Furality, a VRChat-based furry convention, concluded its eighth gathering on the second weekend of June 2024, attracting 21,000 registered attendees and raising over $42,269 for charity. Despite initial skepticism about the longevity of online furry events following the pandemic, Furality has proven to be a vital and growing aspect of the fandom community.
This year’s gathering showcased the strengths and weaknesses of virtual conventions compared to in-person events. Attendees explored meticulously designed worlds, including a sun-bleached desert cliff and an underground neon settlement reminiscent of the “Borderlands” video game series. The event featured a lobby area with screens broadcasting the main stage, creating a central focus while allowing for individual exploration.
However, the event was not without glitches. For example, a problematic balcony design initially trapped avatars, but the issue was quickly addressed in subsequent updates. The worlds created for Furality will remain accessible for future gatherings, enhancing their significance for attendees.
Furality offered a variety of curated games and activities, making it easier for newcomers to navigate VRChat’s expansive offerings. Popular activities included virtual versions of “GeoGuessr,” Chess, Karaoke, and “Among Us.” These well-organized experiences provided attendees with a more focused and enjoyable convention environment.
One of the standout events was the eclipse, which unfortunately faced technical issues during its highly anticipated moment. In contrast, the fireworks show highlighted the advantages of virtual gatherings, offering unobstructed views and the ability to run multiple showings without crowding issues.
The experience of Furality differs significantly from traditional conventions. While in-person events give a tangible sense of community size, virtual gatherings allow for more intimate interactions, as attendees can easily connect with friends in smaller instances. However, technical difficulties can hinder the experience, as seen with delays in the Dealer’s Den launch and navigation issues during peak moments.
Cost is another significant factor, with Furality’s tickets priced at $25, making it far more accessible than many physical conventions. The convention also offered free attendance to about 2,100 individuals facing financial hardships, showcasing its commitment to inclusivity.
Furality’s success indicates that online furry conventions are here to stay, evolving into a new medium for community engagement and creativity. As technology continues to advance, the potential for future gatherings grows, with possibilities for new platforms such as Resonite emerging. The flexibility and accessibility of virtual spaces provide unique opportunities for expression and connection within the furry community, paving the way for exciting developments in the years to come.
