Around this time each year, hoards of people flock Southern California to attend the massive cultural blowout San Diego Comic-Con. But things are going to be different this year, obviously. SDCC 2020 will be a virtual gathering instead, running from July 22 through 26.
Below, we'll guide you through how to watch and stream everything from Comic-Con 2020. No more jostling for lines outside Hall H or battling with large crowds on the conference floor.
The week-long event has already started, but it still pays to know what's up since every big hitter in town will be featured, including "The Walking Dead," the "Star Trek Universe," and "The Boys." If this is your first time, you're in for a treat. Here are the details:
Comic-Con@Home will be entirely for free -- that's one change. But similar to the real-world version, there will be over 350 panels featuring famous names in the worlds of comics, gaming, television, and movies. So yes, your favorite actors and writers will appear on your screens one way or another.
Since everything will be done online, things are a lot easier: you simply have to head over Comic-Con's YouTube channel. No more seat grabbing in Hall H. And panels will be streamed live onto YouTube -- SDCC's got all the links. All you need to do is find the panel you're interested in watching on the main Comic-Con website, click on that panel's page, and then follow the YouTube link that's available there.
Comic-Con panels usually reveal highly-anticipated trailers, teasers, and news from the entertainment industry. The online panels should still have loads of that, but considering the many cancelations and delays, some films and shows won't be quite as far along as usual, and may not have previews ready to show yet.
But to make up for the lack of in-person fun with friends and fellow geeks, Comic-Con has offered online watch parties for some shows. The thing though is, you will need a subscription for whatever platform the film has partnered with, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Disney Plus. So, it's not exactly free per se. However, it should simulate how it would've been if not for COVID-19. The experience will never be the same, but hey, at least there's effort.
Organizers of Comic-Con 2020 are hoping that an in-person gathering will take place next year. The coronavirus pandemic is still ongoing, but all hope is not lost for SDCC fans. For now, enjoy your livestreams!
