The Orlando Science Center (OSC) in Orlando, Florida, is a great place for a family to spend the afternoon. It has a myriad of exhibits that make learning fun.
From January 14 through 17, though, the OSC amps up the fun factor with Otronicon 2011, a four-day event that centers around video games.
What is Otronicon?
Otronicon is short for (O)rlando Elec(Tron)ic (I)nteractive Technology (Con)vention.
During Otronicon, attendees can not only try out and play some of the latest video games, but also learn how the technology that goes into creating these games can also be used for teaching in fields such as medical and the military.
Video Gaming at Otronicon
Electronic Arts, which is headquartered in the Central Florida city of Maitland, is sponsoring several of the gaming exhibits.
The EA Sports Arena will allow gamers to play the latest in sports games, like Madden NFL Football.
EA also produces the hit music game Rock Band and will be holding a competition to find the best rockers out there.
On Saturday only, the creators of the recently released TRON: Evolution – Battle Grids will be at Otronicon, demonstrating the game and discussing the creation of it. The original TRON film will also be screened on the Dr. Phillip’s CineDome.
Old school gamers will appreciate the Classic Arcade Lounge featuring games like Donkey Kong, Pac Man, Centipede, Gauntlet and, yes, the original TRON arcade game.
Gaming Technology Exhibits at Otronicon
In addition to the fun aspect of video game technology, the event will also showcase how it's being used to create training simulators for both the medical community and for the military.
Learn how patient simulators allow doctors to treat real life emergencies in a virtual reality environment. Or if you feel the need for speed, learn how the Top Gun pilots take off and land their fighter jets.
Otronicon After Dark
Recognizing that many of the visitors on Friday and Saturdays are adults, OSC has put together special events on those nights just for the older gamers.
Friday night, is Zombie Night. There will be costume contests, movies and tournaments featuring games like Left for Dead and Call of Duty: Zombie Survival Mode.
Saturday night features an evening party called "Cocktails and Cosmos" that features DJs, live performances, food and drinks.
Details for Otronicon 2011
Each day of admission is $17 for adults, $16 for students and seniors, and $12 for kids 3 to 11. Parking at the Orlando Science Center is an additional $5 per vehicle. Daily admission includes the Otronicon After Dark events.
The Orlando Science Center is located at 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, Florida, and you can reach them by phone at 888.OSC.4FUN or 407.514.2000.
Michelle Snow - Michelle Snow been a freelance journalist and photographer for over twenty years, specializing in travel and entertainment. She got her ...
Join the Conversation