Are You Game Ready?
Otronicon VideoGame & Simulation Event Returns January 12-21, 2007 at the Orlando Science Center
ORLANDO, FL - (December 1, 2006) - The Orlando Science Center (OSC) and presenting sponsor Full Sail Real World Education are working with multiple partners to host Otronicon event on January 12-21, 2007. Last January's inaugural offering attracted more than 16,000 to experience how the cultural phenomenon of video games and digital media. This sophomore effort will combine the entertaining world of consumer video games with an insider's view of the art, technology and science that form the foundation and the future of the videogame and simulation industries.
Not solely an educational symposium, a series of video game tournaments or a simulation exhibit, Otronicon is an assemblage of all three and much more. During the event, multiple areas within the OSC will spotlight Central Florida's growing digital media industry and illustrate how this technology is changing everything from art, to education, to business, to military training.
Beyond playing the newest systems like Playstation 3 and Wii or revisiting classic arcade games in VideoTopia, guests will learn about the digital media opportunities in their own backyard. Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at Central Florida's digital future by attending game design workshops presented by Full Sail Real World Education, or check out the latest simulation technology from Lockheed Martin, Raydon Corporation and others.
During Otronicon, families and individuals of all ages will have a tremendous range of experiences, including:
Play on more than 100 gaming stations, including Playstation 3, Wii and Xbox 360. Play some of today's most in-demand games, plus networked multiplayer formats and more, including a game featuring a custom-designed OSC racecar. Discover how games are made and learn to make your own. Presenting sponsor Full Sail Real World Education is offering eye-opening workshops that will unlock the art and science behind game design, including one just for girls. Meet Dr. Butch Rosser, the videogame surgeon, and learn about "Games 4 Good." Explore the educational power of off-the-shelf videogames during a show that's been described as a spelling bee meets the X-Games at a Jay-Z concert. EXPANDED PROGRAMS THIS YEAR! Experience the games of yesteryear with the classic arcade of VideoTopia. Check out some of your old school favorites like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong and even Pong! TWICE THE SIZE OF LAST YEAR! Get your hands on cutting edge simulators used for military, commercial and industrial training. Learn how videogame technology is being used to train soldiers, pilots, drivers, medical professionals and more. Compete in daily tournaments that will culminate in championship bouts on the giant screen. Players will be matched against each other during rounds of some of the hottest games, including Halo, Madden NFL and Dance, Dance Revolution. Win prizes. See national tournaments from the Professional Gamers League and try to qualify for a local championship. Tournaments will take place on the 8-story screen of the Dr. Phillips CineDome (Jan.12, 13 & 14 only). Win prizes. NEW THIS YEAR! Dance, drive and rock out during the Cyber-Triathlon. This one-of-a-kind competition, created just for Otronicon, determines who's the best in three different consecutive games. Win prizes. Pint-Size play area for the littlest gamers. A section just for young children and their parents featuring a pint size version of Dance Dance Revolution plus games from V-Smile and Leap Frog. NEW THIS YEAR!Additional support for Otronicon is being provided through a grant from the Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs Advisory Council. Recognizing the important potential the event represents from both career and economic development perspectives, the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission is also participating as a funding sponsor.
Visit the teaser site at www.getgameready.com and then log onto www.otronicon.org for event updates. Daily admission to Otronicon will be $14.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids (under 12). Multi-day passes will be available as well. Our Body: The Universe Within will also be open to the public at this time, but is not included with Otronicon admission. OSC will have extended hours during Otronicon. For more information on the Orlando Science Center, please visit www.osc.org. For more information on Full Sail, please visit www.fullsail.com.