Not only that, but prices have practically doubled. $20 for a day ticket (was $10), $35 for weekend (was $15), and $60 for VIP (was $35). Source: Before | After.

The change of venue is probably to accommodate their growing size and the increase in ticket prices then to afford the corresponding expenses. I'm not too bothered by the price increases, $10 was a steal and I always managed to see everything in one day. I was, however, planning on buying the VIP this year just to get in earlier because the line last year was ridiculous (hour plus wait).

$60 is a bit more than I'm willing to pay, though, and not sure yet if the perks are worth it. Apart from entering an hour earlier on Sat and Sun, Friday night is exclusively VIP (5-9pm). Of course, that means if you're not flying in, you'd have to drive down twice or get a hotel room, unless you plan on seeing everything in four hours (or if you plan on skipping Friday, which lessens the value of the VIP ticket).

There's also exclusive merch, exclusive giveaways, and an exclusive VIP section. Full list of perks.

If the the con isn't much bigger this year, I might just stick with the day pass. I have to say, though, that the much longer drive to Anaheim (instead of Pasadena) does suck. Depending on what I see there, I may go VIP next year.

Does this change plans for anyone else?

Also, are there any other art toy forums? I follow the blogs but can't find places to discuss.