Is San Diego Comic-Con on the decline? For the past few years, the promised tranquility of Preview Night has been just a fantasy. In reality, the exhibit floor of the San Diego Convention Center has been packed with giddy attendees even on the supposedly low-key bonus night that kicks off the annual extravaganza.

But this year, there was only a shitload of people swarming the exhibit floor as opposed to the customary shit-ton. Sure, lines formed hundreds of people deep as people clamored for their shot at limited-edition whosits and whatsits galore. And there was the typical feeling of excitement in the air (as well as the requisite waves of B.O., which should ripen nicely by Saturday).

And yes, even before the sun had set, people had staked their spots in line for Hall H the following day, once again ensuring only the most devout would be treated to squinting at their favorite celebrities on the blurry Hall H monitors.

Yet for all that, there was a welcome amount of breathing room as well. People were mostly able to maneuver the Convention Center without slamming into one another, and even when they did, they exchanged polite apologies.

Could this mark the turning of a corner for Comic-Con? Are the fever-pitched frenzies of previous years finally behind it? Are the meek finally inheriting the Earth now that the Twilight and Hunger Games fans have moved on?

Time will tell, but for now, it’s nice to at least see Preview Night return to its relaxed glory.

Photos: San Diego Comic-Con 2016 Photos: Preview Night