THOUSANDS of fans will gather at Dundee University next month for one of the country’s largest animation, gaming and cosplay convention.

Anime characters, stormtroopers, supervillains and video game stars will bring a splash of colour to campus for DeeCon 2018 on Saturday, April 7. The event, organised by animation students at the University’s Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, will feature talks by industry professionals and gamers, and a dedicated video gaming hub with virtual reality tournaments.

Student artist Sharkie, a member of the organising committee, said: “We are extremely excited to be hosting DeeCon 2018. A lot of people missed out on some of the bigger events like Rai Con and Dunfermline Comic Con because of the Beast from the East so we would urge them to come to Dundee, it’s the perfect place to come geek out.”

Major Scottish gamers taking part include Marleythirteen and Batchy, concept sculptor Sam Rowan and CG artist Nikki Christie. Sharkie added: “A significant amount of DeeCon 2018 is dedicated to high fantasy and gaming this year, with a gaming hub and an entire level dedicated to Dungeons & Dragons.”

“We still have the usual cosplay masquerades, film screenings, and exhibitions, speed-pitching and artists’ valley, and special guest John Ferguson, of Saltire Comics, will launch his latest comic, Mean City on the day.”

Proceeds will be spilt between the animation degree show in May and nationwide charity SpecialEffect, which helps people with physical disabilities to play video games.