Side Quest
If you're always up for board games and excel at button-mashing, prepare to elevate your fun in Side Quest! Whether you're a dedicated gamer or just enjoy casual play, digital or tabletop, there's an experience for you. Dive into organized play, tournaments, and free-play sessions featuring the latest games, beloved retro titles, and timeless classics. Side Quest invites you to take a break and enjoy gaming with friends – because adventures are always better shared!
When: Friday & Saturday 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Where: Show Floor, look for the hanging banner!
New to C2E2!
The Indie Game Showcase
The Indie Game Showcase celebrates the creativity and innovation of local and independent game makers from the Midwest and beyond. Featuring designers and publishers who are just getting started or have released no more than five games, this space highlights fresh voices and unique ideas in game design.
New to C2E2!
The Indie Game Showcase
The Indie Game Showcase celebrates the creativity and innovation of local and independent game makers from the Midwest and beyond. Featuring designers and publishers who are just getting started or have released no more than five games, this space highlights fresh voices and unique ideas in game design.
What is there to do?
Freeplay Console Tournaments & Gaming
Location: Side Quest on the Show Floor
I Play Games! brings the excitement of gaming to C2E2’s Side Quest with free play stations, competitive community tournaments, and access to educational programs that connect attendees with Chicago Colleges and the Chicago Public Library. Founded in 2009 by gaming event specialist Kevin Fair, IPG creates inclusive spaces where fun meets opportunity. Whether you're leveling up your skills, discovering Esports pathways, or just enjoying the thrill of play, our activations are designed to inspire. Stop by to experience the joy of gaming and learn how I Play Games! supports growth across Chicago’s vibrant gaming community.
Freeplay Arcade
Location: Side Quest on the Show Floor
Step into gaming history with Galloping Ghost Arcade, the legendary Chicago-area arcade that’s home to the largest collection of arcade games in the world. From classic favorites to rare and hard-to-find cabinets, players of all ages can relive the golden age of arcades while discovering hidden gems. Galloping Ghost Arcade celebrates the culture of gaming by preserving these iconic machines and creating a welcoming community space for both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts.
Learn to Play Pathfinder and Starfinder with Chicagoland Paizo Organized Play
Location: The Tavern (S406)
During this event our gracious Game Masters will lead you through Tabletop RPG adventure using Pathfinder 2e or the Starfinder 2e ruleset. You will participate as a member of the Pathfinder or Starfinder Society as you work to "Explore, Report, Cooperate" in a medieval fantasy setting (pathfinder) or in space (Starfinder). Pregenerated characters will be provided as well as dice or minis (however you are welcome to bring your own).
If you don't have time to sit down for the whole time slot we will also have character building materials present and a friendly face who can help walk you through the process and answer questions about the Organized Play Program. Find the schedule for when you can stop by below!
Dungeons & Dragons brought to you by Obladra
Location: Room S502
Obladra is a gaming guild run by Morgan Lemel for nine years. We run free open tables every Wednesday at Dmen Tap in Chicago. We value the old school way of playing. Our guild is made up of gamers, artists, writers, and content creators. Stop by room S502 all weekend long for D&D (Friday & Saturday 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM), and find out more about Obladra here.
Schedule
Side Quest Partners
