17th annual Nanocon November 8-10

November 7, 2019

Nanocon, Dakota State Gaming Club’s weekend long game convention begins on Friday, Nov. 8 at 6 p.m.

The annual event, free and open to the public, offers board, video, and live action role-playing games for guests. There is also informal cosplay, a table to paint miniatures, esports tournaments available for viewing, and vendors selling games and other items at the event.

“It’s one of the biggest events we have in Madison on a regular basis,” said Rachel Groth, Gaming Club president. “It’s a good chance to blow off steam and play some games.” She stated, “We have over 200 games in our cabinets and we have people willing to help you learn and set up those games.”

Nanocon often brings back alumni who were involved with the Gaming Club or were game design majors. Groth, a senior triple major in computer science, computer game design, and math, will return next year if she’s still living in the regional area.

“Lots of students see this as a homecoming of sorts,” said Dr. Steve Graham, associate professor of computer game design. This year former Gaming Club advisor Glenn Berman will be returning for Nanocon.

The event brings in more than just people associated with Dakota State.

“It’s been pulling in 300-500 people for the last decade,” Graham said. “It reaches a 200-mile radius, bringing people from the Twin Cities, Omaha, Fargo, and Pierre.”

Nanocon is also a great way for interested parties to learn more about the game design program at Dakota State. Juniors and seniors in the game design project classes will be showcasing their own creations for the school year. This will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and is open to all attendees.

All ages are welcome at Nanocon, however children age 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and all adults and attendees 14 and up will be required to have a photo ID for entrance.