What is the difference between allocated and social ticket types?
Every person entering the venue must purchase a ticket. Either ticket type gives you access to all areas, and allows you to participate in all non-BYOC console tournaments.
In addition, each person holding an allocated ticket is allocated chair and table space sufficient for one person and one PC or console. Specifically, one chair, one (at least) 76cm wide section of table, one power point (you'll need a power board), and one network socket (you will need your own cable or wireless networking capability).
If you have a system (PC or console) for your exclusive use, you will need an allocated ticket. A person may purchase only one allocated ticket, and have only one system active for their exclusive use at any time. A person may have one or more systems active for shared use. If you have an allocated ticket, you may have a notebook in addition to your primary system, however only one of your computers may be connected to the wired network.
What does social (non-allocated) seating mean?
Social tickets are intended to cover two groups of people.
The first group is those bringing handheld consoles (Nintendo DS, PSP, etc.) and those who aren't bringing any hardware (apart from perhaps, controllers) to SAGAfest.
The second group are those who are loaning consoles for SAGAfest to use for competitions, and also for general SAGAfest patrons to use. In this instance, the social ticket is intended as you do not require a permanent seat.
Social tickets still receive showbags, internet access, and all the other LAN goodies.
If I come in as a PC player, can I participate in console competitions?
Yes.
If I come in as a console player, can I participate in PC competitions?
Yes, if you have arranged to use someone's computer in their allocated seat for that competition. There generally aren't any computers available for general use during competition time by the LAN.
I'm bringing a PC. Do I need to purchase an allocated ticket?
Yes, you will need an allocated ticket. Be sure to set your seating type as PC when registering your ticket.
I'm bringing a notebook computer. Do I need to purchase an allocated ticket?
Yes, you will need an allocated ticket. Be sure to set your seating type as Notebook when registering your ticket.
I have multiple PCs, and would like to purchase an allocated ticket for each of them. Is this permitted?
No, not at this time. You may only set up one system for your exclusive use.
I'm bringing a handheld console for my own exclusive use. Do I need to purchase an allocated ticket?
No, you do not need an allocated ticket for your handheld console.
If I have a social ticket, and I'm bringing a handheld console, do I have to share it for competitions?
Not unless you want to. Those participating in competitions on handheld consoles are expected to own that console and a copy of the game, or make an arrangement with a friend who has.
I'm bringing a console for my own exclusive use. Do I need to purchase an allocated ticket?
Yes, you will require an allocated ticket. Be sure to set your seating type as console when registering your ticket.
I'm bringing a console for shared use, such as in non-BYOC tournaments and casual play. Do I need to purchase an allocated ticket?
No, you will not require an allocated ticket.
I'm bringing multiple consoles for shared use. Do I need to purchase an allocated ticket?
No, you will only require an allocated ticket if you have a non-handheld system for your exclusive use.
Can I set up my console in the PC area?
Yes, if your console and your computer can use the same screen.
If you are using an Playstation 3 or XBox 360, your computer will need to be turned off while your console is on as the power usage of these consoles is equivalent to another computer.
Please note there is no wired connectivity for consoles in the PC area, and you are not allowed to connect your console to the PC network.
Can I set up my PC in the console area?
Unless use a notebook computer and have an allocated seat in the console area, you cannot use your PC in the console area. There is only wireless network connectivity in the console area, and you are not allowed to connect your laptop into the console network.
If you do not have an allocated seat in the console area, you will need to pack up your laptop when you are not in attendance.
I'm bringing my PC, can I sit near the console area?
If you wish to sit near the console area, select I want to be near the console area when you register your ticket.
Why do females get half price entry?
Recently the Interactive Entertainment Association of Australia released a study demonstrating that 48% of gamers are female. At events run by Gamers' Alliance organisations, a typical figure among attendees is closer to 25%. The "half price female ticket" policy has been demonstrated to go along way to balancing this inequity. It was introduced by StreetGeek in 2005, and this year another popular SA gaming festival also adopted a successful pricing strategy involving a discount for females. It may seem unfair at first, but it is one very important and very effective way that the Gamers' Alliance is tackling gender inequity in Social Gaming.
