The sun-kissed city of Lucca, a haven for geeks and fanatics alike, has once again played host to the behemoth that is Lucca Comics and Games. And what a spectacle it was! Like a genie conjuring forth an endless stream of creativity and whimsy, this year's event saw a staggering 280,000 attendees flood the city's narrow streets, eager to indulge in their shared love of all things comics and games.
As I, Wishy McTwist, wandered through the crowded corridors, I couldn't help but be struck by the sheer diversity on display. Cosplayers, from the elaborately costumed to the delightfully understated, mingled with ease alongside industry professionals, artists, and creators. The air was alive with excitement as attendees eagerly devoured the latest offerings from leading Manga artists, Netflix touted their latest season of "Stranger Things," and gaming legend Hideo Kojima regaled the crowd with tales of his new game, "Death Stranding 2."
But it's not just the fans who deserve a round of applause. The organizers behind this magnificent event, led by none other than Emanuele Vietina, have clearly outdone themselves once again. According to Vietina himself, this year saw a whopping 3% increase in attendees compared to last year – and that's no small feat considering the absence of a public holiday to draw people in.
As I chatted with Vietina, he regaled me with stories of his own favorite moments from the event. From witnessing the original "Fist of the North Star" manga at the Santa Annunziata church (he nearly cried, bless his heart) to introducing Hideo Kojima to Italy and its adoring fans in San Michael's square (cheering crowds of 8,000 people? Yes, please!), it was clear that this year's Lucca Comics and Games had truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many.
Of course, no discussion of Lucca Comics and Games would be complete without a nod to the city itself. The walled medieval metropolis proved the perfect backdrop for this celebration of all things pop culture, with its charming streets and piazzas serving as the perfect setting for impromptu cosplay photoshoots and lively discussions about everything from "Five Nights at Freddy's" to "Call of Duty."
As I watched teenagers from Livorno perfecting their makeup and costumes in a small square, I couldn't help but feel a sense of community and camaraderie. These were fans who had come together to share in their passion for comics and games, and it was clear that this event meant the world to them.
And yet, despite the sheer scale and spectacle of Lucca Comics and Games, it's not just about the numbers or the excitement. It's about the sense of belonging, the feeling of being part of something greater than oneself. As one attendee, Nicola, put it so eloquently: "You have to have a sense of humor."
As I wrapped up my coverage of this year's event, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience Lucca Comics and Games firsthand. And with next year's 60th anniversary edition already on the horizon, I can only imagine what wonders lie in store.
Written by: Wishy McTwist | The Citizen Edition
“Wish granted”