Bonus Stage

Downing's Basement: N64 Modding

Do you love the N64? Did you know the modding community has been hard at work creating PORTABLE N64s? Chris Downing who is one of the experts in the modding community will be bringing new state-of-the-art portable N64 and showcasing the modern touch of them and how they are becoming more accessible over the last few years.

Last year, Chris showcased the N64 portable. As an expert in the modding community, he is back again with an exciting reveal that will leave modders and gaming enthusiasts in awe. What is he revealing? Come to his presentation at the Bonus Stage to find out!

Pat The NES Punk Talks

Join Pat the NES Punk at the Bonus Stage as he discusses his YouTube channel, favorite video games, and what the future holds for them. There will be a Q&A session during this panel for you to ask your favorite YouTuber questions! 

Haley Lassiter – The Ultimate Sonic The Hedgehog Collection

My name is Haley Lassiter and I’ve been a passionate Sonic the Hedgehog fan and collector for nearly 25 years. I’m showcasing some of my rarest, most unique and interesting items I’ve collected over the years. From figurines and signed artwork to Japanese exclusives and pencil sharpeners, each piece in my collection can tell a story! I’m excited to share these memories and treasures with fellow fans and collectors.

Jeremy Klinger – Previewing the Switch 2

YouTube superstar Jeremy Klinger will be previewing the much-anticipated Switch 2 with an in-depth look at Nintendo’s latest console including predictions, game releases, and a wishlist for the console. Every Nintendo fan will want to attend this panel to get ready for the release of the Switch 2! Attendees are able to take part in a Q&A session to discuss the Switch 2.

Lame Dad – The Top 10 Greatest Multiplayer Games That You Need To Experience

The LameDad takes center stage to dive into the world of multiplayer gaming. In this engaging session, he’ll discuss 10 remarkable games that excel in both couch co-op and online play. From retro classics to modern masterpieces, discover how these games bring friends and family together. Discover these multiplayer gems to create unforgettable gaming experiences with your friends. Don’t miss out on this entertaining and insightful discussion—perfect for gamers of all ages!

The Game Beaters

Want to know about the hottest NEW NES Homebrew titles that are hitting the market? The guys from The Game Beaters will be discussing NES homebrew titles that are coming out along with their favorite ones from the past year. Discover new games for your Nintendo Entertainment System with this homebrew panel!

JRPG Pursuit – How to Navigate Must-Play JRPGs

Step into the world of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) with the team behind the podcast “The JRPG Pursuit.” We’re a trio of passionate collectors and gamers with decades of experience in the genre, ready to share our insights on the best JRPGs to play for every gaming console, from retro classics to modern masterpieces.

For this presentation, we’re combining our deep experience with JRPGs to showcase the top titles worth buying or collecting across three distinct price tiers: ‘Cheap as sin,’ moderate, and expensive. No matter your budget, we’ve got you covered! Join us as we navigate through legendary classics and hidden gems that have defined the JRPG community and still captivate players today. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, you’ll leave with newfound appreciation and an essential list of must-play games.

Youtube Channel for reference: https://www.youtube.com/@JRPG_Pursuit

Kevin Bunch – The Failed Leap Forward

The Failed Leap Forward: How the North American Crash and bad decisions ruined the 1982 console generational shift. Come to the bonus stage for this presentation by Kevin Brunch of the Retronauts!

Jeremy Parish – The Wild World of Japanese Game Tapes

Jeremy Parish of Retronauts will be presenting a panel on vintage Japanese VHS Tapes and Laserdiscs. Explore this topic and learn to appreciate this blast from the past in video game history!

My Life In Gaming

One of the most entertaining and informative duos on YouTube returns! Marc and Coury are back to discuss everything from their video game passion and YouTube channel. Come say hi and ask questions on one of the most successful channels on YouTube. Q and A sessions will be held, and questions are encouraged!

Adam Koralik – Sega Pluto

Join Adam Koralik for a panel on the Sega Pluto, an unreleased video game console by Sega during the 90s. It is one of the world’s biggest gaming mysteries and there are less than 5 of them in the world! See it for yourself and learn about the history of the Pluto.

The Duckfeed Podcast

The Duckfeed Podcast is one of the most popular video game podcasts in the community and have recently celebrated over 10 years of podcasts! They discuss everything about video games from topics, news, trailers, and retrospectives. They’ll be doing a live show for their podcast, so come be part of the active audience during Midwest Gaming Classic as they entertain the community.

Jordan Schoeter – The Disabled Gamer

Video games should be for everyone. That wasn’t always the case for Jordan Schroeter. For years, his severe physical disability took away his only real escape. No longer able to hold a standard controller, Jordan wouldn’t take “Game Over” for an answer… he persistently chose “Continue”. Jordan rediscovered ways to adapt and improvise how he plays video games. Come learn how Jordan never gave up the fire inside every gamer around the world!

Lindsay LLCoolGames

Spencer Walters – Turning Game Development From Hobby to Profit

In this presentation, I’ll share insights from my three years running Guardian Games Studio, where I’ve released six games on platforms as diverse as the Gameboy Color, NES, and Steam. I’ll discuss how to take game development from a passion project to a profitable venture by covering crucial aspects such as budgeting, platform selection, revenue generation, and marketing.

Adam Bohn – Dungeons and DoomKnights

Artix (Yes, the guy from AdventureQuest) is spilling forbidden indie game dev secrets and giving out prizes. Bring your gamer friends (especially if they aspire to become game developers) to hear this pun-slinging Paladin’s jaw dropping tale.

Alexis Arlene – Fashion and Gaming

Video games and fashion have always shared a unique connection, influencing each other in ways that range from streetwear trends to high-end couture. In this panel hosted by model, cosplayer and content creator Larxene, we will explore the growing impact of fashion in gaming, from in-game character designs inspiring real-world looks, to collaborations between top designers and popular game franchises like Louis Vuitton and Final Fantasy, or Coach and Roblox! Whether you’re a fan of video game-inspired clothing, runway looks, or closet cosplay culture, this discussion will showcase how gaming has evolved into a major force in the fashion industry! 

Zilog and Moto – Master System Games vs Genesis Games

Ever wondered how Master System games compared to their counterparts on the 16-bit Genesis? Dave from Zilog and Moto will be discussing the differences and the pros to owning both as well as if there are Master System games that are even BETTER than the Genesis versions.