We can do better

OK, you’re a nerd, and you’re comfortable with it. But to what extent have you really come to terms with your nerdness? Enough to send a yearbook photo to the Fantastic Arcade people and have them parade you around as the über-dweeb? You might want to think this one through.

Equating the gaming arm of the Fantastic Fest with nerds might not be the most flattering depiction of the festival, but the end result (a smorgasbord of ill-advised haircuts, forgotten fashion trends, and unflattering light) just might be worth it. Finalists are chosen with the winner becoming the Fantastic Arcade mascot. Endorsements are sure to follow. Twelve-sided dice manufacturers, eyeglass tape makers, e.g.

Email your yearbook photo (200MB or less) to fantasticarcade@gmail.com before September 20. If you’re chosen to be in the finals you will need to bring the actual yearbook to the HighBall as proof at the nerd-crowning ceremony on September 24 at 6:15pm. Prizes will be awarded, but don’t necessarily expect the admiration of general populace. However, at Fantastic Fest, you’ll be in good company.

This article appears in September 9 • 2011.

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

SUPPORT US

James graduated from Columbia University in 2000 and moved to Austin a year later. Ever since, he has followed the arts and video game scene in ATX, editing and writing stories for the Chronicle along the way. Over his more than 20 years with the paper he has climbed the "corporate" ladder from lowly intern to managing editor.