Other than E3, PAX is probably the largest convention I've been to. It's surprisingly well organized, clean and there is a good mix of people so that I don't feel like I'm swarmed by enthusiastic nerds or trying to dodge other game journalists. It's fun to be able to wander the show floor and see things that you've already seen so you can spend some quality time with what's important: toys.

　　Since I don't like to carry cash on me, I still need to hit up all the booths that are selling goodies tomorrow. Pink Godzilla and Behemoth are right next to each other and together they're a very dangerous combo. There are soundtracks, plushies, games, shirts, keychains, more shirts, and toys that don't do much except collect dust on your desk.

　　I sat in on the interview with Mike and Jerry which was very entertaining because they're just a couple of guys doing what they love to do. It's always nice to see people who are passionate about their work and appreciate what they have. It's not easy to do what you love to do because of various factors, whether it's location, opportunity or financial situation. All the fun jobs generally don't make a ton of money so you need to find a way to make everything balance.

　　I spent most of my day running around to see if any of the big 3 were showing anything new. They weren't, so I ended up looking for games that we may have missed since those are always the off-beat and quirky titles (that somehow eventually make their way onto my desk). I don't mind, because there is no line (bonus!) and I like checking out games that don't involve getting on stage (music games, trivia etc). There were a lot of competitions that were going on, and if I were here on my own--with no chance of really being blackmailed by co-workers--I'd sign up (maybe). But alas, no SingStar competition for me.

　　There weren't too many cosplayers, but I did see some booth babes (sorry no pics-I'd feel like a total creepo taking pictures of girls in limited clothing) and walking ninja sponges who gave me a hug. There was also Crypto from Destroy All Humans! shaking his/its booty along the aisles.

　　Spongy ninjas.

　　Crypto!

　　Not a bad first day. I'll be checking out more panels tomorrow (and write about the one I saw today) so stay tuned!