Are you prepared to bring your board game nights to the next level? Look no further as we show you the top board game stores in Brooklyn, NY. And there is a lot to see in this thriving center of gaming stores, rentals and cafes.
These stores have everything you need, whether you’re seeking for the newest and greatest releases or just a comfortable setting to play games with pals for a few hours. So gather your friends, roll the dice, and get ready for a crazy tour of the city’s best locations for tabletop gaming of all kinds.
The only question we can’t answer for you is, “What should we play next?”
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Table of Contents
- Evaluation Criteria
- Best Board Game Shops in Brooklyn
Evaluation Criteria
Okay, everyone, let’s grab our critical thinking hats to examine what makes a board game store genuinely outstanding.
We’ve combed the city, examined every store, and developed a list of necessities that will delight any board gamer. We’ve got it all covered, from the number of game choices to the comfort of play areas.
So let’s get started and find out what it takes to succeed in the lively world of board game stores in Brooklyn, NY!
| Criteria | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | Good variety of games & supplies |
| 2 | Prices | Cost of items |
| 3 | Ambiance | Lighting, cleanliness, atmosphere, room rentals available |
| 4 | Refreshments | Food and drinks are available & taste good |
| 5 | Play Space | Availability, amount, etc |
| 6 | Staff | Depth of knowledge and general helpfulness |
| 7 | Extras | Regular events, quality game demos, online store, rewards program |
Best Board Game Shops in Brooklyn, NY
Board game shops are all about the game. No frills, no fuss, and no reservations! Just show up, browse the selection, and buy some fun games or components. With a wide selection of games to choose from, you can explore many different genres and themes all in one place.
Go by yourself or bring some friends along to join in on the fun.
Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just looking for a casual experience, board game shops have something for everyone.
Geek Forest
Large board game shop in Brooklyn with many novelty items and regular activities for kids.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★ | Good variety of games; novelty items are the focus |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★ | MSRP Prices |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★★ | Very clean & well organized |
| 4 | Refreshments | N/A | N/A |
| 5 | Play Space | N/A | N/A |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★★ | Very knowledgable about store products |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★ | Online store |
If you’re a nerd at heart, then Geek Forest in NYC is the perfect spot for you. They have everything a nerd could want: board games, sci-fi books, comic books, toys, and even arudino boards for the tech-savvy. They’ve got a wide range of items, including some hidden gems that are hard to find elsewhere at reasonable prices (Keanu Reeves adult coloring book… yes please!).
The staff are kind and attentive, always happy to help you find what you’re looking for. Although they do have some fantastic activities for kids, the shop is definitely designed to appeal Adults as well.
But if you’re interested in kids programs, they offer after school classes in robotics, animation, Dungeons & Dragons, game development and chess along with full week spring break & summer camps.
So come on in, let your inner geek out to play, and explore everything Geek Forest has to offer!
Best Board Game Shops with Events in NYC
These shops offer a strong local community in addition to having a good inventory of games and components. They all have a decent sized play space, regularly scheduled events or tournaments, and basic snacks (usually). Access to events or tournaments usually costs a flat fee and will often involve prizes for winners.
Bring some friends or come by yourself and make some new ones!
King’s Games
Smorgasbord of NYC’s finest nerdy activities: game tournaments, internet cafe, in-store video game rentals, and TCG & miniatures game component shop. Strong community.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★ | Good selection of TCGs & miniatures with components |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★★★ | Prices are fair and clear |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★ | Clean & well lit with fandom posters |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★ | Candy, snacks, & soda |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★★ | Large space; come early to be assured a spot |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★ | Friendly & helpful |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular events with a consistent crowd, online store |
King’s Games is the perfect place for well-rounded, multi-interested gamers. You can get your hands on everything from Pokemon cards to booster boxes and even rare finds! They also have a wide selection of video games that you can rent and play on the latest console systems (in-shop only). And if you need quality internet to get some work done or game even harder they have an internet cafe with all the necessary services (faxing, scanning, printing, copying, etc).
Most importantly, Kings Games is more than just a store. It’s a hub for competitive gamers, offering a variety of tournaments and great atmosphere for players to come together and show off their skills.
Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just looking for some casual fun, Kings Games is the perfect spot to let your gaming flag fly!
Most popular titles played at King’s Games:
- Magic: The Gathering
- Yu-Gi-Oh!
- Pokemon
- Cardfight!! Vanguard
- HeroClix
- Flesh and Blood
Next Level
Hole-in-the-wall TCG shop with a lively community.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★ | Good selection of TCGs & fighting games |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★★ | Regular discounts & fair prices |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★ | Clean & well lit with fandom posters |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★ | Candy, snacks, & soda |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★ | Comfortable amount of space |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★ | Friendly & helpful |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular events |
If you’re a tabletop card game or fighting game fanatic, you’ve got to check out Next Level. They’ve got a great selection of card singles at fair prices, including Pokemon, Sports, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Buddyfight, MTG, Vanguard, and more!
Sure, the exterior may not be the most impressive, but don’t judge a book by its cover! The community and events at Next Level are incredible, and you’ll find some of the best gamers in Brooklyn there! So if you’re ready to level up your gaming experience, head on over to Next Level!
Bulletproof
TCGs, fighting games, and Skateboards? This eclectic hobby shop has a lot to offer.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★ | Good selection of TCGs & fighting games |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★★★ | Prices are very good on used items |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★ | Well organized with a cool art gallery |
| 4 | Refreshments | N/A | N/A |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★ | Small space, but well-utilized |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★★ | Passionate owners & helpful staff |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★★ | Regular events, online store, rewards program |
Bulletproof has been keeping it real in Brooklyn for 27 years. If you’re just looking to browse, the hobby shop prides itself on holding a unique inventory of everything from exclusive comics to a small skateboard shop. There is no shortage of fun and funky products.
If you’re looking for some fun gaming events, stop by any Thursday through Sunday evening to find events for MTG, Vanguard, Weis Shwarz, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and more! With awesome deals for members and specials every month, you’ll definitely be able to walk out of the shop with a few good deals.
Best Hourly Rental Board Game Shops with a Cafe in NYC
Board game rental shops are an experience. Most shops offer an open game policy where visitors pay a cover fee to access a library of hundreds of games. You will find childhood comfort games, intensive strategy games, and everything in between. In addition to providing the fun, these shops have menus full of yummy treats!
Most visitors bring fellow game players with them or come in a group. If you’re looking to go by yourself, we recommend attending event nights for specific games such as MTG, D&D, etc.
Walk-ins are welcome at all of the board game rental shops listed below, however keep in mind that some fill up on event nights, weekends, and holidays so you may want to consider making a reservation before your visit.
Last Place on Earth
New York’s best “entertainment cafe”.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★ | Good variety of games & supplies |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★★★ | $10 for unlimited play; MSRP price on individual games |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★★ | Clean, good lighting and cozy atmosphere |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★★ | Coffee shop & bakery; no hot prepared food |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★★ | Lots of space for all kinds of activities |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★★ | Love to help visitors select games |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular events, tarot card readings, D&D |
Looking for a chill place to hang out and play tabletop games with your buddies without breaking the bank? Look no further than Last Place on Earth! For just $10, you can play as many board games and card games as your heart desires, with no pesky time limits to cramp your style.
And if you need to take a break from all the gaming action, you can peruse their cute gifts (greeting cards, candles, earrings, etc), grab a snack or drink, or even join in on some of their many non-gaming events throughout the month, like movie nights, trivia, stand-up comedy, tarot card reading, open mics and pilates.
And the cherry on top? The mother-daughter owner duo are absolute gems who will make you feel right at home.
Da Basement Games
Non-exclusive social gaming club for the +21 crowd.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★ | Good selection of games |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★ | Fair prices |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★ | Well organized with nerdy accents |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★★ | Snacks, drinks, and hot food |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★ | Plenty of seating |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★★ | Very friendly owner & staff |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular events & membership program |
Da Basement Game welcomes gamers from all over the greater NYC and Long Island areas. Originally started as a small “Sunday Funday” EDH club, the community has grown into its own. When you visit today, the cozy atmosphere and friendly owner will make you feel right at home. Whether you’re a fan of MTG games, weekly sessions of “Dungeons & Dragons”, video games (retro to modern), or board game fun, Da Basement Games has something for you.
And if you’re looking for more than just gaming, they offer hot food, raffles, streaming events, box crackings, and much more!
If you choose to become a member, you’ll get access to a whole range of benefits, including discounts on MTG singles, advance entry into their popular events, market advice, monthly loot crates, trade-in bonuses, free monthly shop credit, discounted sealed MTG boxes, and much more.
Next Move Cafe
Large cozy gaming cafe with Japanese snacks & drinks.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★★ | +300 game library |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★ | $10 to $12 for 3 hrs play |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★★ | Very clean & well organized |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★★★ | Specialty drinks & Japanese snacks |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★ | Plenty of seating |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★ | Helpful & friendly |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular events, private rooms available, loyalty program |
Next Moves Game Cafe in Brooklyn, New York has over 300 board games waiting for you to play. Inside, you’ll find open tables or comfy booth seating. Not only do they have a large, cozy common area, but they also offer private rooms for larger groups. You can reserve these rooms for birthday parties, holiday events, school club events, and more. And if they don’t have the game you want on their shelves, no problem! You can bring your own board games with you.
The cafe holds frequent tournaments for both common games like D&D, MTG and Warhammer, and less common games like Splendor and Settlers of Catan. But that’s not all – they even have many live RPG scripts! The staff is super friendly and always ready to help, whether it’s teaching you a new game or playing along if you’re missing players.
They have one of the best value loyalty programs around, which is totally free! If you sign up for a membership, you get to spin the wheel for some cool freebies. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to grab a milk tea with boba, roll the dice and have some fun!
Squarrel Cafe
The perfect blend of caffeine, games, and good times!
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★★ | Large selection of games |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★★ | $5/person |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★★ | Modern cafe interior with a fun squirrel theme |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★★★ | Coffee, tea, pastries, and warm snacks |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★ | Reasonable amount of space; can be hard to find seats |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★ | Kind & helpful |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular events, loyalty program, online reservations |
If you’re in Brooklyn and looking for a cozy cafe with a twist, look no further than Squarrel Cafe! Not only do they have fantastic coffee and a creative “staff favorites” menu that won’t disappoint, but they’ve also got an unexpectedly awesome selection of board games.
Plus, with tons of power outlets and lightning-fast wifi, it’s the perfect spot to get some work done or catch up with friends over a board game. And if you really want to kick things up a notch, check out their game nights on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. All in all, Squirrel Cafe is the perfect blend of caffeine, games, and good times!
Twenty Sided Store & Events
Hobby shop & board game cafe with a friendly gamer community.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★★ | Good variety of games & supplies |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★ | +$10 for play sessions; MSRP on individual games |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★★ | Very clean & well organized |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★ | Snacks & drinks available for purchase |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★ | Comfortable amount of play space |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★★ | Helpful, knowledgable & friendly |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular events & online store |
Looking for a place to level up your niche gaming? Look no further than the Twenty Sided Store in Brooklyn. This place is clean, organized, and filled to the brim with all kinds of goodies: board games, miniatures, card games, role playing, Indie RPGS, D&D accessories that are difficult to find in stores, and more!
If you’re looking for a community to enjoy all of your fun gaming purchases with you, don’t miss out on the nightly events. Whether you’re into board games and TCGs or live action role-playing and D&D, there is a game night for you. From seasoned gamers to newbies just starting out, the Twenty Sided Store is the perfect place to grab a tea or cookie and chat just chat with people about games and all things gaming.
Sip & Play
South Brooklyn board game haven with quality bites, boba, & beer.
| Criteria | Rating | Description | |
| 1 | Selection | ★★★★★ | 300+ games (see list here) |
| 2 | Prices | ★★★★ | $15 for 3 hours play; food is a little pricy |
| 3 | Ambiance | ★★★★★ | Lighting, cleanliness, atmosphere, room rentals available |
| 4 | Refreshments | ★★★★★ | Appetizers, salads, boba, beer, wine, mixed drinks, coffee |
| 5 | Play Space | ★★★★ | Many small tables, make a reservation for larger groups |
| 6 | Staff | ★★★★ | Staff will help explain complicated games |
| 7 | Extras | ★★★★ | Regular MTG events, online reservation system |
This old-school, former laundromat , brick-lined cafe has a library of over 300 board games to choose from, super friendly staff, well-maintained games, and top-notch bubble tea. Its a wonderful place to spend the afternoon if you’re in the neighborhood.
If you have little ones, check out their after-school & summer camp programs for kids. The programs focus on game analysis, reverse engineering, and small-scale game development.
Best Hourly Rental Board Game Shops with Kids Programs in NYC
Geek Forest
See description of the shop & kids programs above.
Brooklyn Game Lab
Scientific approach to spreading the pleasure of games and be a positive force in the lives of children, their families, and the neighborhood.
If you’re looking for a fun and lighthearted way to connect with your inner child, look no further than the Brooklyn Game Lab! Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, they’ve got something for everyone, even if you’re allergic to fun (but really, who is?).
By day, the Brooklyn Game Lab teaches kids the art of gaming and strategy, and by night, they open their doors to adults who are young at heart. In the evening, they offer a variety of games, from casual board games to intense RPG campaigns, and even Cards Against Humanity for singles night! And let’s not forget their incredible dungeon master skills for D&D sessions. The staff is both professional and personable, making sure everyone has a great time.
Kids programs focus on personal development areas such as social skills, executive functioning, and creative writing. They also offer the opportunity to network with those of similar interests such as activities for girl gamers, Pokemon lovers, and Magic the Gathering enthusiasts. So grab your dice, your cards, and your friends, and get ready for a night of fun at the Brooklyn Game Lab!
The Brooklyn Strategist
Locally owned gaming facility designed to mingle, think creatively, learn, and strategize.
The Brooklyn Strategist is a fantastic game haven where you can unleash your inner strategist, play to win, and connect with fellow game enthusiasts. With over 500 board and card games to choose from, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest, whether you’re into ancient warfare or word games.
And we’re not just for seasoned gamers – they are all about inclusivity and nurturing new players too. Whether you’re looking for a fun date night or a regular game night with your friends, we’ve got you covered.
But it’s not just about the games – it’s about developing the next generation of gamers. Their after-school programs, camps, and weekend classes for kids and families are designed to foster social interaction and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way. There are a variety of unique programs for kids, including the following:
- Brain Benders (classic games and strategy basics to promote linear math concepts, working memory, and perceptual organization)
- Mind Masters (problem solving through playing ancient to current games)
- Introduction to RPGs (introduces players to basic tabletop role play and game systems – plus familiarity with multiple popular RPG games)
- Chess I (strategies and mechanics of chess)
- Introduction to Warhammer (learn to build, paint and play the game)
