Friends of Comic Cons

Comic-Con International => SDCC Registration and Badges => Topic started by: aodmisery on February 01, 2013, 02:39:33 PM

Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 01, 2013, 02:39:33 PM
just got the email feb 16th at 9am:

Do you have the persistence of Superman? The patience of a Watcher? The ingenuity of Tony Stark? The determination of Batman?

If so, then you are ready for Comic-Con International 2013 Open Online Registration! Badge sales will begin at 9:00 AM Pacific Time (PT) on Saturday February 16, 2013. For more information and details regarding eligibility, we strongly recommend you visit http://www.comic-con.org/cci/2013-badge-purchase


Sincerely,

Attendee Registration

Comic-Con International

www.comic-con.org
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: beadrbop on February 01, 2013, 02:51:09 PM
Thanks for the heads up! Good luck to all that will do 'battle' for badges that day!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 01, 2013, 02:55:36 PM
can you please post the email in your orginal post? minus the linky
thanks!

here's a link to a couple of time conversion charts
http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=901.0
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 01, 2013, 03:08:07 PM
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can you please post the email in your orginal post? minus the linky
thanks!

here's a link to a couple of time conversion charts
http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=901.0

sure thing i added the link it came with but thats not the link to the badge sale, that will be sent at a later time
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: AndyBehbakht on February 01, 2013, 03:11:14 PM
While that is announced, I'm still waiting for a reply from CC regarding my Press Application...:(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Andrew Costa Mesa on February 01, 2013, 03:11:26 PM
Got the E-mail at 2:41pm.  It's a fairly short E-mail that has a link that provides more information.

I never look forward to times like this.  Something can always go wrong.  The frustrating part is when you click on the link to go to the waiting room and it's hit-or-miss as to whether you get in soon, you take a long time to get in or you don't get in at all.

If I can get at least either a Friday or Saturday badge (or both preferably), I'll be grateful.  I already got both the Thursday and Sunday badges from pre-reg.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 01, 2013, 03:11:44 PM
Here's what's on the web site

The wait is over! Badges for Comic-Con International 2013 will go on sale February 16, 2013 at 9:00 AM Pacific Time (PT).
 
The link to EPIC Open Online Registration will be sent to everyone with a valid and confirmed Comic-Con Member ID via email 48 hours prior to the start of badge sales.  You may click the link, or copy-and-paste it into you browser. Comic-Con will NOT post this link on our website, Facebook, or Twitter.
If you purchased a 4-Day badge with Preview Night during preregistration in August 2012 OR If you are a professional or guest of professional who has registered for a Comic-Con 2013 professional badge, you are not eligible to participate in Open Online Registration. You may not purchase a badge of any type on February 16, 2013.
 http://www.comic-con.org/cci/2013-badge-purchase
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 01, 2013, 03:55:52 PM
Hi all! New here :D

I just got the email too from cci! I am so excited as I have the day off work so both the hubs and I can try on the computer and ipad(and iphone maybe).

I'm a first timer so I am hoping against all odds to get even just a couple days(friday/saturday preferably).

Anyone have any suggestions or tips?(any besides the ones that google brings up ha ha) good luck to all!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 01, 2013, 03:57:27 PM
Let the fun begin....

Allow me to walk you through the appropriate stages:

1) extreme nerves & possible stress.  You may experience sleep loss as you awake in a cold sweat after nightmares of computer problems on Feb. 16th.  Unfortunately this won't pass until after Feb. 16th

2) consumption of lots of caffein on February 16th, regardless of what time sales are in your timezone.  You will be sufficiently amped up on not only caffein and other stimulants, but will also have enough adrenaline pumping to allow you to lift an SUV off of an injured child (which you won't have time to do because you're waiting for the "buy no" button to go live)

3) the mad dash to get a good spot in the virtual que.  Unfortunately you'll have little control over this.  You may find God, or some other deity that you hope will give you the extra nudge to the front of the 'que:' whatever works for ya.

4) in a perfect world you will experience jubilation as you score the badge you were hoping for.  It will be mixed with complete elation, knowing that the stress is over & mission accomplished.  You might light a cigaret and feel as if in a state of post-coital tristesse, and you may have a VERY happy kid, spouse, friend, etc. that you were able to hook up.

5) you might experience a moment of terror as you realize you were shut out of the badge you wanted: or, forbid, were shutout completely and come away with nothing.

6) this will quickly turn into rage: rage against Comic-Con, Epic, other people who beat you to the punch, your job, bad weather, the deity you briefly found but are now cursing for letting you down, etc.  You will take to the internet to proclaim your ire; you might even send an email to CCI.

7) calm.  Yes, regardless of what happens at 9am PST on Feb. 16th you will return to normal.  Life will go on whether you got a 4-Day w/Preview Night badge for you and your three friends or if you got nothing.  You'll realize in the grand scheme of things this is just a comic book/movie/TV/game/cosplay convention not worth your stress or rage.  If you got a badge you'll be excited as described in step (4), but by Monday morning (or sooner) you'll be back in the daily grind doing whatever it is you do.

Good luck to all in your pursuit of a 2013 San Diego Comic-Con badge.  May I remind you that WonderCon is always a fallback con, where you can get something close to the SD Comic-Con experience without the stress & crazy crowds.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 01, 2013, 04:02:23 PM
Also please remember that volunteering is a great option in case you don't get badges during this go around and that there in all likelihood will be a sale of refunded badges some time after mid-May.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Devorah on February 01, 2013, 04:08:42 PM
Gah!  I will be away in a place with no wifi - the ONE TIME a year that happens.  What timing :)  I have my badge already but wanted to try for preview night and help my friend get her badge.  Boo...

Anyone had any luck doing this with 4G?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 01, 2013, 04:10:00 PM
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Anyone had any luck doing this with 4G?

I think the device (phone or tablet) is usually a bigger deal than the connection. Just as long as you get a stable signal it won't matter if it's 4G, 3G or wi-fi.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Devorah on February 01, 2013, 04:15:09 PM
I was just looking at my phone (iphone 5) and it has the option of mobile hotspot using the 4g signal.  I may bring my laptop and try that out, maybe do it on the phone and the computer.  I am a big fan of overkill.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 01, 2013, 04:17:57 PM
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Anyone have any suggestions or tips?
there's a lot of tips and tricks on the forum, to many to list here
Welcome to the forum!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 01, 2013, 04:22:20 PM
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I was just looking at my phone (iphone 5) and it has the option of mobile hotspot using the 4g signal.  I may bring my laptop and try that out, maybe do it on the phone and the computer.  I am a big fan of overkill.
i'm running a Mobil hotspot on my iphone4 on occasion & sometimes is disconnects me...test out the system would be my advice.
can't get to a starbucks, etc?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Andrew Costa Mesa on February 01, 2013, 04:22:35 PM
Just last Tuesday morning, the Coachella Music Festival also sold out quickly.  Some also had the same issues with trying to get in to purchase either a regular pass ($399) or the VIP pass ($799) for the second weekend of April.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 01, 2013, 04:30:56 PM
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Let the fun begin....

Allow me to walk you through the appropriate stages:

1) extreme nerves & possible stress.  You may experience sleep loss as you awake in a cold sweat after nightmares of computer problems on Feb. 16th.  Unfortunately this won't pass until after Feb. 16th

2) consumption of lots of caffein on February 16th, regardless of what time sales are in your timezone.  You will be sufficiently amped up on not only caffein and other stimulants, but will also have enough adrenaline pumping to allow you to lift an SUV off of an injured child (which you won't have time to do because you're waiting for the "buy no" button to go live)

3) the mad dash to get a good spot in the virtual que.  Unfortunately you'll have little control over this.  You may find God, or some other deity that you hope will give you the extra nudge to the front of the 'que:' whatever works for ya.

4) in a perfect world you will experience jubilation as you score the badge you were hoping for.  It will be mixed with complete elation, knowing that the stress is over & mission accomplished.  You might light a cigaret and feel as if in a state of post-coital tristesse, and you may have a VERY happy kid, spouse, friend, etc. that you were able to hook up.

5) you might experience a moment of terror as you realize you were shut out of the badge you wanted: or, forbid, were shutout completely and come away with nothing.

6) this will quickly turn into rage: rage against Comic-Con, Epic, other people who beat you to the punch, your job, bad weather, the deity you briefly found but are now cursing for letting you down, etc.  You will take to the internet to proclaim your ire; you might even send an email to CCI.

7) calm.  Yes, regardless of what happens at 9am PST on Feb. 16th you will return to normal.  Life will go on whether you got a 4-Day w/Preview Night badge for you and your three friends or if you got nothing.  You'll realize in the grand scheme of things this is just a comic book/movie/TV/game/cosplay convention not worth your stress or rage.  If you got a badge you'll be excited as described in step (4), but by Monday morning (or sooner) you'll be back in the daily grind doing whatever it is you do.

Good luck to all in your pursuit of a 2013 San Diego Comic-Con badge.  May I remind you that WonderCon is always a fallback con, where you can get something close to the SD Comic-Con experience without the stress & crazy crowds.

Thank you  ;D My husband and I have been wanting to go for a while, and weren't going to try this year, but decided, what the hey! I'm a firm believer that you never know if you don't try! Even if we got one day, I'd still be glad :D And if I get no days, well, I won't be too hurt as I know I tried and that's what counts in my eyes  8)

I would love to volunteer though! I've had experience with crowds(worked at wdw doing audience control), but I thought it was hard to get in as a volunteer? at least that is what I have been reading online.

I'll definitely be using the iphone along with the ipad and computer. Good luck to everyone and I hope to see some of you there!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Devorah on February 01, 2013, 04:51:26 PM
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i'm running a Mobil hotspot on my iphone4 on occasion & sometimes is disconnects me...test out the system would be my advice.
can't get to a starbucks, etc?

Sadly no I will truly be in the middle of nowhere.  Closest Starbucks...1 hour!  Or as the crazier side of me just started thinking, only one hour...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BarneyLhs on February 01, 2013, 05:07:12 PM
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Thank you  ;D My husband and I have been wanting to go for a while, and weren't going to try this year, but decided, what the hey! I'm a firm believer that you never know if you don't try! Even if we got one day, I'd still be glad :D And if I get no days, well, I won't be too hurt as I know I tried and that's what counts in my eyes  8)

I would love to volunteer though! I've had experience with crowds(worked at wdw doing audience control), but I thought it was hard to get in as a volunteer? at least that is what I have been reading online.

I'll definitely be using the iphone along with the ipad and computer. Good luck to everyone and I hope to see some of you there!

Volunteering is (in my opinion) easier to get in than buying a badge
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 01, 2013, 05:13:10 PM
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Sadly no I will truly be in the middle of nowhere.  Closest Starbucks...1 hour!  Or as the crazier side of me just started thinking, only one hour...

I gotta say, it's amusing what people think of as the middle of nowhere.  ;)

Tomorrow I'm driving an hr and a half to my local comic store & to do some clothing shopping for my 13 year old.  We just got a starbucks in town last year but we did have a computer store where visitors could get on the web.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: lawboysam on February 01, 2013, 05:17:35 PM
Good luck to anyone trying to get a badge on the 16th!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Tipsister on February 01, 2013, 05:34:37 PM
I didn't get an email.  That's not good.  I've got a member ID and I know I opted in for emails.  Drat.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 01, 2013, 05:36:44 PM
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I didn't get an email.  That's not good.  I've got a member ID and I know I opted in for emails.  Drat.

Emails could take a few hours to go out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 01, 2013, 05:39:35 PM
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Sadly no I will truly be in the middle of nowhere.  Closest Starbucks...1 hour!  Or as the crazier side of me just started thinking, only one hour...

Would also recommend you partner up w/ some friends and have them available as a backup. Could always return the favor by getting in line early to hold a spot or helping out w/ hotel reg...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 01, 2013, 05:46:02 PM
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I didn't get an email.  That's not good.  I've got a member ID and I know I opted in for emails.  Drat.
log on to your member id account & triple check to see if you're eligible. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 01, 2013, 06:19:32 PM
give it time. I have two accounts I got one email around 230  and the other email didn't get it till 6
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 01, 2013, 06:48:54 PM
Wow, I can't believe all of this information is already out there! I haven't gotten the email yet. I feel so behind!

Thank goodness for this site! Thank you, Alyssa!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 01, 2013, 07:00:53 PM
you're welcome

the thought is, if you have a 4 day + pv nite badge for sdcc already then you won't get an email because you're not eligible for the sale
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: rando on February 01, 2013, 07:16:58 PM
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<snip> the thought is, if you have a 4 day + pv nite badge for sdcc already then you won't get an email because you're not eligible for the sale

This seems likely.  I was lucky enough to purchase a 4-day with preview in August and I haven't received the email either.  Although I am not eligible to use my member ID for the sale I am helping *a Friend* purchase a badge.  Since they don't ask for the member ID and last name until you are at the front of the line (if I read it correctly) then once I am there I can input my friend's info and try for her badge.  Does this sound correct to anyone?  I haven't had much experience helping out buying a badge online...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 01, 2013, 07:51:17 PM
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Volunteering is (in my opinion) easier to get in than buying a badge

Then I will definitely give that a try as well!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 01, 2013, 08:05:15 PM
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the thought is, if you have a 4 day + pv nite badge for sdcc already then you won't get an email because you're not eligible for the sale

That may be why I haven't received the email, but that's not what the notice said. The notice you posted says: 'The link to EPIC Open Online Registration will be sent to everyone with a valid and confirmed Comic-Con Member ID via email 48 hours prior to the start of badge sales.'. That implies to me that I should be getting the email, even if I already have 4 days + Preview Night?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 01, 2013, 08:22:10 PM
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Since they don't ask for the member ID and last name until you are at the front of the line (if I read it correctly) then once I am there I can input my friend's info and try for her badge.  Does this sound correct to anyone?  I haven't had much experience helping out buying a badge online...

That's what we're expecting. Shouldn't ask for Member ID until you are up to buy...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 01, 2013, 08:23:37 PM
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That may be why I haven't received the email, but that's not what the notice said. The notice you posted says: 'The link to EPIC Open Online Registration will be sent to everyone with a valid and confirmed Comic-Con Member ID via email 48 hours prior to the start of badge sales.'. That implies to me that I should be getting the email, even if I already have 4 days + Preview Night?

Not necessarily. The Member ID system seems to allow them to send emails out to any subset of people they choose so you might only receive emails that are pertinent to your situation. No reason for them to flood the system even more by sending out an email to people who have no reason to click on the link...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 01, 2013, 09:04:10 PM
*bursts into thread screaming at the top of my lungs* AAAAHHHHHHH

IT'S HERE!

I was on a quick break at work and a friend had texted me and I ended my break early so I could request time off from my Supervisor for the registration.  He approved it and now I'm just waiting on "the tower" to approve it and then I'm home free.  It's a good thing I've been yammering on and on about it.  I walked up and I'm like "Comic Con badge registration got announced" and he's like "when do you need to take time off?" LOL
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: rando on February 01, 2013, 09:39:25 PM
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That may be why I haven't received the email, but that's not what the notice said. The notice you posted says: 'The link to EPIC Open Online Registration will be sent to everyone with a valid and confirmed Comic-Con Member ID via email 48 hours prior to the start of badge sales.'. That implies to me that I should be getting the email, even if I already have 4 days + Preview Night?

Hmm...I think there was an email sent by CCI today to announce the sale date although since I haven't received it I don't know exactly what it said.  I believe the email you are referring to T.J. is another one with the actual link to EPIC that I hope everyone gets on the 14th.  Can someone who got today's email post it's contents?  As I posted before I will be helping someone get a badge so I would like access to the EPIC link if it came today or on the 14th.  :P
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: KirbySS on February 01, 2013, 10:06:43 PM
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Hmm...I think there was an email sent by CCI today to announce the sale date although since I haven't received it I don't know exactly what it said.  I believe the email you are referring to T.J. is another one with the actual link to EPIC that I hope everyone gets on the 14th.  Can someone who got today's email post it's contents?  As I posted before I will be helping someone get a badge so I would like access to the EPIC link if it came today or on the 14th.  :P

Except for the fine print it is posted in the first post of this thread. There is no Epic link in it. The link you need to register will be emailed 48 hours prior to registration. Just have the person you are helping to register forward you a copy of it assuming they haven't opted out of emails (in which case have them opt in ASAP).
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 01, 2013, 10:18:11 PM
So the link is coming out on the 14th?  Awww happy valentines day to you, too, Comic Con.  <3
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 01, 2013, 10:19:36 PM
Odds are good that the link will be posted in a lot of places despite CCI asking that it not be.

I would think that if you ask someone here for the link because you didn't get the email (for whatever reason) that they would pass the link along.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: TravelingPumpkins on February 01, 2013, 11:01:32 PM
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give it time. I have two accounts I got one email around 230  and the other email didn't get it till 6

Eeep!  I hope I get the e-mail announcing volunteer registration sooner than later, then!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: rando on February 01, 2013, 11:12:25 PM
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Except for the fine print it is posted in the first post of this thread. There is no Epic link in it. The link you need to register will be emailed 48 hours prior to registration. Just have the person you are helping to register forward you a copy of it assuming they haven't opted out of emails (in which case have them opt in ASAP).

Thanks!  Totally missed that in skimming the thread earlier.  :P  Hopefully I will get the email with the EPIC link on the 14th as I have not opted out.  If not I will follow yours and other's advice to have someone forward the email to me.   :)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 01, 2013, 11:34:13 PM
What's up with all this "I already got a 4 day with preview but I'm still going to try to get my friend's brother's sister's cousin's nephew a badge too." I worry that this practice is going to shut out some die hard who simply wants that single badge so they can go. Not that nephew person doesn't want to go if you're able to get them a badge but there is a bigger implication here. Don't be shocked or disgruntled when the next step in this badge process is one per person because you want to bet those "shut out" hard core fans aren't going to raise a big stink about that essentially "line holding" and why that's the reason they didn't get one.

To me, get the one for yourself, get the one for your wife, your child, your bestest bud, but when we start line holding for everyone and their mom, I worry in the LONG RUN it's only going to end up making it hard for all us.

I'm not complaining, I don't want to be a hypocrite either as I may or may not join a group to get MY badge, but I do believe it's probably just a matter of time before it takes that next restrictive step. 

Good luck to everyone who really needs a badge like Andrew Costa Mesa. Here's sending good vibes and I'm pulling for all of you!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 02, 2013, 04:09:24 AM
first timers , please read to the bottom of the page this http://www.comic-con.org/cci/2013-badge-purchase

highlights;
4 badges per log on

customer service # will be posted on facebook at 8.30am for problems

Member ID system will CLOSE to new registrations on February 12, 2013

EPIC Registration waiting room will open at 9:00 AM Pacific Time (PT) on February 16, 2013. Prior to that, if you click the link (or copy-and-paste into your browser)  you will be taken to a static landing page.  At 9:00 AM (PT), click the green button on the landing page and you should be redirected to the EPIC Registration waiting room.* IT IS OK TO REFRESH YOUR BROWSER WHILE ON THE LANDING PAGE. However, do not refresh your browser once you have reached the EPIC waiting room.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 02, 2013, 04:27:12 AM
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<snip>
To me, get the one for yourself, get the one for your wife, your child, your bestest bud, but when we start line holding for everyone and their mom, I worry in the LONG RUN it's only going to end up making it hard for all us.

I'm not complaining, I don't want to be a hypocrite either as I may or may not join a group to get MY badge, but I do believe it's probably just a matter of time before it takes that next restrictive step. 

Good luck to everyone who really needs a badge like Andrew Costa Mesa. Here's sending good vibes and I'm pulling for all of you!

you make a good point and in an ideal world it would be as you wish.  The problem I have tho, is what determines a person who 'really needs a badge'? is it the amt of years they've been going to the con? the amt of dedication they're willing to put into going to the con? Is it their amt of 'fanboy' vibe?
Because I agree with you, the only people who should be there are people who really want to be there but I don't know how to tell someone who really wants to be there from someone who's being talked into it by a boyfriend/husband/etc.  On paper, the first year me & my son went to con, we wouldn't have been considered 'someone that really needs' a badge.

that's the reason I present the opportunity for members of this board to form a group, because to my mind anyone who posts here (makes the effort to 'walk the walk') is someone that deserves to get a badge.  Groups have a way of taking care of their members that 'really need a badge' first.<grin>
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 02, 2013, 07:24:45 AM
I have a friend who already has a badge who's gonna help the other four of us in the group get ours.  So there will be 5 people working to get 4 badges.  I guess we are all pretty "hardcore" though.  We've been planning together for months. :)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 02, 2013, 09:09:48 AM
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To me, get the one for yourself, get the one for your wife, your child, your bestest bud, but when we start line holding for everyone and their mom, I worry in the LONG RUN it's only going to end up making it hard for all us.

I'm not complaining, I don't want to be a hypocrite either as I may or may not join a group to get MY badge, but I do believe it's probably just a matter of time before it takes that next restrictive step. 

Good luck to everyone who really needs a badge like Andrew Costa Mesa. Here's sending good vibes and I'm pulling for all of you!

Understand what you're saying but yeah, I think once we start trying to gauge a person's worthiness to attend, it becomes a slippery slope.

I don't think CCI will take that restrictive step. I can't see them doing something that could potentially prevent you from getting a badge for a significant other or family member especially considering now that they even mention in their communication that forming a team can improve your odds.

When it comes down to it, CCI is looking to get as many badges out to their fans in the easiest and most fair way possible whether we agree with it or not. The folks who get badges will be ecstatic and those locked out will be unhappy with the process.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 02, 2013, 10:05:31 AM
I admit it, I'm set with my own badge, my husband is set with his own badge, but I'll be participating in the general sale to help friends who weren't so lucky in last August's pre-sale. I don't see anything wrong with that. I'm helping out friends who will also be participating. If any of us gets the badges, we all pull out of the waiting room. I don't see that as being unfair in any way. Should people be forbidden from helping their friends?

Honestly, I think the biggest disservice CCI is doing to people who 'need' a badge is this 2 weeks of notice. With this much notice, even the 'casual yahoos' who only have a vague interest are going to know about this and participate, causing that much more clogging of the system on the actual day. It's going to be an utter madhouse, of the kind that killed Epic on 2 separate occasions in 2010.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 02, 2013, 10:06:50 AM
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Can someone who got today's email post it's contents?  As I posted before I will be helping someone get a badge so I would like access to the EPIC link if it came today or on the 14th.  :P

Alyssa already posted the entire text here.

http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=1241.msg17493#new (http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=1241.msg17493#new)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 02, 2013, 10:22:10 AM
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Honestly, I think the biggest disservice CCI is doing to people who 'need' a badge is this 2 weeks of notice. With this much notice, even the 'casual yahoos' who only have a vague interest are going to know about this and participate, causing that much more clogging of the system on the actual day. It's going to be an utter madhouse, of the kind that killed Epic on 2 separate occasions in 2010.

Thought it was Ticket Leap that crashed? Epic has been able to handle the issues the past 2 or 3 sales by not letting more than 40K or whatever the limit was to get into queue and everyone else gets blocked out so they can't crash it.

2 weeks is a bit overkill but this takes away the major complaint that CCI does not give enough notice so that people can make the necessary arrangements to be available for the sale. Aside from the issue of more demand than supply, CCI continues to take the steps necessary to accomodate everyone as best as they can.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 02, 2013, 10:23:38 AM
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first timers , please read to the bottom of the page this http://www.comic-con.org/cci/2013-badge-purchase

highlights;
4 badges per log on


this!! im so glad theyre only doing four and not six this year line will move faster and more chances to get a ticket
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 02, 2013, 11:39:28 AM
I totally concur it's a slippery slope and very subjective to decide who is truly worthy. Everyone is. Everyone who wants to go should be able to. I'm all for it.

However, let's be real here, for those of us (myself included) who are getting "friends" to help, what we're really doing is "line holding/hopping." We can call it nicer things but if this was not a virtual waiting room and an actual physical line/room of people, that's really what it is right? It's perfectly OK in this case at this time, it's not against the rules or policy, so more power to us all but I for one am aware this is what it is.

I'm also mentioning this because despite what Khanh says, I do believe it's probably just a matter of time before they take an additional step to curb this practice. Maybe it won't be one per, but anyone want to make a wager with me that it goes to maybe 2 per or 3 per at some time here in the coming years? Remember, there's a little precedent for this, Pro Badge policy. People were taking "advantage" of the accepted policy and system and getting way more badges than they needed for friends, family, etc. Today you can "only" get one for yourself and 2 others and you have to pay full price on one.

So again, I'm not judging, and I'm no hypocrite as I actually anticipate being part of a crew to get badges, but in doing this, I'm at least very aware that it's "line hopping" but as it stands today, it's all good and within the rules. However, I'm not naive and realize what it is I'm doing and know that because of my participation I will be a reason that CCI will inevitably create a policy change to curb/eliminate this practice. In the meantime, I'm ready with all of you, bring on February 16th!  >:D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 02, 2013, 12:35:31 PM
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Thought it was Ticket Leap that crashed? Epic has been able to handle the issues the past 2 or 3 sales by not letting more than 40K or whatever the limit was to get into queue and everyone else gets blocked out so they can't crash it.

I think you're right... it was another ticket vendor. But my point is that the crazed rush will be similar to that situation. In other words, it's going to be worse than last year. JMHO.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Grimmetal_Heavy on February 02, 2013, 01:53:53 PM
I went last Fri-Sat last year (2012) and got my 2013 4 Day + Preview in August.
So I'm assuming if you're not eligible for the sale, you didn't get an e-mail according to this from CCI's website:

"If you purchased a 4-Day badge with Preview Night during preregistration in August 2012 OR If you are a professional or guest of professional who has registered for a Comic-Con 2013 professional badge, you are not eligible to participate in Open Online Registration. You may not purchase a badge of any type on February 16, 2013."

Either way, the link will be ALL over the internet on Valentine's Day. There's no stopping that. There's people in my position who already have badges that will spread it like candy. I personally will not be doing that, but I'm actively encouraging all of my friends to sign up for a Member ID right now.

Congrats to those who have badges already and good luck to those aiming for them on February. Keep your head up if it doesn't work out though. There's always going to be that 2nd sale a month or two later.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 02, 2013, 04:40:27 PM
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I'm also mentioning this because despite what Khanh says, I do believe it's probably just a matter of time before they take an additional step to curb this practice. Maybe it won't be one per, but anyone want to make a wager with me that it goes to maybe 2 per or 3 per at some time here in the coming years? Remember, there's a little precedent for this, Pro Badge policy. People were taking "advantage" of the accepted policy and system and getting way more badges than they needed for friends, family, etc. Today you can "only" get one for yourself and 2 others and you have to pay full price on one.

I wouldn't be too concerned if they limit it to 2 or 3 per transaction. Even when they did the pre-reg line the year before, they allowed you to buy 2 badges. I don't foresee it to be just one badge per transaction. Maybe 1 adult and 1 junior per transaction so that kids aren't trying to get through but that would be the limit.

The pro badge was a bit different. The limits were in part to cut back on complimentary badges as well as the # that you can buy to make more available back to the general public. Cutting back on pros is not the same as restricting how many badges a general attendee can buy in a transaction.

One thing they can do is require to log in w/ a Member ID BEFORE getting into queue - this will limit who can actually get in line and maybe make things more "fair".  If you already have a badge, you can't get in line and since a Member ID can only be in line once, it'd help limit the people attempting to get in. I'd have to think the idea out a bit more but that's what I got for now...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 02, 2013, 04:41:46 PM
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I went last Fri-Sat last year (2012) and got my 2013 4 Day + Preview in August.
So I'm assuming if you're not eligible for the sale, you didn't get an e-mail according to this from CCI's website:

Yup the assumption is that if you are not eligible for the sale, you didn't receive the email. There are a lot of us who didn't get it and even w/ the batches, we should've received them by now if we were included.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 02, 2013, 04:46:02 PM
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Either way, the link will be ALL over the internet on Valentine's Day. There's no stopping that. There's people in my position who already have badges that will spread it like candy. I personally will not be doing that, but I'm actively encouraging all of my friends to sign up for a Member ID right now.
member id close on the tuesday before the sale

the return sale usually happens in May

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I'm also mentioning this because despite what Khanh says, I do believe it's probably just a matter of time before they take an additional step to curb this practice. Maybe it won't be one per, but anyone want to make a wager with me that it goes to maybe 2 per or 3 per at some time here in the coming years?
given cci's mission statement, I believe they won't decrease the amt of tickets per log on to the point in which a family can't attend.  The question is, how can cci limit the number of badges without discouraging family's.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 02, 2013, 07:41:49 PM
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One thing they can do is require to log in w/ a Member ID BEFORE getting into queue - this will limit who can actually get in line and maybe make things more "fair".  If you already have a badge, you can't get in line and since a Member ID can only be in line once, it'd help limit the people attempting to get in. I'd have to think the idea out a bit more but that's what I got for now...

i was thinking the same thing but then i thought people will just open a new member id and use that one to try and help their friends.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 02, 2013, 08:13:29 PM
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i was thinking the same thing but then i thought people will just open a new member id and use that one to try and help their friends.

Could tighten their rule about one Member ID per person. I know folks with multiple IDs but it could be something they enforce better.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 02, 2013, 10:17:37 PM
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The pro badge was a bit different. The limits were in part to cut back on complimentary badges as well as the # that you can buy to make more available back to the general public. Cutting back on pros is not the same as restricting how many badges a general attendee can buy in a transaction.

It may not be an exact correlation, but they cut back on the number of badges a Pro can get access too ... paid or comp ... to 3 vs double that and then some just a couple of years ago. So if CCI chose to cut back on regualr badge access, which this "line hopping/holding help a friend" practice will I feel shortly lead to, it's likley to end up at 3 too.

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One thing they can do is require to log in w/ a Member ID BEFORE getting into queue - this will limit who can actually get in line and maybe make things more "fair".  If you already have a badge, you can't get in line and since a Member ID can only be in line once, it'd help limit the people attempting to get in. I'd have to think the idea out a bit more but that's what I got for now...

That's a very interesting and likely scenario.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 03, 2013, 05:34:34 AM
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One thing they can do is require to log in w/ a Member ID BEFORE getting into queue - this will limit who can actually get in line and maybe make things more "fair".  If you already have a badge, you can't get in line and since a Member ID can only be in line once, it'd help limit the people attempting to get in. I'd have to think the idea out a bit more but that's what I got for now...

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That's a very interesting and likely scenario.

The problem is that this scenario forces another bottle neck before the actual badge buying.  That hasn't worked out to well for CCI in the past.  If CCI were to put in place a hoop like 'only these people can have access to the system', there'd be this whole new system required to validate a person prior to allowing someone into the waiting room, how does that actually work? do you have a waiting room for the actual waiting room? are people allowed to logon to the system and pre-validate their IP addresses?  Can a validated person use more then one computer to enter the actual waiting room?  These are only the first questions that come to mind.

By limiting a 'log on' to one additional adult pass, most of the 'holding a place in line issues' your raising are addressed and invalidated.  The key is to also allow that 'log on' to buy Junior passes thereby satisfying the "...educational corporation dedicated to creating awareness of, and appreciation for, comics" aspect of CCI's mission statement.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 03, 2013, 07:46:55 AM
Just hide the link behind the Member ID login system. When you log in, it gives you a number of options. One of those options could give access to the ticket queue.

Again not a fully fleshed out idea but with the Member ID system in place now, they do have options. I do think a limit of 4 per transaction is plenty low enough (better than 6 last year or just 2 when in line). I think 4 is a good sweet spot to help out families but not make it too easy for people looking to use this for more nefarious purposes.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 03, 2013, 08:35:42 AM
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Just hide the link behind the Member ID login system. When you log in, it gives you a number of options. One of those options could give access to the ticket queue.

Just to be devils advocate here, when does that new system open up? at 9am when the sale goes live?  Think of the problem google caused with their metric's portal, imagine having 200,000 people trying to get verified in the first 10 seconds- a computer system is going to have difficulty processing the shear amount of data.
Let's say for arguments sake, they're able to accomplish this via pre-log on's via ip addresses verification's;
given the amount of people who have not verified and/or have problems buying badges for themselves, if they're not allowed to even log on and buy badges for the other members in their party imagine the anger.

believe it or not, i think cci should set the limit to 2 adult & 2 jr badges per log on.  so we're in agreement on that point  or close enough to call it 'agreement'  ;)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 03, 2013, 09:45:46 AM
there have been some really good points, i also agree that is you log in first the whole system is more likely to crash
what i think makes people panic is not knowing how many tickets are for sale, the unknown  is the problem. I understand  the CCI might not want to release the numbers. I think people may work better with the system if they had an idea what to do or what their odds  are. For myself if i know i have a 1 in 5 chance at getting tickets i will better understand if i dont get a ticket, with not knowing and unknown odds you dont know what to do and what to think.

good question for anyone who got a ticket in the last sales, what was your opening # in the que? did you get tickets?

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ceddyced on February 03, 2013, 10:11:54 AM
My daughter was #14358 in the que and was able to get 4 individual days for 3 people.  My advice is to do all you can to be successful because we veterans know words cannot truly give justice to the spectacular event comic con has become.  Good luck to all.   
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 03, 2013, 10:21:25 AM
thats great info Thanks  ;D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 03, 2013, 12:04:02 PM
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what i think makes people panic is not knowing how many tickets are for sale, the unknown  is the problem. I understand  the CCI might not want to release the numbers. I think people may work better with the system if they had an idea what to do or what their odds  are. For myself if i know i have a 1 in 5 chance at getting tickets i will better understand if i dont get a ticket, with not knowing and unknown odds you dont know what to do and what to think.
the problems with releasing numbers is people get into calculating which leads to figuring which leads to hair splitting and then recriminations.  Best guess is that there are 50-60,000 badges per day yet to sell.  we don't know how many Member ID's have been created.  we guess that 50-60,000 badges have been sold.

honestly, i don't think your odd are as little as 1 in 5.  Granted if you're using straight statistics you might be accurate but by the act of learning how to use the system you're stacking the odds in your favor.  another option to stack the odds is to join a group.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 03, 2013, 12:27:38 PM
thanks great info, just seeing some form of number puts me in  a confort zone, like the one nice person who posted said i was #14000 and whatever and i got a badge,
many thanks
karl
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 03, 2013, 12:36:14 PM
I take comfort in numbers too so I understand.  It was difficult to let go of the numbers fixation.
Concentrate on improving your odds & things have a way of working out. there is a ticket buying group with a private area if you're interested in joining.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 03, 2013, 02:44:10 PM
i would love to here someone who was 44567 in the que got tickets last year, it gives me hope
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 03, 2013, 04:06:29 PM
Here's a question,

If I am using three different means of getting into queue(ipad, iphone and computer), in theory they will all have a different queue number? and with those that have used tablets and phones in the past, how does it work with knowing when its your turn to get tickets(assuming you get that far) without refreshing the screen? I watched the walkthrough that cci has for purchasing bagdes, but its this waiting room thing that still baffles and confuses me.

Thanks for your help and patience in answering my newbie questions!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 03, 2013, 04:59:26 PM
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If I am using three different means of getting into queue(ipad, iphone and computer), in theory they will all have a different queue number?

Any device you use will have its own, unique position in the queue once they make it into the waiting room.  I used two laptops and a cell phone during the August pre-sale and got in at just under 9,000 (first laptop), just over 9,500 (second laptop), and close to 11,000 (the cell phone).

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and with those that have used tablets and phones in the past, how does it work with knowing when its your turn to get tickets(assuming you get that far) without refreshing the screen? I watched the walkthrough that cci has for purchasing bagdes, but its this waiting room thing that still baffles and confuses me.

On any device, the waiting room will automatically refresh every 90 seconds or so.  You do not have to do anything.  Each time it refreshes, you will see what your current position in line is.

You DO NOT want to do anything to the window except making sure (if you're on a cell phone/tablet) that the device does not power off or go into sleep mode. 

If you initiate a refresh, the system kicks you to the back of the line.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 03, 2013, 07:59:31 PM
watch this vid, it'll explain a lot
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cm8siBex9rY
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 03, 2013, 08:54:37 PM
The courteous thing to do if you have multiple devices in queue is to close the browser on the ones with the highest # (furthest from getting in). There are only a limited # of spots in the queue and everyone else gets locked out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 03, 2013, 10:35:01 PM
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The courteous thing to do if you have multiple devices in queue is to close the browser on the ones with the highest # (furthest from getting in). There are only a limited # of spots in the queue and everyone else gets locked out.

That's what I was planning on doing :)
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: outphase on February 04, 2013, 07:24:12 AM
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Just to be devils advocate here, when does that new system open up? at 9am when the sale goes live?  Think of the problem google caused with their metric's portal, imagine having 200,000 people trying to get verified in the first 10 seconds- a computer system is going to have difficulty processing the shear amount of data.
Let's say for arguments sake, they're able to accomplish this via pre-log on's via ip addresses verification's;
given the amount of people who have not verified and/or have problems buying badges for themselves, if they're not allowed to even log on and buy badges for the other members in their party imagine the anger.

believe it or not, i think cci should set the limit to 2 adult & 2 jr badges per log on.  so we're in agreement on that point  or close enough to call it 'agreement'  ;)

In all fairness, that metric portal wasn't Google. It was the mail merge company that CCI uses for its mailings.

If it was Google, it would've survived. :P
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 04, 2013, 07:31:35 AM
thanks for the clarification, obviously, i didn't delve too deaply into the tech of the issue
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 04, 2013, 08:04:33 AM
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watch this vid, it'll explain a lot
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cm8siBex9rY

This explains a lot, and was really helpful. Given me a much clearer picture of what to expect

However, one question I do have - If I want to get a ticket for me and my girlfriend I can only purchase them one at a time? I cannot select "full weekend with preview night" and select two tickets? I have to buy one for me and then run through the payment process and then hit "buy another badge" and do that for my girlfriend's ID?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 04, 2013, 08:08:55 AM
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<snip>I have to buy one for me and then run through the payment process and then hit "buy another badge" and do that for my girlfriend's ID?
yep, you got the idea
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 04, 2013, 09:10:28 AM
Would recommend both you and your gf be online the day of the sale to increase your odds of getting a badge.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 04, 2013, 10:01:40 AM
I watched that video a few weeks ago :) It was very helpful!

My plan I have is to be on all three devices I have, me on two and husband on one of them. Then once we know our places in the queue, we will close down the one that is the lowest number, but keep the other two open in case something happens to the browser.

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: kappolo on February 04, 2013, 10:51:26 AM
A friend of mine is getting married while the badges go on sale (he's in Europe) :(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: hikanteki on February 04, 2013, 11:34:37 AM
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What's up with all this "I already got a 4 day with preview but I'm still going to try to get my friend's brother's sister's cousin's nephew a badge too." I worry that this practice is going to shut out some die hard who simply wants that single badge so they can go. Not that nephew person doesn't want to go if you're able to get them a badge but there is a bigger implication here. Don't be shocked or disgruntled when the next step in this badge process is one per person because you want to bet those "shut out" hard core fans aren't going to raise a big stink about that essentially "line holding" and why that's the reason they didn't get one.

To me, get the one for yourself, get the one for your wife, your child, your bestest bud, but when we start line holding for everyone and their mom, I worry in the LONG RUN it's only going to end up making it hard for all us.

I'm not complaining, I don't want to be a hypocrite either as I may or may not join a group to get MY badge, but I do believe it's probably just a matter of time before it takes that next restrictive step. 

Good luck to everyone who really needs a badge like Andrew Costa Mesa. Here's sending good vibes and I'm pulling for all of you!

I want to agree because I too don't want Comic Con to get to the point where getting becomes based on who you know.

But on the other hand, I don't know a good way to determine who's "worthy" of getting a badge.  Some people may like comics but aren't aware that you have to be online, like RIGHT AT 9 AM to get a badge.  It wasn't that way 10 years ago.  It wasn't even that way 3 years ago.  Are these people less worthy?  And some other people don't really know what the big deal about it is, but they buy into the hype, may be pretty savvy and are able to figure out the system and get a badge easily.  Are these people more worthy?

And who knows, "my friend's brother's sister's cousin's nephew" will probably end up having a total blast. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 04, 2013, 11:56:13 AM
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A friend of mine is getting married while the badges go on sale (he's in Europe) :(
my first impulse was to say 'sux to be him' then I thought about it for a min and I realized I got married in my back yard.
would have been nice to get married in Europe....


just to add to the 'who's worthy' thing,  my son is an awkward pre-teen who's not very social. Sdcc is a chance to feel as he belongs. On paper he wouldn't be worthy but in my opinion, that feeling is the biggest 'being worthy' factor and you can't measure it.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Devorah on February 04, 2013, 11:58:30 AM
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Some people may like comics but aren't aware that you have to be online, like RIGHT AT 9 AM to get a badge.  Are these people less worthy? 

Yes.  ;)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 04, 2013, 12:36:27 PM
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my son is an awkward pre-teen who's not very social. Sdcc is a chance to feel as he belongs. On paper he wouldn't be worthy but in my opinion, that feeling is the biggest 'being worthy' factor and you can't measure it.

That is an excellent point, Alyssa!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Jeff on February 04, 2013, 02:55:35 PM
I also don't think there are a lot of people going just for the heck of it, or because they heard it's cool.  IT'S EXPENSIVE.  Airfare, jacked up hotel prices, ticket into the con, taking time off work.  I can't imagine wanting to spend that kind of time and money and deal with the crowds if I wasn't a pop culture geek.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 04, 2013, 05:57:10 PM
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I also don't think there are a lot of people going just for the heck of it

Yup. Unless your friends drag you along w/ them and do all the work, it takes some time and commitment to get badges now.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 04, 2013, 07:54:10 PM
They declined my time off request for that morning.  *cry*  Now I'm desperately trying to get that shift covered.  Or *cough cough* I'm feeling a bit under the weather....
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Andrew Costa Mesa on February 04, 2013, 08:33:55 PM
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They declined my time off request for that morning.  *cry*  Now I'm desperately trying to get that shift covered.  Or *cough cough* I'm feeling a bit under the weather....

I thought I read an earlier post from you that they gave you permission to take that time off.  Did they change their mind?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 04, 2013, 09:29:45 PM
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I thought I read an earlier post from you that they gave you permission to take that time off.  Did they change their mind?

My supervisor gave me permission.  "The tower" (basically the schedulers, yes it sounds like I work in an odd dystopian future) declined it.

Edit: Oh thank god my roommate is going to cover my shift in exchange for coffee and cigarettes.  It's a worthy price to pay.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 04, 2013, 10:39:29 PM
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My supervisor gave me permission.  "The tower" (basically the schedulers, yes it sounds like I work in an odd dystopian future) declined it.

Edit: Oh thank god my roommate is going to cover my shift in exchange for coffee and cigarettes.  It's a worthy price to pay.

Yay for the roommate! :) I'm glad you'll be off!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 05, 2013, 12:31:34 AM
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Would recommend both you and your gf be online the day of the sale to increase your odds of getting a badge.

She is at work, but I shall be using my pc, laptop (x2) and my phone.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 05, 2013, 12:33:47 AM
Does anyone know how quickly tickets sold out in last year?

Just doing some rough calculations about how possible it would be to get full weekend tickets.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 05, 2013, 06:22:04 AM
I believe the entire thing sold out in 90 minutes or so last year.

Angel_k, I'm glad you have someone to help you out with your work shift!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 05, 2013, 07:19:47 AM
Rough estimate is that if you weren't in queue within 30 min, you were not likely to get a badge of any sort. The whole thing took over an hour but that was more of people finishingup ttransactions.

I think there was a cap of 40,000 that can be in queue so that shouldhhelp with the math.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: hikanteki on February 05, 2013, 09:11:09 AM
IIRC, you had to be in the queue by 9:12 to get a badge of any sort.  For 4 day badges, you had to be in by around 9:03 or 9:04 although you could still get all 4 individual days if you got in a couple minutes after.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 05, 2013, 03:44:08 PM
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"The tower" (basically the schedulers, yes it sounds like I work in an odd dystopian future) declined it.

Just got an image of you working for Sauron, with the giant eye glaring at you for asking to take the time off to try to get CCI badges...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 05, 2013, 03:46:00 PM
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my first impulse was to say 'sux to be him' then I thought about it for a min and I realized I got married in my back yard.
would have been nice to get married in Europe....


just to add to the 'who's worthy' thing,  my son is an awkward pre-teen who's not very social. Sdcc is a chance to feel as he belongs. On paper he wouldn't be worthy but in my opinion, that feeling is the biggest 'being worthy' factor and you can't measure it.

The minute we start getting into a "who's worthy" pissing match is the minute Comic-Con officially starts to suck.
EVERYONE is worthy, it's just that some are just unlucky enough to not click the "BUY" button quick enough
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 05, 2013, 03:48:40 PM
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I want to agree because I too don't want Comic Con to get to the point where getting becomes based on who you know.

But on the other hand, I don't know a good way to determine who's "worthy" of getting a badge.  Some people may like comics but aren't aware that you have to be online, like RIGHT AT 9 AM to get a badge.  It wasn't that way 10 years ago.  It wasn't even that way 3 years ago.  Are these people less worthy?  And some other people don't really know what the big deal about it is, but they buy into the hype, may be pretty savvy and are able to figure out the system and get a badge easily.  Are these people more worthy?

And who knows, "my friend's brother's sister's cousin's nephew" will probably end up having a total blast.

EVERYONE is worthy!!

except for maybe the people who don't attempt to buy a badge on Feb. 16th at 9am PST - if you're not going to put in the effort then you're not 'worthy' of going to Comic-Con  ;)
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 05, 2013, 05:51:54 PM
Couldn't have said it better myself
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 05, 2013, 08:13:07 PM
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Just got an image of you working for Sauron, with the giant eye glaring at you for asking to take the time off to try to get CCI badges...

this is a highly accurate description of my work environment
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 05, 2013, 10:25:39 PM
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this is a highly accurate description of my work environment

As someone who used to do scheduling for a call center, it's amusing how people view us sometimes. Love us when you get the day off, curse us (quietly of course) when we decline the request.  :D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: hikanteki on February 05, 2013, 10:57:15 PM
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The minute we start getting into a "who's worthy" pissing match is the minute Comic-Con officially starts to suck.
EVERYONE is worthy, it's just that some are just unlucky enough to not click the "BUY" button quick enough

EVERYONE is worthy!!

except for maybe the people who don't attempt to buy a badge on Feb. 16th at 9am PST - if you're not going to put in the effort then you're not 'worthy' of going to Comic-Con  ;)

Well yes, everyone is worthy, but not everyone can go.  It never had anything to do with a pissing match, so I don't know why that came up.  This is why I put "worthy" in quotations.  So what's the best way for Comic Con to determine who goes?  We know that the current way they do is to see who can click on the button the fastest and/or be friends with someone who does.  Is that the best way, or IS there even a best way?  THAT was the point.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 06, 2013, 07:58:32 AM
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We know that the current way they do is to see who can click on the button the fastest and/or be friends with someone who does.  Is that the best way, or IS there even a best way?  THAT was the point.

Sure. First come, first served (sort of). First come, first served plus 3 other people you're allowed to buy for. Sounds reasonable.

Make sure all that the maximum # of badges are available and they all sell and that everyone had a chance at it. That's about as good as it gets.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 06, 2013, 11:22:35 PM
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As someone who used to do scheduling for a call center, it's amusing how people view us sometimes. Love us when you get the day off, curse us (quietly of course) when we decline the request.  :D

lol oh man, so you're the one that's always like "call volume call volume call volume" when it comes to scheduling. those two words make me flinch lol.

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Sure. First come, first served (sort of). First come, first served plus 3 other people you're allowed to buy for. Sounds reasonable.

Make sure all that the maximum # of badges are available and they all sell and that everyone had a chance at it. That's about as good as it gets.

I keep seeing people talk about the number they got when they clicked the link and that people who got clocked at, like, between 9:03-9:06 got this range of numbers etc etc and I have a question... why would anyone not click it right at 9:00?  Does the page just take too long to load?  Or is it just not common sense to log in the minute they go on sale?  I'm going to be hovering on that page all morning and I just assumed that's what everyone does.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 07, 2013, 12:23:05 AM
sometimes they can't get in to the page right away because it's overloaded so you get the folks who continue to refresh or try copying and pasting the link to get in a few minutes laterafter mmultiple attempts.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 07, 2013, 08:54:41 AM
^^ yeah its not like you click on the link and your automatically taken into the waiting room, so many people are trying to get in at once it bogs down the system and youll end up seeing a bunch of "wepage not available" pop up. so you gotta keep trying, clicking on link, cut and pasting, f5, whatever works for you. thats why its so stressful getting tickets
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Chris on February 07, 2013, 03:32:56 PM
From the Comic Con official page:  http://www.comic-con.org/cci/2013-badge-purchase

"The Member ID site will close to new registrations and changes on February 12, 2013 and will not reopen before badge sales begin."

So if you do not have your Member ID now, get one as soon as you can!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 10, 2013, 07:11:37 PM
There's no new information in this article, but I *love* the accompanying picture!

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2013/2/5/113055/9915/travel/How+To+Get+Tickets+To+San+Diego+Comic-Con+2013 (http://www.jaunted.com/story/2013/2/5/113055/9915/travel/How+To+Get+Tickets+To+San+Diego+Comic-Con+2013)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: rando on February 10, 2013, 07:24:20 PM
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There's no new information in this article, but I *love* the accompanying picture!

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2013/2/5/113055/9915/travel/How+To+Get+Tickets+To+San+Diego+Comic-Con+2013 (http://www.jaunted.com/story/2013/2/5/113055/9915/travel/How+To+Get+Tickets+To+San+Diego+Comic-Con+2013)

Yah, that pic is great!  And felt so familiar...It's on the WonderCon site as well!

http://www.comic-con.org/wca/2013/badge-purchase-faq

I'm not sure if it was taken at SDCC or WC but where ever it's still a great shot!   ;)

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 10, 2013, 07:39:20 PM
That's too funny that it's on a WonderCon article too! But I guess the picture was so good they had to use it again... ;)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 10, 2013, 09:23:12 PM
So... anyone else anxiously counting down the days?  The last time I did this I had two days to prepare.  Ugh, Saturday needs to get here quickly.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 11, 2013, 02:48:52 AM
Starting to get nervous already, quite a lot banking on me and the missues getting tickets.

Keep telling myself that it should all be ok, but always got that niggling feeling that by the time I get to the ticket page the badges I want will all be gone.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: KirbySS on February 11, 2013, 08:44:43 AM
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IIRC, you had to be in the queue by 9:12 to get a badge of any sort.  For 4 day badges, you had to be in by around 9:03 or 9:04 although you could still get all 4 individual days if you got in a couple minutes after.

Wasn't the single session purchasing limit 6 badges for 2012? For 2013 it's 4 badges so maybe it will be a little easier this year (if you need 4 or less badges).
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 11, 2013, 09:06:24 AM
yes, it was 6 badges last year
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 11, 2013, 09:22:44 AM
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Wasn't the single session purchasing limit 6 badges for 2012? For 2013 it's 4 badges so maybe it will be a little easier this year (if you need 4 or less badges).

That's a very good point, Kirby! If you assume everyone who got in early purchased 6 badges, then there should be 50% more time this year to get in. Or at least, 50% more spots on the waiting list. ;)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: rando on February 11, 2013, 09:35:03 AM
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Wasn't the single session purchasing limit 6 badges for 2012? For 2013 it's 4 badges so maybe it will be a little easier this year (if you need 4 or less badges).

Hmm...do we know what percentage of tickets were sold in the online prereg in August?  Was it the same the onsite prereg from years past?  I wonder if they reduced the number from 6 to 4 because they sold more online in August?  Just askin'!  :o
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 11, 2013, 10:45:33 AM
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Hmm...do we know what percentage of tickets were sold in the online prereg in August?  Was it the same the onsite prereg from years past?  I wonder if they reduced the number from 6 to 4 because they sold more online in August?  Just askin'!  :o

I totally forgot about that! Duh! And you're right, that will have a significant impact too. There was a thread on this earlier, back in August, and I think we figured that roughly half the badges were sold then?

Of course, that means there will be fewer people in the pool to buy badges this time, and any refunded badges from the August sales will be in this general sale as well.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 11, 2013, 11:23:11 AM
here is a odd question, I have a member id already, but when does the cut off happen feb 12 , tonight at at 12.01 or tuesday night at 11.59.59?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 11, 2013, 11:50:06 AM
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Hmm...do we know what percentage of tickets were sold in the online prereg in August?  Was it the same the onsite prereg from years past?  I wonder if they reduced the number from 6 to 4 because they sold more online in August?  Just askin'!  :o

From the survey, the range that they had to select for feedback was between 40-60% I think so can only assume about half of the badges are still available.  Onsite the year before was roughly 10%.

There were a lot of complaints about 6 and it was another survey question so again, the assumption is that it's based on the feedback provided.

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here is a odd question, I have a member id already, but when does the cut off happen feb 12 , tonight at at 12.01 or tuesday night at 11.59.59?

Guessing end of day but at this point, if someone hasn't signed up, then they can wait for the refund sale or plan for 2014.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 11, 2013, 12:17:11 PM
I went and checked out the thread I started last August. I had done some rough math, which indicated that half the badges were sold. And I gather that CCI had said at the talkback panel last year that half would be sold during the presale. SO I think we can feel pretty confident that half of the badges (plus any refunds already processed) will be available during this general sale.

http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=917.0 (http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=917.0)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Andrew Costa Mesa on February 11, 2013, 01:25:52 PM
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My supervisor gave me permission.  "The tower" (basically the schedulers, yes it sounds like I work in an odd dystopian future) declined it.

Edit: Oh thank god my roommate is going to cover my shift in exchange for coffee and cigarettes.  It's a worthy price to pay.

Glad to hear your roommate will cover for you.  Didn't realize getting permission for time off was a two-tier process!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 11, 2013, 04:13:11 PM
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Starting to get nervous already, quite a lot banking on me and the missues getting tickets.

Keep telling myself that it should all be ok, but always got that niggling feeling that by the time I get to the ticket page the badges I want will all be gone.

Did you join the buying group here on this forum?  If not, I do have 5 people going after 4 badges, so if you guys get put waaaay back in line and my group has all of our badges, I'd be willing to talk to one of my friends and pass on your info.  I really want you and your wife to go.  <3


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Glad to hear your roommate will cover for you.  Didn't realize getting permission for time off was a two-tier process!

Yeah.  My work is stressful.  In order for anything to happen it's gotta go through a ton of people.  My supervisor is great and he works hard to make things work for me, but he doesn't have the final say.  That's what happens when you work for a place that employs 500+ people at any given time.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 11, 2013, 04:54:42 PM
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here is a odd question, I have a member id already, but when does the cut off happen feb 12 , tonight at at 12.01 or tuesday night at 11.59.59?

I just got an alert on Facebook that it's midnight tonight.  I can't find an official link on the website, but it's on their facebook page.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 11, 2013, 05:50:03 PM
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I just got an alert on Facebook that it's midnight tonight.  I can't find an official link on the website, but it's on their facebook page.

Yup on FB and Twitter. Midnight tonight. Thanks for the update! :D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: deannagavin on February 12, 2013, 09:51:05 AM
This will be mine and my husbands first time. We are actually going to SDCC for our honeymoon! We have been dreaming of this day for years now! Is there anyway to "get in line" before it opens? or is it a free for all, and just hope you cliked the link at that exact mili-second, so we can get two 4-day passes? Thanks for any tips!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Chris on February 12, 2013, 09:58:16 AM
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Is there anyway to "get in line" before it opens? or is it a free for all, and just hope you cliked the link at that exact mili-second, so we can get two 4-day passes? Thanks for any tips!

No way to get in line before it opens, click at the millisecond and that gets you in line in the waiting room.  Here is another thread on this site for badge buying tips:

http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=1245.0

Good luck!
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 12, 2013, 01:31:16 PM
http://m.youtube.com/#/watch?v=Ucu2z6tVDm8&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DUcu2z6tVDm8
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 13, 2013, 08:10:58 AM
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Did you join the buying group here on this forum?  If not, I do have 5 people going after 4 badges, so if you guys get put waaaay back in line and my group has all of our badges, I'd be willing to talk to one of my friends and pass on your info.  I really want you and your wife to go.  <3


Thank you. That's very kind of you.

I haven't joined the buying group (I don't think). Where would one find this group?  :)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 13, 2013, 08:29:49 AM
I'm sitting here laughing this morning at all of the people who are posting on the Facebook page, saying how unfair it is that the Member ID system is down. Seriously, don't you pay attention?????
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 13, 2013, 09:46:58 AM
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I haven't joined the buying group (I don't think). Where would one find this group?  :)

Under the section "Information Archives", you should see an option "Pass Sale 2013"

You can coordinate with people there and exchange contact info. The section is private only to people who've requested access to help each other.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 13, 2013, 10:29:27 AM
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I'm sitting here laughing this morning at all of the people who are posting on the Facebook page, saying how unfair it is that the Member ID system is down. Seriously, don't you pay attention?????

And they had plenty of time to get it beforehand...unfortunately its just human nature for people to complain if things dont go their way or they miss a deadline. i get it ALL the time at work, but we send out loads of emails and letters beforehand so its not like its a surprise.

I just hope that those who don't have member id's don't clog up the queue on Saturday...though of course its inevitable.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 13, 2013, 10:37:17 AM
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I just hope that those who don't have member id's don't clog up the queue on Saturday...though of course its inevitable.

This is why it pays to keep trying. Don't give up until you're actually shut out!
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 13, 2013, 11:06:31 AM
All this chatter for Saturday morning is exciting and is making me nervous. Good luck to all
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 13, 2013, 01:03:39 PM
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I'm sitting here laughing this morning at all of the people who are posting on the Facebook page, saying how unfair it is that the Member ID system is down. Seriously, don't you pay attention?????

Haha, yeah.  I've been sending out reminders to my group to create member IDs and all but one of them have gotten back to me about it.  This other girl still hasn't responded so I don't know if she created one and if not, well, guess she's not going to go to comic con.  Sucks for her, but she's had PLENTY of warning (and seriously badges go on sale in 3 days she needs to, like, talk to the rest of the group soon).
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 13, 2013, 01:16:54 PM
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This is why it pays to keep trying. Don't give up until you're actually shut out!

Oh I'll definitely keep trying. I'm only going for Sunday badges as the husband and I are volunteering the rest of the time. If we don't end up getting em, we will just volunteer Sunday too. We just want a day where we aren't volunteering if we can.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Chris on February 13, 2013, 01:24:40 PM
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I'm only going for Sunday badges as the husband and I are volunteering the rest of the time. If we don't end up getting em, we will just volunteer Sunday too. We just want a day where we aren't volunteering if we can.

Getting just Sunday badges should be slightly easier.  You still need to be clicking the INSTANT that tickets go on sale, but historically, the demand for badges has been:

1.  4-day with preview
2.  4-day without preview
3.  Saturday
4.  Friday
5.  Thursday or Sunday (not sure which is higher demand)

These are not official numbers, but just what I have observed during ticket sales.

Keep in mind that Sunday is also kid's day and the exhibit hall is open for a shorter length of time.

Good luck!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 13, 2013, 01:53:53 PM
but doctor who & supernatural are usually in hall h....
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 13, 2013, 02:00:17 PM
I think Sunday is usually the last day to sell out. If that's all you want, Taigirl, that's your best shot.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 13, 2013, 03:34:29 PM
for me Thursday and friday preferably,  friday saturday next
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 13, 2013, 03:42:46 PM
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Getting just Sunday badges should be slightly easier.  You still need to be clicking the INSTANT that tickets go on sale, but historically, the demand for badges has been:

1.  4-day with preview
2.  4-day without preview
3.  Saturday
4.  Friday
5.  Thursday or Sunday (not sure which is higher demand)

These are not official numbers, but just what I have observed during ticket sales.

Keep in mind that Sunday is also kid's day and the exhibit hall is open for a shorter length of time.

Good luck!

Yeah, thats why i am not too worried about getting it. But I do want to get in and out as quickly as possible, so I synched the clock on the computer cuz it wasn't showing the right time.

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but doctor who & supernatural are usually in hall h....

Thats what my understanding is, but its also usually on sunday too right? I know things could change and if they do, I won't complain :)

Now I am wondering though, would I have to wait until Sunday morning to pick up my Sunday badge? I don't know how that would work if I want to get in line for something.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 13, 2013, 03:50:28 PM
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Thats what my understanding is, but its also usually on sunday too right? I know things could change and if they do, I won't complain :)

Now I am wondering though, would I have to wait until Sunday morning to pick up my Sunday badge? I don't know how that would work if I want to get in line for something.

dr who & supernatural are usually on sunday

If you can't pick up your badge at the beginning of the show then you can pick it up on sat afternoon
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 13, 2013, 04:40:49 PM
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Thank you. That's very kind of you.

I haven't joined the buying group (I don't think). Where would one find this group?  :)

Oh and here: http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=1154.0
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 13, 2013, 08:51:55 PM
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dr who & supernatural are usually on sunday

If you can't pick up your badge at the beginning of the show then you can pick it up on sat afternoon

Oh sweet! You are the best :)

And I'm totally lame but I've been having dreams about Comic-Con and the buying process/hotel day already. Hotel day I can understand but for buying? I don't know why that is stressing me out, cuz during the day I'm not even stressed! ha ha. I guess I am just really excited then :D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 14, 2013, 12:30:41 AM
What is the usual wait time from getting into the waiting area to actually getting tickets?

I know it can avry depending on place in the queue, but whats been most people's averages?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 14, 2013, 12:58:24 AM
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What is the usual wait time from getting into the waiting area to actually getting tickets?

I know it can avry depending on place in the queue, but whats been most people's averages?
My average has been 20 minutes.  During the spring 2012 sale, I started at 4999 in line right at 8:00 and I got to the front around 8:16 (I was out by 8:20). In the August pre-sale, I got in at 7128 at 8:02 and got to the front around 8:25 (and was out by 8:30).

One thing I noticed in both sales is that the numbers start moving faster as time goes on, probably due to people leaving the waiting room after friends manage to buy their badges for them or as their desired badge type sells out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 14, 2013, 04:09:41 AM
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My average has been 20 minutes.  During the spring 2012 sale, I started at 4999 in line right at 8:00 and I got to the front around 8:16 (I was out by 8:20). In the August pre-sale, I got in at 7128 at 8:02 and got to the front around 8:25 (and was out by 8:30).

One thing I noticed in both sales is that the numbers start moving faster as time goes on, probably due to people leaving the waiting room after friends manage to buy their badges for them or as their desired badge type sells out.

So you think I should be done within an hour? I'm only after full weekend passes (with or without preview) which I'm guessing are the most popular, so just wondering if by the time I hit the buying page they should still be available, and then when I go back to buy another for my girlfriend?
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: EnglishmanInSanDiego on February 14, 2013, 04:39:24 AM
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... I'm only after full weekend passes (with or without preview) which I'm guessing are the most popular, so just wondering if by the time I hit the buying page they should still be available, and then when I go back to buy another for my girlfriend?

If you're not that bothered about Preview Night and you don't secure yourself what you think is the lowest number, I'd recommend skipping just going straight for the 4D option and clicking on the four individual days first. These statistically are the ones everyone goes for last, after the so-called prized 'full Con' packages, and CCI will bundle these together, allowing you to pick them all up on the Thursday.

However, you may get into the Waiting Room really early - in which case, go for Preview Night. You're travelling a fair distance, I'd make a crack at the full experience! (Just sayin', don't be too bummed out if you can't; SDCC turns San Diego as a city into a carnival and it's a gorgeous place to explore, if you find you have a spare (Preview) night to wander round on...)


You let The Man get you down, The Man wins - I say, Damn The Man.
"I can't lie to you about your chances, but... you have my sympathies."
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 14, 2013, 06:08:49 AM
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If you're not that bothered about Preview Night and you don't secure yourself what you think is the lowest number, I'd recommend skipping just going straight for the 4D option and clicking on the four individual days first. These statistically are the ones everyone goes for last, after the so-called prized 'full Con' packages, and CCI will bundle these together, allowing you to pick them all up on the Thursday.

However, you may get into the Waiting Room really early - in which case, go for Preview Night. You're travelling a fair distance, I'd make a crack at the full experience! (Just sayin', don't be too bummed out if you can't; SDCC turns San Diego as a city into a carnival and it's a gorgeous place to explore, if you find you have a spare (Preview) night to wander round on...)


You let The Man get you down, The Man wins - I say, Damn The Man.
"I can't lie to you about your chances, but... you have my sympathies."


Thanks for the info. I'm just going to go for the full weekend, and then see what happens on the second badge buy.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 07:01:25 AM
the 4 single day badges are *the same exact thing* as a full weekend badge

listen to Leonard 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 14, 2013, 07:23:55 AM
hi all

GREAT NEWS JUST GOT THE EMAIL.....WHOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
KARL
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 07:33:20 AM
thanks Karl!
(https://www.friendsofcc.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.katzy.dsl.pipex.com%2FSmileys%2Fmatchstick%2Fblissy.gif&hash=43241457272bc91ab86dd73820a214ac412e6f0e)

can you post the text of the email minus the link?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 14, 2013, 07:36:46 AM
Dear Comic-Con Member,

Comic-Con 2013 badges go on sale at 9:00 AM Pacific Time (PT) February 16, 2013. Please find below the link to access the EPIC Registration landing page for Comic-Con badge sales. 

You should click this link or copy-and-paste it into your browser now: :-)

To avoid delays during the registration process, those attempting to purchase multiple badges should verify the correct spelling of the Member ID and last name of each individual they intend to purchase a badge for. This information can be found under  “Show My Info” in your Member ID account.

If you are a junior, senior, or member of the military, but are not shown any discounted badge options during your online registration session, please purchase a regular adult badge anyway and contact Comic-Con via email after the sale.

If you want to stay one step ahead of the competition, we suggest that you read the very detailed Comic-Con 2013 Badge Purchase "Cheat Sheet" and watch the instructional video found under the “2013 Badge Purchase” section of our website.

Please save this email since we will not post the EPIC link on our website, Facebook, or Twitter. Our customer service hotline number will be posted on Facebook at 8:30 AM Pacific Time (PT) on February 16.

Thank you for your continued support and good luck!

Sincerely,

Attendee Registration
Comic-Con International

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: skeletim308 on February 14, 2013, 08:02:09 AM
Me and the wife are all ready to return to Comic-Con for the first time since 07. So, we aren't used to this new system and are stressing out, but have read everything possible and watched all the videos. The one thing that confuses us is this line on the cheat sheet.

Once inside the EPIC Registration waiting room, a number will indicate your position in line. DO NOT REFRESH YOUR BROWSER OR RUN MULTIPLE INSTANCES OF THE WAITING ROOM IN YOUR BROWSER.  Refreshing your browser or running multiple instances of the waiting room in a single browser will move you to the back of the line.

Does this mean we shouldn't run the link in say, both firefox and chrome at the same time? We will already have it up on both our PCs, phones, and ipad but what about having 2 separate browsers running the same link?

Thanks in advance!!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Devorah on February 14, 2013, 08:40:40 AM
Sweet lord Saturday needs to get here already.  My stomach has been in knots for days!   :o
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Yzrfan on February 14, 2013, 08:42:22 AM
Just got my email with the link for Saturday.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 08:45:00 AM
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Does this mean we shouldn't run the link in say, both firefox and chrome at the same time? We will already have it up on both our PCs, phones, and ipad but what about having 2 separate browsers running the same link?

Thanks in advance!!

Once I've secured my lowest waiting room number, I close everything else on that computer except for apps to communicate with my friends.  (I have a decent computer speed wise)
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 08:45:27 AM
Bzzy, don't you have a badge?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 14, 2013, 08:59:47 AM
Just a couple reminders -

- Try and find people to work with if you are planning to buy less than 4 badges. You never know when you might need some assistance and you can earn some good con karma helping someone else out.

- If you can not get a 4 day badge or some of the days are sold out, get all the days you can. There are a LOT of things to do in SD as well as outside the convention center. Plus there is a refund sale that might give you a chance to fill in the missing days. Might feel like it's not worth it to go for less than 4 days but trust me, there is so much to see and do that a day off might end up making things even more fun for you. There is always the refund cutoff of 05/15 if you change your mind.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: skeletim308 on February 14, 2013, 10:12:01 AM
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Once I've secured my lowest waiting room number, I close everything else on that computer except for apps to communicate with my friends.  (I have a decent computer speed wise)

Ok, that is what we were planning on as well. No sense in having 2 browsers running if one is further in line than the other. Thanks again!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: rando on February 14, 2013, 10:13:03 AM
Just to clarify, we should have the landing page with the green button up before 9:00 AM Pacific then click on the green button at 9:00?  Or do we click on the email link at 9:00?  If the email link goes only to the landing page won't that require another click with precious seconds being wasted?  Is this a "fight club" type question?   ::)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 14, 2013, 10:20:06 AM
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Just to clarify, we should have the landing page with the green button up before 9:00 AM Pacific then click on the green button at 9:00?  Or do we click on the email link at 9:00?  If the email link goes only to the landing page won't that require another click with precious seconds being wasted?  Is this a "fight club" type question?   ::)
i believe you want to have the landing page up before 9:00. cuz even if you have it up, and press the green button before 9, it just refreshes back to that same landing page(i tested it out this morning ha ha) So have it beforehand then press the green button at 9:00 pst
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 14, 2013, 11:08:14 AM
Be on the landing page.

Click link at 9am.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: malarrya on February 14, 2013, 11:18:00 AM
Hey Alyssa: I'm a bit puzzled why my valid ID when I login says "You are not eligible to participate in Open Online Registration on February 16, 2013" I already bought 2 passes last August in the pre-registration but shouldn't I still be able to purchase more if I need to?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 11:28:03 AM
what type of badges did you buy in Aug?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 14, 2013, 11:30:20 AM
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Hey Alyssa: I'm a bit puzzled why my valid ID when I login says "You are not eligible to participate in Open Online Registration on February 16, 2013" I already bought 2 passes last August in the pre-registration but shouldn't I still be able to purchase more if I need to?
By two passes do you mean two single day badges or a 4 day with preview for yourself and someone else?  If you only purchased single day badges then your ID should be eligible.  However, if you bought a 4 Day with Preview, then your ID is ineligible and you won't be receiving the link email.  You can still help other people get badges on Saturday, you'll just need someone to give you the link and to have the member IDs of the people you're trying to buy for.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 14, 2013, 11:33:09 AM
I see that the link is up in twitterland already (https://www.friendsofcc.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.tapatalk.com%2Fd%2F13%2F02%2F15%2F5u5ejy8u.jpg&hash=18802d164bc4f16909e41ad526eb0e583a591e39)

[attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: conventiongeek on February 14, 2013, 11:36:27 AM
I wonder if it might be better to click 1, 2 or even 10 seconds (or longer) after 9:00:00am as it seems just about everyone and their mother will be clicking in right at 9:00:00am. It seems to be, that based on others past experiences that someone could click the link right at 9:00:00 and be in a time out for upto a minute before landing in the waiting line and someone could click the button at 9:00:30 and end up in the waiting line sooner because they would not be timed out. Thoughts?

What i really want to know is who clicks the link and is #1 in line and goes right to the badge purchase site.... We keep hearing about those in the 1000's or 10,000's... who logs on and is in single digits? Hmmm...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: malarrya on February 14, 2013, 11:42:32 AM
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By two passes do you mean two single day badges or a 4 day with preview for yourself and someone else?  If you only purchased single day badges then your ID should be eligible.  However, if you bought a 4 Day with Preview, then your ID is ineligible and you won't be receiving the link email.  You can still help other people get badges on Saturday, you'll just need someone to give you the link and to have the member IDs of the people you're trying to buy for.

Yeah I watched the video and saw that it said I was ineligible because I already bought 2 4-day w/preview night passes. A friend of mine can't be at his computer Saturday so he wanted me to buy the pass for him. I don't remember if I had to login through Epic first or if I just needed to know the User ID for whom I wanted to buy a pass?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 14, 2013, 11:44:06 AM
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I wonder if it might be better to click 1, 2 or even 10 seconds (or longer) after 9:00:00am as it seems just about everyone and their mother will be clicking in right at 9:00:00am. It seems to be, that based on others past experiences that someone could click the link right at 9:00:00 and be in a time out for upto a minute before landing in the waiting line and someone could click the button at 9:00:30 and end up in the waiting line sooner because they would not be timed out. Thoughts?

What i really want to know is who clicks the link and is #1 in line and goes right to the badge purchase site.... We keep hearing about those in the 1000's or 10,000's... who logs on and is in single digits? Hmmm...

All very good questions that we'll probably never get any answers to. :D

Have wondered the same too if person #1 is in queue until it actually opens opens or if they are first, they would go directly into the purchase screen and how many purchase slots are available if the queue can hold 50,000.

I've tried clicking a few seconds after 9am - it's hit or miss. I've gotten into queue to be able to buy and I've also been way too low to even get into queue. All just luck...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 14, 2013, 11:44:57 AM
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Yeah I watched the video and saw that it said I was ineligible because I already bought 2 4-day w/preview night passes. A friend of mine can't be at his computer Saturday so he wanted me to buy the pass for him. I don't remember if I had to login through Epic first or if I just needed to know the User ID for whom I wanted to buy a pass?

There is no login until you get through the queue. It will then ask for the Member ID and Last Name of who you are getting a badge for (whether for yourself or someone else).
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ComicGirl on February 14, 2013, 12:00:47 PM
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I wonder if it might be better to click 1, 2 or even 10 seconds (or longer) after 9:00:00am as it seems just about everyone and their mother will be clicking in right at 9:00:00am. It seems to be, that based on others past experiences that someone could click the link right at 9:00:00 and be in a time out for upto a minute before landing in the waiting line and someone could click the button at 9:00:30 and end up in the waiting line sooner because they would not be timed out. Thoughts?

What i really want to know is who clicks the link and is #1 in line and goes right to the badge purchase site.... We keep hearing about those in the 1000's or 10,000's... who logs on and is in single digits? Hmmm...

Your best bet is to click it right at 9:00 AM in one browser. The click it 5 - 10 seconds later in another different browser, and maybe even go for a 30 - 45 second delay click in a third browser! The more browsers the merrier :D

Just close every browser but the lowest one once you are in.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 14, 2013, 12:09:34 PM
Click in at 9 am on multiple devices. That's what I did for the pre sale
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 14, 2013, 12:11:51 PM
I'm gonna try right at 9 on my computer and then a few seconds later from my phone.  Yeaaaaaaaah.  Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Tipsister on February 14, 2013, 12:40:57 PM
I'm so anxious for Saturday!  I'm trying to convince myself that if I don't get a badge, it's okay.  It's not the end of the world.  There's always next year. 

But it's not working.

So what clock should we be looking at?  The clock on our computers?  The clock on our cell phones?  What would be the most accurate?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: malarrya on February 14, 2013, 01:37:07 PM
I used a WIRED high-speed connection and 3 different computers. I got in at around 4500 for pre-reg and was able to secure 2 4-day w/preview. I would strongly suggest you NOT use a wireless connection or mobile device and use a more modern computer (although my circa 2004 PC got in around 5100). I actually would have been in line much sooner but the CLICK HERE image (or whatever it said) was broken using Google Chrome. I thought something was wrong so I logged into Epic on another tab just in case but nothing changed. I just clicked on the broken image and it went into the queue. I wasted about 30 seconds doing this.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: malarrya on February 14, 2013, 01:40:14 PM
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I'm so anxious for Saturday!  I'm trying to convince myself that if I don't get a badge, it's okay.  It's not the end of the world.  There's always next year. 

But it's not working.

So what clock should we be looking at?  The clock on our computers?  The clock on our cell phones?  What would be the most accurate?

I just bookmarked the link I was sent and had all 3 computers on that page clicking the "Click to Register" button (or whatever it was back then) starting around 8:59. It just refreshes the page if it's not open. I think I checked both computer and cell phone. They were pretty much in sync.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 14, 2013, 01:41:34 PM
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What i really want to know is who clicks the link and is #1 in line and goes right to the badge purchase site.... We keep hearing about those in the 1000's or 10,000's... who logs on and is in single digits? Hmmm...

Not single digits, but the first time I ever went through the Epic Waiting Room (I think it was for badge resales in 2011) I got #187. I was in buying badges before the first 30 second refresh. Once I also got #523. I had one 30 second refresh where it put me at #2, then I was in. That's the best I've done.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 14, 2013, 01:57:18 PM
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Not single digits, but the first time I ever went through the Epic Waiting Room (I think it was for badge resales in 2011) I got #187. I was in buying badges before the first 30 second refresh. Once I also got #523. I had one 30 second refresh where it put me at #2, then I was in. That's the best I've done.
wow. That's really quick, during presales I got in 3100's and wife got 3300's on her ipad. I had another spot going on at 8800 in same browser after the refresh I got kicked out of 3100. Good thing wife had her spot. Doesn't hurt to have backups.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 14, 2013, 02:03:27 PM
It never hurts to have backups! And keep in mind, those 2 are the best I've done. It seems to get worse every time I try...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 02:13:32 PM
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wow. That's really quick, during presales I got in 3100's and wife got 3300's on her ipad. I had another spot going on at 8800 in same browser after the refresh I got kicked out of 3100. Good thing wife had her spot. Doesn't hurt to have backups.
you did the bad thing
two waiting rooms in one browser...
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 14, 2013, 02:21:28 PM
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you did the bad thing
two waiting rooms in one browser...
yes I did. Hopefully ppl will read this and be aware that this will happen. Lesson learned for me.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: conventiongeek on February 14, 2013, 02:31:34 PM
Will multiple browsers really work? I am a little nervous that somehow their system will reconize that I will have more then 1 browser open on the same computer. Can anyone confirm this from the pre-reg?

Also, let's say you had by chanced opened several tabs on the same browser and you make it to the waiting room on all 3. Do you think's it's possible to close out of the two higher tabs before the refresh, therefore avoiding getting placed back at the end of the line.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 14, 2013, 02:34:03 PM
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Will multiple browsers really work? I am a little nervous that somehow their system will reconize that I will have more then 1 browser open on the same computer. Can anyone confirm this from the pre-reg?

Also, let's say you had by chanced opened several tabs on the same browser and you make it to the waiting room on all 3. Do you think's it's possible to close out of the two higher tabs before the refresh, therefore avoiding getting placed back at the end of the line.

Don't use tabs on the same browser - it'll boot you and there's no reason to risk it happening. 

Multiple browsers works - a lot of people do it this way though I don't think anyone can scientifically tell you which browser is faster than which.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 14, 2013, 02:44:38 PM
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Will multiple browsers really work? I am a little nervous that somehow their system will reconize that I will have more then 1 browser open on the same computer. Can anyone confirm this from the pre-reg?

Also, let's say you had by chanced opened several tabs on the same browser and you make it to the waiting room on all 3. Do you think's it's possible to close out of the two higher tabs before the refresh, therefore avoiding getting placed back at the end of the line.
multiple waiting rooms on same browser dont do it. Even though you close out the highest number waiting room it will kick you to that waiting room once it refreshes. Hope that makes sense.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 03:00:38 PM
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yes I did. Hopefully ppl will read this and be aware that this will happen. Lesson learned for me.

<quite voice> I did it one year too....
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: conventiongeek on February 14, 2013, 03:08:16 PM
Will be avoiding multiple tabs for sure.

So what have you all been doing to prepare your computers for the sale?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Zero on February 14, 2013, 03:45:27 PM
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Will be avoiding multiple tabs for sure.

So what have you all been doing to prepare your computers for the sale?

Hm, not much for me.  Just slowly awaiting the day it comes... *laughs*
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 14, 2013, 03:50:21 PM
My laptop has been on the treadmill every day for the past 2 weeks. Slimming down. Getting sleek. Gaining speed.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 14, 2013, 04:07:10 PM
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Will multiple browsers really work? I am a little nervous that somehow their system will reconize that I will have more then 1 browser open on the same computer. Can anyone confirm this from the pre-reg?

I don't know for certain, but I've always felt that they can kick you to the back of the waiting room if you have more than one connection from the same IP address. So I've only ever connected on one computer with one browser, and I've always gotten in. My husband tries on a different computer, using a mobile wi-fi network (so different IP address).

I've just never felt like gambling on multiple browsers/connections from the same IP address. My system has always worked for me, so so far I have no incentive to change.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 14, 2013, 04:19:14 PM
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Will be avoiding multiple tabs for sure.

So what have you all been doing to prepare your computers for the sale?

I made synched my computer time because it was off. now its pretty spot on!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 14, 2013, 04:54:01 PM
I don't have wired Internet, so I hope wifi won't be too much trouble.

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Will be avoiding multiple tabs for sure.

So what have you all been doing to prepare your computers for the sale?

I've turned off all my torrents and other programs that transmit data through the Internet (messaging services, etc) so I'm just going to be connected to their servers and facebook (to talk with my group) and that's it.  I'm a little bit nervous about my phone because it has a habit of refreshing the page, but it's my back up anyway, so meh.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Hal Roth on February 14, 2013, 05:23:28 PM
Hi, All.  I have noob questions and hoping for some confirmation.

Me, my wife and teenaged kids are looking forward to attending Comic-con 2013.  I visited the website weeks ago and beleived that to purchase badges for me and my family I needed a member ID.  I got one.

Now getting closer to the badge sale date, I realize, that each of my family members needed their own unique member ID each with their own email address.

I understand that member ID registration starts a few days after Feb 16, and I can register them and then try again for early summer badge re-sale.

So here are my questions:

1-Am I understanding correctly that only I will be able to purchase myself a badge on the 16th, if lucky?
2-Have any of you been fortunate enough to get 3 or even 4 day passes after the initial badge sale day? (In other words, are we already lost?)

Thanks for any help!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 14, 2013, 05:24:00 PM
hi

you can set your phone so it does not go to sleep mode which will refresh your screen, but please plug your phone in to charge, your battery life will shink from the 1day to 3-4 hours or less, also closs all apps, make sure your phone software is updated/ and apps
if your running off wifi , alot of phones can disconnet, or refresh the connection, i would always say a cell connection is a back up connection, wired connections are the best.
best of luck too you
karl
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 14, 2013, 05:26:08 PM
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1-Am I understanding correctly that only I will be able to purchase myself a badge on the 16th, if lucky?
2-Have any of you been fortunate enough to get 3 or even 4 day passes after the initial badge sale day? (In other words, are we already lost?)

1 - Yes, you can only buy a badge for yourself.

2- Yes, in the resales in 2011 and 2012 I was able to help my friends pick up 4 days badges/4 single days in badge resales.

You are not already lost, but it's definitely a little trickier.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 14, 2013, 05:50:26 PM
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2-Have any of you been fortunate enough to get 3 or even 4 day passes after the initial badge sale day? (In other words, are we already lost?)

Thanks for any help!
If you decide to go this route, I would definitely recommend having as many people helping you out on as many different devices as possible.  Also, you'll probably want to think about the possibility of days selling out before you've managed to get everyone badges and what you'd want to do in this situation. 

For example, before badge sales, last year my sister and I agreed that if I got a 4 Day with Preview and she didn't, she would hang out in the hotel room while I was on the floor.  However, if I was only able to get single day badges and a day or days sold out before I could get hers, we were going to return whatever she didn't have and instead spend the day exploring the gaslamp.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: garbagepailz on February 14, 2013, 05:56:20 PM
Hi maybe already asked but here we go I got a 4 day without preview during per reg. I thought that was it for me but I went to member I'd and signed in and it said I'm eligible for feb 16 purchase so I can still go for preview night and will it just refund me original fees ??
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 14, 2013, 05:59:56 PM
Yes, that is exactly how I understand it
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: garbagepailz on February 14, 2013, 06:05:01 PM
Nice thank you! One more thing my wife could not get time off this year but can next year do you think I can waist money on a badge this year for her to secure her pre reg next year or must you use it.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 14, 2013, 07:03:18 PM
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1-Am I understanding correctly that only I will be able to purchase myself a badge on the 16th, if lucky?
2-Have any of you been fortunate enough to get 3 or even 4 day passes after the initial badge sale day? (In other words, are we already lost?)

Thanks for any help!

One thing to note is that last year due to the limited # of refunded badges, they broke the 4 day badges into single day badges. You could still try and buy all 4 days individually but the quantity available per day varied.

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Nice thank you! One more thing my wife could not get time off this year but can next year do you think I can waist money on a badge this year for her to secure her pre reg next year or must you use it.

Have seen a few people mention that they will do that to give themselves a chance to pre-reg next year. Not sure how they will do pre-reg for 2014 but would assume it'd be similar to 2013.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 14, 2013, 07:06:30 PM
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hi

you can set your phone so it does not go to sleep mode which will refresh your screen, but please plug your phone in to charge, your battery life will shink from the 1day to 3-4 hours or less, also closs all apps, make sure your phone software is updated/ and apps
if your running off wifi , alot of phones can disconnet, or refresh the connection, i would always say a cell connection is a back up connection, wired connections are the best.
best of luck too you
karl

Thanks!  I plan on having my phone run off the cellular network in case my wifi messes up.  It has a tendency to do that.  :(  Thank goodness I have a lot of friend who'll be online that morning of my faulty wifi could mess it all up.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 14, 2013, 08:24:14 PM
so after i click on the green button will i go directly to the waiting room? last few times the link was to the splash page but you couldnt get to the splash page until 9 o clock it seems this time they sent us the splash page early.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: EnglishmanInSanDiego on February 14, 2013, 08:50:22 PM
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so after i click on the green button will i go directly to the waiting room? last few times the link was to the splash page but you couldnt get to the splash page until 9 o clock it seems this time they sent us the splash page early.

I think this whole 'placeholder' page is up and running, purely to stop some of the issues that have occurred on previous sales: ie. just launching a page on a network and opening the dam. This way, the page is in place, everything is technically up and running already, it then only requires an admin to activate the 'door' into the Waiting Room (instead of, to labour the metaphor into the ground, building the 'door' right there and then - while everyone's trying to badge through it at the same time).


You let The Man get you down, The Man wins - I say, Damn The Man.
"I can't lie to you about your chances, but... you have my sympathies."
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: EnglishmanInSanDiego on February 14, 2013, 08:51:16 PM
^^^ 'barge' through, obviously.


You let The Man get you down, The Man wins - I say, Damn The Man.
"I can't lie to you about your chances, but... you have my sympathies."
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 15, 2013, 07:22:50 AM
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^^^ 'barge' through, obviously.

If was an awesome Freudian slip! The barge for badges...  >:D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: bball2026 on February 15, 2013, 07:52:25 AM
Anyone know if they take Discover as an payment for badges?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 15, 2013, 09:23:35 AM
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Anyone know if they take Discover as an payment for badges?

Nope. Visa, MC or AmEx only.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Jeff on February 15, 2013, 12:52:47 PM
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Not single digits, but the first time I ever went through the Epic Waiting Room (I think it was for badge resales in 2011) I got #187. I was in buying badges before the first 30 second refresh. Once I also got #523. I had one 30 second refresh where it put me at #2, then I was in. That's the best I've done.
Yeh my first time through last year I got number #138 I believe.  For the presale I got around #2200.  I have been pretty fortunate so far with the sales!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: conventiongeek on February 15, 2013, 03:36:20 PM
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Yeh my first time through last year I got number #138 I believe.  For the presale I got around #2200.  I have been pretty fortunate so far with the sales!

What type of computer/router/modem and internet service are you using and do you think it made a difference in getting in so early?
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Yzrfan on February 16, 2013, 07:08:39 AM
Good luck everyone!
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 16, 2013, 07:13:17 AM
Good luck to all and may you all get 4 day w/ preview nite badges.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 16, 2013, 07:46:05 AM
am i the only one that couldnt sleep? i kept having dreams i woke up too late, and that i hit the green button after 9  ???
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 16, 2013, 08:19:34 AM
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am i the only one that couldnt sleep? i kept having dreams i woke up too late, and that i hit the green button after 9  ???
I had a hard time sleeping as well. I had a weird dream that someone stole my computer and ipad and made me miss the button by two minutes, and by then i was something like 300,000 in line.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 08:20:28 AM
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am i the only one that couldnt sleep? i kept having dreams i woke up too late, and that i hit the green button after 9  ???

Yeah, I had sleeping problems too.  My entire group is awake and sitting in a facebook chat panicking at each other.  I don't think any of us slept well lol.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Chris on February 16, 2013, 08:31:36 AM
30 minutes to go.  Good luck everyone!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: victoria on February 16, 2013, 08:39:43 AM
Last minute paranoid question!. My surname in my member id starts with a capital the rest in lower case. Shall I put in it like that if I get to the front of the line? Does it matter or shall I just keep it all in lower case????.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Brian.A on February 16, 2013, 08:42:59 AM
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Last minute paranoid question!. My surname in my member id starts with a capital the rest in lower case. Shall I put in it like that if I get to the front of the line? Does it matter or shall I just keep it all in lower case????.

I'm not sure it matters but you should just put it in exactly as it is just to be safe.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 08:45:45 AM
15 minutes.

May the odds be ever in your favor.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 08:46:44 AM
after you got your badges please post whay your numbers where in the que!!!!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Jeff on February 16, 2013, 08:50:53 AM
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What type of computer/router/modem and internet service are you using and do you think it made a difference in getting in so early?
First time was crappy work computer that sucks, but really good speed internet.  Second time was at home, cable modem with wifi, like 7 year old gateway laptop(which is what im on now for this mornings)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ice9 on February 16, 2013, 08:53:02 AM
Good Luck Everyone
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 09:04:02 AM
just got #1756
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: TheTFReview on February 16, 2013, 09:05:07 AM
I got a runtime error after clicking the link. Psshh, i'll probably be way in the back now.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:05:23 AM
Nothings loading:(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:06:35 AM
Woah spoke to soon #8624 is that good? Its seems really high!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Patman on February 16, 2013, 09:06:41 AM
Just got the "reached capacity" message, so I'm out this round.  :(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Brian.A on February 16, 2013, 09:06:54 AM
On the Facebook page, people are saying the room is already at capacity. Insane.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 09:06:57 AM
just got error msg
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 09:07:07 AM
We have 15 devices running and not a single one got in the queue.  I don't believe this.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: joyful_314 on February 16, 2013, 09:08:50 AM
if anyone gets in and can get an extra badge, let me know please!!!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Jeff on February 16, 2013, 09:09:02 AM
Yeh noone in our group of 5 is able to get in, its just loading still.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 09:09:53 AM
know at 281
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:11:56 AM
Still at 8624...my page isnt refreshing!!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BlinkTime on February 16, 2013, 09:12:05 AM
At #43436, hopefully I don't encounter any of the errors people seem to be having.
I'm just glad I got into the darn thing haha.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: DianaOfThemyscira on February 16, 2013, 09:12:11 AM
Karl, have you got 2 spots! Member ID's rpinskier and PINSKIER

also rascal97 and PARKINSON
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 16, 2013, 09:14:18 AM
I'm in on two screens - 24595 & 46299

we wait to see
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 16, 2013, 09:15:16 AM
There is going to be a LOT of rage by the time this is over.  I already have my badges, but looking at Twitter, the number of people reporting successfully getting in is far lower than last year.  I don't remember this many technical issues either.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 09:15:44 AM
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I'm in on two screens - 24595 & 46299

we wait to see

Did you join the ticket buying group?  Or would you possibly have spots left over after you and your wife get badges?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: DianaOfThemyscira on February 16, 2013, 09:16:02 AM
50 bucks extra per ticket paid by paypal if you get me in!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: krod on February 16, 2013, 09:16:14 AM
Anyone have a spot open will give card number
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BlueKal on February 16, 2013, 09:16:26 AM
This sucks!!!! it's getting almost impossible to get tickets for this. At 09:00 it took loaded into an error message, at 09:02 it took about a minute to load the page and then "we have reached capacity"?!?!?!?

I don't usually complain much, but come on!!!!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ward_2901 on February 16, 2013, 09:17:26 AM
If somone can buy me 2 4 day passes for member id ward_2901 and ID jmbalfe both last names balfe-michael ill give you $200 per ticket
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:17:48 AM
If i get in i will have 1 space left for someone but its still frozen on #8624 i cant call as im in the uk fml
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: TheTFReview on February 16, 2013, 09:18:09 AM
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There is going to be a LOT of rage by the time this is over.  I already have my badges, but looking at Twitter, the number of people reporting successfully getting in is far lower than last year.  I don't remember this many technical issues either.

Last years system worked fantastically. Don't know why they try and change it up every year.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: DianaOfThemyscira on February 16, 2013, 09:18:46 AM
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Last years system worked fantastically. Don't know why they try and change it up every year.

I'll give you 50 bucks extra for that space if you get me 4 days
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ice9 on February 16, 2013, 09:18:54 AM
Stated at 31582 now down to 29892
fingers crossed

Just getting into the waiting room was a nightmare
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 16, 2013, 09:19:51 AM
When you click on the green register button it just says the waiting room is over capacity and that its unlikely badges are still available.

I mean c'mon, that can't be true?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: TheTFReview on February 16, 2013, 09:21:11 AM
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When you click on the green register button it just says the waiting room is over capacity and that its unlikely badges are still available.

I mean c'mon, that can't be true?

Who knows, i'd be shocked if SDCC actually sold out in less than 10-15 minutes this year. Which is how they are making it seem.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Brian.A on February 16, 2013, 09:21:52 AM
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When you click on the green register button it just says the waiting room is over capacity and that its unlikely badges are still available.

I mean c'mon, that can't be true?

Keep trying until CCI actually says they are sold out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: joyful_314 on February 16, 2013, 09:22:06 AM
Please if anyone has a spot for 4 days WITH preview please PM me and I will send u my phone number.. Please anyone I have my credit card and will pay immediately!!!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:22:36 AM
Hmmm lots on facebook saying thr same as me page not refreshing?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: force951 on February 16, 2013, 09:22:46 AM
I'm trying to get a Thursday only if someone has a spot available.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BlueKal on February 16, 2013, 09:23:25 AM
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Who knows, i'd be shocked if SDCC actually sold out in less than 10-15 minutes this year. Which is how they are making it seem.

I got the same message after just a couple of minutes... after a couple of "error" screens. I got the first error screen at exactly 09:00 then the system froze at "Waiting for..." and a minute later "capacity reached" All this did between 09:00 and 09:03.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: nadiaj on February 16, 2013, 09:23:59 AM
So I take it that if we're still 'connecting' and the waiting room is at capacity, we missed out??

If any one has a chance, we'd appreciate some help, njarman & sjarman, both surnames Jarman (obviously!), we'd take whichever tickets are available and can pay immediately! We'd be so grateful, Thankyou!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 09:26:03 AM
I'm not going to be offering more than the ticket price.  :/  But if someone wants to help...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: krod on February 16, 2013, 09:27:46 AM
Didn't get in waiting room error page looking for one ticket if anyone has a spot available :'(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: squidward on February 16, 2013, 09:31:23 AM
I'm in the waiting room on my laptop. #34943. No refresh in like 10 minutes. The bottom of the page says last refreshed at 10:02:01 PT (?) The page didn't load up until about 9:18am.

My desktop went white screen fairly quickly, changed to waiting room in the title, but remains white screen still.

I am hoping for 1 days either/both Thursday/Friday. Last name: Schopler, Member IDs: schopler and aschopler

I will pay by Paypal immediately if anyone can help me. It will be my first Comic Con, and I hope to bring my son. Thank you!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:32:15 AM
Has anyone actually managed to get in yet?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: supreme126 on February 16, 2013, 09:34:53 AM
My waiting room number has not refreshed at all :(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: KirbySS on February 16, 2013, 09:37:03 AM
EPIC Fail. Was trying to get a badge for a relative. Exactly at 9 AM Server Error. Later waiting room full. According to Epic they had no problem. They say 50,000 people were in the waiting room withing 1 second but that was after it errored out on me and my relative trying on separate computers exactly at 9.

Sorry Comic-Con. You hired EPIC. You are responsible for this Cluster. You need to fix it. You need to raise the price of badges like 4x before the second chance sale and keep the prices there from now on. This is rediculous.

Edit:
I had multiple browsers and one that appeared frozen eventually came back with a position of around 39,xxx in the waiting room. I never thought badges would be left but I dutifully waited and when I got to the purchase page even though all 4 day badges were sold out I was able to get my relative 4 single day badges. I'll take it but I still think Comic-Con needs to charge way more for there badges. That's the only way to stop the madness. This is just too stressful.

Thinking more about it, it would be great if Comic-Con offered a package of 4 day w/preview night plus hotel before the general sale. Price it right (high enough so you don't get a fiasco like today with the badge sale) and it's a win for Comic-Con and the attendees.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:38:04 AM
Bizarre that the time says 10am? Surely its still in the 9am there? 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 16, 2013, 09:38:44 AM
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Bizarre that the time says 10am? Surely its still in the 9am there?

9:39 in San Diego right now; def. weird that the time is screwy
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 16, 2013, 09:39:05 AM
I can't believe this farce. Getting music tickets is never this hard
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: SeekerScorpio on February 16, 2013, 09:39:48 AM
Great... time to go to second chance one.. which is even "harder" then this one....  :-\
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: SashaFierce on February 16, 2013, 09:40:10 AM
Has anyone successfully been able to purchase tickets yet?  :'(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 09:41:09 AM
IT JUST KICKED ME OUT i could cry!!! So sad :(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: mdla on February 16, 2013, 09:41:18 AM
GUYS KEEP THE WHITE SCREEN OPEN...

I recruited my sister to help us, and just as all hope looked lost with the 6 computers we had running, my sister walked away early in the process with the "white screen of death," 15 minutes later her comp popped up to the login screen and I was able to get 4 day w/preview night.  I hope you guys can get through too!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: DianaOfThemyscira on February 16, 2013, 09:42:42 AM
Has anyone got the overflow message ans still managed to get in? I don't care what I get that this point, even If it;s a ticket for an hour
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: squidward on February 16, 2013, 09:43:13 AM
I still have my first click white screen waiting. This has given me hope. fingers-crossed!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: DianaOfThemyscira on February 16, 2013, 09:44:46 AM
My mothers is still loading
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: brand4d2 on February 16, 2013, 09:46:57 AM
I've been stuck in the wait room at #9460 for around 40 minutes and it has not refreshed even once. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 16, 2013, 09:47:34 AM
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I can't believe this farce. Getting music tickets is never this hard

That's not necessarily true: there are plenty of high-profile concerts that sell out in minutes, with MANY of those tickets going to scalpers and hitting stub hub at a huge mark-up.  It's unfortunate if there were problems with EPIC's servers, but there is just so much demand for tickets it's impossible for everyone who wants to go to get them.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: krod on February 16, 2013, 09:48:26 AM
Well at least I have wondercon
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BlinkTime on February 16, 2013, 09:49:13 AM
Currently at #10016, my heart's still beating fast haha
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: TardisMom on February 16, 2013, 09:51:09 AM
I have #3499 but it hasn't refreshed even once.  I think I'm out of luck.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 16, 2013, 09:51:21 AM
A few people on twitter are saying that Preview Night has sold out.

Edit: And CCI just confirmed it.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Billyconard on February 16, 2013, 09:52:14 AM
Been trying to get into the waiting room since tickets went on sale.  Hasn't worked.  Unbelievable.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Brian.A on February 16, 2013, 09:52:30 AM
4 day with Preview Night is sold out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 16, 2013, 09:52:39 AM
i had two computers going each with multiple windows open (at least 5 windows per computer) all trying to load the page finally out of all those windows one loaded. i started at #7500. page didnt refresh for like 10 minutes.  i was scared then it just started refreshing but it kept telling me that i had manually refreshed and if i did it again i would get kicked to the back of the line. all the way down till i was able to purchase the badges it kept telling me that, but it never kicked me back. must have been a glitch on there part.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 09:53:02 AM
all four days are sold out.  my friend is getting us sunday badges
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: squidward on February 16, 2013, 09:54:07 AM
If anyone can buy for 2 extra people, please don't quit out of your order. Many of us would be grateful for the help.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 16, 2013, 09:56:19 AM
Got 4 day with preview.

My first screen kicked me out, so luckily I had the second browser running as well. What a mission.

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BlinkTime on February 16, 2013, 09:57:29 AM
Just got my badges :D
Still got the window open for those who need help.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: squidward on February 16, 2013, 09:58:36 AM
blinktime yes please
Schopler = last names
schopler and aschopler = member id's
1-day except sunday would be great
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: DianaOfThemyscira on February 16, 2013, 09:59:10 AM
Blinktime

rpinskier, PINSKIER
rascal97, PARKINSON

4 single days each
Title: stress!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 16, 2013, 10:00:11 AM
i find it funny that people who didnt get tickets get mad at cci, its not there fault, theres only so many tickets for sale and way more people who want to attend. getting tickets is stressful even for someone who's been doing it for the past few years. ivenoticed most people expected the would click on the green button and would go straight into the waiting room, it never works like that you have to have multiple windows open trying to load the page until one does and you close all  the others after.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: joyful_314 on February 16, 2013, 10:00:49 AM
Stephaniejoy1 last name lesinski 4 days with preview
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: SashaFierce on February 16, 2013, 10:01:59 AM
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Just got my badges :D
Still got the window open for those who need help.

I just sent you a message.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 16, 2013, 10:02:03 AM
by this time id be surprised if sunday is still even available
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 10:04:03 AM
I got a Sunday badge.  Better than nothing I suppose.  I can't believe we had 15 badges and none of us got 4 day badges.  :/
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 16, 2013, 10:05:28 AM
I was #5059, I too had the white screen on one of my web browsers(got in on iphone) but after getting in on the phone I got out of the white screen. I could tell it said waiting room though...instead of the overflow. would loved to have known what number that was.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: skeletim308 on February 16, 2013, 10:06:31 AM
This is terrible. Been 6997 in line since 10:00:34 AM PT, wife is 10226 10:01:49 AM PT. The page didn't refresh once for either of us. I have screen caps from both of our devices every 15 minutes. Calling CCI at 11:30. This is unacceptable.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 10:06:43 AM
Well no san diego for me. I wont try next year as that was a joke!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: joyful_314 on February 16, 2013, 10:07:24 AM
Damn white screen. So disappointed.. I had that too. But didn't know... last yr it loaded fine
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: SashaFierce on February 16, 2013, 10:09:39 AM
Username: SELLISON, last name: Ellison
and
Username: ANIMECHICK30, last name: Robertson 

Need two 4 day badges/no preview night if possible. If you can help please it would be greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: patersonkirsty on February 16, 2013, 10:12:14 AM
All thats left are fri/sun i think mate
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: DianaOfThemyscira on February 16, 2013, 10:13:41 AM
Whoever it was that managed to get me my bunch, can the please email me at [email protected], OR [email protected], with the confirmation codes?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 16, 2013, 10:13:59 AM
Seem to be two types of people today:

"I couldn't get badges - this is the worst system ever; Comic-Con sucks, EPIC Reg. sucks, this whole thing sucks!!"

and

"Got my badge - have patience, yea for luck, this ran pretty smooth"
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 16, 2013, 10:14:10 AM
From comic con twitter pg @Comic_Con: Friday single day badges are sold out. #SDCC
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: SashaFierce on February 16, 2013, 10:14:17 AM
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All thats left are fri/sun i think mate

Whoops, yikes, well so much for 4 day badges.  :(

Edit: Friday is now sold out per SDCC twitter.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: supreme126 on February 16, 2013, 10:14:42 AM
Oh well, there is always the resale, right?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 10:15:00 AM
got thursday and friday badges really excited,
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: squidward on February 16, 2013, 10:16:31 AM
OK, so I hit refresh on Firefox which was white screen from early on. For a brief second I saw the waiting room page with a 4-digit number highlighted. Almost like it was there in the background the whole time but Firefox didnt load it up. Waiting for cloudapp and white screen.

But of course hitting refresh kicked me out to the overflow page and a 'see you later' message.

Ugh, oh well. with everything sold out it was worth a shot.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BlinkTime on February 16, 2013, 10:17:37 AM
Sorry I couldn't help everyone, got a huge amount of PMs and Emails.
I did my best :)
Also, going on Friday and Saturday :)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Brian.A on February 16, 2013, 10:17:50 AM
Friday and Saturday are sold out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 16, 2013, 10:18:06 AM
FWIW, for people who are unable to get a badge today:

Last year I wasn't able to get a badge for one of my friends on the general sale morning.  I was, however, able to get his badge during the resale in May.  There is still hope ;)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 16, 2013, 10:18:25 AM
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Seem to be two types of people today:

"I couldn't get badges - this is the worst system ever; Comic-Con sucks, EPIC Reg. sucks, this whole thing sucks!!"

and

"Got my badge - have patience, yea for luck, this ran pretty smooth"

I got my badges in August, but I don't think today went smoothly at all.  In particular, I don't remember either of last years sale having this many technical issues--waiting rooms not refreshing, refreshing and then erroring out, refreshing and kicking people out of line, blank pages that alternately kicked people out or eventually put them fairly close to the front.

Really, really hoping that CCI can figure out their server issues before 2014 sales.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 16, 2013, 10:20:11 AM
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Seem to be two types of people today:

"I couldn't get badges - this is the worst system ever; Comic-Con sucks, EPIC Reg. sucks, this whole thing sucks!!"

and

"Got my badge - have patience, yea for luck, this ran pretty smooth"

Even though I got badges, I think that the system could run a little smoother...I don't think it sucks, and I do understand that things happen when so many are trying to get onto the same page. I wish I could have helped more people out though! Thats my biggest regret from today.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: SashaFierce on February 16, 2013, 10:20:41 AM
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FWIW, for people who are unable to get a badge today:

Last year I wasn't able to get a badge for one of my friends on the general sale morning.  I was, however, able to get his badge during the resale in May.  There is still hope ;)

Will the resale be on comic cons site?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: nadiaj on February 16, 2013, 10:20:47 AM
Helplessly watching the sold-out announcements....at least when we see they're all sold we can go back to bed! #brightside
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: joyful_314 on February 16, 2013, 10:21:05 AM
Same... had 4 day already. Wanted preview night. Can always try again but so damn frustrating. I wonder if they will ever get it right.. time to book the hotel... if anyone does have tickets hit me up and well chat.. going for early bird sale if they r still abailable
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: wikkibird on February 16, 2013, 10:21:21 AM
Jfc, that was intense! Had two computers, iPad, AND my phone and in the end it was on IE white screen on hubby's computer that did it. I was in the waiting room on IE on my laptop, but in my haste I accidentally closed my window once in the waiting room. *hangs head* I was 20,000+. If I hadn't, I would've gotten 4-day with/out Preview Night for hubby and I. But!! I stayed on my hubby's computer, and it went from 40,000+ to my turn and I got two Thurs, Fri, and Sun. During the resale, I'll see if I have any luck getting a Sat and/or 4-day without Preview for us then.

If not, then Saturday will be fun stuff outside the con for us! It seemed to me that it was either stay on the white screen or press back, hit the green button, and you were in.

Or could be luck, I dunno.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: mdla on February 16, 2013, 10:22:33 AM
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Even though I got badges, I think that the system could run a little smoother...I don't think it sucks, and I do understand that things happen when so many are trying to get onto the same page. I wish I could have helped more people out though! Thats my biggest regret from today.

Yes I agree 100% with you.  I participated in this year and last years badge sales, and even though I got tickets today, last years process was much smoother (despite the e-mail faux pas).  I think CCI might have to go back to the drawing board next year.
Title: Re: stress!!
Post by: joyful_314 on February 16, 2013, 10:26:46 AM
I hear ya.. even though I had all 4 days I didn't get preview night and I was still stressed... too much adrenaline for this early lol
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: angel_k on February 16, 2013, 10:27:33 AM
One of us has a four day badge from presale, four of us have single day badges for Sunday, two of us have nothing.  :(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Jeff on February 16, 2013, 10:27:52 AM
Yeh we had no trouble getting them during the presale and last years general onsale.  Today however we had 5 of us trying to buy for our friends and not one of us was able to get a badge.  Most of us got stuck "connecting" on the doorstep.  One of our friends got in the queue after a few minutes at around 3,000 in line and her page never refreshed to move her up in line, she ended up sitting on that page all hour. 

I'm thankfully me and my friend got ours during the presale, but I feel super bad for our 3 friends who want to come.  It did not seem to be running as well as the last 2 times we bought badges.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 16, 2013, 10:29:10 AM
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Yes I agree 100% with you.  I participated in this year and last years badge sales, and even though I got tickets today, last years process was much smoother (despite the e-mail faux pas).  I think CCI might have to go back to the drawing board next year.
I don't pretend to know anything about computer stuff, but do you think it could have been to do with putting it on the cloud?
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Same... had 4 day already. Wanted preview night. Can always try again but so damn frustrating. I wonder if they will ever get it right.. time to book the hotel... if anyone does have tickets hit me up and well chat.. going for early bird sale if they r still abailable
how many are you looking for to room with? we are still trying to decide if we want to  do the early bird sale or try for hotel day. So far its just us two(but may also have one more that is probably driving down with us) if you want you can pm me. I'm glad you have the other days! I was thinking you didnt get anything at all!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 10:29:34 AM
only ones left seem to be sunday and thursday
Title: Re: stress!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 16, 2013, 10:29:52 AM
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I hear ya.. even though I had all 4 days I didn't get preview night and I was still stressed... too much adrenaline for this early lol

Oh man I agree! I have a headache now from not sleeping well and the craziness of the morning.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: joyful_314 on February 16, 2013, 10:33:21 AM
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I don't pretend to know anything about computer stuff, but do you think it could have been to do with putting it on the cloud? how many are you looking for to room with? we are still trying to decide if we want to  do the early bird sale or try for hotel day. So far its just us two(but may also have one more that is probably driving down with us) if you want you can pm me. I'm glad you have the other days! I was thinking you didnt get anything at all!

If I could pm u I would lol I apparently reached my max for the hour
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 16, 2013, 10:34:30 AM
We had connection issues too, and thought we weren't in at all. Then suddenly I was in at 32,000. I was there just in time to get 4 days (no preview night) for a friend... and then with the next badge only 4 single days.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Brian.A on February 16, 2013, 10:36:49 AM
And they just closed sales.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 10:38:22 AM
all days are sold out it was anouced on twitter
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: TravelingPumpkins on February 16, 2013, 10:38:55 AM
And I thought getting hotels for FanimeCon was bad...

I had two laptops, my boyfriend's laptop, an iPhone, and an android phone set up.  I also had a friend on three computers across the country helping me.  Clicked/pressed enter at 9:00am and nothing happened.  At 9:05am, I got the overflow/sold out screen and proceeded to mutter a bunch of words I will not repeat here.  After some frantic refreshing, button mashing, and copy/pasting, I managed to get into the waiting room as #37174 around 9:15ish.  Another laptop made it in at #46465.  My friend managed to get in at #29000-ish.

Only my main computer successfully refreshed every 2 minutes.  My friend's stayed stuck at #29000.  My other laptop still reads #46465 over an hour later.  Around 9:50am, my main laptop reached the badge purchase screen.  Only one-day badges were left at this point.  The purchasing process actually went pretty smoothly, and I was successfully able to get Thursday-Sunday badges for myself and two other friends.  According to Twitter, Saturday badges sold out minutes after I paid for my last person.

This will be my first year going to Comic-Con, and I attribute my badge purchasing success to beginners luck!  At this rate, I won't be able to get badges next year (or a hotel room for FanimeCon, considering their process is just as crazy)!  So thankful!

Sending good vibes to everyone out there!  Hope you guys get at least something!
Title: Re: stress!!
Post by: aaronvasquez12 on February 16, 2013, 10:44:52 AM
I was kinda stressed but not as much as I was for prereg, although I blame my PC freezing up at the time and having to run across the house to another one. However I myself had already 4 days and contemplated getting a PN one this time but instead offered to help others get their badges (which failed too go figure). At the end it's good to gauge how the new system works and all.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: KirbySS on February 16, 2013, 10:48:56 AM
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I got my badges in August, but I don't think today went smoothly at all.  In particular, I don't remember either of last years sale having this many technical issues--waiting rooms not refreshing, refreshing and then erroring out, refreshing and kicking people out of line, blank pages that alternately kicked people out or eventually put them fairly close to the front.

Really, really hoping that CCI can figure out their server issues before 2014 sales.

I agree. EPIC dropped the ball. When I click on a link and it times out because their server was overloaded that's wrong. They should be able to return at a minimum an answer saying either I'm in the waiting room or I'm too late. When their server drops connections and someone else goes past you in line it's not acceptable.

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Even though I got badges, I think that the system could run a little smoother...I don't think it sucks,

Oh, it sucks -- big time. The surprising thing is it's been sucking for the last couple of years and Comic-Con still won't hire a company that can reliably run badge sales. They know Comics but they have no clue how to run a business. They could use some help.
Title: Re: stress!!
Post by: depictprints on February 16, 2013, 10:49:00 AM
Certain people have a reason to be upset.  The site froze on so many today and people who were further in line than others got their tickets...meanwhile people who were closer in line didn't get anything.  That's reason enough to be upset at the site.

Hope everyone had good luck because it was really hard to get in today!  :)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 16, 2013, 11:04:31 AM
I have never seen/heard of this many technical difficulties. It sounds like people actually were in the waiting room but their computer screens didn't indicate that. I was frozen on the green button page forever, then suddenly I jumped in at 32,000 at 9:15. My DH was the white screen then got in at 42,000.

The numbers decreased REALLY fast. I refreshed at 3750, then the next refresh I was in to buy badges. I've never seen the numbers go down that fast!

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Samannapeanut on February 16, 2013, 11:10:17 AM
 :-\ I was a bit disappointed. Ready to go at 9:00, clicked on the link in the email, that didn't work, clicked on the bookmarked link, that brought me to the green button screen, clicked on that (and this is all in a matter of seconds) and then was stuck at at a loading screen for 45 minutes. Had another computer going and that timed out as well. Thought I did everything correctly, but just too many people all at once and I was one of the unlucky ones.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 16, 2013, 11:12:15 AM
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I agree. EPIC dropped the ball. When I click on a link and it times out because their server was overloaded that's wrong. They should be able to return at a minimum an answer saying either I'm in the waiting room or I'm too late. When their server drops connections and someone else goes past you in line it's not acceptable.

Oh, it sucks -- big time. The surprising thing is it's been sucking for the last couple of years and Comic-Con still won't hire a company that can reliably run badge sales. They know Comics but they have no clue how to run a business. They could use some help.

But besides TicketMaster is there another system that would work better? After seeing how many people's screens were frozen while they were in the waiting room i now concur that it royally sucks and I do hope that they do something about that. Dont know what they could do though. *shrugs*

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If I could pm u I would lol I apparently reached my max for the hour

PM me when you can :) and since youve reached your max ill just let you know I was able to delete the info no problem
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 16, 2013, 11:16:21 AM
HAPPY for the people that were able to get badges.

SAD for those that didn't - there's still one more chance.

ECSTATIC to see people who are otherwise random strangers help each other out on this forum.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Jeff on February 16, 2013, 11:27:28 AM
I honestly don't think Ticketmaster could even handle it.  When Postal Service tickets went on sale like a week ago on ticketmaster, I grabbed ticket the second they went on sale.  I got them into my cart and tried checking out and got errors 3 times, it kept kicking me out then giving me new tickets that were not as good.  Eventually I gave up called the number and did it through the automated phone service.  That was for 1 stop of a concert which I can imagine does not have nearly the same demand as CCI, plus most CCI attendees are probably more internet savvy than your average concert goer.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 16, 2013, 12:13:16 PM
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I honestly don't think Ticketmaster could even handle it.  When Postal Service tickets went on sale like a week ago on ticketmaster, I grabbed ticket the second they went on sale.  I got them into my cart and tried checking out and got errors 3 times, it kept kicking me out then giving me new tickets that were not as good.  Eventually I gave up called the number and did it through the automated phone service.  That was for 1 stop of a concert which I can imagine does not have nearly the same demand as CCI, plus most CCI attendees are probably more internet savvy than your average concert goer.

My issues w/ TicketMaster include their excessive service charges PLUS convenience fees (aren't they the same thing?!?!) as well as the sometimes difficult to read captcha that is supposed to sort out the humans from the bots but only makes things worse. They nickel and dime you at every opportunity (charges for printing tickets? on your own printer??) and I agree, I don't think there system would be any better for handling the volume.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 16, 2013, 12:18:01 PM
i didnt like the way it was handle this time around how you can get to the splash page before 9 oclock. last time you couldnt even get to the splash page before 9 but once you did you knew you were in. it seemed to run much smoother that way
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 16, 2013, 12:28:04 PM
I've set up a thread here for people who still need badges.

http://www.friendsofcci.com/forum/index.php?topic=1286.0

No discussion on the thread. Just state what badges you need. Please note that there will probably NOT be any 4 day or 4 day w/ PN badges sold at the refund sale. They will likely break it up into single days.

Let's try and coordinate and help each other out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: KirbySS on February 16, 2013, 12:38:38 PM
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But besides TicketMaster is there another system that would work better? After seeing how many people's screens were frozen while they were in the waiting room i now concur that it royally sucks and I do hope that they do something about that. Dont know what they could do though. *shrugs*

Ticket Master is not the answer. The real answer is CCI needs to raise badge prices and raise them a lot not just $25-$50. Make it $100 a day plus $100 for preview night and I think we'd have a good chance to get through online registration. I understand they wouldn't want to go too high and overshoot what is necessary so maybe bumping the price by $25/day next year would be a good start. If they don't see demand drop to a range they can handle then bump it up another $25/day the following year until they hit an equilibreum.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: wikkibird on February 16, 2013, 12:51:51 PM
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Ticket Master is not the answer. The real answer is CCI needs to raise badge prices and raise them a lot not just $25-$50. Make it $100 a day plus $100 for preview night and I think we'd have a good chance to get through online registration. I understand they wouldn't want to go too high and overshoot what is necessary so maybe bumping the price by $25/day next year would be a good start. If they don't see demand drop to a range they can handle then bump it up another $25/day the following year until they hit an equilibreum.

I honestly hate to say this, but yea...I agree. Raise the price (que more complaining) and maybe there wouldn't be a huge rush of 100,000+ people trying to get into a waiting room or 60,000 all at the same time. It'd kill me, sure, but I'd pay $400+ for tickets to go. The experience, the fun, the swag...it'd be worth it.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 16, 2013, 01:00:12 PM
Didn't even get past the green button page.

Was that due to too many people in the waiting room, or something else crapped out and didn't let me into the waiting room?

I read posts on Facebook of people getting kicked out of the waiting room, and then getting back in.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 16, 2013, 01:10:27 PM
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Ticket Master is not the answer. The real answer is CCI needs to raise badge prices and raise them a lot not just $25-$50. Make it $100 a day plus $100 for preview night and I think we'd have a good chance to get through online registration. I understand they wouldn't want to go too high and overshoot what is necessary so maybe bumping the price by $25/day next year would be a good start. If they don't see demand drop to a range they can handle then bump it up another $25/day the following year until they hit an equilibreum.

What about doing away with the waiting room that most can't even get into. And just putting them up for sale and quickest to pay gets the tickets.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 16, 2013, 01:27:20 PM
Re: the price increase - part of CCI's mission statement is to educate about the cultural arts and do it in a way that families can enjoy it together. A big increase takes away from their ability to accomodate families (even though yes, buying multiple badges is difficult).  This then turns Comic Con into what everyone complains about it being - an exclusive event that no longer caters to the long time attendees.

And can you imagine what hotels would want to charge at that point? They'd be even more motivated to raise the rates knowing full well that if you're gonna spend $500/badge, you have little choice as to where to stay.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: KirbySS on February 16, 2013, 02:08:57 PM
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Re: the price increase - part of CCI's mission statement is to educate about the cultural arts and do it in a way that families can enjoy it together. A big increase takes away from their ability to accomodate families (even though yes, buying multiple badges is difficult).  This then turns Comic Con into what everyone complains about it being - an exclusive event that no longer caters to the long time attendees.

And can you imagine what hotels would want to charge at that point? They'd be even more motivated to raise the rates knowing full well that if you're gonna spend $500/badge, you have little choice as to where to stay.

How about moving the Con to a city with more capacity? Then everybody wins. If part of CCI's mission really was to educate about the cultural arts and do it in a way that families can enjoy it together they should move to a venue that would allow them to do this.

If they want to stay in SD where they know they can't accomplish that part of their mission then they should go to a lottery system so people can know in advance AND be able to get tickets for their whole family. I would envision this as a family lottery. If you are selected by CCI you could buy up to 5 tickets guaranteed. They might as well do a lottery for preview night too if they go this route.

I like SD. It's a nice location. I think raising the price is the best option. Kids under 12 still get in free.

I thought I read somewhere that CCI had an agreement with hotels to cap their rates (maybe as part of their deal to stay in SD) so I'm not sure if hotels could push their rates too high.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Hidajunshin on February 16, 2013, 02:11:45 PM
SDCC will not do a lottery because there are a number of legal problems conducting a 50-state lottery and who knows what kind of problems there are with an international one.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 16, 2013, 02:22:36 PM
Personally, i'd like to see 2 adult badges AND 3 jr badges per log on.  it'd take care of families and limit the number of badges per transaction.

How it's currently set up, i don't think that would work but it'd solve all the problems
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 16, 2013, 02:24:37 PM
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Ticket Master is not the answer. The real answer is CCI needs to raise badge prices and raise them a lot not just $25-$50. Make it $100 a day plus $100 for preview night and I think we'd have a good chance to get through online registration. I understand they wouldn't want to go too high and overshoot what is necessary so maybe bumping the price by $25/day next year would be a good start. If they don't see demand drop to a range they can handle then bump it up another $25/day the following year until they hit an equilibreum.

I completely agree. This is exactly what a 'for profit' organization would do to control demand and make the most of the limited supply. However CCI is a non-profit agency and they will do what they want.

I don't know what the 'ideal' price is, but in my mind it would be high enough that badges wouldn't sell out right away, but slowly over time, and eventually sell out maybe a month or so before the Con. This is what used to happen up until 2010. Think about it: right now there are hotel rooms at the Marriott next door to the Con. They are going for $575 a night. They are still available, but we all know they *will* sell out before the Con. We need badge prices in that range - where they don't sell out right away, but they do sell out eventually.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 16, 2013, 02:40:11 PM
What are the odds of getting a badge on the return sale?

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 16, 2013, 03:07:26 PM
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How about moving the Con to a city with more capacity? Then everybody wins. If part of CCI's mission really was to educate about the cultural arts and do it in a way that families can enjoy it together they should move to a venue that would allow them to do this.

I thought I read somewhere that CCI had an agreement with hotels to cap their rates (maybe as part of their deal to stay in SD) so I'm not sure if hotels could push their rates too high.

I think we had looked at a list of convention centers before and SD, LA and Anaheim were among the biggest out west (and maybe in the US).

If CCI raised their rates considerably, you can bet hotels will try and do the same regardless of what they might've agreed to.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Hidajunshin on February 16, 2013, 03:09:14 PM
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What are the odds of getting a badge on the return sale?

I'd pay extra to someone who would get me a badge if they get in before me.

Since there's fewer badges available at the resale, there's generally much longer odds in acquiring one.  But from what I have seen, almost everyone who really tried to get one at the resale, did get at least one.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 16, 2013, 03:14:10 PM
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Since there's fewer badges available at the resale, there's generally much longer odds in acquiring one.  But from what I have seen, almost everyone who really tried to get one at the resale, did get at least one.

I was planning on all 4 days. But would settle for Friday or Saturday. I don't think I'd do just the Thursday or Sunday.

I figure even just for one day, I could at least stop by Hollywood to make the trip worth it.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 16, 2013, 05:22:30 PM
has anyone gotten barcode confirmation email yet? still waiting for mine
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 16, 2013, 05:27:51 PM
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has anyone gotten barcode confirmation email yet? still waiting for mine

Generally it takes 2-3 days. I wouldn't expect it until late tomorrow, or Monday.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 16, 2013, 05:31:42 PM
they b illed my credit card already
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 16, 2013, 08:36:41 PM
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they b illed my credit card already
same here
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 16, 2013, 09:09:39 PM
Fairly obvious but please hold on to your confirmation emails until you receive your barcode emails.

This means don't file/sort the email into your various folders and leave it in your main inbox. No need to give yourself a heart attack to go with all the stress from today. Forward copies to other email accounts if you have them. The more you have something documented, the less likely you'll run into any issues.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: FBS on February 16, 2013, 11:26:21 PM
The O2 arena in London has a very good system for large numbers of people trying to get tickets. EPIC should look at that if they are to rebuild.
Everyone gets into the waiting room and then it counts down to your turn, but as it's going along it updates any tickets that have sold out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 17, 2013, 03:06:38 AM
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The O2 arena in London has a very good system for large numbers of people trying to get tickets. EPIC should look at that if they are to rebuild.
Everyone gets into the waiting room and then it counts down to your turn, but as it's going along it updates any tickets that have sold out.

I think the problem is having a service with a waiting room big enough to hold the volume of people looking to buy badges.

Adding in additional info to a constantly refreshing page may be asking too much of the system but I agree, a better visual notification is needed so people know when to stop. They had it at on site pre reg but that was only 2500 per day.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 17, 2013, 07:18:27 AM
I was shocked they didn't have notification of when stuff sold out. They did in August and last March too. The waiting room said it would update us as things sold out, but it never did.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 17, 2013, 11:38:36 AM
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What are the odds of getting a badge on the return sale?

I'd pay extra to someone who would get me a badge if they get in before me.

I can't answer this, but I'll add an anecdote:

Last year I tried to get my good friend a badge at the general sale (I had already gotten my badge at pre-reg), and my bro-in-law was trying to get his badge as well.  None of us had luck during the general sale.
During the re-sale, my bro-in-law was able to get a 4-day w/out Preview Night badge (which is what he wanted: he didn't care about Preview Night), and my friend was able to get the badge that he needed.

I don't know about the odds, and I know that there are less badges available than for the general sale.  But I do know there is hope!  Be persistent, do your due diligence of keeping informed, keeping your computer(s) ready to go for sales, and know that there is still a chance to get to 2013 Comic-Con!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 17, 2013, 11:41:04 AM
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Personally, i'd like to see 2 adult badges AND 3 jr badges per log on.  it'd take care of families and limit the number of badges per transaction.

Wow; I think that's a great idea!!  Simple, but I agree it might solve a bit of problems while helping out families
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 17, 2013, 11:44:59 AM
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I have never seen/heard of this many technical difficulties. It sounds like people actually were in the waiting room but their computer screens didn't indicate that. I was frozen on the green button page forever, then suddenly I jumped in at 32,000 at 9:15. My DH was the white screen then got in at 42,000.

The numbers decreased REALLY fast. I refreshed at 3750, then the next refresh I was in to buy badges. I've never seen the numbers go down that fast!

I don't know, it seems like there were a LOT of technical problems last year as well.  I would stipulate that there were also a lot more people trying to get in this year (we may never know that for sure, but it seems like a good guess).  If you're saying the numbers were refreshing really quickly, I would guess:

1) the systems were really processing people super quick: much quicker than pre-reg 2013 or general sale 2012.

or

2) the system had massive failure and was booting people out at a high rate.

Again, we won't know.  Either EPIC REALLY did great, or REALLY screwed up.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 17, 2013, 12:08:02 PM
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Ticket Master is not the answer. The real answer is CCI needs to raise badge prices and raise them a lot not just $25-$50. Make it $100 a day plus $100 for preview night and I think we'd have a good chance to get through online registration. I understand they wouldn't want to go too high and overshoot what is necessary so maybe bumping the price by $25/day next year would be a good start. If they don't see demand drop to a range they can handle then bump it up another $25/day the following year until they hit an equilibreum.

Man, I really don't know about that.  Obviously if demand is crazy, then CCI CAN raise their prices, but I'm not sure that is an answer to high demand.   You're saying make SD Comic-Con $400 for the week, which is, what, an almost 200% mark-up?  If Comic-Con Non-Profit mission is to deliver this kind of thing to the average fan, at what point do they shut-out the average fan by catering to the richer folks?  Even then, I'm not convinced that would really solve the problem: I think it would just create different problems AND there would still be a high demand. 

I think we really need to re-evaluate what CCI's mission really is.  IMO, San Diego Comic-Con has become one of the largest marketing events for Hollywood studios & comic companies.  When you think about it, the majority of panels are nothing more than hour-long commercials for someone/something.  I don't think a lot attendees think of it that way, but that is what Comic-Con has become (and I've talked to studios & company reps who have flat-out admitted that's how they approach Comic-Con: as their largest marketing opportunity of the year).

Now, CCI and its customers (i.e. me/us) seem to be pretty OK with that.  But when the companies use CCI & its media coverage in that manner, that drive up the hype which in turn drives demand.  I honestly think the obvious way for CCI to change course would be:

1) severely limit media coverage.  Like, either focus on small media outlets such as the online people, or shut-out ALL of the smaller media outlets and JUST let in the major outlets (LA Times, EW, etc)

2) severely limit Hollywood presence.  Either limit panels or limit presentations.  Most of the big studios have their own off-site events for the media anyway (that often mirror the CCI panels), so they are already getting their huge coverage OUTSIDE of Comic-Con

It is no mystery that SD Comic-Con grew to its current huge state once the organization embraced the Hollywood culture.  Hollywood saw that they could use CCI as a large marketing experience, and the media has eaten it up.  The only way, I think, that CCI will be able to get back to a manageable crowd is if either they actively try to reinvent themselves, or Hollywood changes course and stops becoming a huge presence at CCI.  I'm not sure either party is interested in radically changes course, and I'm not sure of what the answer is to managing current demand.  Ticketmaster would present its own large problems, and I'm not sure the "limit customer base by out-pricing the majority of fans" is the answer either.
Maybe this is just the current 'way of life' for CCI & San Diego Comic-Con.  Maybe trying to do a two-week thing would help ease some of the problems, but that would obviously create logistical problems. 

Maybe if Wonder-Con continues to grow, it would help take the ease off of Comic-Con: CCI could maybe limit movie-type panels to Wonder-Con, TV panels for Comic-Con, Anime & Comics stuff can be at both, etc.  That would kind of 'direct' movie fans to Wonder-Con and then less people might be interested in Comic-Con.  Or maybe certain studios would ONLY do panels at Wonder-Con, and some would only do panels at Comic-Con, thus alleviating some crowds.

I don't know: lots of ideas that would require fairly radical change, but I'm not sure any of them would be the right fit for CCI
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 17, 2013, 12:16:00 PM
what i want to know is how many more people will the convention center expansion allow?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 17, 2013, 12:24:52 PM
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2) the system had massive failure and was booting people out at a high rate.

I think some people were being booted out, other people didn't know they were in line and so didn't respond when they got to the front (because their screen was frozen) and other people were just frozen in line and therefore bypassed.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 17, 2013, 02:38:05 PM
How was it like buying a ticket before the member ID/waiting list thing?

And on the landing page with the green button. Were you supposed to just hit that button once at 9am and wait while it tried to connect, or should you have kept hitting the button over and over?

I had a couple of computers going and one computer just stayed on the green button page looking like it was trying to connect by the spinning circle in the browser. And the other computer I would rehit that green button every so often, and it ended up taking me to the overflow page.

That first computer kept trying to connect on that green button page for like 1.5 hours before I shut it off.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 17, 2013, 02:55:58 PM
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what i want to know is how many more people will the convention center expansion allow?

Even then, I don't think the expansion plans make Hall H or BR 20 any bigger. You can get more folks on the floor but now you'll have say 150K? 200K? trying to get into a 6K or 4K room.

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How was it like buying a ticket before the member ID/waiting list thing?

I don't like the idea of selling most of the tickets just to people who got a badge the year before. I guess that's why you hear people saying I've gone every year for 15 years, etc. Then you hear about the guy that has been trying to get a badge for years.

Not counting pre-reg, the sales were all online. One year they used Ticket Leap which crashed like 2? 3? times and so they had to do multiple resales. Way back in the day, they just quietly opened up badge sales with no announcements and badges could be available for months before selling out. There was also a time when badges could be purchased at the door. The demand is just way too high now to not provide advance notice of some sort.

Pre-reg used to be even easier - the pre-reg area was right next to badge pickup so you could walk over and be done. That's probably where you get the folks who've been going for 10-15 years who are the most upset about being shut out though in fairness, they had a 50% chance in Aug and were just not as lucky as others.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 17, 2013, 02:56:23 PM
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How was it like buying a ticket before the member ID/waiting list thing?

Until 2010, badges were posted online for sale and you had weeks, if not months, to buy them. Badges were pre-sold at the previous year's Con and it was no problem whatsoever to buy them in advance.

Quote
And on the landing page with the green button. Were you supposed to just hit that button once at 9am and wait while it tried to connect, or should you have kept hitting the button over and over?

Normally you would do the first: hit the button once and wait for it to connect. This year, thanks to the technical difficulties, the second was the appropriate course of action (refreshing).
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 17, 2013, 02:59:10 PM
Last year, hitting refresh put you in the back of the line (or even out of line completely) hence why they reiterated so many times not to hit refresh which unfortunately was the way to fix the issue this year which is why there were so many complaints that folks followed instructions and were left out.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 17, 2013, 03:46:13 PM
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How was it like buying a ticket before the member ID/waiting list thing?

I've been going to SD Comic-Con since 1999, and it wasn't until fairly recently that there was a bad-dash to buy badges the day they went on sale.  Even four or five years ago, you could go a few months before buying badges.  It used to be there was a tiered group of discounts depending on how early you bought badges.  For example:

* buy at previous year's convention = $45
* buy between August-January = $50
* January-March = $60
* April-June = $75
* at the door = $ 80

This happened pretty munch until CCI started selling out the week of the convention.  I think 2006 or 2007 was the first year that CCI completely sold out.  When they started selling out they got rid of the tiered discount, but you could still buy badges either in advance at the previous year's Con, or online from, say, February-Mayish.  This went on until at least 2007, when I procrastinated and Saturday badges sold out before I could buy my friend's badge. 

I don't remember when it started getting crazy.  I remember the year it sold out in one day, as I was in a conference all day.  I had already bought my badge at the previous year's convention, but had to buy me friend's badge.  I wasn't sure how long it would go before it sold out, but I bought my friend's badge w/my smart phone and I was shocked to find out on my way home from the conference that all passes had sold out!  Ever since that year (don't remember what year that was, maybe 2009) it has been crazy.  I think yesterday was more hectic than last year, though last year also had pretty big tech problems
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 17, 2013, 03:48:50 PM
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Last year, hitting refresh put you in the back of the line (or even out of line completely) hence why they reiterated so many times not to hit refresh which unfortunately was the way to fix the issue this year which is why there were so many complaints that folks followed instructions and were left out.

Yeah, that's what tripped up a buddy of mine.  Last year he got screwed up because he hit refresh, so this year he waited literally an hour & 45+ minutes before hitting refresh, and by that time it was done.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 17, 2013, 05:24:13 PM
I wish it was more like any other type of ticket/badge. They just put them up for sale, and first to buy gets the ticket. vs. the trying to get into a waiting room and the deal with 10 people in line to get a ticket for one person. I think it would be easier to get a badge if everyone had to buy their own.

You can't compete against that if you're doing it by yourself.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 17, 2013, 07:20:13 PM
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I wish it was more like any other type of ticket/badge. They just put them up for sale, and first to buy gets the ticket. vs. the trying to get into a waiting room and the deal with 10 people in line to get a ticket for one person. I think it would be easier to get a badge if everyone had to buy their own.

You can't compete against that if you're doing it by yourself.

To be fair, though, buying pretty much EVERY other type of ticket/badge type you can buy multiple tickets.  Also, as a parent of an eleven year old, I TOTALLY understand the stress of one person 'in the hunt for tickets' and potentially having one of the parent/kid tandem being locked-out of tickets.  Remember, kids 13 & over must have their own ID to buy tickets, so it's not like we're talking about a resourceful driving HS going to Comic-Con by themselves if their parents miss out.  For me personally, living in San Diego it's easy sometimes to think that way because going to Comic-Con is now where near the hassle/stress of traveling cross-country (or across the world) with a full family.

The more I think about it, the more I think what Alyssa suggested makes the most sense (and is a sort of compromise to what you say).  But even then it gets dicey for a single parent wanting to take a huge crew of their children.  Maybe Alyssa can voice her idea to CCI at the open forum/suggestions panel on Sunday
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 17, 2013, 07:27:53 PM
Oh trust me, we'll be at the talkback panel. For one, it's amusing as heck but two, there are actually some good ideas brought up and not just whining about why CCI doesn't do something about the sky being blue.

We'll report back anything worthwhile to the forum.  ;D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ceddyced on February 17, 2013, 09:17:45 PM
CCI has been raising the rate yearly.  My 1st time was 2001 the price was $35.00 for 4days w/preview nite.  The price now of $175.00 has not slowed down demand.  The demand is greater than the supply of tickets.  In August I scored 3 4days passes but went into the pre sale with the possibility of not scoring tickets.  Expansion will help some but may not be enough for everyone to attend.  I like a limit of 4 tickets per person whether adult or junior. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 17, 2013, 10:40:30 PM
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I like a limit of 4 tickets per person whether adult or junior. 

I believe it's just a matter of time before it evolves to some form of this. I actually believed CCI threw a curve at this last sale because the impression I got was each person could buy 3 badges total but it actually was you plus 3 badges so 4 total. So if you run the numbers, theoretically only maybe the first 20K to 25K folks would be able to buy badges since each one could buy 4. Granted, I'm sure many bought less. That's not really a lot of access to the "general" public. So that really makes me more convinced in my earlier prediction and believe that it's inevitable that the amount of access a person can buy will come down. It may not be one per person, but would not surprise me if it is 2 per person. Now I could see it being 2 adult per person and maybe unlimited juniors.

If anyone feels that would be too restricting, I realized there is another precedent for this, 2 years ago when they had on site pre-registration, you only could buy 2 badges! If any one remembers camping out that year, it was a 2 badge purchase.   
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 18, 2013, 12:30:00 AM
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I believe it's just a matter of time before it evolves to some form of this. I acutally believed CCI threw a curve at this last sale because the impression I got was each person could buy 3 badges total but it actually was you plus 3 badges so 4 total. So if you run the numbers, theoretically only maybe the first 20K to 25K folks would be able to buy badges since each one could buy 4. Granted, I'm sure many bought less. That's not really a lot of access to the "general" public. So that really makes me more convinced in my earlier prediction and believe that it's inevitable that the amount of access a person can buy will come down. It may not be one per person, but would not surprise me if it is 2 per person. Now I could see it being 2 adult per person and maybe unlimited juniors.

If anyone feels that would be too restricting, I realized there is another precedent for this, 2 years ago when they had on site pre-registration, you only could buy 2 badges! If any one remembers camping out that year, it was a 2 badge purchase.   

I like limiting the badges one can buy for others. I've read of people talking about in this sale who already had badges, but were in the waiting room just to get badges for someone else. I just don't like the idea that the guy in front of you can buy a badge for the guy behind you.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 18, 2013, 12:34:46 AM
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I like limiting the badges one can buy for others. I've read of people talking about in this sale who already had badges, but were in the waiting room just to get tickets for someone else. I just don't like the idea that the guy in front of you can buy a ticket for the guy behind you.

I actually started a conversation about this earlier. It's basically "line jumping/line cutting." I'm sure it's just a matter of time before CCI implements some policy to address and curb this practice.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 18, 2013, 05:39:08 AM
I'm sorry, but I do not see this as 'line jumping'. If someone is ahead of you in line, it is because they legitimately got into the waiting room before you did. They had to go through the same hoops as everyone else. Of course with this last sale people froze in the waiting room and they were skipped, but that's a technical glitch and not how the system was intended to work.

There will always be people in line trying to help others. Even CCI told people to work in groups. That's not wrong, and personally, I'd rather that then seeing scalpers in line to buy badges for profit.

If you have a large group of friends, it is natural to work together to help each other out. This is why this site has a badge buying group. I know people in this thread (besides myself) who have worked in such groups. They are within the rules, they are suggested and encouraged by CCI, and while I know there was no harm meant in the comment above, I am offended by the idea that by helping friends I am doing something wrong.

That being said, it is CCI's prerogative to change the number of badges each person is allowed to buy whenever they wish.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: hikanteki on February 18, 2013, 12:38:57 PM
Yeah, I don't like that you can buy tickets for that many others either, but CCI allows it so it's not line jumping.

The bigger problem in my opinion is people opening the waiting room on 4-10+ different devices.  It's not explicitly disallowed, but it's not explicitly allowed either.  I'm sure that contributed in no small way to crashing the system.  Not to mention, when everybody does this, nobody has an advantage.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Hidajunshin on February 18, 2013, 01:07:41 PM
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The bigger problem in my opinion is people opening the waiting room on 4-10+ different devices.  It's not explicitly disallowed, but it's not explicitly allowed either.  I'm sure that contributed in no small way to crashing the system.  Not to mention, when everybody does this, nobody has an advantage.

I agree.  We had 14 people trying for 11 badges, some of whom used multiple devices.  However, only 3 people were successful in getting into the waiting room, and each of these people were on just one pc, one browser open. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 18, 2013, 06:29:42 PM
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Now I could see it being 2 adult per person and maybe unlimited juniors.

Oooh; that's even better than Alyssa's plan. It would essentially 'take care' of families, allow someone to buy a badge for a good friend or spouse or whatever, and that's it.  I could go for that (even though it would've screwed one of my friends this year)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 18, 2013, 06:34:25 PM
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Yeah, I don't like that you can buy tickets for that many others either, but CCI allows it so it's not line jumping.

The bigger problem in my opinion is people opening the waiting room on 4-10+ different devices.  It's not explicitly disallowed, but it's not explicitly allowed either.  I'm sure that contributed in no small way to crashing the system.  Not to mention, when everybody does this, nobody has an advantage.

Is there a way to control this?  Is there software that could regulate, say, one connection per wifi or something?  I don't know much/anything about that, but I would imagine that would be difficult to regulate (especially if, say, someone is trying to get a badge while using a dorm room internet connection).

This is probably a big problem, and one person being on four or five devices that all get into the que definitely can screw others out of a badge I guess.  At the very least it sure doesn't help the server from not crashing
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 18, 2013, 06:41:28 PM
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Is there a way to control this?  Is there software that could regulate, say, one connection per wifi or something?  I don't know much/anything about that, but I would imagine that would be difficult to regulate (especially if, say, someone is trying to get a badge while using a dorm room internet connection).

Would assume that a limit of 1 connection by IP address should be fairly easy to implement but yeah, imagine everyone trying to get badges at the same Starbucks...
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: LadyS on February 18, 2013, 08:58:56 PM
I don't think running multiple browsers is a bad thing.  Yes, it takes up queue spots, but they are still only able to buy as many tickets as they have member IDs.  As soon as they're done, all of the spots they were occupying get freed up and the queue number drops a heap.

Personally, I don't think Epic's queue should have an overflow or the cut off should be a LOT higher. Cutting people off at around 40,000 just means that a bunch of people that could have actually managed to get something got locked out for absolutely no reason and people who showed up after them got in because they happened to refresh at just the right time.  Even if that number was over 200,000 they should still have allowed everyone to enter the waiting room but just had a little courtesy message warning them that badges might be sold out before they get to the front.  A little transparency in showing how much load the site is really under would have helped ease some of the frustration that people were feeling, and it gives people a chance to get in the waiting room regardless of how many browsers everybody else is running.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 18, 2013, 09:25:42 PM
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Personally, I don't think Epic's queue should have an overflow or the cut off should be a LOT higher. Cutting people off at around 40,000 just means that a bunch of people that could have actually managed to get something got locked out for absolutely no reason and people who showed up after them got in because they happened to refresh at just the right time.  Even if that number was over 200,000 they should still have allowed everyone to enter the waiting room but just had a little courtesy message warning them that badges might be sold out before they get to the front.  A little transparency in showing how much load the site is really under would have helped ease some of the frustration that people were feeling, and it gives people a chance to get in the waiting room regardless of how many browsers everybody else is running.

I think the queue limit was needed so that the system wouldn't crash like in prior years where I recall there being even more years. The system gets minor tweaks each year to improve it - a big revamp would likely just mean that a whole new set of issues will be introduced and they'll have to tweak it again.

I guess they could ask everyone to do a trial run and see how capacity holds up but imagine how much it would suck to get in on a test run but fail to on the real thing.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 19, 2013, 12:22:28 PM
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I'm sorry, but I do not see this as 'line jumping'.  I know people in this thread (besides myself) who have worked in such groups. They are within the rules, they are suggested and encouraged by CCI, and while I know there was no harm meant in the comment above, I am offended by the idea that by helping friends I am doing something wrong.

I never said it was wrong or against the rules. In fact, in my other/earlier posts on this I made it totally clear it is in fact totally within the guidelines and I'm guilty of it too!!

That said, it IS line hopping ... or at the very least, line "holding." Imagine if it were a real waiting room vs a virtual one. It would be like, "Hey, I'm the 10th person in line, where are you? Oh you're at 100, come on up I'll get you a spot by me." It happens, it was OK and even promoted, but my whole contention is I'm betting that CCI will implement some sort of policy to curb this. There is clearly a ton of feedback by people who were bothered by this practice and blamed it for their shortcoming on tickets among other issues.

Hey, I'm set for this year ... thanks to a member of my "friendly team" ... so I'm not complaining but rather acknowledging. We move on. It's just unfortunate that it's come to all this ... Needing a posse/friends, needing multiple browsers, getting a fast connection, clicking fast, white screens, non-refreshed pages, etc. etc. There's got to be a better way right? Who knows. I certainly hope this isn't the best we can do! 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 19, 2013, 01:15:51 PM
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Hey, I'm set for this year ... thanks to a member of my "friendly team" ... so I'm not complaining but rather acknowledging. We move on. It's just unfortunate that it's come to all this ... Needing a posse/friends, needing multiple browsers, getting a fast connection, clicking fast, white screens, non-refreshed pages, etc. etc. There's got to be a better way right? Who knows. I certainly hope this isn't the best we can do!
I agree that its sad that if you don't have a group to help you out, then youre kind of screwed in a sense. That being said though, it was only my husband and i using his computer and my ipad and iphone and we got through without a hitch on the iphone, but my friend who was just herself, she would have been sol if I hadn't of offered to help her out when she got shut out.

I just don't know if there is a way to moniter all this though.

OH and I'm glad you got badges too :)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Kevin Rutan on February 19, 2013, 01:18:49 PM
Alot of issues going on here. The " line jumping" thing isn't even worth addressing unless they plan on going back to manual ticket sales only. It would be impractical to attempt to have the program determine if a multiple pass sale was valid or not and having family members have to purchase separately is just dumb.

Expecting anything larger than the approximately 40k overflow is asking a bit much considering that it's really only a once a year thing. Although I wish that they had left well enough alone with the coding, it worked pretty well for the pre-registration.

In terms of increasing the price to stem demand, I doubt it would work out as well as we might hope. To keep their non-profit status CCI would have to find some way to put that money back into the con. Imagine comic con with twice the security personnel being a pain in the ass. I also worry that more people may forgoe hotel rooms (and hence showers) to be able to afford the new rates. And if you overshoot and drive away too many people you could end up killing the fanbase all together.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 19, 2013, 03:35:54 PM
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imagine everyone trying to get badges at the same Starbucks...

Ha; the image in my head of that situation is both sad and hilarious
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 19, 2013, 05:05:30 PM
I'm glad you were able to get badges, Karatekid.

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That said, it IS line hopping ... or at the very least, line "holding." Imagine if it were a real waiting room vs a virtual one. It would be like, "Hey, I'm the 10th person in line, where are you? Oh you're at 100, come on up I'll get you a spot by me."

No, that's not it at all. Think of it as a line for a store or (for we old timers who bought concert tickets before the internet) at a ticket booth. You're not inviting your friend to come and stand by you, but you're simply buying an extra item after holding your legitimate place in line. Is it wrong if I'm at Starbucks to buy 2 drinks, because I'm buying one for me and one for my friend? Is it wrong for someone who has lined up to buy exclusives to buy 2, if that is within the per person limit? No and no. Whether the supply is limited (as with exclusive) or 'unlimited' (as with Starbucks), everyone is entitled to purchase the amount they want, within prescribed limits. I understand that you don't like this, but it is NOT line-jumping.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 19, 2013, 05:07:57 PM
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In terms of increasing the price to stem demand, I doubt it would work out as well as we might hope. To keep their non-profit status CCI would have to find some way to put that money back into the con. Imagine comic con with twice the security personnel being a pain in the ass. I also worry that more people may forgoe hotel rooms (and hence showers) to be able to afford the new rates. And if you overshoot and drive away too many people you could end up killing the fanbase all together.

Actually, I can think of a lot of cool things they could do if they charged extra. Some of the money could go toward the convention center expansion. They could hand out a super-cool swag bag full of stuff when you pick up your badge. They could offer included food and drinks. I'm sure I could come up with more, but these are off the top of my head. No one said anything about not getting your money's worth if they increase ticket prices.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 19, 2013, 07:04:53 PM
Would seem like an issue for CCI to help fund expansion of the center for some reason but I don't know how NPOs work in conjunction with public buildings.

The extra money won't go to swag. That's all sponsored items.

Invest the money into improved security measures that curb scalping and counterfeits but I do wonder what else they could put the extra money to. After all, they're sitting on a lot of extra cash according to that tax article right?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Car_Low on February 19, 2013, 07:55:11 PM
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Would seem like an issue for CCI to help fund expansion of the center for some reason but I don't know how NPOs work in conjunction with public buildings.

The extra money won't go to swag. That's all sponsored items.

Invest the money into improved security measures that curb scalping and counterfeits but I do wonder what else they could put the extra money to. After all, they're sitting on a lot of extra cash according to that tax article right?

They already passed raising the hotel tax to help with the expansion so CCI doesn't really need to help nor should they.
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/apr/24/hotel-tax-to-finance-convention-center-project-pas/ (http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/apr/24/hotel-tax-to-finance-convention-center-project-pas/)

I do agree with increasing security measures. It would be cool to see RFID tags in the badges and maybe take your picture when picking up the badges so you can scan the badge and your picture shows up for random checks. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ComicGirl on February 19, 2013, 08:04:32 PM
It seems to me that the only way for CCI to avoid this kind of mess in the future is to go with a lottery or priority system. Let's face it, there are 300K "Likes" on CCI's Facebook page. Let's just pretend all 300,000 of those people have a Member ID. Now pretend that all 300,000 of them have 3 - 5 browsers open at a time. Essentially you could have upwards of a million plus people hitting the green button at the same time.





IMHO there is just not a system out there currently designed to manage a "first come-first served" crush of people trying to get CCI tickets. EPIC is a complete failure. TicketLeap was a disaster. Amazon and Tickemaster crash multi-million dollar servers under too much load. Why are we expecting a small non-prpfit oprganization to do a better job than Ticketmaster or Amazon (who have millions of dollars at their disposal)


Check the CCI financials if you truly think they have the money to design and implemenet a massive server farm to handle the load. Their financials are public. http://sdccblog.com/2013/02/comic-con-internationals-tax-documents-reveal-organizations-assets-cost-of-sdcc/

I don't know what the solution is for Saturday's fiasco, but I do know that technology is never going to catch up in time for resales or even 2014 badge sales. To expect that is naive. I hope the organization really takes the time to think about what route they will go next, instead of trying to put another band-aid on a gaping wound. EPIC is simply incapable and should be fired.


Title: Re: POST HERE if you still need badges during Refund Sale
Post by: ComicGirl on February 19, 2013, 08:07:58 PM
Are we certain there will be a resale?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 19, 2013, 08:42:00 PM
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It seems to me that the only way for CCI to avoid this kind of mess in the future is to go with a lottery or priority system. 

<snip>

EPIC is simply incapable and should be fired.

Great breakdown and explanation for folks who think, hey, let's move it to another system!

At the talkback panels, they indicated that lotteries just can't happen - legal issues in some states.

If the alternative to Epic is Ticket Leap, I'd rather stick w/ Epic and continue having them tweak it.
Title: Re: POST HERE if you still need badges during Refund Sale
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 19, 2013, 08:43:55 PM
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Are we certain there will be a resale?

Moved this to a more appropriate thread.

I expect there to be at minimum one sale after the refund cutoff date of 05/15. If they do what they did last year following the issue w/ the link, there might be a special sale to make up for the refresh issue though it's only speculation at this point but the refund sale is almost certain.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 19, 2013, 08:52:51 PM
I'm as certain as I can be, without being a CCI insider, that there will be a refunded badge sale in some form. We know for a fact that there are returned badges from the August sale, and some of the badges from this general sale will be refunded as well. CCI does not like to hold onto these badges, and will sell them (in some fashion) to general attendees.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: aodmisery on February 19, 2013, 09:17:29 PM
yeah i highly doubt cci will ever go to a lottery system, one of the big reasons being comic con is a family thing, say you got your ticket your sons ticket but not your other sons ticket, so is he basically sol? or the other way around the kids get the tickets but not the adult.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: conventiongeek on February 19, 2013, 09:28:38 PM
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yeah i highly doubt cci will ever go to a lottery system, one of the big reasons being comic con is a family thing, say you got your ticket your sons ticket but not your other sons ticket, so is he basically sol? or the other way around the kids get the tickets but not the adult.

I would think the lottery could be set to choose people at random, however the winner would then be able to buy up to the 4 limit badges.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 19, 2013, 09:35:21 PM
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I would think the lottery could be set to choose people at random, however the winner would then be able to buy up to the 4 limit badges.

Imagine the bidding war to obtain one of the 3 spots a person has left over after buying their badge since they would have advance notice.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: conventiongeek on February 19, 2013, 10:05:40 PM
Yea, now that I think about that, that would probably help the scalpers out there... it would not work.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 19, 2013, 10:43:51 PM
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Yea, now that I think about that, that would probably help the scalpers out there... it would not work.

I'm sure it can be tweaked to work better but that's my first issue with it.

The other thing is, how many lottery winners do you pick? 40k x 4 badges each?  What if someone doesn't show up? What happens if you sell out? Undersell on purpose? Multiple sales with excess? Same process for refunded badges?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 20, 2013, 12:05:54 AM
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  • Nearly all major sporting events use lottery systems for season ticket holders.
Ist his true, or is it an assumption (REALLY not arguing or trying to verbally spar, I've just not experienced that before).  Maybe I'm just fans of crappy pro teams, but in my experience that's not the case: in my experience it's always been first come/first serve when it comes to season tickets playoff tickets.  Besides, that's not exactly a super fair comparison, as for the major sporting events (I know, I know: you specified season tickets only) so much of the purchasing is done through ticket brokers.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 20, 2013, 12:13:03 AM
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If the alternative to Epic is Ticket Leap, I'd rather stick w/ Epic and continue having them tweak it.

I think it's at the very least promising that CCI has seemingly tried kinda substantially different things the last couple of years.  It at least shows that they're aware of the problem and are working to find the best solution/system.  As frustrating as this situation is for us, you can bet it's at least as frustrating to CCI.  They want everything to run smooth, they hate when they run into tech problems, and when people get frustrated and call CCI out for ineptitude.  I'm confident they'll find their groove sooner than later
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 20, 2013, 01:12:02 AM
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Ist his true, or is it an assumption (REALLY not arguing or trying to verbally spar, I've just not experienced that before).  Maybe I'm just fans of crappy pro teams, but in my experience that's not the case: in my experience it's always been first come/first serve when it comes to season tickets playoff tickets.  Besides, that's not exactly a super fair comparison, as for the major sporting events (I know, I know: you specified season tickets only) so much of the purchasing is done through ticket brokers.

My experience with this is that it's a waiting list. Probably the best example is the Green Bay Packers in the NFL where season tickets can be passed on in a will so the waiting list is now several years old as very few people give up their tickets. I think where the lottery comes into play is if your stadium is hosting a special event (All Star Game, Super Bowl, etc) or something like the NCAA tourney then it'll be by luck of the draw.

If they really want to do a lottery, implement it for the pre-reg. Put up like 10-20% of the badges, allow all the people picked to buy only 2 badges of any sort (like the on site pre-reg). Special link or code to access. Open the window for 1 day. If you were picked and you missed it, too bad, so sad, try again at the regular sale. This should prevent the system from crashing since you have a window of time to access, it'll placate the folks who want the randomness (and prove to them that their odds are even worse this way) and it'll leave enough badges left over for the first come, first served general sale.

Again, don't know the legalities of a lottery in all states but I think this is pretty fair.

Want to get even more creative?
- Put up 10% of badges in a lottery for anyone who wasn't able to buy a badge the previous year.
- Wait til after the general badge sale before opening up volunteer. Only allow people to sign up who do NOT have 4 Day badges.

Most importantly though, get Pro and Press done BEFORE any of the sales. Give them some resolution so they don't have to buy a regular badge. Basically get all your ducks in a row to make sure that as many badges as possible are freed up to general attendees.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 20, 2013, 08:18:20 AM
They actually did get the pro reg done first this year. And it looks like they tried to get press done first and ran out of time.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: jasonsmith on February 20, 2013, 08:22:57 AM
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They actually did egt the pro reg done first this year. And it looks like they tried to get press done first and ran out of time.

Are any of those going to come up available later on? I know the people who buy a badge, and then later get the Pro or Press pass is able to return the badge they had bought. Which then gets resold later.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 20, 2013, 08:40:56 AM
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Are any of those going to come up available later on? I know the people who buy a badge, and then later get the Pro or Press pass is able to return the badge they had bought. Which then gets resold later.

I believe some of the press are still validating? There has been discussion on this board about how Press don't have their passes yet.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: YouThinkMeMad on February 20, 2013, 08:44:42 AM
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I believe some of the press are still validating? There has been discussion on this board about how Press don't have their passes yet.

Yup. Some of us have been approved (myself is one) but we're still waiting on being able to actually get a badge. I believe our email said "Spring 2013" but who knows what that actually means.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 20, 2013, 09:37:45 AM
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They actually did get the pro reg done first this year. And it looks like they tried to get press done first and ran out of time.

The point again being to get everything else done before general sales so that that can be the only focus instead of press trying to figure out if they should participate in the sale. I think only one type of pro was done. Aren't there different types of pro badges?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 20, 2013, 09:41:45 AM
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The point again being to get everything else done before general sales so that that can be the only focus instead of press trying to figure out if they should participate in the sale. I think only one type of pro was done. Aren't there different types of pro badges?

Yes, but the ones who are trade professionals were given their registration date. They have far more confidence in obtaining badges.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: hikanteki on February 20, 2013, 10:13:03 AM
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I'm sure it can be tweaked to work better but that's my first issue with it.

The other thing is, how many lottery winners do you pick? 40k x 4 badges each?  What if someone doesn't show up? What happens if you sell out? Undersell on purpose? Multiple sales with excess? Same process for refunded badges?

Time limits & multiple sales with excess (two would suffice).  The excess sale could be limited to one badge per person.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 20, 2013, 11:53:08 AM
What would happen if SDCC got strict on ID...

(https://www.friendsofcc.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi129.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp206%2Ftransmutejun%2Fcomic-con-crack-down.jpg&hash=56391d3802d7945547353adfcc4ad10040b35db7)
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 20, 2013, 02:28:13 PM
Good read from a Fb post concerning badges sales http://is.gd/WhdsFd
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: vegasndn on February 20, 2013, 02:30:23 PM
It's ukdeejays Fb so he probably already posted it here, if so sorry.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 20, 2013, 02:48:56 PM
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It's ukdeejays Fb so he probably already posted it here, if so sorry.

Don't think he's posted here yet. Just Twitter and Google +.  Good read. Well said.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 20, 2013, 03:07:43 PM
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What would happen if SDCC got strict on ID...

(https://www.friendsofcc.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi129.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp206%2Ftransmutejun%2Fcomic-con-crack-down.jpg&hash=56391d3802d7945547353adfcc4ad10040b35db7)

Ha: funny (and, FWIW, I'm OK with them checking ID at the door)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 20, 2013, 03:37:07 PM
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Ha: funny (and, FWIW, I'm OK with them checking ID at the door)

Ditto. I don't mind the slight inconvenience. I think they can vary it up when and where they check it though. Not make it too predictable and thus easier to avoid.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 20, 2013, 04:32:59 PM
UKdeejay's article is a good summation of the process we all endured last Saturday.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: conventiongeek on February 20, 2013, 05:04:25 PM
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Good read from a Fb post concerning badges sales http://is.gd/WhdsFd

What!!!! When I click on it all I get is the white page of death...  seriously though, there is nothing but a blank page. Can someone redirect me to it?
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 20, 2013, 06:28:07 PM
hi guys

have an odd question, got my epic registation , its states registration upstairs,  and a confirmation #, nothing looking like a barcode in the email
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Zero on February 20, 2013, 06:36:43 PM
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hi guys

have an odd question, got my epic registation , its states registration upstairs,  and a confirmation #, nothing looking like a barcode in the email

Yes, you should have a bar code image in your registration confirmation e-mail. 

Do you have an image-blocker in your e-mail?  Try enabling images to see if that works.

If not, I would recommend contacting Comic-Con International through their e-mail address at [email protected]. I suggest waiting a few days (possibly until early next week) before you contact them, since they'll be pre-occupied with the most recent badge sale e-mails and messages.

Hope that helps! ^-^d

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ComicGirl on February 20, 2013, 11:11:47 PM
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Ist his true, or is it an assumption (REALLY not arguing or trying to verbally spar, I've just not experienced that before).  Maybe I'm just fans of crappy pro teams, but in my experience that's not the case: in my experience it's always been first come/first serve when it comes to season tickets playoff tickets.  Besides, that's not exactly a super fair comparison, as for the major sporting events (I know, I know: you specified season tickets only) so much of the purchasing is done through ticket brokers.

I was talking about the big events, like SuperBowl, ProBowl, NBA All-STar Game, etc... These sporting events use a lottery system for season ticket holders. i.e.: If the superbowl is in your hometown, as a season ticket holder you get entered into a lottery to get a ticket. Also, the fans of the teams playing have their own lottery for a pre-determined set of seats.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: ComicGirl on February 20, 2013, 11:20:29 PM
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hi guys

have an odd question, got my epic registation , its states registration upstairs,  and a confirmation #, nothing looking like a barcode in the email

Karl - Call EPIC directly. They are the one that sent you the barcode confirmation (If you notice, confirmations come from [email protected]) Their number is 980-233-3777

Contacting [email protected] is going to be slow. They are days behind on email at least.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 21, 2013, 12:18:32 AM
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hi guys

have an odd question, got my epic registation , its states registration upstairs,  and a confirmation #, nothing looking like a barcode in the email

Last year, every once in awhile the barcode image wouldn't show up in the email. Assumption was maybe some maintenance on the server that houses all the images.

You should have 3 emails. The first being an Order Acknowledgement, then a Receipt and the barcode email Important Registration Information.

But yes, follow ComicGirl's instructions for the fastest response.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: EnglishmanInSanDiego on February 21, 2013, 04:57:40 AM
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Oh trust me, we'll be at the talkback panel. For one, it's amusing as heck but two, there are actually some good ideas brought up and not just whining about why CCI doesn't do something about the sky being blue.

We'll report back anything worthwhile to the forum.  ;D

Save me a seat. And some popcorn.


You let The Man get you down, The Man wins - I say, Damn The Man.
"I can't lie to you about your chances, but... you have my sympathies."
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 21, 2013, 06:11:37 AM
thanks comicgirl will do that today
karl
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: YouThinkMeMad on February 21, 2013, 09:41:19 AM
I just got an email via our contact form on the website asking when badges go on sale.

Sigh.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: taigirl87 on February 21, 2013, 09:47:43 AM
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I just got an email via our contact form on the website asking when badges go on sale.

Sigh.
All it takes is going to cci's website...but of course that the obvious answer.  ;D  Though of course I can't say I haven't asked questions like that befoe lol
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 21, 2013, 09:50:16 AM
yeah, I just read a heart braking blurb on the fb sdcc page from a mom trying to get badges for her & her 9 year old son. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: YouThinkMeMad on February 21, 2013, 09:54:13 AM
It's just, I mean, when you want to buy tickets for something, anything, isn't the first place you normally go the website for said thing?

Even if they came across a website like WNA, we have the info all over the place. Just open your eyes and read!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 21, 2013, 10:02:37 AM
yep,  i get pm's mostly from the fb people asking for basic information, and I'm like 'scroll down'.  In addition, it's like, i really *don't* want to answer individual questions,  If i take the time to answer a question I want it to be in a way that can benefit more then just one person.

I don't understand why people think PM'ing someone will get a better response- it's the exact opposite in my experience. And there is a search option, called google....
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 21, 2013, 10:06:07 AM
on saturday when I was hanging out to get badges, if I don't get tickets what am I going to do? I went looking and ffound 5 to 6 other great cons all over north america, there are many great events out there, find another show, there are lots of big shows out there.
karl
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 21, 2013, 10:25:47 AM
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yep,  i get pm's mostly from the fb people asking for basic information, and I'm like 'scroll down'.  In addition, it's like, i really *don't* want to answer individual questions,  If i take the time to answer a question I want it to be in a way that can benefit more then just one person.

I don't understand why people think PM'ing someone will get a better response- it's the exact opposite in my experience. And there is a search option, called google....

I hear ya.  There's naivety, which I understand: "I've never been to Comic-Con and don't know what to expect can someone answer my question..."
Then there's just...I'm not sure what the PC adjective would be...where people are clearly not reading or comprehending directions on a website, aren't bothering to search the internet, etc.  I don't except all people to be tech-savie enough to maneuver the internet (i.e. my great aunt who doesn't use a computer except for email, which she apparently uses to forward ever stupid spam ever), but if someone is bright enough to find/use Facebook I don't think it's too much to ask them to try a simple google search, scroll through CCI's website, etc.  ::)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: hikanteki on February 21, 2013, 11:39:14 AM
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yeah, I just read a heart braking blurb on the fb sdcc page from a mom trying to get badges for her & her 9 year old son.

I wonder how someone can promise their kid something that has 5-10x (estimate) as much demand as supply and sells out within ~an hour.  If everyone had worked as expected, the same number of people still wouldn't have been able to get badges.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: oneroomdisco on February 21, 2013, 12:00:19 PM
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I wonder how someone can promise their kid something that has 5-10x (estimate) as much demand as supply and sells out within ~an hour.  If everyone had worked as expected, the same number of people still wouldn't have been able to get badges.
I agree that promising your child a trip to Comic Con is less than advisable, but at the same time, I can totally get how it happens.  A lot of people still don't get that even of the sale had worked perfectly, it is entirely possible that they would've been shut out.  Additionally, once your child is aware of Comic Con as a thing, it can get even to avoid promising things/getting them to understand that you're not promising anything.

For example, last year at WonderCon I saw the most adorable 5 or 6 year old Wonder Woman very seriously informing her Dad how she couldn't wait to go to Comic Con.  He tried to explain to her that he still needed to get tickets, but I seriously doubt that a child that young is really going to grasp the full implications of that statement.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 21, 2013, 12:04:03 PM
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I wonder how someone can promise their kid something that has 5-10x (estimate) as much demand as supply and sells out within ~an hour.  If everyone had worked as expected, the same number of people still wouldn't have been able to get badges.

Yeah, I put all blame on a parent who is so cavalier as to do that.  Even if you're naive and don't know the availability of badges, or how quick they sell out, etc. it's wrong to promise your kid a badge.  I tell my kid every year now "this could be the last Comic-Con" because it's so hard to get a badge nowadays.  Shame on anyone promising something they can't for sure deliver
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 21, 2013, 12:07:55 PM
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For example, last year at WonderCon I saw the most adorable 5 or 6 year old Wonder Woman very seriously informing her Dad how she couldn't wait to go to Comic Con.  He tried to explain to her that he still needed to get tickets, but I seriously doubt that a child that young is really going to grasp the full implications of that statement.

On the flip side of that, though, there are ways to put things to small children that are neither too complicated (i.e. explaining in deal about the online 'battle' to get a badge) nor fibs.  There's nothing wrong with telling a kid, "Daddy isn't sure we can get tickets to that, don't get your hopes up."  I know that can be easier said than done, as I'm a father of an elementary school aged kid myself.  But it can be done
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 21, 2013, 12:12:35 PM
totally agree.... too many people feel entitlement. .... when they where young they all got 33rd place ribbons when they took part in any event.... entitlement is the problem
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: BadWolf on February 21, 2013, 12:37:27 PM
I saw also saw her post about how infuriated she was to have to explain to her kid that they weren't going to comic-con and, like the rest of you, wondering why she promised it in the first place! My 6 year old knows how impossible it is to get badges and in fact watches me struggle through badge sales each year - and she laughs me.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 21, 2013, 12:48:44 PM
I always just assumed these people are posting their sob stories w/ hopes that CCI or the badge god will take pity on them and grant them badges. Squeaky wheel gets the grease kind of thing...(like everyone has mentioned, entitlement issues). Stomp your feet enough and throw a tantrum and get what you want.

Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 21, 2013, 12:49:07 PM
my 7 year old said daddy silly there are other comic cons to go too
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: hikanteki on February 21, 2013, 12:57:30 PM
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my 7 year old said daddy silly there are other comic cons to go too

Sounds like your 7 year old has a better grasp on reality than many adults. :)

(and LOL @ 33rd place ribbons, so true.)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 21, 2013, 01:38:12 PM
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I always just assumed these people are posting their sob stories w/ hopes that CCI or the badge god will take pity on them and grant them badges. Squeaky wheel gets the grease kind of thing...(like everyone has mentioned, entitlement issues). Stomp your feet enough and throw a tantrum and get what you want.

That could be: that and just venting like petulant children (kind of like a "I'm really pissed off and I'm telling the world because CCI will change their ways once they hear me!!")
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 21, 2013, 01:42:26 PM
Wait, there was a ribbon for 33rd place? But I came in 34th! Sigh....

I agree, these people need to do a minimal amount of research. Just reading CCI's we page will give that kind of information. I have much more respect for people who ask questions based on inexperience (rather than laziness). 'When do tickets go on sale?' And 'why do I need a member ID for my wife if I have one?' Are lazy questions because the answers are out there in obvious places - they just can't be bothered to look. But 'when will parking go on sale?' Or 'should I have my barcode yet?' are more 'newbie' questions and totally reasonable, given that.

There's a reason why I hang out here and rarely venture to the FB page. I much prefer the intelligent nature of this crowd! We all want to help ourselves (and each other) and we all work hard to stay informed!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 21, 2013, 01:44:12 PM
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Wait, there was a ribbon for 33rd place? But I came in 34th! Sigh....

Lucky - I should've come in 35th place but I got stuck at a stupid white screened and bounced out of the competition...
 :P
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 21, 2013, 01:46:30 PM
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There's a reason why I hang out here and rarely venture to the FB page. I much prefer the intelligent nature of this crowd! We all want to help ourselves (and each other) and we all work hard to stay informed!

Heh; the reason I don't venture into the FB page much also has to do with the fact that when I talked to my mom on the phone Sunday, she was grilling me about Comic-Con stuff because she saw that I was talking about it a lot on FB (she was amused at one person's comment that FB is only a place for the well-off and the "people of influence" and we were joking around about how I must obviously be in the San Diego upper-crust/person-of-influence since I had a badge).
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 21, 2013, 02:07:25 PM
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Heh; the reason I don't venture into the FB page much also has to do with the fact that when I talked to my mom on the phone Sunday, she was grilling me about Comic-Con stuff because she saw that I was talking about it a lot on FB (she was amused at one person's comment that FB is only a place for the well-off and the "people of influence" and we were joking around about how I must obviously be in the San Diego upper-crust/person-of-influence since I had a badge).

So... We're 'upper crust' because we have a badge?  ;D. I can deal with that!

Frankly, I think having a badge is 50% preparation and 50% pure luck.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 21, 2013, 02:09:39 PM
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Ditto. I don't mind the slight inconvenience. I think they can vary it up when and where they check it though. Not make it too predictable and thus easier to avoid.

This helps how? It's not scalpers or illegally attained badges that cause the crazyness, lines and such of Comic Con. It's simply that big of an event.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karatekid on February 21, 2013, 02:15:43 PM
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Think of it as a line for a store or (for we old timers who bought concert tickets before the internet) at a ticket booth. You're not inviting your friend to come and stand by you, but you're simply buying an extra item after holding your legitimate place in line. Is it wrong if I'm at Starbucks to buy 2 drinks, because I'm buying one for me and one for my friend? Is it wrong for someone who has lined up to buy exclusives to buy 2, if that is within the per person limit? No and no. Whether the supply is limited (as with exclusive) or 'unlimited' (as with Starbucks), everyone is entitled to purchase the amount they want, within prescribed limits. I understand that you don't like this, but it is NOT line-jumping.

This scenario is all good but to me I see the ticket piece more as we're both in line, I'm in spot 100, you're in spot 500, so since your ahead of me, will you buy me a ticket please. It's a subtle difference and I bet a huge difference to those 400 people between us.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Hidajunshin on February 21, 2013, 03:01:25 PM
Ugh.  I must be glutton for punishment.  I keep going to the FB page.  Got into it with this guy who thinks that because I was part of a group to purchase badges, I'm part of the 'problem'.   
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: karl clement on February 21, 2013, 03:21:12 PM
no one is the problem , demand is the issue and it will always be, i think entitlement is the big issue as well
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Khaaaaaaanh!!! on February 21, 2013, 03:23:21 PM
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Ugh.  I must be glutton for punishment.  I keep going to the FB page.  Got into it with this guy who thinks that because I was part of a group to purchase badges, I'm part of the 'problem'.

I've learned to stay away from posts like that. Won't get productive result.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 21, 2013, 03:25:49 PM
^^^
you have my sympathies Hidajunshin
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: mdla on February 21, 2013, 03:59:32 PM
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Ugh.  I must be glutton for punishment.  I keep going to the FB page.  Got into it with this guy who thinks that because I was part of a group to purchase badges, I'm part of the 'problem'.

I'm not a part of your system, man

IM AN ADULTTT (sorry if you haven't seem the snl skit :P)
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 21, 2013, 04:10:06 PM
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Ugh.  I must be glutton for punishment.  I keep going to the FB page.  Got into it with this guy who thinks that because I was part of a group to purchase badges, I'm part of the 'problem'.

*hugs*   You're not part of the problem. You're doing the best you can under difficult circumstances, and you're following the recommendations that CCI themselves made.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: perc2100 on February 21, 2013, 04:20:08 PM
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no one is the problem , demand is the issue

Wait wait wait wait wait
Then...we're ALL the problem!!  ::) :'(
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 21, 2013, 04:25:39 PM
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Wait wait wait wait wait
Then...we're ALL the problem!!  ::) :'(

Well when you put it that way.... *slinks out of the thread*
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Hidajunshin on February 21, 2013, 04:47:33 PM
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^^^
you have my sympathies Hidajunshin

Meh.  I blocked him.  ;D
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Hidajunshin on February 21, 2013, 04:48:50 PM
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Wait wait wait wait wait
Then...we're ALL the problem!!  ::) :'(

DOH!
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: rando on February 22, 2013, 07:46:53 PM
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yep,  i get pm's mostly from the fb people asking for basic information, and I'm like 'scroll down'.  In addition, it's like, i really *don't* want to answer individual questions,  If i take the time to answer a question I want it to be in a way that can benefit more then just one person.

I don't understand why people think PM'ing someone will get a better response- it's the exact opposite in my experience. And there is a search option, called google....

Hey Alyssa, I apologize for sending you that PM today.  I didn't see your request not to until after I did.  :-[ I will of course abide by your request from now on.
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: alyssa on February 22, 2013, 08:12:16 PM
no worries, your suggestion was forum related..it's all good. Plus it is a *good* suggestion!. 
Title: Re: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: Andrew Costa Mesa on February 23, 2013, 12:55:09 AM
With all the talk about SDCCI implementing a lottery system, here's how I fared with lotteries.

In 2001, I drew a number twice for two opportunities to get tickets to the 2001 World Series in Phoenix between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the New York Yankees.  I did well in the first lottery and got the tickets I wanted for games 1 and 2, lost out in the second, didn't get tickets for games 6 and 7.

For the last few years, I put in a request to get tickets to "Saturday Night Live" in New York.  Only once last year did I get tickets for their live broadcast, not lucky in the previous years and probably won't be lucky this year as well.

Over the last few years, I put in requests through both the Oscars and iota.com to get bleacher seats for the Oscars Red Carpet.  So far, I have not been so lucky.]

Take it for what it's worth.
Title: badges go on sale february 16th!!!
Post by: EnglishmanInSanDiego on February 23, 2013, 02:15:52 AM
I like going to the CCI FB page - I genuinely love 'giving back' to this event that has given me so much. There's a quote doing the rounds on the UK pro DJ/instructional circuit lifted from some American seminars, 'passing down the ladder' - that is, if you've gone thru it yourself and can help others up, it benefits everybody to do so.

That being said, last Saturday, after the Badge Sale? Avoided the FB page like the frakin' plague for at least a day...


You let The Man get you down, The Man wins - I say, Damn The Man.
"I can't lie to you about your chances, but... you have my sympathies."