co-founder, Bif Bang Pow!), ScottNeitlich (director of play, Jakks Pacific, collector), and DavidVonner (senior designer/product manager Spin Master).
Do you want to make your own board game or publish via Kickstarter? Get practical advice, key resources, and tips for pitching to publishers, and learn how to avoid common Kickstarter mistakes. Panelists include game designers Jeremy , Commandeur, Chris Castagnetto, Candy Weber, and Payton Lee and publishers BrianHenk, Ali Showkati, and Steve Nix.
For over 20 years Ken Lashley has created images for a multitude of companies, including Mattel (Max Steel, DC comics), Hasbro Toys (Star Wars, G.I JOE, Transformers), and Lucasfilm, as well as comic series for Marvel ( Age of Apocalypse, Xcalibre, Excalibur), and DC (Secret 6, Superman Doomed, Superman), and over 40 covers in 3 years. Ken will show you the secrets he uses to create dynamic content. He will also have the new Milestone comic designs, as well as a surprise guest, Kevin Grevioux (Blue Marvel, I, Frankenstein, Underworld). How does one get started in this biz, and how does one keep busy for 20 years? Ken and Kevin will talk about the challenges of creators, including an exclusive giveaway for all who attend.
Saturday April 4, 2015 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 211
Kotobukiya presents an insider's look at their newest products arriving to retailers and in development. Have a question or comment? The Q&A session is the perfect opportunity to be heard! As always there will be a ton of goodies to give away!
Saturday April 4, 2015 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 213
Doll owners and enthusiasts gather to discuss the world of ball-jointed resin dolls from companies such as Volks, Fairyland, Iplehouse, and many others. Whether a seasoned collector or someone just starting out, you'll have the opportunity to learn basics and share tips. Come to share the beauty of your own unique doll, or just to see the dolls on display, from tiny to towering. It's a great opportunity to experience the different types of dolls in the world of BJDs. Make new friends, both real and resin!
Saturday April 4, 2015 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 211