If you are reading this article, it means that once again, Napoles Comicon has come to an end. You managed to navigate the crowds at the Mostra d’Oltremare, dodged at least three hundred plastic swords, and survived that lethal blend of “ramen fumes” and “foam armor sweat”. Guys, what can we say? It was a journey worthy of the Fellowship of the Ring (though, instead of Elven lembas bread, we had folded pizza).
Beyond the guests, there is a distinct atmosphere at the Mostra d’Oltremare: Comicon is no longer just a “comic book fair”—it is a constantly evolving ecosystem.
Cosplay competitions are no longer mere parades of “people dressed up as cartoons”. Today, the stage is graced by true masters of the craft—featuring everything from animatronics, to programmable LEDs, to wings powered by hydraulic mechanisms. The 2026 edition showcased an impressive level of technical skill, yet the convention’s true value lies in its balance; alongside the costume engineer, the “unpretentious cosplayer” still exists—and both are happy. Cosplay is a passion rather than a mere exercise in style. Pure, unadulterated fun remains the beating heart of these days.
Having attended these fairs for years, I’ve stumbled upon a beautiful phenomenon: the “shifting generation of comicon”. We’ve seen parents—who attended the very first editions back at Castel Sant’Elmo—bring their own children, with Dragon Ball costumes. Today, those very same children have grown up, and they accompany their own children—dressing up alongside them—and help them fly on the Flying Nimbus.
This year, the guest roster was curated with almost “surgical” precision—to borrow a phrase from the Scrubs series featured prominently in this edition. Are you a passionate cinephile? There’s a preview of Mortal Kombat II featuring Maurizio Merluzzo. Are you into manga? Caverna di Platone and Satoshi Shiki are there for you. Or perhaps you prefer Italian comics? Don Rosa, Wallie, and many others await you! Are you fascinated by the history of the illustrations of trading cards? Dario Moccia has just the panel for you. Or are you a die-hard fan of the current music scene? Tony Pitony and Caparezza are sure to give you goosebumps. It was the latter, in particular, whom we were most thrilled to see in person. Being able to listen to this modern musical poet discuss his album and comic book was incredibly exciting. The entire experience was capped off with Caparezza receiving a Platinum Record. This strategy allows every category of fan to experience their own “sacred moment”, transforming the convention into a puzzle where every piece fits perfectly to cater to a different audience.
You simply cannot talk about Comicon without mentioning the “collective ritual” at the Arena Flegrea. When Giorgio Vanni took the stage, the crowd density per square foot skyrocketed. Watching thousands of people—from Berserk cosplayers to dads pushing strollers—belt out the theme songs to Dragon Ball or Pokémon at the top of their lungs is proof that these tunes are written into our very DNA. Vanni doesn’t age; rather, his energy evolves.
We head home with aching legs and depleted bank accounts, yet with an overwhelming urge to do it all over again tomorrow morning—because Comicon has truly become our shared home.
And you, friends of Caffè Nerdiano? Which panel was your favorite? What memories are you taking home from this edition? Did John C. McGinley call you “newbie”? Are you still stuck in line for ramen, or are you nursing a sore throat after singing along with Vanni?
What I know is true from this year, is: a comic book saved my life.
