The gaming community in Renton is a lot bigger than you think.

That’s according to Emilio Morales, co-founder of Renton City Comic Con (RenCon for short), the local comic convention that’s about to take it’s second lap next week.

The convention, scheduled for Sept. 16 and 17, is the celebration all things geeky, nerdy, and everything in between.

Morales brings together the gaming part of the convention puzzle. As the co-founder of Dpad Retro Gaming & Collectables ­— formerly Retro Game & Toy Exchange — he said the local gaming and comic community is strong. Stores like Shane’s Cards, 8-bit Arcade and Comic Hut are proof of that.

However, Morales said what makes the con stand out from others is that it’s broader. Attendees can expect cosplay contests and displays (even a cat copslay), larping tournament, geek themed comedy show, burlesque shows, science panels, 3D photos and over 40 vendors and artists.

There’s also a chance for a few celebrity sightings, including Michelle Harrison from the Flash, four of the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, and four actors from Z-Nation.

The convention is a way to make Renton a destination city, said Morales.

“I’m excited to give the city of Renton something they can be proud of, he said. “When people fly to Seattle, they can see Renton as another fun place to hang out.”

The weekend will kick off on Friday, Sept. 15 with a VIP party at Virtual Sports in Tukwila, which will include laser tag, putt-putt golf, virtual reality gaming, a chance to meet guests and celebrities, and more.

Last year, the con saw about 1,500 attendees from all over the Pacific Northwest.

“Many of our attendees and guests said they were surprised it was our first con,” said Ben Andrews, director of special events of Renton Chamber of Commerce and co-founder of RenCon.

“Fans out there have been wanting something like this,” said Morales. “We’re just happy Renton City Comic Con can provide one of the best cons that will possibly be in the northwest in the near future.”

This year, the con will take place in downtown Renton, with events happening at Renton Pavilion, the Drapery building, Griot Gallery, Harambee Church and Renton Civic Theatre. You will also see RenCon parklets all throughout Popup Downtown on Sept. 15.

“The whole downtown core will be a celebration of geekdom,” said Andrews.

For more information about RenCon, visit http://www.rentoncitycomiccon.com/. To purchase tickets, visit http://www.rentoncitycomiccon.com/tickets.html.