We've set up a Discord server to host weekly meetups (Tuesdays 7pm), as well as let our members connect digitally with each other. Discord allows text and voice chatting as well as the sharing of screens to teach a game. It is perfect for sharing a gaming experience on a wide variety of platforms (Tabletopia, Tabletop simulator, various online gaming sites and by video)

After registering for this free service you can join our group using this link: Kanata Board Gamers Discord

If you have any questions please ask them in the "#questions-asked-and-answered" and we will do our best to answer them.

Here are some tips:

Your best place to start is to read through the #welcome-message room. This will give you a general layout of the site. You can discuss what game you'd like to play in the #setting-up-games room. Once you've decided what you want to play, you can proceed to one of the Board Game Rooms, which have voice and text chat channels. Most rooms have a limit of 6 players but rooms 7 has a limit of 8 players and room 8 has no limit. We can adjust if need be.

To actually play a game requires that you have an account at one of the online board game sites. Links to some of them are in the #online-gaming-sites channel. Many are free. Tabletopia is free. Some premium games require one of the players to have a premium (paid) account and invite others to join in the game. Tabletop Simulator is paid with some free games and others (like Scythe, Viticulture) requiring one of the players to buy the additional DLC. Many of the online sites (boardgame arena, Yucata, etc) are free.

Several of us tested the system (playing Villagers on Tabletopia and TransEuropa on Tabletop Simulator (TTS) on June 16th. Here are some of our thoughts.

1. Games tend to take a bit longer, especially the first time you are using a new gaming system. This is especially true of Tabletopia and TTS where you have to do all the piece manipulation yourself. Plan accordingly.
2. Headsets are useful to keep ambient noise to a minimum. 
3. Hardwire in if you can.
4. Be patient, especially on your first time.

All are welcome, but moderators will ensure that our Discord channel is a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Other than the day change, everything else should be the same: we'll still be at the same location. The only other small difference will be James will likely be the one managing the opening & closing for Steve's off-weeks going forward. 

New this year, we're adding an additional day to this weekend of open gaming. Sunday will be held at a different venue, just around the corner at the Glen Cairn Community Centre. We'll open at 9am, but will only run til 5pm, so come early to maximize your day of gaming.

Kanata Con is back for another year, bigger than ever! New this year, we'll be running an extra day (Thurs), so book your calendars for 3 days of good ol' open board gaming fun. September 13-15.