NYCC 2025 Preview: Panels, Offsites, and More

New York Comic Con is this week at the Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, and once again I will be there on behalf of The Geekiary! With only a few days to go, let’s take a look about what I’m excited for at this year’s event.

Panels

Panels are a big part of the reason why I love NYCC so much, but I also recognize that my taste is not at all the same as other people’s taste. That’s why this list (far from a comprehensive list, click here for the full panel schedule) will be a mix of popular panels, smaller panels that look interesting, and panels I personally am looking forward to.

As a reminder, panels on the Main Stage or Empire Stage require a Reservation, and the room is cleared after each panel. As Reservations went live last week, most if not all of these are “sold out”. So if you want to see one of those panels and don’t have a Reservation, you’ll need to take your chances with the standby line!

A panel in a room that starts with 1 or 4 does not need a Reservation, and the rooms do not clear (unless otherwise specified).

THURSDAY

Critical Role & Prime Video: A Decade of Adventure and The Animated World of Exandria
Main Stage, 11am-12pm

As the countdown begins for the November 19 premiere of The Mighty Nein on Prime Video, join Critical Role’s cast and executive producers—Laura Bailey, Matthew Mercer, Marisha Ray, Liam O’Brien, Ashley Johnson, Taliesin Jaffe, Sam Riegel, and Travis Willingham—for a can’t-miss conversation about what’s next in their expanding universe. Get the inside scoop on the upcoming animated series, fresh updates on The Legend of Vox Machina Season Four, and a special look ahead at Campaign Four of Critical Role’s flagship show. Plus, celebrate 10 incredible years of storytelling with the cast.

HBO / HBO Max presents A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms – Journey into Westeros with Dunk and Egg
Empire Stage, 11am-12pm

Step back into Westeros, a century before Game of Thrones, with unlikely duo, Ser Duncan the Tall, and his diminutive squire, Egg. Co-creator and executive producer George R.R. Martin, co-creator/showrunner Ira Parker, and stars Peter Claffey (Ser Duncan “Dunk” the Tall) and Dexter Sol Ansell (Egg) introduce the new HBO series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The panel will be moderated by Brandon Davis, host of Phase Hero: A Film & TV Podcast. This series will debut on HBO and HBO Max in 2026.

The Road to the Dragon King
Room 406.3, 12:30pm-1:30pm

Join the cast and crew as they give updates on The Dragon King, the next arc of The Dragon Prince saga! Hear the latest news about the Kickstarter and receive a special thanks for being an essential part of building this together — and we’ll share some unique experiences of some of our backers! The panel includes creators Aaron Ehasz and Justin Richmond as well as surprise guests to shock and amaze you with news and insights. Don’t miss it!

GAYSIANS! Visibility, Voice & Victory
Room 1C01, 3pm-4pm

Representation matters—and the Gaysians have entered the chat! Join a stellar lineup of LGBTQ+ Asian creators who are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and making space for authentic stories in graphic novels, comics, TV, film, and beyond. Moderated by Erin Quill (actress, writer, Aveue-Q)

From drag to drama, stand-up to storytelling, this panel brings together actors, writers, singers, and comedians to share what it means to be both queer and Asian in today’s evolving entertainment landscape. Expect candid conversations, behind-the-scenes insights, and a celebration of the talent and resilience of this vibrant, often underrepresented community.

Battle of the Tropes
Room 406.1, 7:15pm-8:15pm

A comic convention favorite is coming in back for another round of chaos! Battle of the Tropes pits teams of authors against each other in an argument for the ages. Think part game show, part debate, and part improv. Audience members provide tropes for the teams to debate and decide the winner of each round with sheer volume. Whether you’re team chosen one or long for only one bed situations, these enemies will become lovers again at the end of the session.

FRIDAY

Toei Animation Presents: ONE PIECE Panel
Empire Stage, 12:45pm-1:45pm

Join Toei Animation for an exciting look at what’s next in the world of ONE PIECE. Featuring special guests Series Director Wataru Matsumi, Producer Ryuta Koike, and English Voice Actors Ian Sinclair [Brook] and Madeleine Morris [Lilith], this panel offers exclusive conversations around the anime’s latest developments – and beyond. You won’t want to miss a few surprises planned just for NYCC!

Prime Video’s Hazbin Hotel
Main Stage, 2:15pm-3:15pm

It’s almost time to check in for Season Two of Prime Video’s Hazbin Hotel, so join creator and executive producer Vivienne Medrano, and series stars Erika Henningsen, Blake Roman, Amir Talai, Kimiko Glenn, Alex Brightman, Jessica Vosk, Joel Perez, Lilli Cooper, Krystina Alabado and more for one helluva good panel filled with Season Two insights and breaking news that fans won’t want to miss. Trust Us.

Let’s Play Returns!
Room 406.1, 5:45pm-6:45pm

Leeanne M. Krecic’s global phenomenon Let’s Play is back! Season 4 is launching exclusively on [REDACTED] next month alongside the premiere of the Let’s Play anime series from legendary studio OLM (Pokémon, Komi Can’t Communicate) on streaming giant Crunchyroll! Fans attending the panel will get an exclusive first look at both the season 4 Webtoon and a clip from the anime series along with some never before seen behind the scenes production art. Additionally, we’ll have a first look at the Let’s Play tabletop game also launching in October from Rocketship Entertainment, publisher of the series.

GKIDS Presents: ALL YOU NEED IS KILL North American Premiere
Room 409, 6:30pm-8:10pm

Following an alien plant invasion, Rita is caught in the destruction—and killed. But then she wakes up again. And again. Caught in an endless time loop, Rita must navigate the trauma and repetition of death until she crosses paths with Keiji, a shy young man trapped in the same cycle. Together, they fight to break free from the loop and find meaning in the chaos around them.

Experience the showstopping U.S. premiere of the action sci-fi film ALL YOU NEED IS KILL, based on the globally beloved novel of the same name by Hiroshi Sakurazaka, with animation brought to life by STUDIO4℃. All guests will receive an exclusive print for this special screening.

Anne Rice’s Immortal Universe (AMC/AMC+)
Main Stage, 6:45pm-8:00pm

AMC and AMC+ present panels featuring the casts and executive producers from two series within Anne Rice’s Immortal Universe, including the highly anticipated new series Anne Rice’s Talamasca: The Secret Order, focused on the secretive society responsible for tracking and containing the witches, vampires, and other creatures around the globe, ahead of its October 26 premiere on AMC and AMC+, and the new rock-and-roll season of Anne Rice’s The Vampire Lestat, which follows rockstar Lestat and his band on tour and returns in 2026.

Puppetry in Film: Meet the Puppeteers Bringing Your Favorite Characters to Life
Room 406.1, 7:15pm-8:15pm

From galaxies far, far, away to adventures under the sea, puppetry is a crucial storytelling tool for filmmakers. In this interactive panel, meet the puppeteers who bring beloved film characters to life, and learn what it’s like to design, build, and manipulate puppets for film! Bringing your own puppet is not required, but highly recommended for maximum fun!

SATURDAY

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.: A Reunion with Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen & Chloe Bennet
Main Stage, 11:15am-12:15pm

Your favorite agents have returned to NYCC —this time for a special cast reunion with the stars who helped turn a one-shot revival into seven seasons of unforgettable storytelling. Join Clark Gregg (Agent Phil Coulson), Ming-Na Wen (Agent Melinda May), and Chloe Bennet (Daisy Johnson/Quake) as they reflect on the show’s lasting legacy, share behind-the-scenes stories, and celebrate the passionate fan community that kept the S.H.I.E.L.D. mission alive. From “Coulson Lives!” to the rise of Quake and the saga of time-hopping agents and LMDs, this is the ultimate reunion for anyone who rode the bus from day one.

BAT-FAM SNEAK PEEK SCREENING AND Q&A
Room 405, 12:30pm-1:30pm

Warner Bros. Animation and Prime Video are shining the Bat Signal for all ages with an exclusive sneak peek of your next favorite Batman series, BAT-FAM. Join executive producer and showrunner Mike Roth alongside voice cast members Yonas Kibreab, London Hughes, and Bobby Moynihan, for an in-depth look at this next animated iteration of the Caped Crusader, and be the first to preview an episode of the new series. BAT-FAM follows the events of the hit film, MERRY LITTLE BATMAN, focusing on Batman, Alfred, and young Damian Wayne—who has now taken on the mantle of Little Batman—alongside a few newcomers to Wayne Manor, as they navigate the fun and frustrations of life as a super family. You won’t want to miss it!

Up Next From Marvel Television and Marvel Animation
Empire Stage, 1:30pm-2:30pm

Join special guests for a look behind the scenes at Marvel’s upcoming Disney+ shows from Marvel Television and Marvel Animation.

Queer Love: Holding Space for Authentic LGBTQ+ Stories
Room 409, 4:45pm-5:45pm

The future of LGBTQ+ storytelling is vibrant, unapologetic, and more authentic than ever. A new generation of creators is sharing their voices without compromise, connecting with millions of readers who are hungry for stories that feel real, personal, and deeply human. From tender love stories to bold explorations of identity, these works are ensuring queer narratives aren’t just included—they’re leading the conversation. Join WEBTOON and some of today’s most popular LGBTQ voices as we explore how authentic creators are shaping the next chapter of LGBTQ+ storytelling – and why that matters now more than ever.

MORTAL KOMBAT II Feature Film
Empire Stage, 5pm-6pm

Return to the brutal glory of the Earthrealm in New Line Cinema’s all-new MORTAL KOMBAT II! The Warner Bros. Pictures presentation at NYCC will offer fans a glimpse into the latest high-stakes installment in the blockbuster video game-inspired film franchise. The panel guests include stars Karl Urban, Adeline Rudolph, Tati Gabrielle and Martyn Ford, along with filmmakers Simon McQuoid and Ed Boon, and screenwriter Jeremy Slater, moderated by a special guest.

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory – The Final Season
Room 405, 6:30pm-7:30pm

Join executive producer Scott Kreamer along with series cast including Sean Giambrone (Ben), Kiersten Kelly (Brooklynn), Kausar Mohammed (Yaz), Raini Rodriguez (Sammy), and Paul-Mikél Williams (Darius) as they offer an exclusive first look inside in the final season of DreamWorks Animation, Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s hit Netflix series Jurassic World: Chaos Theory.

Cosplay Central Crown Championships
Main Stage, 8:15pm-9:45pm

An amazing showcase of the best Cosplayers from the region, come support your local cosplayers or just admire the astounding craftsmanship on display! At this Championship incredible Cosplayers will battle it out onstage to be chosen as the New York regional winner. Our NYCC winner will go on to compete against the cosplayers selected at Emerald City Comic Con, Florida Supercon, and C2E2, to decide the overall US Champion who will head to C2E2 in 2026 and compete in the Final for the Global Cosplay Central Crown!

SUNDAY

Nickelodeon’s Avatar: The Last Airbender 20th Anniversary Panel
Main Stage, 11am-12pm

20 Years. 4 Elements. 1 Avatar. Nickelodeon is celebrating Avatar: The Last Airbender’s 20th anniversary with a panel that will take fans on a special journey through the legacy of the Avatar-verse. Join original voice cast members as they celebrate one of the most beloved animated series of all time. Yip Yip!

X-Men: Days of Future Cast
Empire Stage, 12pm-1pm

Mutants assemble! Join James McAvoy (Professor Charles Xavier), Nicholas Hoult (Hank McCoy/Beast), and Elliot Page (Kitty Pryde) for a special reunion celebrating their unforgettable roles in the X-Men film franchise. From the halls of Xavier’s School to the time-bending events of Days of Future Past, these fan-favorite stars reflect on what it meant to bring Marvel’s mutants to life on the big screen. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, character insights, and plenty of love for the films that reshaped superhero cinema for a new generation. No Cerebro required—just bring your inner mutant. (NOTE: In the time it’s taken me to assemble this article, Nicholas Hoult has canceled his appearance.)

It Rhymes With Takei
Room 1C03, 2:15pm-3pm – The schedule originally said this room but now says room 409, which has another panel listed at that time. So it’s anyone’s guess where this actually is.

Join legendary actor, activist, and author George Takei for a rare and personal conversation to close out his national book tour for It Rhymes With Takei. In this intimate room near Artist Alley, Takei reflects on his extraordinary life from internment to iconhood and the power of joy, resistance, and storytelling. Seating is limited for this special NYCC experience.

Phineas and Ferb Are Taking Over NYCC — and the Tri-State Area
Room 405, 3:30pm-4:30pm

Great Googly Moogly! Join “Phineas and Ferb” co-creators Dan Povenmire and Swampy Marsh, and other musical masterminds behind the show’s most iconic hits. Enjoy brand-new songs, sing along to fan favorites, and get treated to sneak peeks, giveaways, and surprise guests.

Offsites

NYCC hasn’t ever really been a convention that boasts a lot of offsites, at least not like San Diego Comic-Con. Pre-Covid, there used to be more, but for a multitude of reasons, companies just don’t spend the money on them anymore. However, there actually are a few this year!

Kodansha House
October 4 – October 19 12pm-9pm | 210 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012

Back again this year, Kodansha House is run by Kodansha Publishing and has merch, manga exhibits, a café, and events like panels and signings! Admission is free, but many of the events require sign-ups.

Invincible VS Playable Barcade Takeover
Friday, October 10 beginning at 3:00pm | OS NYC (50 Bowery, New York, NY 10013)

For the first time ever, Invincible VS, the upcoming 3v3 tag fighting game set in the Invincible universe, will be playable to the public. Fans can stop by, drink Voodoo Ranger beer, and go hands-on with an all-new Invincible VS character, in addition to the roster of playable characters already announced by Skybound’s first in-house game studio, Quarter Up. Tune in to @invinciblevs social channels for more details.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas-Inspired Takeover at Daily Provisions Manhattan West

WHO: Fans of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, New York Comic Con
attendees, and Manhattan book lovers.
WHAT: The coffee shop will be transformed in celebration of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, featuring immersive décor, themed photo opportunities, and a curated selection of books inspired by the film.
WHERE: Daily Provisions Manhattan West: 440 West 33rd Street, Suite 90, New York, NY
10001
WHEN: October 9, 2025, 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
October 10-12, 2025, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

THE FANTASTIC FOUR IMMERSIVE POP-UP EXPERIENCE

WHAT:
In time for New York Comic Con weekend, the film’s well-known Baxter Building is coming to life, inviting fans to explore inside its legendary walls. Guests can experience the team’s headquarters like never before, from peeking into the kitchen where Ben Grimm tries his hand at cooking, to relaxing in the family’s living room, where they can grab a photo with beloved sidekick H.E.R.B.I.E. Visitors can also browse the First Family’s iconic costumes and discover a digital store filled with surprises. Finally, capture more unforgettable moments in a dedicated photo lounge, where fans will be digitally transported into a photo with the Fantastic Four!

The experience is free for fans of all ages, offering an exclusive chance to step inside the world of Marvel’s First Family and explore and experience the Baxter Building through interactive rooms, eye-catching displays, and Instagram worthy photo opportunities.

Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps is now available at digital retailers (Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango), and arrives on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD October 14.

WHEN:
October 9-11 – 10am-6pm
October 12 – 10am-2pm

WHERE:
Hudson Mercantile
500 W 36th St.
New York, NY 10018

More

What else is there to look forward to at NYCC? Tons! The show floor features a variety of vendors selling books, art, merch, prop replicas, and figures. Studios will usually provide some sort of activation, whether it be an interactive experience or a photo op. Fans are excited to see both DC and Hasbro back at the Javits, after an absence of many years.

Also make sure to stop by Artist Alley and visit a number of extremely talented artists.

“New” this year is the revamped Hall 1E, which in the past has been virtually everything from the gaming area to panel rooms. This year they are calling it Third Space, and it is home to Cosplay Central, Gaming, Family HQ, and the Community Stage. Check out various tournaments and workshops, learn how to play Mahjong and D&D, make your own badge ribbon, stop by Star Wars Storytime, or check out the “food court” (not to be confused with the actual food court, which is in Hall 1D.

If you’re into that sort of thing, don’t forget about any of the convention after parties happening across the city! No official one this year, but Bleeding Cool has you covered for everything that’s going on after hours. I am not usually an after party person (I have a long train ride back to Brooklyn at the end of the night) but people speak very highly of events hosted by Sonicboombox!

If this is your first year attending, make sure you check out my NYCC Beginner’s Guide for more tips and tricks!

I can’t wait to see all of you this weekend! Don’t forget to follow us on Bluesky and Instagram for all our coverage, and stay tuned for my interviews from the con!

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