Apex tournament series will be returning next year - Jonathan Lugo talks Apex 2013 turn out, thefts and more

EH: We’ve heard that there were some unfortunate thefts that occurred over at Apex 2013. If you’re comfortable saying so, what exactly happened at the event and what items were stolen?

Lugo: During the event several pieces of equipment were stolen from the Super Smash Bros. Section. Over the course of the event I personally lost several Nintendo Wiis, copies of Super Smash Bros. Melee and Brawl, and many other electronic equipment. Sponsored equipment was stolen as well. Those we had to personally replace out of our own funds. That, combined with our personal loses made us lose a few thousand dollars worth of equipment.

EH: There is word that Apex will not be returning next year for its annual tournament; is this a definitive decision? What actions need to be taken in order for the event to run once again?

Lugo: We'll be working hard to make sure next year happens, in fact we're already starting to plan. The event is something the team enjoy's doing so we wanted to make it happen regardless. So you can say that Apex will return. We do have some adjustments to make such as a new venue, purchasing more equipment, etc. but that is something that we will handle as we go along. And one thing is certain we'll be looking for some tighter security. It's best to approach in this situation by moving on and work to do all we can to provide the best experience possible.

EH: Aside from the thefts, did this year’s event go well? How does the turnout of Apex 2013 compare to that of last year’s tournament?

Lugo: The feedback from all over speaks for it self. We had a great turnout. We had more people this year than last year. This year we had close to 1300 people across 9 games with a large amount of spectators coming to just enjoy the event. Several communities showed us nothing but love and talked about the huge improvement from last year. Many of them spoke about the new formats and the new floor plan that helped us provide everyone with a great experience.

The content provided by Screwattack and Hold Back to Block really gave viewers an insight to the event itself. The Artist Alley and Indie Developer section really gave those who want to find one of a kind items a place to go and play. Tack on OCRemix providing us with an amazing album and you have a great time for all. We were very proud to put this together and we love the diversity that only we bring to the table. We cannot be thankful enough to all the tournament scenes and the causal groups that attended.

EH: Will a donation drive be set up in order to make up for the stolen items and heighten the probability of another Apex event taking place next year?

Lugo: A donation drive is not in our future. There have been expressed interest from others, and it's fantastic to know others feel that way in helping us, but we are planning to work through any financial hardships if there wind up being any long-term. We told those who had expressed an interest initially to donate anything toward the EVO breast cancer fund since this was something the staff and I were more on board for.