Genghis Con is a hit

A Genghis Con participant studies one of the games held during Saturday's event. (Photo contributed)

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PRINCETON — Despite inclement weather, a hearty 65 area residents attended Genghis Con, sponsored by Dice, Daggers and Dragons of Princeton. This was the first area gaming convention in more than 15 years in the Illinois Valley area. Genghis Con was a one-day event held at the Princeton Elks Lodge from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Genghis Con was designed as a one-day game con, which means the day is divided into three sessions, where five to eight different types of games are run. Each session featured a miniatures event, card game, board game and role-playing games. The games ranged from Star Wars to Magic the Gathering, to Diplomacy, Shadowrun and several versions of Dungeons and Dragons. There were a total of 22 games scheduled. Players signed up to participate in games they were interested in for each session held. People who ran each game or event included Dice, Daggers and Dragons owner Ken Schroeder, local writer and “Dragon Magazine” contributor Troy E. Taylor, local residents, high school students and various gaming enthusiasts. People game from Ottawa, Oglesby, LaSalle-Peru, Cedar Point, Normal and Princeton to take a seat at the gaming tables.

Blackhawk Hobby and Distributors of Rockton, a sponsor of the event helped provide more than $500 in merchandise that was given away as game prizes, as well as random door prizes. Participants did not go home empty-handed for their efforts.

“It was great fun playing, but just as fun winning a door prize,” said Princeton native Trishia Jones.

“I thought the Con was pretty great. The one game that I thought was pretty good was the ‘The Ikons of Ikammanen’ event that Troy ran in the second session. (A D20 Modern Dungeons and Dragons game) It was an Indiana Jones type of storyline. I always learn something new when Troy (Taylor) runs a game. All the individuals that came from out of town was real interesting to play with,” said Princeton resident Jim Hayes.

Dice, Daggers and Dragons owner Ken Schroeder was happy as well.

“I was pleased with the turnout especially given that the weather was so poor. For a first year con, we learned some lessons, had some good times, and next year’s plans are already underway. I like to thank everyone who showed up, specially the Princeton Elks Lodge for their efforts to make this day easy for us.”

Schroeder also mentioned he especially appreciated all who ran games for the Convention. Genghis Con II will be held next year in March 2008.