Ayzenberg’s Guide to TwitchCon 2024

Originally published at Ayzenberg's Guide to TwitchCon 2024

Whether you’re attending TwitchCon for the first time or returning, TwitchCon 2024 in San Diego is set to be an action-packed weekend filled with gaming, entertainment, and community-building. From September 20-22, streamers, fans, and brands will gather at the San Diego Convention Center for three days of panels, gaming competitions, meet-and-greets, and exciting after-hours events. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your experience.

The Evolution of TwitchCon

Since TwitchCon’s debut in 2015, the event has evolved from a gathering of streamers and fans into a global cultural phenomenon. With events held in the U.S. and Europe, TwitchCon has become a key touchpoint for fans, creators, and brands. TwitchCon 2024 continues this tradition with even more interactive experiences and activities designed to engage the entire community.

What’s New This Year?

TwitchCon 2024 introduces several new features:

• Lo-Fi Lounge: A calm, relaxing space that features a silent disco, where attendees wear wireless headphones to enjoy curated music. This lounge will also host DJ sets and ASMR performances.
• PowerUp Lounge: Designed specifically for cosplayers and drag performers, this area provides a place for quick costume repairs and makeup touch-ups, as well as tutorials.
• Twitch Unity Guild Lounge: A safe space dedicated to underrepresented communities, such as LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC groups, to network and connect.

Must-See Panels and Events

Some standout panels and events you won’t want to miss:

The Table ft. QTCinderella: This live panel brings streamers together to share personal stories around food and its role in their lives, offering a more intimate look into their experiences.

Name Your Price LIVE! ft. AustinShow & WillNeff: A live game show that blends comedy with competition, as participants try to guess the prices of strange and unusual items.

Twitch Rivals Ultimate Challenge: Streamers compete in a mix of digital and physical games, offering high-energy, unpredictable entertainment.

Cosplay Showcase ft. StellaChuu: The Cosplay Showcase celebrates costume craftsmanship and performance, with participants competing in categories such as Best Armor and Best Performance.

TwitchCon Drag Showcase: This colorful and lively performance features drag queens, kings, and Twitch personalities, bringing high energy to the stage.

The Expo Hall: A Hub of Sponsors and Exhibitors

The Expo Hall is where gaming, tech, and non-endemic brands converge to showcase their products and interact with the Twitch community. This year, several non-gaming brands are present, utilizing TwitchCon as a platform to connect with a younger, tech-savvy audience.

Notable sponsors include:

• AT&T : Hosting main-stage activities and community events, providing a platform for streamers and fans to interact.
• Capcom : Presenting new content for their most popular games, along with interactive activities.
• Chevron : Offering meet-and-greets with streamers, alongside games and giveaways.
• Samsung Electronics : Featuring mobile gaming challenges that give attendees a chance to experience the latest tech firsthand.

Why Non-Endemic Brands Are Attending

Brands like Honda, American Heart Association, and Chevron are using TwitchCon to reach a younger audience by integrating themselves into the gaming community in creative ways:

• Honda : Honda’s initiative to unveil a Chat-created Civic Sedan Hybrid demonstrates how the brand is involving younger audiences through interactive and tech-forward strategies.
• American Heart Association : By participating in TwitchCon, the AHA promotes heart health in a space where many attendees engage in sedentary activities. The organization seeks to build awareness of healthy behaviors while also collaborating with streamers to spread its message.
• Chevron : Chevron is tapping into community engagement with giveaways, streamer meet-and-greets, and on-site activities. By making its presence more interactive and fun, Chevron aims to connect with attendees on a personal level.

Key Exhibitors and Activations

Here are some top exhibitors and activities to check out:

• Elgato : Showcasing the latest streaming tools and hardware for content creators.
• Fallen Leaf Studio : Offering hands-on demos of their new game, Ultra Mega Cats.
• HyperX /Omen: Hosting Glowtopia, an immersive tech quest experience where attendees can complete challenges and win prizes.

In addition, the Indie Game Zone will feature innovative titles from developers like The Behemoth, Midwest Games, and Variable State. Be sure to check out the Loot Cave for exclusive TwitchCon merchandise.

Event Activities

TwitchCon 2024 is packed with activities designed to engage the community:

• Community MeetUps: Spaces for different interest groups, including Minecraft fans and LGBTQIA+ gamers, to meet and connect.
• Artist Alley: A showcase of unique fan art, crafts, and commissions from talented creators.
• Interactive Sessions: Workshops led by streamers that teach a variety of skills, from improv to makeup tutorials.
• Games Done Quick Express 2024: A speedrunning event to raise funds for charity, where participants can compete and enjoy watching top speedrunners in action.

After-Hours Fun: The TwitchCon Block Party

On Saturday night, TwitchCon will take over San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter for the TwitchCon Block Party, featuring live music, local food, and entertainment. It’s the perfect way to unwind and connect with fellow attendees while enjoying the city’s nightlife.

Official App and Scheduling

For a seamless TwitchCon experience, make sure to download the official TwitchCon app. The app is your go-to tool for managing your schedule, receiving real-time updates, and navigating the event. With so many panels, meet-and-greets, and activities happening throughout the weekend, the app allows you to plan your days efficiently, ensuring you won’t miss out on any major moments. You can also use the app to get notifications about surprise events, giveaways, or changes to the schedule. Having the app will help you stay connected and informed during the event.

Exclusive Merch Drops

TwitchCon is known for its exclusive merch drops, giving attendees the opportunity to snag limited-edition TwitchCon gear, including hoodies, pins, and collectibles. Throughout the event, keep an eye out for surprise releases and brand-specific giveaways happening in the Expo Hall and at various booths. These items are often produced in limited quantities, making them highly sought-after by collectors and fans alike. Whether you’re on the hunt for Twitch-themed apparel or exclusive items from your favorite brands, make sure to stop by the Loot Cave and keep the app handy for notifications on timed drops and pop-up sales.

Maximizing Your TwitchCon Experience

TwitchCon can be overwhelming with so much going on, so here are a few tips:

• Plan your schedule: Prioritize the panels, meet-and-greets, and events you don’t want to miss, but leave room for spontaneous experiences, as TwitchCon is known for unexpected moments like surprise giveaways and pop-up performances.
• Recharge at lounges: Take breaks at the Lo-Fi Lounge or Partner Lounge
• Explore non-gaming brands: Visit booths from non-endemic brands like Honda, American Heart Association, and Chevron to see how they creatively engage with the Twitch community.

TwitchCon 2024 is shaping up to be a dynamic weekend filled with gaming, creativity, and community-building. Whether you’re there to meet your favorite creators, discover new streaming tools, or explore how non-endemic brands are integrating into the gaming world, there’s something for everyone. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at TwitchCon 2024.

Let’s Connect!

We’re excited to be at TwitchCon 2024 and would love to connect with you. If you'd like to explore opportunities for collaboration, reach out to us at Ayzenberg Contact Us.