A corporate booth at Summer Comiket (C52) in 1997.Game makers gained popularity
The first event at Tokyo Big Sight in Ariake, Tokyo, which is still used as a Comiket venue, was held in the summer of 1996 (C50). Since it was a vast new facility with a total exhibition area of about 80,000 square meters (at the time), it was held concurrently with other events, but various events such as the fact that 350,000 people flocked to Comiket over the two days. A problem has occurred.
◆ First company booth, some veteran staff members objected
Therefore, in the same winter (C51) to rent out the entire building. In addition to conducting large-scale evacuation drills with the participation of some circles, there were also attempts to mark major milestones. This is the first company booth set up.
Comiket, which is popular with secondary creations, tends to be viewed coldly by the companies that provide the original content. Inviting companies to doujin activities spread a big ripple.
“Of course there were circles that could not participate due to omissions in the lottery, but there were also objections from veteran staff members.”
Kahoru Yasuda, co-representative of the preparatory committee that led the setting up of the company booths, smiled wryly.
◆ I want companies to know more about Comiket
Practically, when using the entire building, there was also the aspect of utilizing the 4th floor of the west district, which is difficult to access and difficult to place circles. However, what Mr. Yasuda strongly hoped was that “companies will learn more about Comiket, doujinshi, and the participants.”
“If you actually interact with the participants, they will realize that they are big fans of the content and will pay the most money.” It is said that he had such confidence from his experience working for a race event management company.
◆ Gal game boom is a tailwind
Initially, the number of exhibitors was small, and trial and error continued, such as setting up a mini 4WD course and a card game corner in the empty space, creating a stage and holding an event.
The tailwind was“Welcome to Pia♥Carrot!!”or「To Heart」Attractive female characters such as Gyaru game boom. Many of the game makers had come from Comiket, and they exhibited at company booths, creating a flow of excitement together with secondary creations. Now, in addition to publishers and anime production companies, TV stations and local governments are also participating.
On the other hand, Comiket, which has grown in size and recognition, has become more than an “internal hobby event”. In 1997, there was an increasing number of questions about social responsibility, such as tax audits conducted mainly by bookstore consignment circles.
