Board and trading card games have been a popular pastime for many people, whether they have been playing for years or have recently rediscovered the hobby. These games provide a fun and engaging way to socialize with friends and family, offering a wide range of options for players of all skill levels. In Washtenaw County, MI, there are several local shops where enthusiasts can buy games and gather to play together.
One popular game store in the area is R U Game? located at 1345 E. Michigan Ave. in Saline. Owner Benjamin James opened the store to provide a space for gamers to discover new games and participate in tournaments, events, and private rooms. R U Game? offers a variety of tabletop games, trading card games like Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon, role-playing games, puzzles, and gaming accessories. The store is open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., making it a convenient spot for gamers to meet up and play.
Another notable game store in Washtenaw County is The Upkeep Games, located at 2121 W. Stadium Boulevard in Ann Arbor. Co-owners Rose Savage and Christopher Walton opened the store in 2022, offering a selection of board and trading card games, miniatures, and collectibles. The Upkeep Games also provides a gaming area and hosts game nights where players can enjoy beer, wine, cider, and cocktails made with Michigan products. The store is open from noon to 9 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, noon to 11 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays.
For those in the Chelsea area, Secret Crisis Comics at 1161 S. Main St. is a go-to spot for comics, collectibles, and games. Owner Todd Dziobak opened the store in 2018, offering a variety of tabletop, trading card, and role-playing games for players of all skill levels. In addition to games, Secret Crisis Comics sells new comic books, vintage comics, and collectibles like Funko POPs. The store is open noon to 7 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
Golden Rhino Games, located at 2092 Whittaker Road in Ypsilanti, is another great option for game enthusiasts in the area. Owner Ian Pietila opened the shop in 2020, offering tabletop, trading card, and role-playing games, as well as miniatures, models, and hobby supplies. Golden Rhino Games provides „Learn to Play“ activities, tournaments, and even painting lessons for models. The store also features a café with a full menu of sandwiches, salads, wraps, and more. Golden Rhino Games is open noon to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Lastly, Vault of Midnight at 219 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor is a longtime favorite among comic and collectibles enthusiasts. Founded in 1996 by Steve Fodale and Curtis Sullivan, Vault of Midnight has expanded to locations in Detroit and Grand Rapids. The store sells tabletop, trading card, and role-playing games, as well as puzzles and gaming accessories. Vault of Midnight also hosts game nights and special events for the gaming community. The store is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
In conclusion, Washtenaw County offers a vibrant gaming community with a variety of stores where players can buy games, participate in events, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the hobby, these local shops provide a welcoming and engaging environment for all. So gather your friends and family, pick up a game, and enjoy the thrill of competition and camaraderie that board and trading card games have to offer.