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SDCC 2018: Online Exclusives and Autograph Lotteries

by Transmute Jun

The system has finally been confirmed. Ever since WonderCon implemented online lotteries for autographs last spring, San Diego Comic Con (SDCC) attendees have been wondering whether or not the same would be true for this year’s big event in San Diego. While there have long been rumors and speculation, it has now finally been confirmed: online lotteries will be used for autographs and some exclusives at SDCC 2018 (to be held July 19-22, with Preview Night on July 18).

Results of online lotteries for autographs at WonderCon were mixed. While some attendees won autographs they might never have been able to get before (because they were unable or unwilling to wait in line for an in-person lottery) those who previous participated in the in-person lotteries had far less success than in previous years. Additionally, WonderCon seemed unprepared to deal with the issue of winners not picking up their wristbands, and how to distribute extras without creating more lines. Hopefully, Comic Con International (CCI) has studied these issues and implemented solutions to deal with potential standby lines.

Another issue that has arisen is who qualifies for these online lotteries. Previously, any attendee with a badge was able to stand in line and attempt the in-person lotteries in the Sails Pavilion at SDCC. The first online exclusive lottery (for a Mondo poster) was restricted to general (paid) attendees only, meaning that professionals, press, and exhibitors were excluded. However, the exclusives portal opened today seems to be open for press and professionals, at least, meaning that the status of non-paid badges may change from lottery to lottery. If you are uncertain of your eligibility to participate in the online lotteries, log into your Member ID account and click on the Exclusives tab.

Online lottery wristband pickup at WonderCon 2018

So far, we know based on press releases that an online lottery will be used for signings with Fox (The Gifted, Legion) and likely also for Warner Brothers (Castle Rock, Riverdale, Supernatural) [we will update once confirmed and as further developments are officially communicated]. It is yet to be announced whether or not this online system will be applied to other studio autographs, although we know that not all autographs will be part of the online lottery system. For example, Marvel has announced that their autographs will not use the online system. CCI has also announced that Hasbro, Lego, FUnko and ICC Distributing will be offering buying timeslots through the exclusives lottery.

Right now, attendees can sign up for the exclusives online lotteries by logging into their Member ID accounts and clicking on the Exclusives tab. Exclusives/signings may continue to be added until the submission deadline of July 12. Attendees will be notified by email and in their Member ID accounts of any winning submissions.

CCI has stated that signing lotteries are coming soon. As per announcements by Fox, this may happen as early as July 2. We at the FoCC Blog will be carefully monitoring the online lotteries and their outcomes at SDCC this year.

What do you think of online lotteries at SDCC? Join the conversation on the FoCC forums!

Transmute Jun

Transmute Jun has an addiction to pop culture conventions, and attends as many as she can each year. When she's not traveling, she likes to stay at home reading a good book, playing a video game, or binge-watching a TV show. She can be bribed with pizza, Coke Zero and Belgian milk chocolate.