Just got back from a quick trip to Lancaster Pennsylvania to attend the first day of HMGS Cold Wars 2020. This is probably going to be my last trip for quite some time, as the lock downs are now taking effect. I had originally planned to go for the weekend, but with the current global concern, I decided to just go on Friday before the masses showed up and leave not to press my luck.
As usual, the convention included, scheduled games, tourneys, pick up games, painting classes, presentation, flea markets and a large vendor space. Due to the current health scare, a lot of events were cancelled. However, the vendor room had almost 100% participation.
The event was the normal set up in the Lancaster Host Resort. Things were moved around a bit. The tourney room was move into the stage area (unfortunately, no extra lighting was moved). The flea market was moved into the main Distelfink room and the main game room was the old tourney area. No big deal, just some general shifting. With the hotel having renovated most of the spaces, there is actually a lot more space and lighting to work with (except the state area that has not been renovated yet.
As usual, there were a number of very nice looking games. With the sparse attendance on Friday, many games were cancelled and there was lots of space to maximize people spacing. If you were there, there was more than enough to keep you entertained. It is probably going to be rough on the dealers, with so many people staying away….
I have to say that the hotel is coming together very nicely and will be a great place to use. However, I understood that this will be the last HMGS convention at this facility, with next year’s Cold Wars moving to Ocean City. As such, this event is kind of the end of an era. Somewhat sad for us grognards I guess……
Hopefully, the world crises will have passed by Historicon, but it is difficult to say. With all that said, I hope you enjoy the game table photos!
- Manteuffel