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Hyatt Regency Crystal City
2799 Jefferson Davis Hwy Arlington, VA 22202
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August 15, 2018: Year 9; Edition 16
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IMPORTANT DATE CHANGE
ONLINE STORE CLOSING AUGUST 17TH
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The online store was set to close today
We have extended the deadline to
Friday, August 17th
LAST CHANCE FOR ONLINE PURCHASES BEFORE THE CON!
All pre-convention purchases will be suspended on
August 17th at 11:59 PM
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Though purchases will no longer be available online at
novaopenstore.com,
sales will resume on site at the NOVA Open Badge and Ticketing counter
Wednesday, August 29 at 4:00pm
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Hi, All ~
IT'S HERE!
The Ninth Annual NOVA Open is around the corner. We could not be more thankful to all our volunteers or more excited about our attendees joining us in just two weeks. This is the last newsletter you will receive before the convention commences. Take time to review it carefully.
READ YOUR EVENT PRIMERS! Be prepared. Once you arrive, have a blast! Enjoy your events, support our awesome vendors and partners, make sure you visit the charity lounge (we'd like to think it's simply the best bar in the tabletop gaming con circuit, and the only one run by gamers for gamers & charity). We're giddy about it, but the volunteers have really worked above and beyond to get ready. PLEASE THANK THEM WHEN YOU SEE THEM! Several of them in particular have worked quite literally thousands of hours this year to make NOVA Open 2018 awesome. When you run into a hiccup, let us know and be patient while we solve it - we're all volunteers, and we're all only there to do our best at doing right by you!
Finally, take pictures, post on social media (#NOVAOpen2018), share your stories, and give us a little bit of a good rep if you have a good time. We'll also send a survey out right after the con that we want ALL of you to take - the surveys inform our planning for each subsequent year more than almost anything else.
This is one of the most anticipated moments of the year for the entire NOVA Open family, and we really hope you have as great a time as we've worked to make sure you do. We're all a bit emotional that the event is almost here, and even more so that it will be over in such a short span of days after it starts ~ if only we could host the NOVA Open all year long. And with that comment, I bid you adieu until we meet at the convention. I'm pretty sure there are a few volunteers who just read me suggesting NOVA Open every day that probably want to end my ability to communicate permanently but . . .
Please look me up at the con that you say hello!
Very Best,
Mike Brandt, NOVA Open CEO
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GAMES WORKSHOP PREVIEW EVENT:
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
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Wednesday, 29 Aug 2017 from 7:30-9:00 pm
Hyatt Regency Crystal City Regency Ballroom
1) EVENT IS SOLD OUT
- No Admittance without a NOVA Open Badge
- No Admittance without a Free Ticket
2) ARRIVE EARLY
- Registration will open at 4:00pm
- With 250 people checking into this event, your patience and understanding will be appreciated
NO PICTURES & NO VIDEO INSIDE THE HALL
- The venue, content and images from this Reveal are the exclusive property of NOVA Open
- Venue will be monitored. Anyone caught violating this rule will be asked to leave and could forfeit attendance at NOVA Open
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Best Coast Pairings will be in use for several events this year, so make sure you download the app and set up an account with them if you haven't yet for easy and improved tournament experiences. This is especially relevant for Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar, and Warhammer Underworlds: Shadespire tournament attendees. BCP staff will be on site for the convention, so any user experience questions or issues can be answered immediately. We're excited to welcome them back after how smoothly things ran with their software at last year's convention. Find them and thank them yourselves.
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NOVA OPEN 40K GT REFEREES WANTED!
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Are you free for all or part of the 40K GT or Invitational while you're at the NOVA Open this year? Even if you don't have major 40K Experience and simply want to dip your toes in it and see some of the events up close, we could use people to help with data entry, patrolling tables to ensure quick customer service for relaying judge calls, and indeed helping judge and referee games. If you're interested and/or available during any of the rounds of the GT or Invitational, please let us know via
customerservice@novaopen.com! We have a great staff in place, but in the interest of making this year one of the best GTs ever held, we really want to get as many helping hands as possible!
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PUBLIC POLICY REMINDER REGARDING DROP/ADDS
*Program Ends Tonight at Midnight*
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DROP/ADDS FOR EVENT CREDIT:
While NOVA Open does not offer refunds, the NOVA Open cart system allows attendees to exchange previously purchased tickets for other tickets by dropping and adding certain eligible items for event credit. That availability ends tonight at midnight. As of tomorrow, no drops or adds will be available for NOVA Open 2018, online or on site.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR SUPERNOVA AND DWARFNOVA ATTENDEES
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NOVA Open 2018 is just two weeks away! We look forward to seeing you when you arrive at the convention. Below is information specific to SuperNOVA and DwarfNOVA attendees.
SuperNOVA:
As a SuperNOVA, you will check in at our SuperNOVA check-in desk, to the right as you come down the escalator from the Hyatt lobby, just past the Capital Palette display. You will not need to stop at the general registration check-in desk.
DwarfNOVA:
When you arrive, you'll check-in at the convention registration desk at the bottom of the escalator. Your badge and your DwarfNOVA upgrade will be there waitingfor you.
PLEASE NOTE: If your plans have changed and you can no longer make it to the convention, you have TWO (2) options regarding your SuperNOVA and DwarfNOVA bags:
- Authorize (with a text, note or email) a friend to pick up for you.
- Ask that we attempt to resell it for you during the convention. If we are able to resell it, we will issue a refund.
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VOLUNTEER STAFFING SCHEDULE WAS EMAILED
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Current and new volunteers should have received the staffing schedule via email this past weekend. If you are a NEW volunteer and would like to receive the schedule, please contact customerservice@novaopen.com.
NOVA Open has volunteer slots available in all areas of the convention, from MOVE-IN to MOVE-OUT.
The NOVA Open 2018 move-in this year is from Tuesday August 28 through Wednesday, August 29th; move-out will begin Sunday afternoon, September 2 and finish Monday, September 3rd.
Able bodied support staff is needed for move-in and move-out: SERIOUSLY! The NOVA Open moves out of nine storage units using two massive semi tractor trailers into 75,000 square feet of convention space at the Hyatt Regency. We run on volunteers - top to bottom. Every bit of help given is why NOVA Open has become the greatest US East Coast TTWG convention
Non-player staff (aka significant others, parents, family, children) are always needed to help cover any number of daily shifts at registration, badge station, store, raffle desks, gate receipts, SuperNOVA desk, halls, Hobby Haven, seminar rooms and more. Anyone willing to join the Photography crew is also a hot sought-after commodity!
Make Friends for Life: We'll keep you busy while you're having the Best Time of Your Life (feel free to insert music/lyrics into your head here)!
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PRESS CREDENTIALS
TELL US WHO YOU ARE
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If you are attending NOVA Open 2018 and would like to be recognized as a member of the press on your badge, please send your credentials (name + urls for website, blog, podcast, print, etc) to:
customerservice@novaopen.com
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CHECK YOUR BADGE FOR INSERTS
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Every attendee who receives a badge will have a Capital Palette Fan Favorite ballot inside. Please study the amazing submissions in this miniature art competiton and cast your ballot. The winner receives a beautiful crystal award and a nice prize package. It's up to NOVA Open attendees to make sure the Fan Favorite is deserving!
If you pre-ordered a Convention or Horus Heresy shirt, you will find a paper coupon in your badge, as well. Take this to the NOVA Open Store booth to pick up your shirt/s.
The only paper seminar tickets included in your badge are for those who registered for any of the following events. Check your badge when you receive it to make sure everything you expect is included.
- Corvus Belli Exclusive Q&A, Gutier Lusquinos (THU, 8:45-10:00pm)
- Determine Your Future, SW Destiny Panel (FRI, 8:30-9:30pm)
- Developing Community, Games Workshop (THU, 7:00-8:30pm)
- Future of Middle-earth, Adam Troke (FRI, 10:00-11:00pm)
- Games Workshop Preview, Smillie-Foley-Cruddace (WED, 7:30-9:30pm)
- Meet the Studio, Games Workshop (SAT, 7:00-9:00pm)
- Meet the Studio, Games Workshop (SUN, 4:00-6:00pm)
- Stay on Target, X-Wing Panel (SAT, 9:30-10:30pm)
- Unlock Inner Hero, Alexis Buckles (SUN, 11:30am - 12:30pm)
- Writing for Black Library, Andy Smillie (FRI, 2:00-4:00pm)
- You Tube - Content, Adam Loper (SAT, 1:00-2:30pm)
- You Tube - Tech Details, Adam Loper (THU, 1:00-2:30pm)
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CHECK YOUR BAGS FOR COUPONS
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SuperNOVA, DwarfNOVA, or attendees who received a swag bag don't forget to use your discounts and coupons. There may be coupons that are good only at the convention. Make sure you read the details on each coupon for a full understanding.
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WANT TO PLAY, BUT YOUR EVENT IS SOLD OUT?
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Conventions are planned years in advance, and attendees lock down their games early. As we all know, life occasionally happens to people. This results in sold out events suddenly having seats available 30 minutes ahead of launch time. What to do?
The NOVA Open has a waitlist feature in the
store when events sell out.
USE IT! If a wait lister shows up at NOVA Open 2018, and he or she is ready to play or attend their event, they will be in the perfect positiion to grab one of those coveted seats. The NOVA Open wants nothing more than to fill every seat to ensure all attendees have their best convention experience.
Put your name on a wait list today - What have you got to lose?
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ARMY PAINTER CONVENTION-WIDE AWARDS
GOLDEN BRUSHES
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This year, for the first time ever, you can be crowned among the very best looking armies across the entirety of the NOVA Open. Select top-scoring armies for artistry at events across numerous game systems will be identified by event organizers for consideration to earn a
NOVA Open STAR
(Smart Travel Art Rack) featuring a
24K Gold Paintbrush
provided by
The Army Painter
. This amazing, extremely rare and unique prize represents a hobbyist who brought the pinnacle of painting forward to the convention.
The Army Painter (as befits its name) established a rule to identify the true army winner as chosen from collections of 20 or more models. Only armies of this size actually being played in organized events at the NOVA Open are eligible for these rare awards. Bring your A game, put those finishing touches on each of your creatures, and may your best foot step forward!
Armies will be evaluated during the first several days of the convention, with finalists notified Saturday afternoon. A final showcase will be presented on Saturday evening for key members of the convention appearance judging staff to evaluate the top finishers who will receive one of these 3 amazing prizes.
We look forward to seeing all the amazing armies at the NOVA Open 2018!
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2018 SUMMER RAFFLE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY KR MULTICASE
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KR Multicase and NOVA Open have been partnering for years. What some may not realize is the extent to which they partner with the NOVA Open Charitable Foundation. Back in 2013, when that first Summer Raffle included just three armies, Daryl Elms of KR Multicase happily donated the custom trays and transports for those armies. Five years later, with 35 enormous armies behind them, NOCF once again reached out to KR Multicase for support of 2018's 11 Summer Raffle/Silent Auction armies and detachments. You might think the sheer growth of these projects would give him pause, right? Guess what?
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All of this year's NOCF armies and detachments will arrive, as always, in dozens of custom color foam trays donated by KR Multicase. Beyond that, KR Multicase heavily discounts the transport bags to an anonymous donor just to make the shipping complete!
Join the NOCF in showing great appreciation for amazing generosity be visiting KR Multicase now - start ordering your own wall of custom foam today! Don't forget to thank him for his continued support of the NOCF mission.
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SUPPORT THE NOCF & WIN SOME INCREDIBLE MODELS
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Wow! We are absolutely floored by the amazing response this year from the wargaming community around the world. You wonderful people have us on track to beat last year's donations with the Summer Raffles alone! Add to that the money raised by the raffles earlier this year, the Silent Auction and NOCF lounge at the show, AND the Fall Raffles coming later this year, and we are looking to smash our paltry goal of $60,000. Well done!
This summer’s
TWENTY-TWO (22) SUMMER RAFFLES will focus on those three amazing charities.
8 INCREDIBLE ARMIES
2 BEAUTIFUL DETACHMENTS
12 MODELS YOU WILL TREASURE FOREVER
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NOVA OPEN CHARITABLE FOUNDATION BRINGING BIGGER & BETTER TO THE SILENT AUCTION
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This year, the Silent Auction table offerings will be flanked by valuable limited-edition Star Wars and Florian Stitz prints – and the Foundation is adding a new twist. Take your chances to win any of the amazing offers in the Summer Online Raffles, but if you want to walk home with a beautifully painted, full-on Warhammer 40,000 army, plan your bidding strategy and take it home with you!
The premiere centerpiece of the 2018 Silent Auction is
Hive Fleet Gorgon on the Plague Vomnivorax.
The NOCF received this donated army early in the year from a generous patron. The Board of Directors decided it may be time to find out if NOVA Open attendees would like to test their mettle against each other for an incredible Silent Auction win. With that in mind, one of NOVA Open’s practiced artists, Bob Likins, was enlisted for a full restoration, which we are proud to reveal today!
Ninety-nine (99) models can be fielded for just shy of 1500 points, allowing room for customization to fit the winner's play style. Each of the models in this army has been re-based onto custom bases.Each of the squads in this army has distinctive squad marking to make larger combats easier to understand at a glance.
Army List:
- Brood Lord (1)
- Mawloc (1)
- Tervigon (1)
- Termagaunts (3 units of 10)
- Hormagaunts (2 units of 12)
- Genestealers (3 units of 12)
- Zoenthropes (2 units of 3)
TNT Laserworks donated gaming tokens, wound dials, and a measuring gauge for the army.
KR Multicase has provided custom core and transport cases.
Come to the Silent Auction ready to win this beautiful army. Bidding will start at $450!
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WHITE METAL GAMES ADDS TO THE
NOCF SILENT AUCTION RENAISSANCE
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Let us introduce you to Fallen Imperator Titan!
White Metal Games, led by Caleb Dillon, will be vending and teaching seminars at NOVA Open 2018. They have also stepped up to donate a master class terrain set for one of the 40K top tables this year. It gets better!
Caleb and his crew have donated this terrain, with matching mat donated by Tablewar Designs, to be in the NOCF Silent Auction. The set is fully modular, and has been meticulously built to make sure it is playable, competitive, meets NOVA Open terrain requirements, and comes with carrying totes for transport home from the con.
The Silent Auction is only available to attendees as shipping is not an option. Plan your bidding strategy now and, if the God's be willing, you can take the full set home with you from the convention!
The fair market value for this incredibly well-engineered and designed terrain + Tablewar Designs mat + transport bins is $800; bidding will open at $450. See the pieces up front and personal
HERE.
If you love it - if you want it - drive to NOVA Open 2018 and Own it! The full set goes home with the lucky winner Sunday afternoon.
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The
NOCF is once against hosting NOVA Open attendees in its Foundation Lounge. Last year, it began in its usual suite and then moved to the Hyatt's Rooftop Venue, Chesapeake View. Thanks to the financial support of the NOVA Open, the Foundation Lounge will open in Chesapeake View at 4:00pm on Wednesday, August 29, for five nights and four days of hosting the most fun social group of tabletop wargamers on the planet! Once again, Susan Perkins - Mike Brandt's aunt (aka The Lounge Boss) - will be providing guests with a full bar, great menus, surprise events, and exceptional service.
The Foundation Lounge is a fundraiser where profits go to the NOCF and support of various charities. The high cost of setting up and stocking the Lounge is set off by donations from NOCF supporters known as Keg Nighters. These great sponsors buy one of the kegs in exchange for a couple hours spent talking about their products, running raffles and engaging with the crowd. Without their generosity, the costs would exceed the profits. This year, NOCF is proud to introduce those Keg Nighters so attendees can plan meet and greets:
Keg Nighters had the option of adding a Keg Handle to their donations. Thanks to the mad skills of Selma Moises (
https://www.etsy.com/shop/CustomizedTapHandle), the Foundation Lounge's six kegs will be particularly beautiful this year:
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Check out the
NOVA Open Schedule where you'll notice Wednesday's opening day Martini Madness event - and the Saturday/Sunday morning Bloody Mary bars from 11:00am - 1:00pm.
Also on tap this year are three bands donating their music to the cause:
Wednesday, 8:30-10:00pm
NEON SLOTH
Thursday, 8:00-9:00pm
UKELELE ENSEMBLE
Friday, 8:30-Midnight
CASSIE URBANY (Opener)
Website:
http://www.cassieurbanymusic.com/
HEARTS & SPADES
Saturday, 10:00-Midnight
EMBRY GROUP
There will be plenty of quiet time for relaxing and socializing,
as well as 'unplugged' events, for everyone.
We look forward to seeing you there!
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NEED SATURDAY VOLUNTEERS IN AUGUST
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If you are local, please mark your calendar for any Saturday you are available to help at NOVA Open's Lorton facility ~
August 4, 11, 18, 25. Volunteers will be needed to help prepare swag bags, raffles and prize packages, and to wrap and prep the carts for transport to Hyatt every
Saturday, hours vary.
You should receive an "evite" on each Monday where you can RSVP; this always helps us organize and prepare for lunch service.
If you have not yet volunteered, please share your name and email with
customerservice@novaopen.com to ensure you are on the evite distro list each week. Many hands really do make light work - and a lot more fun!
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TELEGRAPH SELF STORAGE
8935 TELEGRAPH RD, LORTON, VA 22079
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PLAN YOUR TIME at NOVA Open 2018
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The 2018 NOVA Open schedule is always current. Take time to review - fill in any gaps in your own plans for the convention.
Watch for new events and seminars and stay on the newsletter distribution for news, changes, additions and updates!
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2018 NOVA OPEN GAMING EVENTS
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EVENT PRIMERS FOR NOVA OPEN 2018
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What game and events are on your NOVA Open radar this year? Primers can change up until and even after registration. NOVA Open leads are highly responsive to questions, commentary and input. E-Mail
customerservice@novaopen.com
Click any event title to see the Primer. If your event primer is not linked here, visit novaopenstore.com - they will be available for viewing there first.
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The Independence Center is where most Warhammer 40,000 events are held at the NOVA Open. This year represents by far the most fully stocked range of events in the hall, and there will be a lot going on at all times! We wanted to focus attention for the Grand Tournament players on a couple of specific expectations to help them prepare for what looks like it will be our biggest GT yet.
- We've recruited (and are still accepting) volunteers for the GT whose sole focus is to patrol smaller table sets to keep eyes on game pacing and requests for judges - we want to make sure it is easier than ever to find a judge and complete your games. Do keep in mind the table patrollers are NOT official rules judges - their job is to help us keep tabs on all tables so no one is left unattended, and to help ensure judges are brought to your attention when you need them without having to go chasing through the hall in the middle of your game.
- Pay careful attention to the timing, chess clock, and milestone policy in the GT packet. We've worked hard to establish a policy and methodology that will keep you well-appraised of where your games need to be while not simply instituting forced chess clocks across the GT. It's vital in our minds to find a balance between enjoyable, relaxing game play with new acquaintances at an awesome and grand tournament, and ensuring people are able to finish their games and experience fair outcomes. In support of this, we will take a very unkind stance to any players who appear to attempt to in any way game the clock or time policy to end games at artificial times to their own benefit.
- Make sure you read up on the missions if you haven't yet. We're providing every attendee with some awesome playing decks that help speed up play and make it more fun, but it still behooves you to be "ready to go" starting in Round 1.
- You are going to lose games. This one unavoidable fact can often be surprisingly frustrating for attendees who aren't experienced with tourneys, and we're quite excited to be hosting many first-time attendees this year. The 40K GT by nature is designed so that only one person - at most - will finish the event without taking a loss, so get ready to now :) ... on the flipside, the way our bracketing system works (Again, read the primer if you haven't!) means no matter how successful or rough your first four games are, you'll be playing your final four in pursuit of real rewards and against your competitive peers, ensuring an exciting and challenging finish to the event for all!
- Your fun is the most important thing to us, so make sure you ask for anything you need. At the same time, please keep in mind our judges are all volunteers and doing their best - if you have any issues, trust that they're simply doing all they can to help resolve them, and go easy on the guys while they figure out tough calls in the fairest way possible.
- Make sure you install Best Coast Pairings on your smartphone or mobile device in advance of the event. The Warhammer 40,000 Grand Tournament uses this app to score and track its games, and we will endeavor to release round pairings for subsequent rounds IMMEDIATELY when available. So, as soon as the previous round is complete, the next round's pairings will go up. This is to ensure any players who want to get their round going earlier than later can do so, giving them as much extra time as possible. If you have the app installed, it enables you to check for pairings on the fly.
- Arrive early to check in to the GT! Those who arrive late will be rolled into their rounds "shotgun style" with other late attendees, and will not be given extra time to complete their round. Late attendees are also highly likely to be given a chess clock right from the beginning of their round.
- Be a good sport. This should go without saying, but there've been some interesting experiences among top table players at a couple of big tournament events lately. It's important you all come with a good attitude and a focus on winning fair and square. The NOVA Open changed its judging policy this year to an ACTIVE JUDGING POLICY, meaning judges can and will directly intervene in games where they see inappropriate or illegal play occurring. Ensuring the legitimacy of the event and a fair experience for all attendees means we are prepared and willing to deduct points, implement automatic forfeits, and even enact event removal for players who bully, cheat, or otherwise act unethically while playing the game we all love and enjoy. Fortunately, these types of occurrences are extremely rare (and always have been at NOVA), but the rare occurrence of inappropriate play can have an outsized effect on the impression some players have of the tournament scene. Rest assured the judging team will be focused on ensuring the majority of our attendees are well-protected from illegal play. The best way to avoid any issue is to be a sporting, fair, and awesome player in every game!
We can't wait to welcome you this year, and we've gone to great lengths to recruit the staff and build the event format necessary to host one of the coolest and best Grand Tournaments for 40K yet!
Good luck in advance, and make sure you say hi at the judges desk!
Best,
- Mike Brandt & Phil Rodokanakis, 40K GT/Invitational Leads
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KILL TEAM PODS QUICK NOTE
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Just as a quick PSA for Kill Team Attendees, the "Plane of Battle" rule restricting models from getting on / climbing on terrain higher than 2" has been
REMOVED and is no longer in effect. Furthermore, we wanted to share a sneak peak of some
AWESOME playing cards for the missions that Games Workshop put together and will be available to participants. Take a look!
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NOVA OPEN 40K NARRATIVE RECON SQUADS UPDATED
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After surveying the registered participants, the NOVA 40K Narrative Recon Squad events have been switched to using Games Workshop's new Kill Team rules! The results were not close, players were overwhelmingly in favor of using these new rules. The event leads agree that Kill Team is an exciting new way to play in the grimdark and are very excited about this development.
It's safe to assume many Recon Squad players will still be figuring out the new game and learning how to play; no one is expected to be an expert. The Recon Squad events are fun, casual games tied into the ongoing NOVA 40K Narrative. Players should try to win, but these events are not tournaments. For those interested in competitive play, there are separate Kill Team tournaments now planned for the NOVA Open. Information and registration for those can be found
here
.
How To Prepare
Recon Squad players should prepare a Matched Play command roster
according to the specifications in the core rulebook (pg 62): Up to 20 models, all of which must share a Faction keyword. Their team for each match will be mustered from that roster at the start of the battle once opponents, mission, and battlefield have been determined. Command rosters will be shared between opponents before mustering begins. Players must have a command roster and associated datacards prepared before their first Recon Squad event. In addition to the blank command rosters and datacards included in many Kill Team products, there are various printable PDFs available online (including from GW). The event leads like this unofficial
command roster
and
datacard sheet
, which are low-ink, editable PDFs, so you can easily type in your models.
Campaign
Players participating in multiple Recon Squad events will advance their models and team in a fashion similar but not identical to the campaign mechanics found in the core rulebook (pg 204). In building their command roster, such players might look through and consider not just which Specialists they want to field right away, but how they plan to progress them along their ability trees.
In order to not disadvantage participants not playing each round, we will be grouping pairings by the number of Recon Squad events won so far and then the number of events played. On-the-spot field upgrades and strategic resources will also be granted by the event leads as necessary to level out the player pool. So those players joining in the later Recon Squads rounds will not be unfairly matched against veteran teams with multiple battles and earned experience under their belt.
Players will be assigned to an alliance at their first Recon Squad appearance, and continue fighting for either Humanity or The Virtue from that point on. Almost always they are able to join their preference of sides, but some flexibility is appreciated to help keep the number of players on each even.
Similar to previous years, the specific missions for Recon Squad players to execute will be selected by the NOVA 40K Narrative Warlords toward their overarching strategic goals for the campaign running throughout the convention. Recon Squad players that want to study in advance might look at the missions in the
NOVA 2018 Kill Team packet
prepared by Games Workshop, but also expect some special missions, environmental rules, and other narrative injections to be made. It's the narrative, we're goin' off-script...
The Fate of the Galaxy
Recon Squads play an important role in the NOVA 40K Narrative campaign by capturing facilities, taking out targets, finding resources, and achieving other objectives needed by their alliance. With the great new Kill Team ruleset in play, this year's events should be better than ever and we're really looking forward to it. A few
tickets are still available
for the Recon Squad events, and we hope everyone will join us in shaping the ongoing story of the battle between Humanity and The Virtue!
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WELCOME ROBIN CRUDDACE TO THE 40K JUDGING TEAM
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The NOVA Open is very excited to welcome Robin Cruddace, lead rules man for Warhammer 40,000, to its judging team for the Invitational and Grand Tournament this year. Robin will be spending a great deal of time in the Independence Hall where all the 40K events are happening, and will be working tightly with the 40K leads. Robin also will be participating in
Games Workshop's "
Meet the Studio" seminars, tickets for which still remain available! We're very excited about the organization put into the Warhammer 40,000 events this year, and Games Workshop's direct involvement and support only strengthens that. We can't wait to host everyone in just two short weeks!
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NEW: X-WING US NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AND LEGION MAXIMUM FIREPOWER QUALIFIER IMPORTANT WAITLIST INFORMATION ~ PLEASE READ
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If you are on the waitlist for either the
X-wing US National Championship Tournament (one or both heats) OR the
Legion Maximum Firepower Qualifier (Thurs, Fri, or Sat) at NOVA Open 2018, please review the following carefully.
At events the size of these tournaments, there tend to be a few players who don't show up to play. With that in mind, we will be filling any seats left vacant (by people who don't show up) with those on the waitlist.
If you are on a waitlist for the
X-Wing National Championship Tournament or the
Legion Maximum Firepower Qualifier at NOVA Open 2018, and might be interested in claiming the spot of a
"no-show" on the morning of either Heat 1 or Heat 2, this is the information you will need:
- You must already have a novaopenstore.com account and be in possession of your Convention Access Pass (CAP).
- You must be inside the Regency Ballroom and near the X-wing or Legion judges' table at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time of the tournament.
- Once event check-in ends, and a determination of no-shows is made, we will be calling the names on the waitlist (in waitlist order) to begin filling slots vacated by no shows.
- If your name is called, you must respond immediately, or the judges will move on to the next person on the waitlist.
- If your name is called, you should be prepared to pay for the event (X-wing: $35 or Legion: $30) and to start play immediately.
Please note: You may only play in one, not both, heat in the X-wing US National Championship Tournament. Also, should any vacancies occur before August 28, our Registrar (Marti Seraphin) will fill them by reaching out to those on the waitlist - in order - before the convention.
If you are currently on a waitlist and know that you are no longer interested, please take a quick moment to let us know. This will give Marti the chance to remove you from the waitlist, allowing others to move up and limiting the number of names being called in that short 15 minutes before play begins.
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ATTENTION INFINITY PLAYERS
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Gutier Lusquinos is making his US trip to NOVA Open 2018 this year. He will be presenting an exclusive Q&A on Thursday, 8/30, at 8:45pm EST. Cost for attendance is just $5. A lot of new and interesting things are happening at Corvus Belli this year - don't miss a chance to hear about them first-hand. Sign up today:
http://novaopenstore.com/Home/EventItem/1517
There are tickets remaining in most NOVA Open Infinity events (not many in a few). The leads would be thrilled to launch all events at full capacity during Gutier's visit. Wrangle your friends and meta-mates (peer pressure is an acceptable art form) to check out the events and sign up today:
http://novaopenstore.com/Home/EventContainer/12
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NEW WARMACHINE/HORDES ACRYLIC OBJECTIVES
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The NOVA Open once again outdid themselves in support of the Warmachine/Hordes events at NOVA Open.
Tablewar Designs outfitted the tables with new mats and NOVA Open hired
TNT Laser Works to develop new acrylic objectives for 2018. Jon and Devon thought it might add to the excitement by upgrading the Scenario Stuff to match - this is what they pulled off. More Awesomeness! If you haven't signed up for Warmachine/Hordes events at NOVA Open 2018, don't hesitate as there are limited seats remaining. The
online store closes at midnight today (8/15/18); sales will resume on site, Wednesday, August 29 after 4:00pm.
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BOARD GAMES AT NOVA OPEN 2018
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Board games are back at NOVA Open, and we have some exciting events planned. Once you have your Convention Access or Day Pass, entry into tournaments is free. Availability is on a first come/ first serve basis, so sign up at
www.novaopenstore.com to lock in your seat today.
Here is a short list of the fun you can expect at NOVA Open 2018:
- Board Game Library: Board Games at NOVA Open would not be possible without the help of our amazing sponsors. Join us in thanking ATLANTIS GAMES & COMICS for providing our Board Game Library again. Check out dozens of games, including favorites like Pandemic, Catan, Ticket to Ride and more – for kids of all ages!
- Tournaments: A full slate of board game tournaments for both casual and strategic games is planned. Review the comprehensive schedule of events on the following pages. Don’t forget to go online and sign up.
- Demos and Learn-to-Play: Learn how to play games you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t found the time to dive into.
Experienced staff from NOVA Open will be available to teach and answer any questions you might have. Register for scheduled games or stop by anytime to see what might be going on. Return to this link between now and August 15 to check for ongoing updates!
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AGE OF SIGMAR TERRAIN DONATE BY GAMES WORKSHOP
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The NOVA Open's leads are well-known for their exceptional professionalism and year-around work ethic. Now and then, we get to glimpse magical powers emanating from their ranks. Chuck Moore, one of our AoS leads, recently received a large donation of awesome
Games Workshop terrain for use on the tables - the kind of terrain that comes in little pieces typically requiring dozens of hard-working dwarves toiling inside dark mountains. And herein lies the magic: In the bright light of day, working tirelessly and with great passion, Chuck managed to create this visual spectacle in about 6 hours. The terrain is now undergoing paint and prep for its trip to NOVA Open 2018. If you're at NOVA Open, take a minute to peak at the end result, look Chuck up, and shake his hand. Maybe he'll tell you where the secret dwarf mountain is located!
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THE ARMY PAINTER SPONSORS HOBBY HAVEN
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NOVA Open's Hobby Haven returns for its second year with improved lighting and an increased range of supplies provided by
The Army Painter. Located on the second floor of the hotel, the Hobby Haven is set aside for hobbyists of all ages and artistic talent levels to socialize and exchange ideas while they paint. Stop by Hobby Haven while you're at NOVA Open 2018. We're sure you'll be glad you did!
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NOVA OPEN STAR WARS PANELS
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Your Actions Determine Your Future - A Star Wars: Destiny Discussion
Time and Date: 8:30p-9:30p, Friday, August 31, 2018
Description: Join us for this panel discussion as we talk about everything from the panelists' thoughts on the newest meta deck builds to their experiences in the 2018 US National Championship. Jason Brame (The Chance Cube) will moderate this discussion with panelists including Jeremy Zwirn (FFG Designer), Rick Dunkley (Knights of Ren), and one finalist in the 2018 Destiny U.S. National Championship.
Stay on Target - A Competitive X-wing Discussion
Time and Date: 9:30p-10:30p, Saturday, September 1, 2018
Description: In this panel, we will be discussing the competitive X-wing scene. We’ll talk about everything from the panelists' experiences at the 2018 US National Championship to the major improvements coming in X-wing Second Edition. Dión Morales (Gold Squadron Podcast) will moderate this discussion with panelists including Alex Davey (X-wing Game Designer), Paul Heaver (Current US National Champion), Duncan Howard (current North American Champion), and one finalist in the 2018 X-wing U.S. National Championship.
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MANY SEMINARS ARE SOLD OUT! PURCHASE YOUR SEMINAR TICKETS TODAY!
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Numerous seminars sold out in the past week. Take this opportunity to learn awesome new skills and take classes from your favorite artists. If spots are still available at the convention, you can go to Badging and Tickets to purchase tickets.
The NOVA Open is bringing our attendees 85 seminars from some of the best painters and instructors from around the world. Take this opportunity to improve your skills, learn a new technique or learn to paint quicker. We have something for every painting level.
Learn to Paint vehicles and aircraft (skills that can be used across most game systems)
- Highlight and Shading Inorganic Miniatures taught by Madeline of LightCraft Miniature Studios
- Introduction to Painting X-wing Miniatures taught by Madeline of LightCraft Miniature Studios
Enjoy YouTube; learn how to create your own
- How to Youtube: Technical Details taught by Adam of Tabletop Minions
- How to Youtube: Content, Branding, and Promotion taught by Adam of Tabletop Minions
Game Company Seminars
- Corvus Belli Exclusive Q&A featuring Gutier Lusquinos
- Games Workshop: Meet the Studio with Robin Cruddace and Pete Foley
- Games Workshop: Developing the Community
Internationally Renown and Limited Seminars
- Intro to Display Painting taught by Roman Lappat
- Ambiance Class in 75 MM taught by Alfonso ‘Banshee’ Giraldes
- Creating a Composition and Story with Miniatures taught by Roman Lappat
- Designing Colors for Space Marine Armies taught by Alfonso ‘Banshee’ Giraldes (includes 5 Primarus Space Marines)
Terran Seminars (EACH SEMINAR IS HANDS ON AND INCLUDES FREE TERRAIN) taught by Death Ray Designs
Seminars from Award Winning and Internet Personalities
- Building a Display Base with Matt DiPietro
- Monster Flesh: Painting Non-Human Skin with Matt DiPietro
- Master of Reality (multiple techniques) taught by Sam Lenz
- Intro to Scenic Basing with Shoshie
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LEARN TO HAVE THE PHYSICAL ENERGY AND MENTAL CLARITY FOR VICTORY!
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Having the physical energy and mental clarity to show up the way you want at a big event like the Nova Open can mean the difference between victory and defeat!
Join Alexis Buckles, CHHWC, CAPP, and Warhammer Fantasy (RIP) enthusiast on Sunday from 1130-1230 for a 45-minute discussion and Q+A (feel free to ask her about her Santa-themed Ogre Kingdoms army). During this seminar, you will be exploring the idea of holistic (whole person) wellness and how small changes can add up to make a big impact on your well-being. She will be covering topics in:
- Nutrition - How to fuel your body at the gaming tables and beyond
- Movement – Finding ways to move outside of a gym
- Stress Management – Tips and tools to change your state
- Self-Care – Building a plan of action to re-charge your batteries
You will leave the discussion with practical tips and techniques that you can use during tournaments or in your daily life. In the same way that you can put together an OP army list, you have the power and the ability to min/max your life and unleash the wellness warrior within.
In addition to being certified as a health and wellness coach, Alexis also holds certificates in plant-based nutrition and applied positive psychology. She is passionate about supporting people in achieving their goals and is always on the lookout for opportunities to bring these topics into the gaming community.
Alexis can be found online at the following:
Instagram: @alexisbuckles
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NOVA OPEN 2018 VENDOR HALL - NEW AND RETURNING VENDORS
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Many of the best companies in the miniature industry will be at NOVA Open 2018 giving you a chance to purchase their products, peruse new releases and meet representatives from some of your favorite hobby manufacturers and suppliers.
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FORGE WORLD STAFF ONLY EVENT AT NOVA OPEN 2018
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Forge World Event Exclusives (listed below) are a range of products which are only available at the events they attend - including NOVA Open 2018.
Forge World will host a
Staff Only Sale for those volunteers who participate in set up between
Monday and Wednesday (August 27-29) at Lorton or the Hyatt Regency. The sale will take place ahead of the Games Workshop Preview Event. Pick up your badge and Staff Ribbon at registration when it opens on Wednesday. Plan to attend the Staff Only Sale at Forge World's Vendor space -
EXCLUSIVELY FOR STAFF - from 5:30-6:30 pm that evening.
Forge World will host a SuperNOVA Only Sale on Thursday, August 30, 2018, from 8:00-9:30am. Wear your SuperNOVA badge to the Forge World booth!
- Retro Land Speeder
- Alpharius
- Cataphractii Praetor with Combi-Weapon & Hammer
- Traitor Cataphractii Librarian
- Beta Warlord Head
- WHW Chaos Dwarf
- Imperial Knight VIII
- Legio Custodes Tribune Ixion Hale
- Grak and Crumbleberry, The Right Stuff
- Alfrid Lickspittle
- The Heirs Or Erebor. Thorin Oakenshield, Fili the Dwarf and Kili the Dwarf
- The King's Companions: Balin the Dwarf, Dwalin the Dwarf, Gloin the Dwarfr and Oin the Dwarf
- The Three Brothers: Ori the Dwarf, Nori the Dwarf and Dori the Dwarf
- The Cousins: Bifur the Dwarf, Bofur the Dwarf and Bombur the Dwarf
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KR MULTICASE RETURNING TO NOVA OPEN 2018
PRE-ORDERS AVAILABLE
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KR Multicase will be back at NOVA Open this year. If you’re planning to attend and are excited to add to your growing collection of the latest carrying solutions from KR Multicase, take some time and think about pre-ordering today!
It couldn't be easier: Visit www.krmulticase.com and load your cart with your customized wish list. Proceed to check out and select the “Click & Collect from a Show” option ~ then choose NOVA Open.
It gets better: You will then have the option of paying immediately for pick up at the convention – or you can place your order and pay when you get to NOVA Open 2018. KR Multicase wants you satisfied – there is no obligation to buy! In fact, if you would like specific trays at the show for testing and trying out with your models, just pre-order to pay at the show. You could also send them an email or place a call – (
https://www.krmulticase.com/contact-us)- ask them to bring along whatever you want to check out in person.
Pre-orders for custom colored foam will close on August 1; pre-orders for blue-colored foam will close on August 15. Order Today!
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CAPITAL PALETTE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ~ NOW ACCEPTING MULTIPLE ENTRIES!
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Capital Palette Participants:
It was brought to our attention that there was a glitch in our web cart preventing attendees from buying more than one additional entry in the Capital Palette Miniature Art Competition. Be advised, there are no unlimited entry tickets as in past years. To submit in the Capital Palette, follow this process:
FIRST TIME THIS YEAR? Add a
Capital Palette - Single Entry for one submission to your cart ($10). If you wish to place other models in the competition, add the
Capital Palette - Additional Entry to your cart, specify a quantity (total number of desired submissions), add to cart and check out. The cost is $5 for each additional submission. You cannot add an
Additional Entry and then add it again in the same order.
ALREADY HAVE SINGLE ENTRY? Simply add the
Capital Palette - Additional Entry to your cart,
specify a quantity (total number of desired submissions), and check out.
ALREADY HAVE SINGLE ENTRY & ADDITIONAL ENTRY? If you want to continue adding more submissions, you must start a new order and add the
Capital Palette - Additional Entry to your cart,
specify a quantity (total number of desired submissions), and check out. As above, you cannot add an
Additional Entry and then add it again in the same order.
Also reminder that this year the Capital Palette is divided into THREE divisions by skill level: Apprentice, Journeyman, and Masterclass. Don’t feel daunted by top artists, there is a division for you no matter your skill level. To find the full rules, see the Capital Palette Primer. If you have questions, contact Marti: customerservice@novaopen.com
Also, reminder that this year the Capital Palette is divided into
THREE divisions by skill level: Apprentice, Journeyman, and Masterclass. Don’t feel daunted by the top artists, there is a division for you no matter your skill level. To find the full rules, see the
Capital Palette Primer. If you have questions, contact Marti:
customerservice@novaopen.com.
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NOVA OPEN 2018 TABLETOP OLYMPICS
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CHECK OUT THE SCORING CHART ~
LEARN HOW TO WIN
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The Tabletop Olympics (TTO), started in 2014, is a free personal achievement and group competition for anyone who attends the NOVA Open. Players accumulate personal "forever achievement points" and can also form groups of 3 to 20 people to compete against other groups. Points can be amassed individually and/or combined with other attendees if individuals band together for group points. In addition to tracking points for teams during NOVA Open 2018, we will also keep track of cumulative points for individuals that accumulate across NOVA Open conventions.
If individuals form groups, they need a Point of Contact (POC/Captain) and a group name. The POC must verify the name is not already taken by registering it with the NOVA Open. POC must also submit/verify list of NOVA Open registered members. We recommend that individuals form groups early; groups can consist of individuals participating in a range of point generating activities..
Groups must email
customerservice@novaopen.com
to register groups. This portal is open through August 15; it is reopened onsite at the NOVA Open when registration opens on Wednesday, August 29 .
In addition to earning points by participating in activities, teams can also earn points through team spirit and good sportsmanship. If a team is witnessed by the NOVA Open Staff supporting their fellow team members in a tournament through cheering or wearing team shirts, they will be awarded bonus points depending how strong their team spirit is. If the NOVA Open Staff witnesses a team member going out of their way to help individuals, they will also be awarded bonus points that is up to the discretion of the staff member.
Winners will have their names permanently emblazoned on the NOVA Open Olympic Torch Trophy. As a participant in the Tabletop Olympics, every individual point earned equals an additional chance of winning a prize in the Final Ceremony Raffles; Check-in required (which adds another entry in your name!) Must be present to win.
ALL THAT TO SAY THIS:
CHECK OUT THE SCORING CHART
HERE
TO LEARN HOW TO WIN!
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CHECK OUT DEATH RAY DESIGNS LATEST VIDEOS FEATURING NOVA OPEN SEMINARS
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As every war gamer knows, your tabletop looks as good as the terrain on it. That’s why we’re excited that
Death Ray Designs has posted two
videos about their upcoming MDF terrain assembly and painting seminars at NOVA Open 2018. If you want to learn more about their seminars, visit our
seminar page and click on “Austin Thompson” under the instructor options.
We would like to thank Austin and the rest of the Death Ray Designs team for making NOVA Open 2018 the best possible one yet.
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WARHAMMER COMMUNITY FEATURES
NOVA OPEN 2018 EVENTS
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Games Workshop’s Warhammer Community website recently featured three articles about NOVA Open 2018. The first
article provides an overview of all Games Workshop-related events at NOVA Open 2018, including Glowpocalypse, the Warhammer 40k and Age of Sigmar Kidshammer events, the Horus Heresy Bromance Bash. The second
article takes a look at NOVA Open’s Kill Team events, including an interview with our very own Dewey Haines about the game and events at NOVA Open 2018. Finally, the last
article talks about our Necromunda events, including an interview with Nick Quenga, one of our Necromunda lead organizers. NOVA Open would like to thank Games Workshop for supporting our convention and making it the best possible experience for our Warhammer community.
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HELP CHECK-IN RUN SMOOTHLY
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Here are some helpful hints to make your check-in at NOVA Open 2018 faster and easier:
- Ensure your account at novaopenstore.com is set up with your first and last names entered in the correct sequence. To check this, log in to your account and click on your user name in the upper right corner of the screen. When your account info page opens, you can edit if necessary.
- Why? Your convention badge is printed with the name listed as "first." This is also a good time to insert a nickname if that is your preference.
- Does your account have a proper email address, one you currently use? If yes, we can contact you; if no, you will not be able to receive important newsletter and splash info.
Final Note: Passes are not mailed. They will waiting for you at registration check-in (or the SuperNOVA desk), when you arrive.
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Hyatt's NOVA Open room block is sold out. We recommend you use the Hyatt link:
https://aws.passkey.com/go/NOVA18
first "in case" there is a recent cancellation. If not:
The NOVA Open has contracted with the Marriott Courtyard next door at $99/night with half-price parking. When the Courtyard block is full, NOVA Open will consider contracting with the Marriott Renaissance, located just outside Hyatt's back doors. Marriott booking link:
https://bit.ly/2J9hzcO
If anyone runs into trouble booking rooms, let us know and we'll try to help:
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Arlington Crystal City/Reagan Airport
2899 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington, VA 22202
(just a hundred or so steps from Hyatt's front door)
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$99/night ~ 50% discount on parking
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Hyatt Regency Important Information
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Chesapeake View - Foundation Lounge:
We are pleased to announce that the NOCF Lounge has now been permanently moved to Chesapeake View
NOVA Open Room Block Rates:
- Single or Double occupancy: $97
- Three in a Room: $122
- Four in a Room: $147
Length of Block:
- The NOVA Open room block begins Saturday, 8/25 and ends Monday, 9/3 - keep in mind, it looks like NOVA Open will be underway late afternoon of Wednesday, 8/29
$50 Per Night INCIDENTAL HOLD FEE:
- The Washington DC area hotels have adopted policy (this includes Hyatt and surrounding properties) which will put a hold of $50 for incidentals at check-in ... FOR EACH NIGHT YOU BOOKED. This will typically impact only those using debit cards (as opposed to credit cards). Regardless, if you plan to be on site Wed-Mon (5 nights), a hold of $250 will be put on your card. No incidental charges to your room = full release upon check out.
Check In / Check Out:
- Check in is 3:00pm; Check out is 12:00pm. Early check in and late checkout requests, booking upgrades to rooms and suites, may receive additional charges.
Departure Fee:
- A one-night rate fee "can be" assessed if an attendee fails to give Hyatt a 24-hour notice of early departure.
Roll Away Bed Fee:
- One-time fee of $25 for a roll away bed; limited / request early.
When Hyatt is Sold Out:
- Contact NOVA Open (customerservice@novaopen.com) if you are unable to book at Hyatt; this will notify us of any issues and allow us to expand the block. NOVA Open is negotiating room rates and perks at surrounding hotels (like 2017) ahead of expected Hyatt sell out - which well could be BEFORE registration launches on March 1. Receiving and reading the NOVA Open bi-weekly newsletters is the best way to stay informed and prepared.
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Atlantis Games and Comics
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