Earlier this month Funimation announced a new convention to help cure the Covid-19 Summertime sadness. With the spread of the virus causing a pandemic, many conventions have had to postpone or cancel entirely. Among this list of conventions canceled, E3, Colossalcon, and Anime Expo are the most impactful of the growth of Pop culture. Although Anime themed video games rarely steal the show at E3, just a little bit of the buzz generated from the event helps to excite the upcoming announcements made typically at Anime Expo. With Anime Expo currently canceled due to California ordinances, Funimation has announced FunimationCon 2020.
Before we discuss whether or not FunimationCon 2020 will be successful or not, we must first identify what it attempts to be. Starting on July 3rd and carrying over to July 4th; this is the same weekend that Anime Expo would have taken place. Typically during Anime Expo, Funimation and other companies announce their upcoming lineup for the following year. Anime Expo is also the time for many cosplayers and hobbyists to gather to show off their latest projects.
With the cancellation of Anime Expo, many have speculated as to what FunimationCon 2020 would be in comparison. FunimationCon 2020 will offer panels, cosplay meetups, forums, and more events digitally. Like any typical anime convention, we can expect that FunimationCon 2020 will feature a variety of special guests. According to Colin Decker, General Manager of Funimation,
FunimationCon 2020 will be free and accessible to North American residents.
Will Funimationcon Be Successful?
2020 marks the first year that an anime convention has been held online. With a majority of human interactions moving to a digital platform, many have speculated how pop culture events will change to meet the demands of their consumers. Although Funimationcon 2020 looks to provide Anime enthusiasts with an outlet of entertainment, it cannot make up for the human element.
How many of you have ever been to an anime convention? Typically when you go to an anime convention it is for human interaction or to go to the merchants’ alley. An online convention does not provide that. The internet does not provide that. You can not dance with strangers in the same way. You cannot appreciate others cosplays and their meticulous attention to detail. An online convention does not provide the same experience.
Will people tune in to be entertained? Yes! Will it be an enriching experience? Sadly, no it will not come close despite their wonderful attempts. Should you still tune in? Yes, this is a way to be connected while apart.
Staying Connected with Us.
Come hang out with us on Discord. If you want to talk or even game with me, follow me on Twitter/Instagram. If you do not want to play but just enjoy watching, you can follow me on Twitch or YouTube as KillerKDemons.
In addition are you excited about a new Matrix movie or Paper Mario: Origami King?
