Tips for Navigating M.A.G.E. Like a Pro

The Minneapolis Anime and Gaming Event (M.A.G.E.) is coming to Minneapolis from November 22-24, 2024. This three-day festival of anime, gaming, and fandom culture invites fans to immerse themselves in a vibrant, interactive world at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. From cosplay contests to autograph sessions, tabletop gaming to fan-led panels, M.A.G.E. offers something for everyone—whether you’re a veteran convention-goer or attending for the first time.

What to Expect at M.A.G.E.

Ready to level up your anime and gaming weekend? M.A.G.E. (formerly known as MetaCon) is your ultimate destination for all things anime, gaming, and cosplay! Powered by the same awesome team behind AnimeCon.org, this event is a love letter to fandoms everywhere, packed with activities, panels, and late-night fun!

Whether you're a hardcore gamer, a dedicated cosplayer, or just curious to see what the hype’s about, M.A.G.E. has something for you. Dive into expert-led panels, pick up a new skill (or just fan knowledge!) in interactive workshops, and compete in exciting gaming tournaments. And, of course, don’t miss the legendary cosplay contests—where creativity and fandom collide in epic ways!

Need merch? Head to the buzzing Exhibitors Hall, where exclusive collectibles, art, and fandom gear await you (your wallet might get a workout!). The magic doesn’t stop there—M.A.G.E. keeps the energy high with events running until 2 a.m. or later, so there’s plenty of time to geek out over your favorite things with fellow fans.

Efficient Navigation Tips for M.A.G.E.

With so much to see and do at M.A.G.E., navigating the con like a pro can be a game-changer. Here’s your cheat code to making the most of your experience!

1. Download the Venue Map and Memorize Key Spots

Download the venue map as early as possible (it’s often available online ahead of time) or grab a copy at check-in. Highlight major areas like the Main Events Room for the hottest events, Exhibitors Hall for exclusive merch, Artist Alley for unique finds, and the Gaming Rooms for tournaments and demos. This is your home base for each day; checking where these spots are will cut down on backtracking and make it easy to flow from one event to the next.

2. Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds and Make the Most of Each Day

Doors open early, and so should you! Arriving before peak hours means easier access to exclusive items in the Exhibitors Hall and Artist Alley and front-row seats for your favorite panels. Plus, it’s often quieter in the mornings, so you can start off with some relaxed browsing before the midday rush.

3. Schedule Smarter: Prioritize Must-Sees, But Leave Room for Spontaneity

Use the con’s event schedule to build a “must-see” list for each day, but keep it flexible. There are often impromptu performances, photo ops, and gaming demos popping up throughout the venue. Many panels and workshops offer stand-by seating if you missed your planned event, so don’t worry too much if things overlap—just stay open to new experiences!

4. Scope Out Side Routes to Beat the Crowds

At peak times, main hallways can get seriously packed, especially near the popular event rooms. Scope out alternate routes: stairwells, side hallways, or even less-used entrances can save you time and help you dodge the masses. Think of these pathways like secret passages in a video game—master them, and you’ll cut down on travel time.

5. Recharge and Refuel in Designated Rest Areas

Convention days are long and packed, so finding spots to rest and recharge is essential. The ConSweet is a fan-favorite spot with free snacks like ramen, rice, and soda. Look for lounge areas or quiet zones throughout the venue if you need a breather. And don’t forget to bring a refillable water bottle; hydration stations are usually available, and keeping hydrated will keep you feeling fresh.

6. Map Out Important Rooms on Your Phone

Use your phone’s map app or a note-taking app to flag key spots like restrooms, charging stations, info desks, and the first aid room. Knowing exactly where these are will make it easier to grab a quick break, charge your devices, or ask for directions. Quick tip: sometimes restrooms in less-trafficked areas are way less crowded—another secret spot worth remembering!

7. Hit the Gaming Rooms and Open Play Areas

If you’re a gaming fan, check out the Gaming Rooms as soon as you arrive and note the times for tournaments or demos you want to join. Many open play areas are available for attendees who want to try new games or play casual rounds with fellow fans. Whether you’re into card games, tabletop, or consoles, these rooms are great places to dive in, especially if you find a lull between events.

8. Take Advantage of Late-Night Events

Unlike most events that wrap up early, M.A.G.E. keeps the fun going with late-night programming, including dances, karaoke, and themed panels that go until 2 a.m. or later. If you’re a night owl, plan your day with a little extra downtime to save energy for these late-night gems!

9. Cosplay Wisely: Plan Your Costume and Routes

For cosplayers, a little planning can make the day way smoother. Check for cosplay repair stations where you can do quick fixes if needed, and be mindful of routes that involve stairs or tight spaces if your costume is elaborate. Having a map of accessible routes and locations can be a lifesaver for bulky or intricate costumes.

10. Use Social Media and the Event App to Stay Updated

Some conventions offer live updates through apps or social media, where you can get news on event changes, surprise guests, or room capacity limits. Following the event’s hashtag on social media can also clue you into pop-up events or fan gatherings. Staying in the loop digitally means you’ll be one step ahead!

Must-Experience Events at M.A.G.E.

Special Guest Appearances and Autograph Sessions

Get ready to meet some of the most celebrated voices and personalities in anime and gaming at M.A.G.E.! Meet industry legends like voice actors and gaming personalities in Q&A sessions and autograph signings including:

• Greg Ayres, the voice of Son Goku from Saiyuki, Yu Nishinoya from Haikyuu!!, and Frost from Dragon Ball Super, will be on hand, sharing stories from his vast career and offering fans a chance to get up close with one of the busiest voices in anime.
• Oscar Seung, whose vocal talents bring to life characters in shows like Attack on Titan, Yuri on Ice, and One Piece, will also be joining, sharing his journey as an Asian-American actor in the entertainment industry.
• Marcus M. Mauldin, a powerhouse in both film and voice acting, is best known for his roles as Brick in the Borderlands series and for voicing Mal'Damba in Paladins. He’ll be bringing his infectious energy to M.A.G.E. and chatting about his diverse career.
• Major Attaway, the Broadway star who graced the stage as the Genie in Disney’s Aladdin, is no stranger to fan love, with roles in anime such as One Piece and Fairy Tail. Major’s journey from theater to voice acting is a fascinating one, and he can’t wait to meet his fans!
• Sin_Thetic_Cosplay, who made waves at MetaCon 2023 by winning Best in Show, will share her cosplay expertise, from prop-making to intricate armor crafting. This year, she’s sure to inspire new cosplayers and fans alike with her talent and creativity.
• Astros_here, a passionate advocate for disabled cosplayers, will be at M.A.G.E. to share their journey in the cosplay world. Known for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with crafting, Astros is a shining example of how cosplay is for everyone, no matter the challenges.

Popular autograph sessions and Q&A panels often have long lines. If you’ve got a must-see guest in mind, getting to the event early will give you a better shot at meeting them and securing a spot in their panel.

Bring along items like posters, action figures, or DVDs from your favorite shows for your guests to sign. Some guests may even offer exclusive prints or other memorabilia for sale at their booths, so you can snag something special to commemorate the experience!

Since many guests are attending all three days, you’ll have multiple opportunities to meet them. Don’t worry if you miss a panel or signing session, you can always catch them again later or get an autograph during a quieter time. Check out their schedules to plan ahead!

Many guests love to connect with fans, and conventions are a great time to ask questions, get to know their experiences in the industry, and maybe even share your own favorite moments of their work. Be sure to bring your questions for the Q&A sessions – it’s a chance to learn more about the people behind the characters!

Late Night Dances and Musical Events

From rave dances to the Formal Fantasy Ball, M.A.G.E. delivers high-energy events every night. If you’re a dance enthusiast, grab your glow sticks and prepare to party! For a more refined experience, check out concerts with themes that appeal to fans of anime and gaming.

Japanese Culture Experiences

Dive deeper into Japanese traditions with hands-on experiences, such as workshops on learning Japanese, calligraphy, or tea ceremonies. These cultural encounters give fans a meaningful, immersive experience, and many sessions are interactive, offering insight into Japan’s artistic and cultural depth.

Exhibitors Hall and Artist Alley

Bring your wallet! The Exhibitors Hall is packed with merchandise, art, and collectibles from a range of vendors. Unique treasures from indie artists in Artist Alley offer great gifts or mementos. Explore these areas early on the first day, as certain items sell out quickly.

Cosplay

Cosplayers shine at M.A.G.E., with costumes ranging from anime heroes to sci-fi icons. The Grand Costume ContestGrand Costume Contest showcases the best outfits, and competing or watching is a highlight for many fans. Be sure to attend the judging portion to see the most intricate designs and heartfelt performances.

Gaming Rooms: Video and Tabletop

Dedicated gaming rooms offer consoles, PCs, and arcade machines like Dance Dance Revolution. The Tabletop Gaming room is a social hub where you can join games of Munchkin, life-size Catan, and collectible card game tournaments. Bring your gaming spirit and don’t hesitate to join others!

Karaoke

Karaoke at M.A.G.E. lets fans sing their hearts out with their favorite anime themes or pop hits. Whether performing solo or with friends, karaoke is a low-pressure activity that encourages participation and gives everyone a moment in the spotlight.

Fan-Run Panels

M.A.G.E.’s fan-run panels are where convention-goers can dive into an incredible variety of topics, all hosted by passionate individuals who share their expertise and experiences. These panels are a great way to explore unique interests and learn something new, often led by people who love to discuss and teach about the things they’re most passionate about.

For those considering putting together their own event, you might find helpful sessions on planning your own event—from logistics to promoting it, there are plenty of tips from experienced event hosts. If you’re looking to travel in the future, you could come across a discussion on cultural faux pas to avoid when going to Japan, offering insights into how to stay respectful while exploring the country.

For tech enthusiasts, there might be panels covering cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. You may even come across some exciting discussions about emerging tech, including how to get started in digital marketing or the basics of business startups, perfect for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit.

If you’re an aspiring writer, you could stumble upon tips and tricks for developing your craft, with panels aimed at tips for aspiring writers and the ins and outs of storytelling. And if you’re looking to learn something practical, some panels might explore learning basic conversational Japanese or delve into the latest trends in urban gardening and vintage shopping.

For those interested in health and wellness, you might come across panels about nutrition and health, offering practical advice for living a balanced life, or even meditation sessions to help reduce stress and find inner peace.

With such a broad range of potential topics—everything from entertainment and the arts to responsible credit card use—you’re sure to discover panels that pique your interest. These fan-run discussions are a great way to connect with others who share similar passions and gain valuable insights from diverse perspectives.

Ticketing Information: Why Buy Early?

Tickets can be purchased online, and getting them early often comes with discounts. Early bird purchases also ensure you’ll avoid potential sold-out situations and have more options for any additional event passes, such as exclusive meet-and-greets.

Tips for Convention-Goers

Take time to see a bit of Minneapolis! Nearby attractions include the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the scenic Chain of Lakes. For those staying longer, the city offers eco-friendly transportation options that make exploring easy and sustainable.

M.A.G.E. is a welcoming space, but if you’re attending alone, stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Share your itinerary with a friend or family member, and use the hotel’s free Wi-Fi to check in periodically.

With so many tempting items at M.A.G.E., it’s easy to overspend. Set a budget, use a credit card responsibly, and take advantage of cash-back or points if available. If you’re carrying cash, keep smaller bills handy for quicker transactions.

Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are a must. Also pack essentials like a portable phone charger, refillable water bottle, hand sanitizer, and a few healthy snacks to keep you fueled without needing to buy food constantly.

Your phone will be your lifeline, so bring a charger and portable power bank. Charging stations can get crowded, so a power bank will give you peace of mind. Hydrate regularly and pack snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or protein bars. The ConSweet is a great stop for free refreshments like ramen and soda to keep you energized.

Ready for the Ultimate M.A.G.E. Experience?

M.A.G.E. offers fans the chance to fully immerse themselves in the cultures of anime, gaming, and more. Whether you're here for the cosplay, the panels, or just the thrill of being around like-minded fans, M.A.G.E. has something special for everyone. Embrace the spirit of exploration and prepare to dive deep into all the excitement waiting for you.

Can’t wait to see you there—let the magic begin!