Where to buy board games?

By HotBotUpdated: August 22, 2024

Answer

Introduction to Buying Board Games

Purchasing board games can be an exciting but sometimes daunting task, given the plethora of options and places available. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of tabletop gaming, knowing where to buy board games can make all the difference in your gaming experience.

Local Game Stores

Local game stores (LGS) are often the heartbeat of the board gaming community. These stores provide a space for gamers to gather, play, and discover new games. The advantages of buying from LGS include:

Personalized Recommendations: Staff members are usually knowledgeable and can suggest games based on your interests.
Community Events: Many LGS host game nights, tournaments, and other events, fostering a sense of community.
Supporting Small Businesses: Purchasing from LGS helps support local economies and small business owners.

Online Retailers

Online shopping has revolutionized the way we buy board games. Here are some popular online retailers:

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Amazon: Amazon offers a vast selection of board games, often at competitive prices. Prime members can enjoy fast shipping.
BoardGameGeek Store: The BoardGameGeek Store is a go-to for many enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of games and exclusive items.
CoolStuffInc: Known for great discounts and a wide range of games, CoolStuffInc is a favorite among many gamers.
Miniature Market: This retailer offers a comprehensive selection of board games, miniatures, and gaming accessories, often at discounted prices.

Big Box Retailers

Big box stores like Target, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble have expanded their board game selections in recent years. Benefits of buying from these retailers include:

Accessibility: These stores are widely available and often have physical locations where you can see the games in person.
Sales and Discounts: Big box retailers frequently offer sales, making it possible to snag popular games at reduced prices.
Return Policies: They typically have lenient return policies, offering peace of mind for your purchases.

Specialty Online Stores

Apart from mainstream online retailers, there are specialty stores dedicated to board games:

Game Nerdz: Game Nerdz offers a wide selection of board games, card games, and miniatures, often at lower prices.
Cardhaus: Known for its extensive catalog and competitive pricing, Cardhaus is a favorite among serious gamers.
Noble Knight Games: Specializing in rare and out-of-print games, Noble Knight Games is a treasure trove for collectors.

Second-Hand Marketplaces

For those looking to find bargains or rare games, second-hand marketplaces can be invaluable:

eBay: eBay is a popular platform for buying both new and used board games, including rare and out-of-print titles.
Facebook Marketplace: Local listings can help you find games nearby, often at lower prices than retail.
BoardGameGeek Marketplace: The marketplace section of BoardGameGeek is a great place to find used games from other enthusiasts.

Kickstarter and Crowdfunding

Many new and innovative board games are funded through Kickstarter and other crowdfunding platforms:

Exclusive Content: Backers often receive exclusive content, expansions, or deluxe editions not available at retail.
Supporting Creators: Crowdfunding allows you to support creators directly and be a part of the development process.
Early Access: Backers usually receive their games before they hit retail shelves.

Conventions and Trade Shows

Board game conventions and trade shows provide unique opportunities to buy games:

Exclusive Releases: Many publishers release exclusive or early copies of games at conventions.
Demo Opportunities: You can often try games before you buy, ensuring they are a good fit for your collection.
Meet Creators: Conventions allow you to meet game designers and publishers, adding a personal touch to your purchase.

Subscription Services

Subscription services can be a fun way to discover new games without the hassle of choosing them yourself:

Board Game Bento: Board Game Bento delivers a themed box of games to your door each month, offering a surprise selection.
Game Box Monthly: This service selects games based on your preferences, ensuring a personalized experience.
UnboxBoardom: Subscribers receive new games regularly, with options to choose from different categories.

Library and Community Resources

Local libraries and community centers often have board game collections available for borrowing or playing on-site:

Free Access: Borrowing games from the library is a cost-effective way to try new titles.
Community Building: Playing games at community centers fosters social interaction and community spirit.
Wide Selection: Some libraries have extensive collections, including classic and modern games.

International Retailers

For those looking to buy games not readily available in their home country, international retailers can be a good option:

Philibert: Based in France, Philibert offers a wide selection of European games with international shipping.
Amazon Global: Amazon's global sites can provide access to region-specific games.
OzGameShop: This UK-based retailer offers a broad range of games with competitive shipping rates worldwide.

Summary

The myriad options available for buying board games can cater to all kinds of preferences and needs. From local game stores that provide a sense of community, to online and specialty retailers offering extensive selections, there's a perfect outlet for every gamer. Whether you're hunting for rare titles in second-hand marketplaces or want to support new creations through crowdfunding, the possibilities are vast and varied. Dive into the world of board games, explore the different purchasing avenues, and discover the perfect games for your collection.