The United States is descending into chaos as it is overrun by mindless undead abominations. Can Canada survive the murderous zombie menace from the south? Can municipal, provincial and federal governments overcome their differences in time?

Approximately fifty participants will assume the roles of federal and provincial politicians, military commanders, local mayors, police and fire chiefs, public health officials, scientists, community leaders, the media, and even local franchisees of a national doughnut chain in this MegaGame of zombie armageddon and Canadian politics.

APOCALYPSE NORTH is a non-profit activity organized by PAXsims in conjuction with Ottawa MegaGames and the Diefenbunker, Canada's Cold War Museum.

FAQ

Q: What are Megagames?

A: Megagames are unique experiential games for 30 to 300 players - part model UN, part board game, part live-action role play - and all fun! They are driven by narrative rather than victory points, and often built as lifelike simulations of the real world with a fantastical twist. Megagames are written to make the players feel, think, experience, and learn.

Q: But I’ve never done this before!

A: It's a zombie apocalypse, how ready can you really be?

We will send you an information package 2 weeks before the event date for you to review game mechanics, your role, and background storyline.

Megagames are designed to be learned on the fly, just like real life. They are about experiencing the journey, rather than mapping out a path to victory. In a Megagame, it is much better to die a legendary death that your friends, new and old, will tell tales of for all time, rather than attempt to beat everybody in a race to the finish.

Above all, experienced players and the control team (aka, the game facilitators) are very nice. We won’t let you do anything too silly- unless you want to!

Q: Do I need to buy tickets in a team?

A: It's recommended you find a team to play with before you buy tickets, but if you don't have a group, you can buy an individual ticket. We recommend looking for a team that has some tickets already bought and joining them.

Also, send us a message at OttawaMegaGames@gmail.com and we will make sure you’re connected with new or old friends.

Q: What happens if I buy a ticket and can't attend?

A: Unfortunately, we will not offer refunds for this event. Please let us know if you cannot attend or if you find someone to go in your stead to ensure that all roles are included

Q: When should I show up? How long is the event?

A: We will start the game at 10h00, so try to be at the site by 09h30 at the latest to allow time for registration.

Apocalypse North runs on a strict timeline, so please be on time. We will be out of the venue by 16:30. If you’d like to continue spending time with us all, we have a reservation at The Swan at Carp restaurant (108 Falldown Lane, Carp, Ontario K0A 1L0.)

Q: What will I do for food and hydration?

A: Given the pace and location of the game, we recommend purchasing a lunch box (available as an add-on) with admission. We are ordering lunches from the Diefenbunker’s preferred caterer: The Swan at Carp restaurant. Lunches will consist of a sandwich, fruit, dessert, and a drink. There are vegan, gluten free, and other options. Please let us know at OttawaMegaGames@gmail.com if you have specific dietary needs. Bag lunches are also permitted.

We recommend drinking plenty of water. There are water coolers (for water bottles) and water fountains (with potable well water) in the gaming area.

We have a reservation at The Swan at Carp restaurant to relax and meet up after the game. Select appetizers and water are included. There’s a drink and supper menu if you are interested.

Q: Are costumes required?

A: No, but they are encouraged. Some people find it more fun to have science conferences in a lab coat, or go to the UN in a tie. However, we ask that you be culturally conscious when dressing from different groups; we're playing characters, not caricatures. Please be considerate of strong scents as some players might be chemically sensitive.

Q: What should I bring?

A: Bring a copy of the briefing and the rules for each section, a water bottle and small snack. As we said, costumes are welcomed but not required.

Most importantly, bring an open mind and a thirst for adventure!

Q: How accessible is this game?

A: The Diefenbunker has stairs and an elevator from the main floor (level 400) to levels 300 (main gaming floor) and 200 (cafeteria location.) Also note that most roles in this game require players to be mobile throughout the day, but at least one role per team could be stationary. Note that this game is also intentionally high-pressure and could require mental, physical and social endurance throughout the day.

We believe cost should never be a barrier to enriching, educational experiences like this one, and as such Ottawa MegaGames does not aim to make a profit off of any events it runs. For this reason we've included an Accessible Pricing option for all tickets for anyone who requires it.

If you have specific accessibility concerns the control team would be happy to help and we encourage you to reach out to us, through FB or email, before the event so we can make this a better experience for you.

Q: Photo and/or videography

A: Please note that there will be periodic photo and videography at this event. By purchasing a ticket for the event, you consent to potentially being photographed and videotaped and possibly having a photograph or video of you used and shared by Ottawa MegaGames. Please let us know if you have specific concerns.

Q: Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

A: Contact the Ottawa Megagames team at OttawaMegaGames@gmail.com, or on the FB page www.facebook.com/groups/OttawaMegagames/

If you have any other questions, please feel free to let us know! We like to think we’re pretty friendly people and will do whatever we can to help.