We’re holding an open call for games to be showcased on-site at the Toronto Comics Arts Festival (May 9th and 10th) as part of this year’s Comics X Games 8! Comics X Games fosters collaboration between the independent game and comic communities through a variety of projects, partnerships and events. Every year with our partners during TCAF, we present unique, game-focused content — from arcades and gallery shows, to panels, talks, and even cross-collaborative game jams. It’s a great opportunity to expose your game to TCAF’s diverse audience of over 20,000+ visitors. Table space is limited, so apply now!

[button size=’large’ style=” text=’Click here for the 2020 Exhibitor Application Form’ icon=” icon_color=” link=’https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdJq3LztgFkQUdEDbR1uoF8NNYEN6gwjz_ZDWbjAoafU9ZiA/viewform’ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=’center’ margin=”]

Submissions close February 9 2020 at midnight EST. 

Exhibitors must be able to attend TCAF in Toronto, Canada both days to set up and staff their table. Send any questions to the Comics X Games Team at cxg@handeyesociety.com (Sagan Yee, Ken Cho, Amanda Wong).

Note: TCAF has traditionally been held at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street. However, due to the disappointing events that transpired in October 2019, TCAF has made a statement that the event will exist in multiple venues and so we are waiting to hear back from organizers on their decision. For more information, please read TCAF’s statement on the issue that was published on December 31, 2019 here: http://www2.torontocomics.com/2019/12/30/tcaf-statement-about-toronto-public-library-and-the-2020-festival/

Table Fees Information: Please Read!

Taken by our Director of Technology Ken Cho while prepping for WordPlay

For the first time in 7 years, we are requesting a small fee of $30 per table and $10 for each piece of rented equipment (computers and monitors) for a maximum of $50. This money will go directly towards replacing and maintaining our tech, which takes a lot of wear-and-tear during events like this. Capital costs such as computers, monitors and speakers are often disqualified from funding sources such as government grants, and we’re always on the lookout for ways to replenish our weary machines. Additionally, financial support for Comics x Games often varies widely from year to year, so this will help ensure that we can continue to run this program sustainably.

You always have the option to waive the fee if you feel it would be a barrier to applying; simply check the appropriate box when applying through the exhibitor form.

Compared to other trade show table fees and considering games don’t make a ton of money off merch, we feel this is a fair price. However, you won’t be penalized for waiving the fee – we want to keep things accessible and inclusive! Consider it a suggested donation for those who are able to afford it, and know that we will forever appreciate your contributions to making our programming free and open to the public. This is a new thing we’re trying out, so we look forward to hearing your feedback.

For Toronto/GTA and sometimes international artists, we have several non-vendor exhibition opportunities where we pay out artist fees (such as Waterfront Arcade, Curious Cabinets, WordPlay and the Oakwood Village Residency in 2017), so please keep an eye out for ongoing activities throughout the year!

Application FAQ

When and where is TCAF?  The Toronto Comic Arts Festival 2020 will take place Saturday, May 9th, 9am-5pm, and Sunday May 10th, 10am-5pm, at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street. The Comics x Games exhibit usually takes place on the second floor.

How does Comics X Games fit into this? TCAF is its own event/organization, but the Comics x Games programming is coordinated by the Hand Eye Society and promoted as a cross-disciplinary part of the main festival. It’s a partnership that started in 2012 between TCAF and HES co-founder, Miguel Sternberg, with support from TIFF.nexus. We are extremely grateful to TCAF for being a great host all these years!

Do I need to live in Toronto to take part? Nope. International guests are welcome as long as you’re able to travel to Toronto for TCAF and staff your table over the two days. TCAF’s FAQ has some good travel information for out of town visitors.

Is there a table fee for confirmed applicants? Yes, but we are very flexible. For the first time in 7 years, we are charging a small fee of $30 per table and $10 for each piece of loaned equipment (computer and/or monitor) so the maximum ask won’t be higher than $50 CAD. This money will go towards the wear-and-tear on our equipment, which is expensive to replace and difficult to fund through normal channels. However, you won’t be penalized for waiving the fee – we want to keep things as accessible and inclusive as possible!

Can I sell merchandise for my game? Yes; in fact we encourage it! Banners, postcards, download codes, plushies, etc. are all fine. However first and foremost this is a games showcase so you need to have your game set up for people to play, and to please respect your neighbour’s table space.

My game has nothing to do with comics, so can I still apply? Yes! While we are always excited to see game submissions with some connection to the world of comics, such as visual novels or interactive experiments that play with the concept of sequential art (or comic artists who are also making indie games), all are welcome to apply! Click here to see a list of previous exhibitors.

I don’t have a game, but my comic is super relevant to games, can I exhibit at Comics x Games? Unless it’s some form of interactive comic (like Meanwhile or Framed), probably not. Send us an email if you want to be put on a list and we’ll let you know if extra space becomes available. Alternatively, you can let us know you are interested in being a speaker or a panellist, as we’ve had many guests such as Jason Shiga talk about their comics in an interdisciplinary context.

How do you decide which games get selected for the arcade? We get more and more submissions every year and only have enough table space to select about 30 games, so there are many factors that go into making the final selection. Once submissions close, the HES team sits down and plays through all of the games that were submitted. There is no main criteria that governs our choices, but we like to see a wide variety of types of games (multiplayer, story-driven, puzzle, experimental, even tabletop), as well as prioritizing games that demonstrate the independent creative spirit of TCAF. Some of the other things we look for are: Is the artist/studio from Toronto or the GTA? Are they a student or emerging artist who could use the exhibition experience? Are they from a marginalized or traditionally underrepresented background? Above all, balance is key!

Do I need to provide my own computer equipment? Yes, you should bring everything you need to showcase your game. However, you can rent a computer and/or monitor if you’d like (see the form). A small number of loaner set-ups will be available, although they are fairly underpowered and we will have to test your game on them to make sure they run properly. Priority will be given to guests coming from outside of Toronto/the GTA.

Will there be internet on site? Not particularly. While the library technically has free Wi-Fi, it’s spotty at the best of times and borderline useless during TCAF. We strongly recommend having a build that is is playable offline.

I only want to showcase for one of the days, can I do that? Probably not. Priority will be given to exhibitors showing both days but you can send us an email with your preferred day if you want to be put on a list.

I exhibited in previous years and the space was kind of difficult to navigate. Will there be any changes this year? Unfortunately there is unlikely to be any changes to the physical area as long as TCAF remains in the Toronto Reference Library. The second floor space is what we’ve been given to work with, and the tables are bolted to the floor, which makes changing the layout basically impossible. We’ve flagged the risers as an accessibility issue, but until a solution is found, we will continue to do our best to make sure everyone’s needs are met!

Question not on the list? Email cxg@handeyesociety.com

For more information about TCAF:

Website: www.torontocomics.com
Twitter: @Torontocomics
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TorontoComics
Tumblr: torontocomics.tumblr.com

[button size=large” style=” text=’Comics X Games 2019 Submission Form’ icon=” icon_color=” link=’https://goo.gl/forms/RxEUGPR5LeWL9r6B3′ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=” margin=”]

SUBMISSIONS END FEBRUARY 7 2019 AT MIDNIGHT EST. 

Exhibitors MUST be able to attend TCAF in Toronto, Canada both days to set up and staff their table. Please send any questions to the Comics X Games Team at cxg@handeyesociety.com (Sagan Yee, Royel Edwards, Ken Cho, Amanda Wong, Alenn Predko).

APPLICATION FAQ

When and where is TCAF?

The Toronto Comic Arts Festival 2019 will take place Saturday, May 11th, 9am-5pm, and Sunday May 12th, 10am-5pm, at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street. The Comics x Games exhibit usually takes place on the second floor.

How does Comics X Games fit into this?

TCAF is its own event/organization, but the Comics x Games programming is coordinated by the Hand Eye Society and promoted as a cross-disciplinary part of the main festival. It’s a partnership that started in 2012 between TCAF and HES c0-founder, Miguel Sternberg, with support from TIFF.nexus. We are extremely grateful to TCAF for being a great host all these years!

Do I need to live in Toronto to take part? 

Nope. International guests are welcome as long as you’re able to travel to Toronto for TCAF and staff your table over the two days. TCAF’s FAQ has some good travel information for out of town visitors.

Is there a table fee for confirmed applicants? 

Yes, but we are very flexible. Since 2018, we are charging a small optional fee of $30 per table and $10 for each piece of loaned equipment (computer and/or monitor) so the maximum ask won’t be higher than $50 CAD. This money will go towards the wear-and-tear on our equipment, which is expensive to replace and difficult to fund through normal channels. However, you won’t be penalized for waiving the fee – we want to keep things as accessible and inclusive as possible! Simply check the appropriate boxes when filling out your submission to indicate your preferences. You can read more about the decision to implement table fees here.

Can I sell merchandise for my game?

Yes; in fact we encourage it! Banners, postcards, download codes, plushies, etc. are all fine. However first and foremost this is a games showcase so you need to have your game set up for people to play, and to please respect your neighbour’s table space.

My game has nothing to do with comics, so can I still apply?

Yes! While we are always excited to see game submissions with some connection to the world of comics, such as visual novels or interactive experiments that play with the concept of sequential art (or comic artists who are also making indie games), all are welcome to apply! Click here to see a list of previous exhibitors.

I don’t have a game, but my comic is super relevant to games, can I exhibit at Comics x Games?

Unless it’s some form of interactive comic (like Meanwhile or Framed), probably not. Send us an email if you want to be put on a list and we’ll let you know if extra space becomes available. Alternatively, you can let us know you are interested in being a speaker or a panellist, as we’ve had many guests such as Jason Shiga talk about their comics in an interdisciplinary context.

How do you decide which games get selected for the arcade?

We get more and more submissions every year and only have enough table space to select about 30 games, so there are many factors that go into making the final selection. Once submissions close, the HES team sits down and plays through all of the games that were submitted. There is no main criteria that governs our choices, but we like to see a wide variety of types of games (multiplayer, story-driven, puzzle, experimental, even tabletop), as well as prioritizing games that demonstrate the independent creative spirit of TCAF. Some of the other things we look for are: Is the artist/studio from Toronto or the GTA? Are they a student or emerging artist who could use the exhibition experience? Are they from a marginalized or traditionally underrepresented background? Above all, balance is key!

Do I need to provide my own computer equipment?

Yes, you should bring everything you need to showcase your game. However, you can rent a computer and/or monitor if you’d like (see the form). A small number of loaner set-ups will be available, although they are fairly underpowered and we will have to test your game on them to make sure they run properly. Priority will be given to guests coming from outside of Toronto/the GTA.

Will there be internet on site?

Not particularly. While the library technically has free Wi-Fi, it’s spotty at the best of times and borderline useless during TCAF. We strongly recommend having a build that is is playable offline.

I only want to showcase for one of the days, can I do that?

Probably not. Unfortunately, priority will be given to exhibitors showing both days, but you can send us an email with your preferred day if you want to be put on a list.

I exhibited in previous years and the space was kind of difficult to navigate. Will there be any changes this year?

Unfortunately there is unlikely to be any changes to the physical area as long as TCAF remains in the Toronto Reference Library. The second floor space is what we’ve been given to work with, and the tables are bolted to the floor, which makes changing the layout basically impossible. We’ve flagged the risers as an accessibility issue, but until a solution is found, we will continue to do our best to make sure everyone’s needs are met!

Question not on the list? Email us! cxg@handeyesociety.com

For more information about TCAF:

Website: www.torontocomics.com
Twitter: @Torontocomics
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TorontoComics

[button size=’large’ style=” text=’Click here for the 2018 Exhibitor Application Form’ icon=” icon_color=” link=’https://goo.gl/forms/rkaJfHnw1hZuVYq92′ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=’center’ margin=”]

Submissions end January 31 2018 at midnight EST. 

Exhibitors must be able to attend TCAF in Toronto, Canada both days to set up and staff their table. Send any questions to the Comics X Games Team at cxg@handeyesociety.com (Sagan Yee, Ken Cho, Amanda Wong).

New Table Fees In Effect: Please Read!

Taken by our Director of Technology Ken Cho while prepping for WordPlay

For the first time in 7 years, we are requesting a small fee of $30 per table and $10 for each piece of rented equipment (computers and monitors) for a maximum of $50. This money will go directly towards replacing and maintaining our tech, which takes a lot of wear-and-tear during events like this. Capital costs such as computers, monitors and speakers are often disqualified from funding sources such as government grants, and we’re always on the lookout for ways to replenish our weary machines. Additionally, financial support for Comics x Games often varies widely from year to year, so this will help ensure that we can continue to run this program sustainably.

You always have the option to waive the fee if you feel it would be a barrier to applying; simply check the appropriate box when applying through the exhibitor form.

Compared to other trade show table fees and considering games don’t make a ton of money off merch, we feel this is a fair price. However, you won’t be penalized for waiving the fee – we want to keep things accessible and inclusive! Consider it a suggested donation for those who are able to afford it, and know that we will forever appreciate your contributions to making our programming free and open to the public. This is a new thing we’re trying out, so we look forward to hearing your feedback.

For Toronto/GTA and sometimes international artists, we have several non-vendor exhibition opportunities where we pay out artist fees (such as Waterfront Arcade, Curious Cabinets, WordPlay and the Oakwood Village Residency in 2017), so please keep an eye out for ongoing activities throughout the year!

Application FAQ

When and where is TCAF?  The Toronto Comic Arts Festival 2018 will take place Saturday, May 12th, 9am-5pm, and Sunday May 13th, 10am-5pm, at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street. The Comics x Games exhibit usually takes place on the second floor.

How does Comics X Games fit into this? TCAF is its own event/organization, but the Comics x Games programming is coordinated by the Hand Eye Society and promoted as a cross-disciplinary part of the main festival. It’s a partnership that started in 2012 between TCAF and HES c0-founder, Miguel Sternberg, with support from TIFF.nexus. We are extremely grateful to TCAF for being a great host all these years!

Do I need to live in Toronto to take part? Nope. International guests are welcome as long as you’re able to travel to Toronto for TCAF and staff your table over the two days. TCAF’s FAQ has some good travel information for out of town visitors.

Is there a table fee for confirmed applicants? Yes, but we are very flexible. For the first time in 7 years, we are charging a small fee of $30 per table and $10 for each piece of loaned equipment (computer and/or monitor) so the maximum ask won’t be higher than $50 CAD. This money will go towards the wear-and-tear on our equipment, which is expensive to replace and difficult to fund through normal channels. However, you won’t be penalized for waiving the fee – we want to keep things as accessible and inclusive as possible!

Can I sell merchandise for my game? Yes; in fact we encourage it! Banners, postcards, download codes, plushies, etc. are all fine. However first and foremost this is a games showcase so you need to have your game set up for people to play, and to please respect your neighbour’s table space.

My game has nothing to do with comics, so can I still apply? Yes! While we are always excited to see game submissions with some connection to the world of comics, such as visual novels or interactive experiments that play with the concept of sequential art (or comic artists who are also making indie games), all are welcome to apply! Click here to see a list of previous exhibitors.

I don’t have a game, but my comic is super relevant to games, can I exhibit at Comics x Games? Unless it’s some form of interactive comic (like Meanwhile or Framed), probably not. Send us an email if you want to be put on a list and we’ll let you know if extra space becomes available. Alternatively, you can let us know you are interested in being a speaker or a panellist, as we’ve had many guests such as Jason Shiga talk about their comics in an interdisciplinary context.

How do you decide which games get selected for the arcade? We get more and more submissions every year and only have enough table space to select about 30 games, so there are many factors that go into making the final selection. Once submissions close, the HES team sits down and plays through all of the games that were submitted. There is no main criteria that governs our choices, but we like to see a wide variety of types of games (multiplayer, story-driven, puzzle, experimental, even tabletop), as well as prioritizing games that demonstrate the independent creative spirit of TCAF. Some of the other things we look for are: Is the artist/studio from Toronto or the GTA? Are they a student or emerging artist who could use the exhibition experience? Are they from a marginalized or traditionally underrepresented background? Above all, balance is key!

Do I need to provide my own computer equipment? Yes, you should bring everything you need to showcase your game. However, you can rent a computer and/or monitor if you’d like (see the form). A small number of loaner set-ups will be available, although they are fairly underpowered and we will have to test your game on them to make sure they run properly. Priority will be given to guests coming from outside of Toronto/the GTA.

Will there be internet on site? Not particularly. While the library technically has free Wi-Fi, it’s spotty at the best of times and borderline useless during TCAF. We strongly recommend having a build that is is playable offline.

I only want to showcase for one of the days, can I do that? Probably not. Priority will be given to exhibitors showing both days but you can send us an email with your preferred day if you want to be put on a list.

I exhibited in previous years and the space was kind of difficult to navigate. Will there be any changes this year? Unfortunately there is unlikely to be any changes to the physical area as long as TCAF remains in the Toronto Reference Library. The second floor space is what we’ve been given to work with, and the tables are bolted to the floor, which makes changing the layout basically impossible. We’ve flagged the risers as an accessibility issue, but until a solution is found, we will continue to do our best to make sure everyone’s needs are met!

Question not on the list? Email cxg@handeyesociety.com

For more information about TCAF:

Website: www.torontocomics.com
Twitter: @Torontocomics
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TorontoComics
Tumblr: torontocomics.tumblr.com

TTC SUBWAY ALERT: For those of you travelling by public transit, Line 2 (the main East-West green line) will be CLOSED on Saturday May 13 from St. George to Broadview. Unfortunately this affects the station closest to the Toronto Reference Library, Bloor-Yonge Station, so give yourself plenty of time as the shuttle buses aren’t quite as fast and a lot of other TCAF-goers may be using them as well. Click here for more info.

Find us on social media:
Twitter: @HandEyeSociety
#TCAF / Comics x Games / CxG
Facebook group

CxG Panels: 1st Floor, Learning Centre 1

PANEL 1: JAMMING WITH THE COMICS X GAMES JAMMERS
For artists looking to get into making games, or anyone who likes comics, games, or both!
Saturday, May 13
1:30 PM

PANEL 2: DETECTIVES, DEVILS AND DATE NIGHTS: A CONVERSATION WITH PILLOW FIGHT
For anyone interested in visual novels, narrative or character-driven storytelling in games, and making a living from your art!
Sunday, May 14
4:00 PM

Arcade Exhibit: 2nd Floor

Exhibitor Game Guide

JAM GAMES: A grocery shopping adventure gone awry, a VR spirit surgery sim, and a 2-player battle for zine supremacy! Check out the Comic x Game Jam games at the arcade, and meet the artists at their panel on Saturday at 1:30 PM.

HEY GRAB ME SOME- • Dispirited • Battle Zine Turbo V

VISUAL NOVELS: Get your noir on with a couple of detective-themed tales, flirt with a slime girl, hack the enemy, and learn about the business and pleasure of North American visual novels with Pillow Fight (We Know the Devil, Rose of Winter) at their panel on Sunday at 4 PM!

Rose of Winter • Monster Girls Gaynerations: Ghoulfriends For Life • Code Romantic • PURITY & DECAY • Detective Madson in Drop Dead Gorgeous

TABLETOP: Craving some cardboard? We’ve got Earthbound-meets-Smash Bros. and Veronica Mars-meets-the Apocalypse in tabletop game form!

Tiny Swords SMAAASH! • We Used To Be Friends

MULTIPLAYER: Brawl, solve puzzles, shoot arrows, get hats, and make a really bad version of Stonehenge with this colourful party platter of multiplayer games.

Arrow Heads • King of the Hat • Monumental Failure • Dead Winter • Runbow • Riverbond

SOLO: A wonderful variety pack of gameplay and art styles, from pixel-perfect arcade games and hand-drawn street dance, to the art of Pascal Campion as a mobile jigsaw puzzle app.

Pirate Pop Plus • Fish Fly Fever • Russian Subway Dogs • Tram-Panic! • Floor Kids • Jigsaw Story

AUTOBIO: Get personal with two autobiographical games exploring — respectively — a job, a relationship, and how sometimes these things come to an end.

I Get This Call Every Day • This is My Memory of First Heartbreak, Which I Can’t Quite Piece Back Together

STRANGE WORLDS: Mystery awaits you here, whether exploring haunted cybernetic realms, human sacrifice, a labyrinth of disembodied hands, or just hanging out with a blind bear in the forest.

Forgotten • GEMETON • Holoscope • The Shrouded Isle • Unspokin • Palmystery

Click here to see the full description of panelists and exhibitors!

ARCADE/TCAF HOURS:

Saturday, May 13th, 9am-5pm
Sunday May 14th, 10am-5pm

If you have any questions, please contact cxg@handeyesociety.com (all e-mail will be forwarded to the CxG/HES Logistics team: Alicia Contestabile, Ken Cho, and Sagan Yee). This event was co-organized with TCAF, sponsored by the OMDC.

The Hand Eye Society is holding an open call for videogames to showcase on-site at the Toronto Comics Arts Festival (May 13th and 14th) as part of this year’s Comics x Games 6! Comics x Games (formerly known as Comics vs Games) fosters collaboration between the independent game and comic communities through a variety of projects, partnerships and events. Every year with our partners during the TCAF, we present unique, game-focused content — from arcades and gallery shows, to panels and talks. It’s a great opportunity to expose your game to TCAF’s diverse audience of over 20,000 visitors. Table space is limited, so apply now!

*** click here for the Exhibitor Application Form ***

Applications end March 21 2017 at Midnight EST. Exhibitors must be able to attend TCAF (in Toronto, Canada) both days to set up and staff their table. Send any questions to cxg@handeyesociety.com

Application FAQ

When and where is TCAF?  The Toronto Comic Arts Festival 2017 will take place Saturday, May 13th, 9am-5pm, and Sunday May 14th, 10am-5pm, at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street. The Comics x Games exhibit usually takes place on the second floor.

Why did you change the name? Until 2017, this program was previously known as Comics vs Games. We changed it to better reflect the program’s collaborative spirit!

Do I need to live in Toronto take part? Nope. International guests are welcome as long as you’re able to travel to Toronto for TCAF and staff your table over the two days. TCAF’s FAQ has some good travel information for out of town visitors.

Is there a table fee for confirmed applicants? Not currently! We have considered it for future exhibits and it may happen someday, but so far it has always been free.

Can I sell merchandise for my game? Yes; in fact we encourage it! Banners, postcards, download codes, plushies, etc. are all fine. However first and foremost this is a games showcase so you need to have your game set up for people to play, and to please respect your neighbour’s table space.

My game has nothing to do with comics, so can I still apply? Yes! While we are always excited to see game submissions with some connection to the world of comics, such as visual novels or interactive experiments that play with the concept of sequential art, all games are welcome to apply! Click here to see a list of previous exhibitors.

Do I need to provide my own computer? Yes, you should bring everything you need to showcase your game. However, you can request a table with a monitor if you’d like (see the form). A small number of loaner set-ups will also be available. Priority will be given to guests coming from outside of Toronto/the GTA.

Will there be internet on site? Not particularly. While the library technically has free Wi-Fi, it’s spotty at the best of times and borderline useless during TCAF. We strongly recommend having a build that is is playable offline.

I don’t have a game, but my comic is super relevant to games, can I exhibit at Comics x Games? Unless it’s some form of interactive comic (like Meanwhile or Framed), probably not. Send us an email if you want to be put on a list and we’ll let you know if extra space becomes available. Alternatively, you can let us know you are interested in being a speaker or a panellist, as we’ve had many guests such as Jason Shiga talk about their comics in an interdisciplinary context.

I only want to showcase for one of the days, can I do that? Probably not. Priority will be given to exhibitors showing both days but you can send us an email with your preferred day if you want to be put on a list. Question not on the list? Email cxg@handeyesociety.com

For more information about TCAF:

Website: www.torontocomics.com
Twitter: @Torontocomics
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TorontoComics
Tumblr: torontocomics.tumblr.com

Some highlights: A lively discussion about Twitch streaming as a platform for artists to engage their audiences online; constant lineups to try the VR Superhero game; microtalks on every subject from designing games for colour-blindness to the digital hybridity of comic and game art; and inventive table displays including a moss-covered keyboard, helium balloons, and an entire papercraft Russian castle! Click here for the full list and summary of every game and speaker.

For feedback or inquiries about Comics vs Games and the Hand Eye Society, or to submit corrections to this post, please contact the team at cvsg@handeyesociety.com! And if you’re currently working on a game, consider exhibiting with us at next year’s TCAF. There are no restrictions on the types of games that are selected; as long as you can be physically present with your game at the festival, you are eligible to submit! Sign up for our newsletter to get next year’s announcements.

Finally, as a reminder to those of you who are Hand Eye Society members, you can keep celebrating your love of comics, graphic novels and sequential art all year round with a 10% discount off regular titles at the following stores:  The Beguiling, Little Island, and Page & Panel: The TCAF Shop.

Photos by Beck Sorley

Here’s  a Dropbox link to the full photo set!

Testimonials

The show was a great experience for our whole team. We had a blast, met cool people and most of all it was a powerful experience. Having people of all ages play our game and show excitement was incredibly rewarding and invaluable. — Kyle, Project Grand Vault

The diversity in players at CvsG was inspiring. It presented us with an interesting opportunity to see how a truly general public perceives our game. Unlike other festivals which focused on more traditional gamers, CvsG offered us a space to see what folks from all walks of life thought of our game. The diversity in audience was match by the diversity of the curation. This resulted in an event which showed people the wide breath of games in a way which is rarely done so effectively. — Maurice Grela, No Holds Billiards

Comics vs Games is always one of the highlights of TCAF. The Hand Eye Society works tirelessly to bring interesting speakers together in unique ways and exhibit games that are truly important–and it shows. I was honored to be a part of the CvsG programming after so many years of being a fan, and what I learned from my fellow panelists can’t even be measured. — Kalervo A. Sinervo, microtalks panelist

Comics vs Games was a lot of fun, and everyone who ran it was a pleasure to work with! I hope to attend again in the coming years. — Dawn, Those Without Shadows

It was a great chance to exhibit for a slice of society that you don’t necessarily see at videogame conventions and aren’t necessarily diehard gamers. I got a lot of invaluable observations from playtesting that I probably wouldn’t have gotten otherwise. I’m not really a big comics fan, so it was also a mind-broadening experience to merely be around a bunch of creators from a medium I don’t really interact with. — Kenny, Sky Rogue

We loved attending Comics vs Games, and got to meet a whole bunch of cool new people and introduce our game to hundreds and hundreds of new fans! — exhibitor

Comics vs Games was a great way to show Real Army Simulator to a whole new audience! — Derek Quenneville, Real Army Simulator

This year’s event went extremely well. It was fun, our volunteers were diligent and helpful, and there was even time for me to get to play some of the games. — Kai Winter, HES volunteer coordinator

I had a lot of fun, met awesome people and everyone from TCAF were really helpful. — Rafael Pacheco, GalaCollider 

For exhibitors like us, I believe you measure the success of an event to the professionalism of the organizers. So it’s with no doubt that I would say this event was a huge success. Thank you everyone and see you next year! — Mark Mikulec, Cupkins

As the biggest event I’ve ever presented at, I expected to see some backlash regarding the themes within my game An/Other. Instead, I received nothing but overwhelmingly positive feedback from all players. At around noon on Saturday, I received a tap on the shoulder. Much to my surprise, it was a reporter from CityNews who had heard about An/Other and wanted to feature it on the news that day. After giving me some time to mentally prepare, the reported returned with their cameraman and they interviewed me and filmed my booth. The segment featuring my interview and An/Other was broadcast on CityNews that night.

In addition to the wonderful TCAF attendees who played An/Other all weekend, I met several people on Sunday who came to play An/Other after discovering it through that CityNews interview and have been getting e-mails from others. Over the course of the weekend I had many amazing conversations with audiences about An/Other that wouldn’t have been possible without the Comics Vs Games exhibit at TCAF. Thank you for giving me such an invaluable and unforgettable experience. — Jordan Sparks, An/Other

Thanks to our speakers!

Benjamin Rivers, Keith Makse, Yifat Shaik, Derek Quenneville, Kalervo A. Sinervo. Alex Rushdy and Andrew Baillie, Leisha Riddel, Nic ter Horst, Rosemary Brennan, Shawn Mcgrath, Rachel Kahn

Thanks to our exhibitors!

A Good Snowman Is Hard To Build – Alan Hazelden, Benjamin Davis, Ryan Roth
Aces Over Eights – 14 Hours Productions
Alea – Paloma Dawkins, Cale Bradbury, Caila Thompson
An/Other – Jordan Sparks
Auto Age: Standoff – Phantom Compass Inc.
Balloon Buoyancy – Nawaf Bahadur, Peter Harthen
Bravery Network – Gloam Collective
Cryptark – Alien Trap Games
Cupkins – Joydrop Ltd
Dodge Club Party – James Montagna, George Mathews, Lindsay Collins, Tommy Pedrini
Don’t Fall In The Hole – Oooweeooo
Endlight-Outside – Bigpants
GalaCollider – NeoCrux Ltd
Hackers Versus Banksters – Crawley Software
Last Fight – Piranaking
LongStory – Bloom Digital Media
LOUD on Planet X – Pop Sandbox
MANDATORY UPGRADE: X MARKS THE SPOT – One More Story Games
No Holds Billiards – Maurice Grela, Kevan Yip, Michelle Skarupa, Em Halberstadt
Project Grand Vault – Dead Cell Games
Quick Drop – Woolly Walrus Games
Real Army Simulator – The Really Serious Game Company
Runbow – 13AM Games
SHNIPERS – Brenden Cameron
Shuyan – Mark Media
Sky Rogue – Fractal Phase
Sokobond – Alan Hazelden, Harry Lee, Ryan Roth
Super Hero VR – Red Meat Games
Those Without Shadows – Dawn Davis
Visual Novel Chill Zone – PIZZAPRANKS (Andrew Baillie)
Wits & Warfare – Red Meat Games
Za Vas (To You) – Brittney Oberfeld, Kimberly Koronya, Lee Tran, Jen Costa, Mike Romaniak

Thanks to our staff, volunteers, TCAF and sponsors!

Hand Eye Society Staff
Miguel Sternberg
Ken Cho
Sagan Yee
Leisha Riddel (Twitch panel moderator)
Kai Winters (volunteer coordinator)

Comics vs Games Volunteers
Aedan A
James Brownlee
Annie Lee
Jessie Sheng
Joshua P’ng
Archie Wisco
Jason Bond
Leif Conti-Groome
Beck Sorley (photographer)

TCAF Staff
Christopher Butcher
Miles Baker
Kim Hoang

And last but not least, a HUGE thanks to the OMDC, official sponsor of this year’s Comics vs Games program!

The Hand Eye Society is holding an open call for videogames to showcase on-site at the Toronto Comics Arts Festival (May 14th and 15th) as part of this year’s Comics vs Games 5! Comics vs Games fosters collaboration between the independent game and comic communities through a variety of projects, partnerships and events. Every year with our partners during the TCAF, we present unique, game-focused content — from arcades and gallery shows, to panels and talks. It’s a unique opportunity to expose your game to TCAF’s diverse audience of over 20,000 visitors. Table space is limited so apply now!

*** click here for the Exhibitor Application Form ***

Applications end March 10 2016 at Midnight EST. Exhibitors must be able to attend TCAF (in Toronto, Canada) both days to set up and staff their table. Send any questions to cvsg@handeyesociety.com

Application FAQ

When and where is TCAF?  The Toronto Comic Arts Festival 2016 will take place Saturday, May 14th, 9am-5pm, and Sunday May 15th, 11am-5pm, at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street.

Do I need to live in Toronto take part? Nope. International guests are welcome as long as you’re able to travel to Toronto for TCAF and staff your table over the two days. TCAF’s FAQ has some good travel information for out of town visitor.

How much will my table cost? Since this is a relatively new space at the library, we’re offering tables for free this year while we work out any kinks.

Can I sell merchandise for my game? Yes! However first and foremost this is a games showcase so you need to have your game set up for people to play.

My game has nothing to do with comics, so can I still apply? Yes! While we will give preference to games with some connection to the world of comics, all games are welcome to apply! Click here to see a list of previous exhibitors.

Do I need to provide my own computer? Yes, you should bring everything you need to showcase your game. However, you can request a table with a monitor if you’d like (see the form). A small number of loaner set-ups will also be available; check the box if you’re interested.

Will there be internet on site? Sort of. While the library technically has free Wi-Fi, it’s spotty at the best of times and borderline useless during TCAF. We strongly recommend having a build that is is playable offline.

I don’t have a game but my comic is super relevant to games, can I exhibit at Comics vs Games? Unless it’s some form of interactive comic (like Meanwhile or Framed), probably not. Send us an email if you want to be put on a list and we’ll let you know if extra space becomes available.

I only want to showcase for one of the days, can I do that? Probably not. Priority will be given to exhibitors showing both days but you can send us an email with your preferred day if you want to be put on a list. Question not on the list? Email cvsg@handeyesociety.com

For more information about TCAF:

Website: www.torontocomics.com
Twitter: @Torontocomics
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TorontoComics
Tumblr: torontocomics.tumblr.com