Third annual C3 GameCon in Corvallis

 

If you were close to the Corvallis Community Center this weekend, you might've seen a peculiar sight: witches, anime characters, princesses, and even more. 

That was because the community center hosted Corvallis's third annual C3 GameCon this past Friday and Saturday, Feb. 16-17. 

The event, which drew in hundreds of Corvallis residents, featured activities such as a cosplay contest, game rooms for those wanting to try out new board games, and a vendor hall for anyone looking to buy any game-related merchandise. 

"I do like the vibe of this convention," said Mike Flynn, creator of Punch It! Graphics. "There's places for people to go and play and then come back. … I think that's really cool."

Flynn, a self-taught graphic design artist of nine years, sold custom-made prints and memorabilia at his vendor booth. Throughout the year, Flynn travels to an estimated 15-20 conventions across the United States. 

Flynn's appearance marked his first visit to a C3 GameCon, an appearance which almost didn't come to fruition. 

"I was looking for a show to do this weekend because I didn't have anything planned for it," said Flynn. "I just sent them a message, and they had a table for me, so it worked out great!" 

Flynn hopes to return to Corvallis during next year's C3 GameCon, barring any prior commitments. 

While the vending hall saw its fair share of visitors, most in attendance flocked towards the abundance of game rooms. 

In these rooms, attendees mingled and play-tested a selection of board games created by some of Corvallis's local game developers. 

"They've got quite a few different options," said Andrew Harper, a warehouse manager for Sherwin-Williams, "with what seems like very talented game-runners who are skilled into bringing people into some new experiences."  

Harper had first heard about the C3 GameCon through a few of his friends who were familiar with the gaming convention scene. With the convention being held relatively close to his place in Eugene, Harper decided to make the trip to the event. 

While Harper had spent most of his time playing a game with his group, he maintained a positive outlook on what happened to be his first C3 GameCon. 

"The vendor booths are just fun to see. ... It's a meeting of a lot of people interested in the wide swath of different types of gaming," said Harper. 

As convention-goers raved about their positive experiences, perhaps no one was more happy with the event's success than organizer Zach Johnson. 

Johnson, a recreation coordinator with Corvallis Parks and Recreation, works out of the Corvallis Community Center at 2601 NW Tyler Ave., managing adult programs and events. 

Johnson had worked with a group of staff and volunteers since Wednesday so that everything was set up and ready for the weekend. 

"Definitely takes a lot of work, we use volunteers, we use staff, it definitely takes a team to bring it together," said Johnson. 

The GameCon is just one of the many events hosted at the community center throughout the year. Events include a craft night with the arts center in May and a pride potluck in June. 

Despite the convention's relative infancy, Johnson had noticed a promising increase in the event's popularity with the local community. 

"I really like the community that comes together for this event," he said. "There's a lot of people who are really passionate about it and really excited to share that passion with everyone else."

The Corvallis Community Center plans on hosting the fourth rendition of C3 GameCon in 2025.

To learn more about the Corvallis Community Center and their upcoming events, visit their website at https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/c3

At a Glance: 

Who: Corvallis residents

What: C3 GameCon

When: Feb. 16-17

Where: Corvallis Community Center 2601 NW Tyler Ave. 

For more information: https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/c3