In case you didn’t know, nerdy is in. That’s right—those things which once might have been considered “uncool” or “geeky” have undergone a phoenix-like transformation in the past few years into geek chic; clothes, books, the accumulation of knowledge, but above all—gaming. No, we’re not talking about your grandma’s gin rummy, or the Candy Land of our youths, nor do we mean console games like “Call of Duty” or “Halo.” We’re talking about games like “Dungeons & Dragons,” “Warhammer,” “Warhammer 40K” and “Magic: The Gathering.” If you missed the cool train, it’s not too late. Just step into our office and let us tell you about the local places where you can get your game on.
Guardian Games
303 SE Third Ave.
Sun–Thurs: noon–8 p.m.
Fri: noon–10 p.m.
Sat: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Guardian Games has been a haven for Portland’s gaming community since it opened its doors in October of 2005. Although they sell all manner of games and gaming supplies, Guardian Games is by no means a one-trick pony. They boast an impressive 4,000 square feet of gaming space, and have events scheduled every night of the week. If the three games I mentioned earlier aren’t your cup of tea, don’t fret! Guardian Games offers a host of other gaming options including “Yu-Gi-Oh,” “Legend of The Five Rings,” LARP (Live Action Role Play), figurine painting workshops and board game nights. Their “Beer, Pizza, and Gaming” nights are also quite popular. Guardian Games hosts tournaments as well as beginners’ nights, so whether this is your first foray into gaming or your 700th, you’ll always be welcome. Check out the events calendar at www.guardiangamesportland.com to see what the rest of February has to offer.
Bridgetown Hobbies & Games
3350 NE Sandy Blvd.
Tues–Fri: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Sat-–Mon: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Bridgetown is geared a little more toward hobbyists, but that’s not to say they lack at all in the gaming department. Whatever your gaming bag, you’ll definitely be able to find like-minded individuals at Bridgetown Hobbies & Games. They offer a phenomenal selection of products as well as the space and time in which to use them. Bridgetown sells everything from board games, card games and dice games to roleplaying games, software packages, miniatures and beyond. If you’re looking for a board game or that one piece you’re missing for your army, chances are you’ll be able to find it at Bridgetown. You can order supplies online from their catalog, then come down to their location during the hours they set aside for miniature painting classes, open gaming or their Wednesday night “Dungeons & Dragons Encounters” and Thursday “Bridgetown Game Nights.” Check out Bridgetown Hobbies & Games at www.bthobbies.com.
Rainy Day Games
18105 SW TV Hwy, Aloha, Ore.
Mon, Tues, Thur: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Wed: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Fri: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Sun: noon–6 p.m.
Although it’s a little farther away than the others mentioned, Rainy Day Games should not be passed up. The shop has been in operation since 1998, and almost exclusively features non-electronic games. They offer a wide selection, including puzzles and some European-style board games. Rainy Day primarily holds events on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, but they have space reserved for open play of any kind the rest of the days. Their special events include “Yu-Gi-Oh” regionals, “Dungeons & Dragons” encounters and “Warhammer” and “Warhammer 40K” leagues. They organize tournaments for experienced and novice players, as well as events to teach games to new players. Look them up at www.rainy-day-games.com to see more of what they’re about.