Tennocon 2024; A first timers reflection

To preface, this experience at TennoCon wasn't just my first experience at a TennoCon but a convention in general. What a time it was! Splayed throughout this reflection, you'll see a variety of images from a film roll I brought as a way for me to combine my joy and love for photography and also my connection to the 1999 theme that the convention had going on.

Yes, I had a great time at TennoCon. I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the VIP experience. With no set expectations, I was bombarded with 'you're going to have a blast' comments, and I can confidently say that it  lived up to the hype and more. 

Right  out the gate, we began with registrations on day one, where a flux of  notable looking 'nerds' (in the best way) were lined up and ready to register and get their merch from the 'Arsenal.' As the wise gentleman I am, I decided to look only at the start time, not realizing there would be a 5-hour gap before any other activities began. But that's alright. I enjoyed hanging out briefly and meeting staff member Merk and a fellow TennoCon attendee, Terrence. I am quite an extrovert but tend to shy away from introductions without a friend's catalyst to bounce off 'the vibes of conversation All, only friend insight once I put myself into the dastardly 'discomfort zone' and, as I was told before, the fanbase welcomed me with open... vibes. No hugs were shared (which is alright; the sun was demanding, and therefore, all of our sweat glands were, so I was okay with that). Regardless, I roamed the Arsenal and saw the first taste of the several Orbiter photo shoot areas. Within the  Arsenal, Tenno--also known as the players or fans of the Warframe game,  Envoys being the new titles for the Soulframe fanbase, but we'll get to that part--were able to gear up and look at themselves within this booth with some mirrors and platforms that reminded Tenno of the very area in their Orbiter where they could change and customize their frames.

Following a coffee, a sandwich, and some work at a cafe, I returned to the lines to prepare for an oddly titled 'TennoVIP.' They intend to change that title since general admission folks could technically join inside the tent. I digress. Within the tent, we found an array of goodies and lines in which to become enamoured. Starting with a signature on the wall of names, Tenno was on their way to line up at the 'AirBrush Station' where they would get their own relatively custom shirt customizations. While somewhat limited, it allowed for a unique experience where they could pick between two designs and 27* colour combinations for their shirts.

 *I actually can't say I am confident in that math but we'll just run with that and pretend

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1. Michael's beautiful and tasty sandwich and coffee from Coffee Culture (this wasn't the first cafe I went to for work, this one was one I went to on my way back prior to the evening events on Day 1).

 

Extending beyond we had Relics, which I would say was one of the biggest draws for the TennoVIP experience. One that not only was awe-inducing in the results, but awe-inducing in lines. But honestly, I think the reason the line situation was such an issue is because on the first day, so many people wanted to get their relics now. Ultimately, on the second day there wasn't as much of an issue, I found. So obviously I went to get mine then!

Throughout the days I was fortunate enough to catch up with several members of the Warframe community team that I worked with briefly during my internship in 2022. That whole opportunity was amazing and I feel like it's a fun story to tell on occasion. Perhaps another time, but we can't get distracted from TennoCon!

Following my entrance to the TennoVIP I entered the 'VIP' lounge, got myself a beverage and began socializing and meeting all sorts of new friends from places like Germany, Singapore, and Texas! But our coversations were cut short, but not too short, once the music began by DJ IHearCanvas

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2. Several Staff and Tenno singing NSYNC's "I want it that way" for Karaoke

 

3. Several Staff and Tenno following taking photos following the rendition of "Mr. Brightside" by The Killers for Karaoke

 

On Day 2 I attended several workshops and streams--admittedly I did take an hour to have a quick break, it's a busy day after all!

Upon the early VIP entry I was in awe of some of the photoshoot areas! The subway and Arthur scenes were incredibly well done. Here's a quick peak!

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4. Myself (left) in the subway scenery

5. A live Arthur model with a moving blade sitting on the side of his motorbike

For me, amongst the streams and workshops I really enjoyed the TennoLive and Soulframe streams most! That being said, all of them were lovely and I do plan to review some more of that content down the line.

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6. The first Soulframe Devstream

For more details on what exactly was revealed at those shows I recommend taking a look at the Warframe YouTube!

Alternatively, if you want to peak a bit at my adventures during TennoCon 2024 take a look at this quick video on TikTok of some of the bits I captured! (@DigitalHimbo on TikTok)

Writers note: The entirety of this blog is to express a positive experience. All opinions are Michael Jütte's own, and not intended to offend or reflect poorly on anyone's behalf.

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