Toronto's premier independent game stores
Whether you're a console gamer, card player or a tabletop enthusiast, Toronto's independent game stores have something for everyone. When it's your turn to power-up, cast a spell or roll the dice, make sure you have the right gear and equipment for fun and adventure by visiting the best places in the city to get your game on.
A & C Games
452 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2G8With the largest selection of video games in Toronto's urban core, A & C Games has been a mainstay for console gamers since 1998. While you can buy, sell and trade new or retro games and systems here, you can also spend time honing your skills in the Community Gaming Zone. Compete in tournaments, win prizes and join in "the biggest Smash Bros. and Fighting game scene in Toronto." Additionally, A & C Games offers three-to-seven-day game and console rentals; a refundable deposit is required and late fees apply.
Dueling Grounds
1193 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N4This gaming emporium sells a wide variety of computer games, miniatures, RPGs and popular card games like Steve Jackson's Munchkin. But, you can also spend hours here playing games or watching battles unfold in the open-concept 1500-sq.ft. dedicated gaming area. If your games at home are collecting dust, trade them in and use a store credit to try out a new quest or adventure. Dueling Grounds only has one parking space, so you may want to park a block away at Dufferin Mall or walk from nearby subway stops at Landsdowne and Dufferin Stations.
Chess N Math
925 Danforth Ave, Main, Toronto, ON M4J 1L8Located just below, or south of, Eglinton Avenue East at the intersection of Mount Pleasant Road and Soudan Avenue, Strategy Games is a small neighbourhood store packed full of fun for the whole family. They’re operated by the Canadian Chess and Math Association and specialize in educational games that promote critical thinking, problem solving and cognitive development. In addition to classic games like chess, bridge and backgammon, the store also stocks modern favourites from Ticket to Ride to Carcassonne to Settlers of Catan.
Game Shack
595 Bay St, Toronto, ON M5G 2C2Although Game Shack started out selling games for the Sega Master System and Nintendo NES System in 1990, this video game specialty shop now carries a wide selection of PC games, European board games, trading cards, as well as vintage and contemporary video games, consoles and accessories. Game Shack is located in the shopping concourse on the lower level of the Atrium on Bay.
Meeplemart
247 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 3A8Many people likely walk right past the small red Meeplemart sign that hangs below the much larger sign for the neighbouring TD Canada Trust. But, this store is a hidden gem for gamers and is just waiting to be explored. In addition to a large gaming space featuring leather couches and chairs, this spacious and well-organized store also stocks over 40,000 different products, including puzzles, war games, miniatures and accessories, as well as board, card and video games. Make sure to ask about Meeplemart's gift cards and the V.I.G. (Very Important Gamers) Program.