Five things we can’t wait to see at Comic-Con 2013

Well, by the time you read this, we'll be all packed and ready to go to San Diego for Comic-Con 2013, the big show that covers the very best in movies, TV, comics and video games. There's a lot happening at this year's event, whether you're saying hey to Simon Pegg and company at The World's End panel, or just drifting the floor looking for some exclusive stuff to buy. (Can't say we blame you there.)

There's a lot to see and do, but there are five particular events we can't wait to attend, either because they include a high-profile game we've been wanting to get our hands on, or there's some information we can't wait to dive into. So if you're running around, stop by these spots and say hi to us. We'll be the maniacs wearing the Archer hats and carrying around blown-up Assassin's Creed IV sabers.

Boarding the Assassin's Creed IV Ship

Ubisoft is going all out at this year's Comic-Con event, as they've brought a damn pirate ship to the show. That's right, an actual ship. The Jackdaw will be parked at the Fifth Avenue Landing all weekend long, where you can stop by and check out Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag features. The development team will also be making the rounds, so you can say hi and stuff. Finally, you can pre-order the game and snag yourself a free t-shirt in the process. Who says you can't snag some booty on a pirate ship? ARRRRRR!!

South Park: The Stick of Truth Panel

On Thursday night, South Park: The Stick of Truth will take a whole lot of focus at San Diego Comic Con, as the show's creators, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, will chat about creating the game, while showing off some exclusive footage from the upcoming release. Prepare for the epic fart battle to end all fart battles. Plus, who knows? You might have some crazy people yelling "BOOK OF MORMON!" from the back. (Our guess? Probably Spletcha.)

Batman: Arkham Origins Panel

With an awesome new Batman game on the way, you know you'll want to attend this panel to get all the dirt you can on Origins. Creative director Eric Holmes will be showcasing new footage from the game, including a first peek at Deathstroke's DLC. For good measure, the voice actors behind the game, Troy Baker (Joker) and Roger Craig Smith (Batman) will also be talking up a storm about it. Also, some fans will walk away with limited edition swag. Hell, we don't even know what it is yet!

Hands-On With Next-Gen Systems

Sony and Microsoft will come out guns blazing at Comic-Con 2013, as both companies will present hands-on opportunities with their games for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Sony fans will be able to try out Driveclub and Knack, along with upcoming PS Vita and PS3 games; while Microsoft will have Capcom's Dead Rising 3, along with Ryse: Son of Rome and arcade revival Killer Instinct. If you've got some spare time, stop on by and game on with the future!

Video Games Live – For Free!

Finally, if you're in the mood for some gaming tunes, or just need to unwind after a crazy Saturday at the show, you can try your luck to get in to the free Video Games Live show, taking place on July 20th at the San Diego Civic Theatre. Tommy Tallarico and company will be on hand with several tunes spanning across dozens of franchises, and, since it's free, you can expect a feverish crowd to be in attendance. See you there?

Bonus Round: Video Games Panel

The panel "Video Games: Where We've Been, Where We Are and Where We Going" brings together a collective of video game icons and designers, talking about their favorite medium to great extent. The panel, happening Thursday night at 7:30 PM, features moderator Scott Patterson, along with the likes of Ciji "Starslay3r" Thornton (from Robot Combat League), actress/video game nerd Rachel Lara, Q*Bert designer Warren Davis and others talking at great length about what they love. If you're a fan, you won't want to miss the fun!