FAQ: Retropom
Retropom is on the horizon, and we’re sure many of you have got some questions. With so much going on, we have collated as much info for you as possible in this FAQ, so read on. If by the end you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the support page at [email protected]
Video by Rui Xiang
COVID-19 Requirements & Info
PLEASE NOTE THIS SECTION HAS BEEN UPDATED AS OF JAN 19 TO REFLECT GOVERNMENTAL CHANGES
What are the entry requirements?
You are required to either show proof of full vaccination (booster shots not necessary) or a negative PCR or Antigen (Lateral Flow) test taken within 48 hours of the event.
UPDATED: What about face coverings?
While we can no longer enforce the use of face coverings, we strongly encourage the use of them in crowded areas. Wearing a mask to meet the guests will remain mandatory unless otherwise stated. Please respect a guest’s right to wear a mask when taking photographs.
UPDATED: Can I take off my mask for a photoshoot?
Indoor photos without masks are permitted now, but we ask you be mindful of other people’s personal space. If the weather is good, please consider taking group photos outside.
I am travelling overseas and can no longer attend due to government restrictions. What are my options?
Please contact [email protected]. While refunds are only offered on the basis the event is cancelled, those overseas who legally cannot travel can discuss such options with us.
Will any of these requirements change?
Any updates will be reflected on the following page: https://kupocon.com/covid19/ – please note this FAQ has updated its COVID-19 section as of Jan 19.
To see the full latest update, please see the above link.
Chocobo Badge System
Before coming to KupoCon, it helps to be aware of our Chocobo Badge system. These are stickers that can be requested at Mognet Central by anyone who wishes to avail of one.
Yellow
For those who wish to interact with others but need a helping start / push forward, particularly if they have travelled alone. The chocobo badge indicates to other attendees that the person is happy to engage and interact.
Red
This badge requests people to keep their physical distance. Ideal for those who may be experiencing anxiety due to the pandemic or have other general health concerns.
Blue
These stickers indicate the attendee is a carer to someone in attendance. If you have applied for a carer’s pass and were accepted, we will have your name noted for you to collect this. You can avail of this sticker, regardless of whether you have specially registered, if it applies to you.
Prior to Arrival
What and where again?
The Novotel London West hotel at 09:00. Directions and map. Have a peek!
Is there space at the hotel?
Our special rate block is full. If the hotel has no availability, consider accommodation in the surrounding area.
Can I bring my children?
Yes. KupoCon is a family-friendly event. Children under 12, accompanied by an adult ticket-holder, can come free. Just show up. Don’t forget to ask for the FREE Kids Quest Log.
UPDATE: Can I bring my pet?
No. While the hotel is pet-friendly (and we utterly adore animals), we will not be permitting animals on our venue space, bar service animals. This is for their own welfare.
Does the venue have parking?
Yes. It charges at £1.50 per hour for residents, or £3.50 for non-residents. Alternatives may be available in the surrounding area.
UPDATE: Will there be a cloakroom for attendees to use?
Yes.
What other services does the hotel itself offer?
Check out this link.
I have a last-minute change in ticket names. What do I do?
Simply access your Eventbrite account and update the name on the ticket from the “Tickets” section and use the Edit function. Link to help.
I want an idea what I’m walking into. What’s available to me right now?
Check out the Retropom page. You can pick up a physical copy of the schedule on the day as well. The venue is on one floor and is easy to navigate.
Is the venue wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. Staff will also endeavour to assist people throughout the day who may require special support, such as difficulties with standing.
Do you have any rules I need to know about?
Yes. Please read over the Event Policies. This include details on props for cosplayers.
Will tickets be available on the door?
No.
I’m displaying. What do I need to know?
Simply check the market link provided to you in your marketplace confirmation email.
Registration
KupoCon should not be seen as an event to arrive to at any time – for KupoCon, with its pivotal Opening Ceremony explaining many crucial elements of the day, this would be akin to going to a play during the intermission! Newcomers certainly should do their utmost to arrive prior to 09:45.
Where do I register?
On the first floor of the hotel, which is the same location as the reception desk. Look for the “Champagne Suite”.
When can I register?
Standard ticket holders can register from 09:20. Have your ticket ready alongside ID. Your ticket can be printed or displayed on your phone.
What is priority registration?
Wind ticket holders can register from 09:00.
What if I turn up without a cosplay, and I’ve bought a ticket under the Dressphere discount?
You simply pay the 5% difference on arrival.
Can I get in with my own bags?
Yes, but avoid bringing large bags and suitcases, as security may decline them.
Do I collect my evening pass here too?
No. Evening passes are collected as you come to the evening event.
What happens after registration?
The event starts with the Opening Ceremony at 10am. Try not to miss it, as it will guide you through your unique experience at KupoCon. If you are late and it is your first time, please make full use of your Quest Log to get to grips with what the day has to offer.
What is this Chocopass I’ve received as a Wind ticket holder?
Besides the earlier registration, you’ll also get a scheduled meet and greet slot with our guests (signatures not included), special merch discounts, additional gil rewards, priority seating, and other perks!
What can I do before the Opening Ceremony?
This is the perfect time to visit our merchandise desk [Chocolina’s] and snag what’s popular before it’s gone, as well as our clearance desk [Al Bhed Salvage Yard]. Visit Mognet Central should you have anything you need to collect [see section below]. There are talented sellers waiting for you in the market. Take the time to dive into your Quest Log and familiarise yourself with the activities and much more!
The Day & KupoCon Lingo
For a comprehensive look into regular terms and concepts at KupoCon, check out this dedicated Glossary.
Do I need to register for the Cosplay Parade?
No. Simply join the queue, which takes place when the Opening Ceremony concludes.
I need to collect something. Where do I go?
Mognet Central. Please visit here if you need to collect any of the following:
– Guest Print Pack
– Pre-purchased gil
– Chocobo badges (any colour)
Mognet Central is a key information point and the drop-off point for Mognet Mail.
My pre-purchase of gil has been adjusted. Does this affect what I paid for?
While the amount of gil was adjusted from 2,500 to 1,000, the value remains the same. This is because all quests, hunts, and other acitivites have been adjusted to reflect this change. 1,000 gil is still worth more than the monetary value paid. If you have a question, please ask a member of staff.
What is Chocolina’s?
The home of KupoCon’s merchandise. Cash/card only. Gil not accepted.
What is the Al Bhed Salvage Yard?
A clearance table of KupoCon merchandise, featuring memorabilia from older events.
What is the Bank of Mog, The Huntsmasters’ Table, and O’aka’s Gil Exchange?
The Bank of Mog is where you present your completed quests and other challenges to obtain gil. The Hunstmasters’ Table is specifically for turning in your hunts, but the Bank is where you will receive the gil reward. O’aka’s is where you use your hard-earned gil to exchange for goods.
***Make sure you cash in anything from your quest log before the Closing Ceremony!***
Wait a sec . . . gil, quests, hunts?
Gil, which is earned freely and non-transferable between events, is the in-event currency used to exchange for goods at O’aka’s. You could perhaps even barter with other attendees for TriPom cards or similar. Gil is essential for entering the TriPom Tournament (50 gil). Quests and hunts are activities that feature in your Quest Log, which all ticket holders bar Earth (NPC) will receive – however, you can purchase Quest Logs on the day.
***Make sure you use your gil before the day event is over!***
This Quest Log sounds pretty important, right?
Correct! It is essentially your KupoCon bible. It will tell you how to go about doing quests, hunts, challenges, and some new content you will find out about when you browse through it. It will also explain many an aspect, from the TriPom Tournament to the likes of the “Masquerade Token” you will find in your Quest Log.
So how should I go about preparing myself for all these activities?
The only piece of equipment you will need with your Quest Log is any form of camera – 99% of attendees do this with their camera phone, so make sure you have space, kupo!
What’s this TriPom I keep hearing about?
We’ll let this link do the talking: TriPom.
What can I do to ensure my loot bag doesn’t get mixed up with others?
You can find labels to tag your loot bags. They will be available at Mognet Central. This is what they will look like.
What if I lose my Quest Log?
First, we recommend you mark or label it prior so it’s easily identifiable as yours. If you lose it, we advise you check with lost & found (see below). Otherwise, you can purchase another at Chocolina’s.
Is there a “lost & found” point?
Mognet Central is our main location. It is also worth checking other spots (e.g., Bank of Mog, O’aka’s, or Chocolina’s etc.), in case anything was handed in and staff have not had the chance to move it to Mognet Central yet.
Is there food and drink readily available?
The hotel has options to grab some food and drink, as does the surrounding area outside.
Owing to the pandemic, the hotel will not be offering water stations, so we strongly advise people bring their own bottles of water prior to arrival.
Is there an ATM in the building?
Yes. Please note KupoCon desks will be accepting cards.
Guest Signings
How do guest signings work, what are my options, etc.?
Check out this link: Guest meet and greet information.
I pre-ordered a guest autograph bundle. Where do I collect?
Mognet Central. This pack contains individual tokens per guest to meet each one, as well as a corresponding print (which does not have to be your signing material).
When can I meet the guests?
There are three sessions:
1) Wind ticket holders only from 10:30 – 13:00, whether you have tokens or not
2) Token holders only from 13:00-15:00
3) From 15:00 – 17:30, anyone can queue up
Staff will ensure to make the day as flexible and accommodating where feasible in an attempt to allow everyone who wishes to meet the guests have their chance.
Please be aware of the schedule, as some guests may be at their interviews.
I have a token for a guest but want them to sign a second item. Can I do this?
Yes, as the guest will be charging their own prices for any additional items or photos.
Will guests have their own stuff I can get signed from them?
Some guests will, but we will also have items available to purchase for such use. Otherwise, you are welcome to bring your own items to get signed.
UPDATED: Do I have to keep my mask on while taking photos with the guests?
Wearing a mask to meet the guests will remain mandatory unless otherwise stated. Please respect a guest’s right to wear a mask when taking photographs.
Can I give gifts to the guests?
Historically, our guests have appreciated gifts, but consumables are not welcome. Please respect a guest’s decision should they decline. They may have their personal reasons for doing so.
Evening Event
You must be over 18 to attend. You will need ID in case staff request to verify your age.
Please be aware there will be a lot of lights in the evening, and some items of lighting present may be unsuited for those with photosensitive epilepsy. Please contact [email protected] if you have any concerns.
You must bring your day event band to the evening to show you had attended the day. Only those who attended the day event can access the evening.
What is this again?
We’re hosting a retro night featuring music across the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Please note this event is ticketed separately. A pass for the evening is £20 and is still available to purchase via Eventbrite as of the time of this FAQ’s publication.
Evening tickets appear as a PDF in your email. If you do not have this email, please access Eventbrite and print the tickets so you can have them on hand or download them onto your personal device. You collect your pass as you come into the evening event.
Is there a dresscode?
We’re encouraging people to dress up with the theme of retro in mind. Think neon, for example. Look back at your childhood photos for how your parents dressed you, even! But no pressure – this is optional! There may even be a prize or two for those who adopt the theme best…
Will tickets be available at the door?
No. We advise purchasing now while there are still some remaining, as of the publishing of this FAQ.
I might be running late…
That’s not a question but, it’s okay, we got you. Security will continue allowing people in. We advise not turning up later than 20:30.
When does it end? I.E. For how many hours should I pace myself?
Starting from 20:00, the evening event is expected to close at approximately 00:00, subject to further confirmation.
What’s this about a free gift?
The evening gift is a small goodwill token to add to the atmosphere and theme of the event. Limited quantity. First come, first served.
Will the merch desk still be open?
Yes, for a short time. Be sure to check back into the room with it – special treats await those who do!
We hope this gives you a solid overview on how to prep for the day ahead. Dive right in and embrace the fun, get yourself into the evening event for plenty more, and enjoy yourself. Your satisfaction and welfare is our key priority for you all.
Any further questions? Don’t hesitate to contact [email protected]