BGTG 61 - Aug 2, 2006 - Friendly, Local Game Stores
Whew! Finally a new show. Like the last time I (unintentionally) took a little time off from the podcast, it was a little hard to get back into the swing of things. Last time I thought a simpler Session Report and Feedback show was the way to get back into the podcasting groove, but this time I wanted to try a theme show. That's because I'd been hearing the excellent series hosted by Eric Burgess on his Boardgame Babylon podcast, one he calls the "Demise & Rise of the FLGS."
You'll hear from this episode of BGTG that I don't share the same feelings about game stores. Not that I have anything against them, it's just that I don't find that they provide much of a service that I need. At least, not today. It was different when I was in high school, when the only way to even discover new games--let alone buy them--was to go to a game store. But that was a long time ago, and the business side of the hobby has changed. Sure seems that way to me, anyway.
-Mark
posted by Mark Johnson at 8:48 PM
13 Comments:
Very interesting to hear your impressions on game stores. I found Eric's last episode on friendly game stores fascinating to hear as well. What struck me in his interview is the innovative nitches and services this particular game shop is adopting.
I too have found little need for the "real thing". However, one store has served well to host a game group I go to. Additionally, I like to go to the Compeat Strategist just to browse. It's that whole kid in the candy shop thing – holding the games, browsing through the shelves and reading through the game backs. I really love this and will buy a game just to have it on the spot. It is almost a luxury going to a well stocked store, where the online is more "massy".
Hi Mark,
Ok, I'll bite. These days, I often question myself about my FLGS preference. You bring on good points in favor of online store but there is one big flaw for me that you haven't mentioned: location. I live in Québec and I ordered games once from Funagain and once from Jocade (France). Each time, I found it cost me way too much for games that I could find locally a few months later. There are two reasons for this : exchange rate and customs fees (duty). It is my understanding that customs fees are not always applied but, I always got burned for whatever I was buying (DVD, games, books, ...). We're talking of an added 20CAD to 40CAD here.
Now, the exchange rate between our two countries are back to a reasonable level but I'm not compelled to try it again. My online shopping is now limited to Amazon.CA. And why should I order from canadian game store when I have access to a few decent FLGS and the greatest of them all : "Le Valet d'Coeur" from which I know you ordered before (www.levalet.com). But then, the exchange rate was to your advantage. It is a wonderful sight, all these games tightly tucked on one big wall. It brings back the child in you!
Finally, there is the instant gratification factor. I can actually open the box as soon as I exit the store. And for all these reasons, I'm willing to pay a little more and contribute to keeping these stores opened. Just as long, as it does not exceed the exchange rate!
Thanks for coming back to us!
Michel Fortin
Québec, Canada
P.S. : Why is it that I listen to a plethora of podcasts and I only give feedback to yours? (It's a rethorical question meant as a compliment!)
Most FLGS I have lived near have done very little in terms of supporting the hobby. This function seems to be mainly filled by volunteer-run clubs.
If a FLGS isn't offering me anything 'value-added' how can I justify spending the extra money?
Excellent podcast and I completely agree with you. Maybe it's becase I haven't been to a truly great game store, but I don't get anything I need there other than the actual game. In that case, I might as well save some money. As for learning about games, I go into a gamestore knowing a lot more about games than any staff member, thanks to reading the Geek, Boardgamenews, and listening to podcasts like yours. Keep up the great work!
My local game store hosts many miniature (as in Warhammer, 40K, etc) leagues and tourneys. A great experience for minis gamers.
For boardgames... I share your experience and views. We're trying to get a regular game day at the store going but it's too early to tell if it will be a hit.
Looking forward to the next show.
I've heard that Mark Johnson caused the Santa Clarita fires and is on the lamb. That's why there's been no podcasts.
8/2/91 - Rick James arrested.
15 years later, Mark Johnson creates his (seemingly) last podcast.
Coincidence?
Mark, does Rick James have you as his prisoner? Is he trying to get his super freak on?
Rick James! Let Mark go! Let him go, Rick James!
I have it from a very reliable source that Mark is hitch hiking to Korea so that he can be the new sidekick on The Dice Tower.
Ridiculous! He was brought in to replace Gagne as the new relief pitcher for The Dodgers. He'll be back once the season is over.
I appreciate all the speculation. The truth is that I'm still playing games, still having fun, more of it with my family . . . and that's put a squeeze on podcasting.
I haven't quit, and in fact would like to get back into the swing of it. Which may or may not happen. The shows may be fewer and farther between now. The truth is, I've recorded three shows--at least partially--but haven't posted any. One I deleted outright for the unacceptable audio quality, another was mothballed (but might resurface someday), and the last should actually be ready soon.
-Mark
P.S. Tommy Lasorda, wow! I'm honored. :-)
What games have been a hit with your family?
How did Walimopi go over?
Take your time Mark. You're shows are quality, not quantity. If you ever put out shows just for the sake of putting them out, then I probably wouldn't like them so much.
But a blog post about your status, letting us know your okay every once in a while wouldn't hurt.
Post a Comment
<< Home