>>535495445
>nerd store in my town that has game nights
Think everyone has one of those near them, an actual game shop (at least I hope). I have one that's a pair of stores, one dedicated to selling stuff related to comics, games, anime, everything, and then it has a sister store a short walk away that is tabletop stuff like 40k, D&D, etc.
Think the only thing you can do is go over and force yourself to interact.
>>535495741
It's nerve racking to talk in a new place, even if it's just a discord. It's that feeling of immediately being judged or in a new, uncomfortable place.
Honestly think the best thing that would help with actually talking to and meeting people at conventions to be friends with is making your own cosplay. Last one I went to was amazing, but it felt a bit awkward to be there since almost everyone was dressed up.
Plus it helps you detach from yourself a bit, even if it's something simple.