Neoncon ^[1], a regional, multi-genre gaming convention, is proud to announce Gen Con LLC ^[2] as the exclusive sponsor of GamesU 2009, the Social Games Unconference. Video game professionals have the Game Developer’s Conference (GDC) and GamesU serves the same purpose, but for the community of traditional, tabletop/social game developers and publishers. Already generating buzz across the industry, GamesU has all the earmarks of a “must attend” event for both established and aspiring game designers. Gen Con’s support of the GamesU launch is tremendous validation of the vision held for the event, now and in the future.

Taking a page from BarCamp, WordCamp and other more tech-oriented unconferences, GamesU creates a community-driven and ground-up learning environment where game designers come together, share ideas and learn from one another.

“Gen Con is excited to partner with Neoncon to launch GamesU,” said Scott Elliott, senior director of sales for Gen Con LLC. “The experts assembled for this inaugural event represent decades of publishing experience coupled with the cutting edge of face-to-face gaming. Grassroots, fun, smart and social games – these are the hallmarks of a Gen Con experience, which is why we are on board.”

Taking place in Las Vegas from November 5-8, Erik Mona of Paizo will present the Keynote Address at this inaugural GamesU. Among others, Mona is joined by a notable group of presenting game designers, which includes Randall Bills (Catalyst Game Labs), Marcelo Figueroa (Greater Games Industry Catalog), Joshua J. Frost (Paizo), Matthew Grau (Wildfire), Jess Hartley (White Wolf), Ed Healy (MoonStew), Boyan Radakovich (Shifting Skies), Stan! (Super Genius Games) and John Wick (Wicked Dead). Topics include game design, pitching to the pros, career development, effective use of the Internet and online social networks and much more.

For more information visit the website at www.neoncon.com ^[1].