If you know Josh or me well, you know, or quickly find out, we have a favorite pastime: playing board games. Now, I'm not just talking about the "games" you find most places these days. We're talking real board games. Games that typically require some investment, thought, at least some strategy, and aren't based completely on luck. Games that can be played over and over again... and are different every time! And, let's not forget, games that build community.
From time to time we'll post our thoughts about various board games we own, have played, or want to try. However, to start us off, I figured I'd do a quick blurb about where to find these board games. This, quite honestly, is usually the biggest challenge. Most stores these days don't cater to board game lovers like us, but there are a few hidden jewels out there.
If you live in the Philadelphia region, our most-frequented favorite is Round Table Games in Conshohocken, PA. This place is fantastic. The one thing about this store is that the people who work there actually love and play the games. They get it. There are so many places where you ask how a game is, and get completely blank stares. Or, "Uuuh, it's fun," or, "Um, I think customers like it..." PEOPLE. What is the point of working in a GAME store if you don't love games?!
At Round Table, everyone loves to play the games and there are always people playing in the back. The selection is good, and they would probably go out of business before even thinking about selling Monopoly. All great signs. I think maybe once or twice they didn't have something we were looking for, but usually there's not a problem... and they will order anything they don't have. Josh and I are particular fans of the owner, who always takes time to update us on his new favorites. I think he makes it a regular habit to play every game that comes into his store. I don't think we've ever asked about a game that he hasn't played. Beyond that, he's very good at listening to what types of games you like to play and suggesting games that fit the description well. We've gotten several games he's recommended and loved them all. So, for the game lovers in Philly, be sure to check it out if you're in the area or just interested in finding some new games.
If you live in the Seattle area, check out Ernie's Games in Woodinville (behind the movie theater), Games & Gizmos in Redmond (beside the Bella Botega Theater), and Uncle's Games in Redmond Town Center (not by any theater). Over Christmas break we discovered Ernie's, and the combined members of my family ended up purchasing a total of 8 games and expansions there for Christmas presents. They have a really great selection and a really nice set-up. Just as a hint, we went in 3 times during our break. After Christmas, we happened upon Games & Gizmos, which, I must admit, has the most variety I've ever seen in a gamestore. They carry ALL the Top 100 games listed on BoardGameGeek.com, and they also carry almost the full lines of the big game companies, like Days of Wonder, Mayfair, Rio Grande, and Fantasy Flight. (Yes, I know this makes me sound like a nerd... but it's ok, because good board games are worth it.)
That said, here ends the first board game installation... perhaps the next will highlight our favorite on-line retailers for those of you not in the Philly or Seattle regions. =)
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