2020 vision and SDCC predictions. 0

[bluechip]

More than any other industry that involves crowds (sporting events, concerts, cruise ships, theme parks and theater) the comic/popular culture community thrives already online, and can adapt for the time being to doing more online.   If I were in the business, I would look heavily into setting up virtual cons whereby a reasonable fee entitles fans to participate in real-time online events which give them opportunities not only to see panels but also to interact online with celebrities and creators, both by asking questions in a virtual "hall" and one-to-one in a virtual meet and greet.  Signatures, sketches, con exclusives, contests, games, demos, raffles, group viewings, and even virtual shared meals and parties can all be part of the experience, which could run for several days in real time.  While it doesn't replace all the exciting aspects of the real thing it also eschews the need for hotels, parking, and pushing your way through a crowd just to cross the street.   

[Cat-Man_America]

6 hours ago, pemart1966 said:

I suspect that NYC Con can't be too far behind...

If not, the dealer booths may look a bit different this year...

OTOH, some fans may be able to cut costs booking hotel rooms.